This is one story in a series where we feature one family-friendly day trip idea a day. Read the entire series and find great ideas for things to do with kids in NJ here.

Looking for a fun place to take the kids and even enjoy yourself?  The 2.5-mile Ocean City Boardwalk has never-ending attractions for both adults and kids, every step of the way.

WHY WE LOVE THE OCEAN CITY BOARDWALK

Best NJ Day Trips: Ocean City Boardwalk (Flickr: Rhys Asplundh)
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Surrounded by the family-oriented town, the Ocean City Boardwalk offers fun attractions for the whole family.

The infamous Gillian’s Wonderland Pier provides a mix of adult and child friendly rides consisting of their 140-foot Ferris wheel, the Canyon Falls Log Flume ride and their newest attraction the Runaway Train Roller Coaster.

After you’re done screaming from all the rides you can escape to the ocean side of the boardwalk and enjoy some music at the Music Pier.  The Music Pier won’t let you down as it provides live music and exciting contests, such as their annual Flower Show and beauty pageants.

As you walk down the boardwalk you will find dozens of shops and eateries.  From ice cream parlors, pizzerias, to the delicious and one the most popular restaurants, The Crap Trap Restaurant.

While there is so much to do on the boardwalk, don’t forget to take some time and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

Hours, Pricing, Directions

Gillian’s Wonderland Pier is open every day of the week from 1 p.m. – 9 p.m.  They offer ticket books: 25 tickets for $20, 70 tickets for $50 and 150 tickets for $100.  Each ride is 1-5 tickets and when you’re done don’t throw away ticket books because the tickets never expire.

The Music Pier offers free live performances seven days a week.

The popular Crap Trap Restaurant offers lunch every day from 11 a.m.- 3  p.m.  Sunday through Thursday dinner is served from 3 p.m. -10 p.m. and hours for Friday through Saturday are 3 p.m.-11 p.m.  Don’t forget that Ocean City is a dry town and no alcohol can be served.

Beach tags are required for children ages 12 and up from early June through early Sept.  Children under 12 are free.  Daily tags are $5 but if you are staying for the week you should invest for the $10 weekly tags.  Lifeguards are on duty from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

THE BEST OF OCEAN CITY NJ'S BOARDWALK

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