I’m excited to kick off a new series that centers around one of my family’s favorite local activities: exploring the train line! We're really lucky to live in an area where many towns don't only have train stations, but have a bunch of fun kid-friendly attractions within walking distance of those train stations. I know a lot of people think of NJ Transit as a kind of "one direction" type deal and only take it to and from NYC, but if you haven't explored our local downtowns, you're missing out on some (lower priced, lower stress, much easier) fun with kids! For each part of this series I’ll focus on a town in our territory that you can hop on a train with your kids to get to and all the places around the train station that you can explore together.
The train ride is an added element of fun for the kids, and it's nice to not have to worry about getting them in and out of car seats, traffic, and finding a parking spot! I should mention that my family (kids included) is pretty walking-obsessed and what we consider within "walking distance” might be a little more than most. That said, I am going to try to keep all these suggestions to within half a mile of the train station.
This week I’m starting with Madison which is one of my personal favorite downtowns. The wide sidewalks are perfect for strollers and also allow plenty of room for older children to amble around ahead (or behind) without getting in anyone’s way. There are also always dogs from St. Hubert’s walking around which is another added element of fun for some kids… or maybe just for me… OK fine it’s for me. Anyway, here are my picks for a fun day in Madison NJ with kids!
- Sunday Motor Co. Cafe: Have brunch, lunch, or coffee at this converted (and adorable! and stroller friendly!) gas station.
- Madison Mud: A clay studio, fun for the whole family.
- Crafted in Madison: Crafting open plays, workshops, and events.
- Museum of Early Trades and Crafts: Kids under 6 get in for free, just $5 for adults, $15 family max.
- Crowley Cupcakes: Definitely in my top 5 favorite cupcakes in the area. I was trying to recommend my favorite flavor but I really can't come up with one - tell me yours!
- McCools: Stop in for some ice cream.
- Madison Escape Room: Fun for the older set.
- Dodge Field Playground: A great playground set just a block back from downtown, with bathrooms, swings, a sandbox, climbing equipment, slides, and basketball courts. Address for GPS: 49 Central Ave, Madison NJ.
If you go exploring Madison with your kids because of this article, send me pictures and your itinerary!
Know of something amazing in Madison that I’m missing from this list? Drop me a line at juliel@macaronikid.com to let me know!
Other articles in this series:
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