Escape Into Nature
Getting out into nature has many health benefits. It naturally lifts our spirits to be surrounded by beautiful, scenic environments found in the natural world. You don’t need to leave New Jersey to enjoy natural wonders. New Jersey offers many opportunities to enjoy and explore natural sights near you!
Branch Brook Park, Newark/Belleville:
Branch Brook Park is known as a picturesque, scenic park located in Newark and easily accessible by public transportation. Enjoy the playground, children’s garden, walking and jogging trails, basketball courts and more. The annual Cherry Blossom Festival is also held there, and your children will delight in seeing these beautiful trees. Branch Brook boasts the largest collection of Cherry Blossom trees in the United States! The festival will be held from April 3rd to the 19th.
https://www.essexcountyparks.org/parks/branch-brook-park
The Turtleback Zoo, West Orange
The Turtleback Zoo now features many wonderful and exciting exhibits for your family to enjoy, with big cats, giraffes, bears, alligators, ocean life and more! The zoo is accessible by bus or train. Children under the age of two are free.
https://turtlebackzoo.com/admission-hours/
The Waterfront at South Mountain Reservation, West Orange:
Within walking distance of Turtleback Zoo is the Waterfront of South Mountain Reservation. There, Regatta Park Children’s Playground features a state of the art facility with a pirate ship! After the playground, take a walk on the path surrounding the serene reservoir.
https://www.essexcountyparks.org/south-mountain/the-waterfront/about
Paterson Great Falls, Paterson:
Did you know you can view amazing waterfalls right here in New Jersey? The Great Falls of the Passaic River is a prominent waterfall, 77 feet high, on the Passaic River. It’s located in the city of Paterson, New Jersey. The falls are a feature of Paterson Great Falls, a national, historical park. Check out this link to learn more.