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1. Asbury Park

Asbury Park is a well-known shore destination, and in recent years, the city has done a lot to revitalize the downtown area and make it family-friendly. For a truly unique outing, pay a visit to the Silverball Museum Arcade, home to more than 200 pinball machines and arcade games.

Active families can play mini-golf on the boardwalk, create glass works of art at Hot Sand, rent tandem bicycles, and cool off at Asbury Splash Park.

And if all that activity leaves your stomach growling, grab pizza at Talula's, indulge in unique tacos at MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos, and top off with an O-REO Speedwagon or Rasbury Park cupcake at Confections of a Rockstar Bakeshop.

2. Cape May

Cape May is a popular Jersey Shore vacation destination for families. Aside from the beautiful beaches, free zoo, and quaint Victorian homes, the downtown walking mall is worthy of a stop-by on your next visit. The three-block Washington Street Mall features charming brick paths, benches, and a fountain.

Unique seaside shops include Great White Shark for souvenirs, Whale's Tale for knick-knacks, and The Zoo Company Toy Store, jam-packed with Bluey, Hello Kitty, Pokémon, and more.

Grab lunch on your visit at The Ugly Mug, The Mad Batter, or Jojo Pizza, followed by treats at Madison's Bakery, Uncle Charley's Ice Cream Shop, or Cape May Peanut Butter Co. The best way to explore the downtown area is via a breezy trolley ride. 

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Cranford hosts family-friendly annual events, including the Scarecrow Stroll.

3. Cranford

Cranford is small-town NJ at its best, with a charming downtown and close proximity to NYC for commuters. Check out the eclectic mix of stores, including Rogue Comics & Collectibles and Milk Money Children’s Consignment Shop. For hands-on fun, make an appointment at Fire Me Up to sculpt and paint your own pottery creation.

As far as local eats, indulge in Greek fare at Ambeli Greek Taverna, garlicky delicacies at Garlic Rose Bistro, and gourmet burgers at Urban Burger. Cranford residents love the Vanilla Bean Creamery for hot fudge brownie sundaes and soft serve frozen yogurt, and Track 5 Coffee by the train station for some delicious coffee with a great community vibe.

Annual downtown events include street fairs, the Souper Hero Stroll, and the Scarecrow Stroll.

4. Hoboken

For a city-like getaway with a side of small-town appeal, look no further than Hoboken. Situated right across the Hudson from Manhattan, Hoboken is full of stroller-friendly sidewalks by day and a lively bar and restaurant scene at night.

Take the kiddos for a stroll along Pier C and let the little ones burn off some energy at the sand and water park (there’s a bigger playground structure with lots of climbing for older kids, too). After you work up an appetite, take your pick of some NYC grub without crossing the river: grab a pizza at Grimaldi’s or a falafel wrap at Mamoun’s—both are Jersey outposts of much-loved Big Apple joints. Grab dessert at Carlo's Bakery, famous for Cake Boss.

Bring the little ones to Hoboken Historical Museum for art classes and storytimes throughout the week. Washington Street, one of the downtown's main strips, is the hot spot for street fairs and the Hoboken Arts and Music Festival every year. 

5. Jersey City

With stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and its recent revitalization, Jersey City's downtown is on par with nearby Hoboken as a hip cultural metropolis. Take a scenic stroll along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, and you can hit both cities in one whirlwind afternoon.

Hungry from all the walking? There are kid-friendly restaurants aplenty in downtown Jersey City, including Two Boots Pizza for a slice, The Brownstone Diner for amazing pancakes, City Diner for reliable dishes, and Roman Nose for Italian favorites. And there's no shortage of ice cream in Jersey City. Get a sweet treat at Torico or Milk, Sugar, Love Creamery. Kids will love perusing the children's section and swinging by events at WORD Bookstore, while parents can grab coffee at the in-store cafe.

Playgrounds and splash pads are sprinkled throughout the city, and there's even a manmade urban beach at Newport Green. Get a taste of everything Jersey City has to offer at the fall All About Downtown Street Fair. 

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Browse the shops on Maplewood Avenue and stop into one of the many family-friendly eateries for a bite. 

6. Maplewood

The quaint, family-oriented downtown of Maplewood is centered around one main strip, Maplewood Avenue, and that stretch is jam-packed with restaurants, small-town boutiques, and a centrally located park, with free parking as a bonus.

There is no shortage of family-friendly eateries in the downtown. Try The Spot Diner for filling diner staples, Artie's for delicious Italian fare, St. James's Gate Publick House for authentic Irish grub, and Village Ice Cream Parlour for a sweet finish.

Pop by Words Bookstore while in town for a diversity of book selections, plus local events like scavenger hunts and author visits. The village plays host to community events throughout the year, such as the enchanting Dickens Village at Christmastime and Maplewood Art Walk & Music Fest in the fall.

7. Montclair

Get on your best walking shoes, because Montclair has three downtown areas. The mile-long Bloomfield Avenue and its side streets are the center of the downtown action. With its multicultural restaurants, hip boutiques, antique shops, artistic outlets, theaters, and more, downtown Montclair is the definition of an eclectic and bustling suburban city.

While there are too many restaurants to choose from, some family-friendly favorites include Raymond's for brunch, Greek Taverna for souvlaki and gyros, or Bareburger for burgers plus vegetarian options. Top off the meal with rolled ice cream at Absolute Zero or pastries at Jayce Baudry French Pastry.

Take in a show or concert while in town at the historical Wellmont Theater or try your hand at pottery painting at Doin' Dishes. Montclair Art Museum lies at the tip of Bloomfield Avenue and hosts family-friendly events.

