The Montclair Girl Team 
Adventure is out there – even in the Garden State. No matter the weather or time of year, New Jersey offers more unusual experiences than one native may guess. From snowy mountaintops and indoor ski-lifts to flying in hot air balloons or by the seat of one’s pants in an indoor bubble, we’ve got a list that covers all the bases for the average adrenaline junkie or more timid tryer. Read on to discover what kinds of adventurous activities are available throughout New Jersey.
Adventure Course at FLG X | 59 Mount Arlington Road, Ledgewood
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FLG X NJ challenges visitors to push their limits and overcome their fears in a supportive environment, and creates an opportunity to build relationships with the people they choose to bring. Ziplining here is ideal for adults and kids ages 12 and up. The course takes about two hours, and the prices start at $55. Apart from the zip lines, there are adventure courses for adults and kids ages 9 and up that include multiple large circuits that each contain a combination of obstacles and zip lines.
Read More: A List of Fun Outdoor Activities in New Jersey
Axe Throwing at Stumpy’s Hatchet House | 373 US-46, West Drive Suite D140, Fairfield
Photo Credit: Julianne Dennehy
Participants can try a round of hatchet throwing at Stumpy’s Hatchet House. This venue makes for a great night out with groups of friends or a happy hour after work, as guests can play games and BYO food and beverages (including alcohol). The New York Jets and New Jersey Devils have even been to this location. One hour for up to four guests costs $30 per person, while two hours for five or more guests is $45 per person.
The Funplex | 182 NJ-10, East Hanover
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The Funplex in East Hanover is a great spot for kids or young adults to try their hand at anything – rain or shine. It’s widely popular for its indoor attractions, including a full arcade, laser tag, a 4D motion simulation, go-karts, virtual reality experiences, and bumper cars. There’s also a complete boardwalk experience with bowling, boardwalk snacks, and racing games. Guests can enjoy the outdoor waterpark from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There are multiple packages to choose from based on single-day entries, groups, or parties. One single weekend day wristband in the fall costs $47 plus tax and includes unlimited indoor rides and attractions, one hour of bowling with shoe rental, unlimited video games, and a $5 fun card.
Hot Air Balloon Rides at Hunterdon Ballooning Inc. | 64 Main Street, Lebanon
You’ve read that correctly– New Jersey offers hot air balloon rides right out of a childhood dream. While the cost is a little pricey with a ride for two starting at $775, the flights are well worth it with stunning views over the course of two to three hours. Flights launch at one of three locations, including Solberg Airport in Whitehouse Station, Mountain View Chalet in Asbury, and Harding’s in Asbury. Morning flights starting around dawn are available year-round on weekends, and evening flights take off a few hours before sunset, and both are available year-round daily.
Big Snow | 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford
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While American Dream Mall offers a theme park, waterpark, mini golf, and much more than just shopping, it’s also known for having an indoor snowscape complete with a ski lift. Big Snow doesn’t only specialize in skiing, either; it has snow-go bikes for those looking for a different approach to a snowy mountain and tubing. It also holds private skiing and snowboarding lessons and a Monday Night Race League in the same disciplines every week through the spring and summer months for all ages.
Indoor Skydiving at iFly New Jersey | 997 US-1, Edison
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The idea of skydiving can be very cool at first… until it becomes a scary feat for some. A loophole, however, was discovered by iFly through its vertical wind tunnels. Guests of all sizes and abilities can enjoy the thrill of being suspended in the air as long as they meet the height requirement of 40 inches and do not exceed a weight of 300 pounds. An orientation is required before flying, but it is well worth the wait for an unforgettable experience like this one.
RageRoom | 200 Wanaque Avenue, Pompton Lakes
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RageRoom is a specially designed room where anyone can wreak havoc on different items without the hassle of repercussions. Pricing starts at $110 for two people to destroy four tables of small breakables, four large breakables, and four medium breakables in 15 minutes with protective gear provided and personalized music. There are also team-building and party packages available to make a one-of-a-kind experience for co-workers and friends.
Rock Climbing at New Jersey Rock Gym | 373 US-46 Building D, Fairfield
Photo Credit: Julianne Dennehy
From bouldering (unroped climbing) and Autobelays to lead climbing programs and weekly specials, New Jersey Rock Gym offers all kinds of learning opportunities and challenges to all levels of climbers. Adults can climb for a day pass at $22, while youth ages under 17 and under cost $19 with gear rented separately. Memberships are also available for those who want to make climbing a regular experience.
Snow Tubing at Campgaw | 200 Campgaw Road, Mahwah
If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your cup of tea, snow tubing is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Campgaw offers different runs with varied levels of rollers and pitch, so no experience or special equipment is needed for riders. Rates vary depending on the day, but pricing starts at $24 for one hour on weekends or holidays.
Treetop Adventure Course at Turtle Back Zoo | 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange
An obstacle course at Treetop Adventure Course is perfect for team-building, family fun, or just to healthily challenge oneself. While courses are not available again until weekends only in the spring, the Adult Courses offer 30 unique challenge elements with an average run time of 75 minutes, while the Junior Courses offer 15 unique challenge elements with a maximum run time of 45 minutes. Parents/Guardians are welcome to join their children on the Junior Course for the same fee.
Zip Tours at Mountaincreek | 200 Route 94, Vernon
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Mountaincreek in Vernon, New Jersey, offers a two-hour zipline tour ranging from 200 to 1,500 feet in length, soaring above a mountainside lake (and even at night as of October 2024). Tours are affordable, costing $49.99 for all ages who are within the height and weight requirements. Zip Tours operate during rain or shine, so be sure to pack a rain poncho just in case!
TreEscape | 414 County Road 517, Vernon
The TreEscape park at Great Gorge Golf Club offers plenty of “mini” adventures, including aerial obstacle courses, a self-guided zip-line course, night climbs, and outdoor skills courses. This is a great escape for team- or family bonding and individuals looking for a slice of self-discovery. Pricing varies based on the package and operates until mid-November before opening back up during the warmer months.
See More: 10 Ways to Enjoy Nature in Hoboken + Jersey City
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