In 2020, COVID-19 lockdowns closed nearly everything fun in New Jersey. Luckily, the situation has improved this summer. Coronavirus cases are declining, restrictions are easing, and plenty of recreational facilities and parks are open once again. Here are just a few things you can do in New Jersey during the summer months.

Take in a Ballgame

This season looks to be promising for Central Jersey’s local baseball team, the Somerset Patriots. You’ll find several familiar names on the roster, in addition to a few highly touted newcomers. With a competitive schedule that includes the Altoona Curve, Erie SeaWolves and Richmond Flying Squirrels, this season is sure to be exciting.

The team has a full array of summer promotions planned as usual at its Bridgewater ballpark. The Patriots will celebrate Father’s Day on June 20^th by giving the first 1,000 dads BBQ-themed aprons. Postgame fireworks are offered throughout the summer, as are chances to win $10,000.

Play a Little Cornhole

Are you the cornhole champion of your neighborhood? If you’re ready for some new competition, consider forming a team with your friends and neighbors and entering the New Jersey Cornhole Tournament, held on August 14^th at the Mennen Arena in Morristown.

In addition to bragging rights, winning teams will receive cash or cornhole prizes. Team entrance fees are $100 for the competitive division and $60 for the backyard division. The festival will also feature live music, activities for kids and adults, and 14 food trucks. Everyone in the family is welcome to attend, including your dog. Admission fees are $6 for adults and $4 for kids ages 4 – 16 if purchased in advance. You’ll pay $8 for adults and $5 for kids at the door.

Take a Trip to Dodge City

You’re definitely not in Kansas anymore, but it just may feel like it when you pay a visit to Wild West City in Stanhope. The theme park is modeled after Dodge City, Kansas in the 1800s and offers plenty of wild west experiences for kids and adults. Main Street features accurate reproduction of old west buildings furnished with antiques from that time period.

Scope out the town with a ride on the stage line or train, pan for gold at Egan’s Gold Mine, visit an authentic blacksmith’s shop, or learn about wilderness survival skills at Mountain Man Camp. Other activities include a barnyard with live animals, pony rides for the kids and a miniature golf course. Admission is $29.50 for adults, $24.50 for kids 2 – 12, and $22.00 for adults 62 and older.

Enjoy Local Recreational Facilities

Luckily for us, there are no shortages of recreational activities in New Jersey. No matter where you live in the state, you’re never far from public parks and golf courses. In Frenchtown, parks offer baseball and soccer fields, picnicking, hiking and fishing.

Farther east in Bridgewater, you’ll find 18 township parks, 3 county parks and a county athletic complex. Colonial Park in Somerset offers activities for the entire family, including a 1.4-mile fitness court, a softball field, gardens, playgrounds, a spray park and the 18-hole Spooky Brook Gold Course.

Hit the Waterpark

Hurricane Harbor, a Six Flags Waterpark, is the perfect place to be on a hot, humid summer day. The five-story tall Bada Bing, Bada Bang, Bada Boom water slide complex offers three slides for high-speed fun. Take the whole family on the Big Bambu and Reef Runner tube slides or enjoy the waves in the Blue Lagoon. In addition to thrill rides, the park offers an activity pool and play areas for kids.

Currently, the park requires guests to schedule visits to ensure proper social distancing. As rules and regulations may change throughout the summer, be sure to visit the website for the latest information before you plan a trip.

Visiting local attractions is a lot easier if you live in a central location. Fortunately, Country Classics’ new home and rental communities are located close to major roads and highways in Central New Jersey. If you’ve been thinking about moving to a new home or apartment, be sure to check out our website for information on current options.