For a quieter downtown experience, swing over to the Watchung Avenue downtown area for a cup of joe and treats at Bluestone Coffee Co., Meet Me at Madison's for delicious brunch, lunch, or dinner, and Watchung Booksellers for community events, including crafts and storytimes. And if you're not too tuckered out, hop over to Upper Montclair for a bite at Tinga Taqueria or Da Vinci's Brick Oven Pizza. 

RELATED: The Best Museums for Kids in Northern New Jersey

Palmer Square is the center of the action in Princeton. Photo courtesy of Palmer Square

8. Princeton

Princeton is more than just a beautiful college town. Although you’ll be strolling alongside book-toting students, you’ll also find plenty of families with young kids in tow. 

The original PJ's Pancake House is a popular breakfast spot in town, while Jammin' Crepes can count as a meal or snack any time of day. Ice cream at The Bent Spoon is a must for dessert.

For family art programs throughout the year, drop by Princeton University Art Museum, which reopens fall of 2025 after renovations. And if you want to be in the center of the action, head toward Palmer Square, which is surrounded by dozens of boutiques and restaurants and also holds some great seasonal events, including a summer movie series on the green. Since vinyl is making a comeback, stop by the famous Princeton Record Exchange and let the kids dig through collections of classic albums.

9. Red Bank

Situated on the Navesink River, a few miles from the shore, Red Bank is a cultural hub with more than 100 restaurants, independent boutiques, art galleries, and waterfront parks. The hip downtown has a historical vibe, with its Victorian street lamps and brick sidewalks.

With so many restaurants to choose from, more than one trip may be required. Irish favorites with a lively atmosphere are on tap at Dublin House, with offerings like shepherd's pie and fish and chips. Grab burgers and other American fare at The Robinson Ale House or family-style Italian food at Patrizias. If you're up for a quick bite, stop by The Windmill for dogs and Surf Taco for seafood. 

Embark on some kid-friendly fun in the downtown at YESTERcades retro arcade or A Time to Kiln pottery studio. Catch a moment of peace at the lush Riverside Gardens Park with views of the river and year-round outdoor events. Red Bank is home to two respectable theaters: Two River Theater and Count Basie Theatre. And no trip to Red Bank is complete without a stop at Jay and Silent Bob's Secret Stash (the Clerks guys) with comics, toys, and memorabilia.

While events take place year-round in Red Bank, the holidays are a merry time to visit with the annual tree and menorah lightings, plus free horse and carriage rides.

10. Ridgewood

The Village of Ridgewood is a day trip destination for my family. The downtown stores and restaurants have a sophisticated, yet down-to-earth community vibe.

Start the day with banana or coconut pancakes at Le Pancake Cafe and Brasserie, then take in the downtown scene on a nice day from an outdoor dining spot at East Coast Burger or Raymond's. Finish off a meal with ice cream from Kilwins Ridgewood, decadent pastries at Sook Pastry, or a cup of joe at Ridgewood Coffee Company.

There are plenty of creative outlets for kids in the downtown, such as Color Me Mine for pottery, or jewelry making at Bazaar Star Beadery. While in town, you may catch a celebrity sighting at Bookends Bookstore, which carries a great selection of books and toys, plus renowned celebrity and author visits. Van Nestle Square in the heart of town hosts annual Halloween and holiday celebrations. 

11. Somerville

My family recently discovered downtown Somerville on a trip to a party at YESTERcades and have gone back since to stroll the cozy cobblestoned Division Street. The locally owned specialty shops and restaurants, along with year-round events, give the downtown a strong sense of community.

For downtown eats, check out Turf Surf and Earth for casual, healthy, and customizable options, such as almond butter toast, the Somerville Sloppy plant-based turkey club, and a selection of Angus or veggie burgers. Dine alfresco while people-watching at The Division Cafe in the heart of town, featuring breakfast, lunch, and dinner fare. Don't leave without sampling the cupcakes and macaroons from Blue Sheep Bake Shop. 

A great time to visit the downtown is during its annual events, including street fairs, Holiday Jubilee, and cruise nights. 

12. South Orange

Just up the road from Maplewood is another vibrant downtown, South Orange Village. The circular core of the village is surrounded by gaslight-adorned and tree-lined streets, giving the area both a small-town and metropolitan ambience. The state-of-the-art South Orange Performing Arts Center, or SOPAC, is a downtown destination for visitors and features concerts, shows, children's theater, and movies.

There are plenty of pre- and post-show food options in town, from pub favorites at Gaslight Brewery and Restaurant to Mexican fare with entertainment at Toro Loco to hearty Italian dishes at Reservoir Restaurant.

Bring the kiddos for indoor playground fun at Little Brain Lab, plus get a little outdoor time at Spiotta Park in the center of town, which features instruments, a fountain, and newly painted rainbow lampposts. Spiotta Park also hosts live music on summer evenings. Make a winter day trip to South Orange when the downtown hosts its Hometown Holiday celebration. 

13. Westfield

Westfield is a vibrant town with a walkable historic downtown area that attracts both locals and visitors. Take your pick from tried-and-true chain stores such as GAP, Urban Outfitters, or Claire's. Get crafty with wood and canvas at AR Workshop. Challenge family and friends to a game of Pac-Man or Donkey Kong at YESTERcades retro arcade.

For family-friendly eats, locals say they love Casa di Pizza for a casual slice, Inspiration Roll for yummy noodles and sushi, and Vicki’s for a classic NJ diner experience. Top it all off with dessert at Surreal Creamery or Bouvella's Pastry Shoppe. 

One of the best things about Westfield is the strong sense of community—there’s always an event going on, from Sweet Sounds of Jazz Music on Tuesdays in the summer to the bustling street fairs to the annual Addamsfest, in honor of the town's own Charles Addams, in the fall.

Unless noted, photos by the author.