South Jersey summers are packed with days at the beach and nights with the family, and we’ve got just the places to visit to make this the summer of endless fun.

Get up-close and personal with sea creatures 

A visit to Adventure Aquarium is so much more than looking at fish in a tank. Visitors can fill the day watching Button and Genny at Hippo Haven, traverse the suspension bridge inches above the shark enclosure and even pet a stingray. For tickets and more information, visit the website. 

Step into a painting 

Ever wonder what it would be like to walk through a Monet painting? Or look up at a sculpture over 60 feet tall? Head to Grounds For Sculpture for a truly unique art experience, with 42 acres of nearly 300 pieces of art to explore. Plus, try one of the site’s interactive events to make some art of your own. For tickets and more information, visit the website. 

Try a new restaurant 

South Jersey has so many great restaurants that you might not be able to fit them all in one summer – but you sure can try. Check out our dining guide to kick start your culinary adventure this summer. 

Hear from some ghosts 

This isn’t your typical Jersey Shore ghost tour. Cape May MAC has compiled a presentation of paranormal recordings collected by Cape May researchers over the years in the Physick Estate. Take the spooky tour and make your own conclusions. For ticket info and a schedule, visit the website. 

Explore a shipwreck 

At the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean, along the coast of the Jersey Shore, there are hundreds of shipwrecks waiting to be explored. If you don’t have your scuba diving license, there are plenty of certification centers along the coast. Then you’re free to choose a favorite spot – we suggest the torpedoed Gulf Trade oil tanker by Barnegat Inlet or Boston Lightship, which sank off the coast of Atlantic City in 1994. 

Paddle through the Pinelands 

Grab your lifejacket and a kayak – or rent one – and hit the (water) trails for a scenic view of the Pinelands. Take in the views of Mullica River, Batsto Lake or Wharton State Park for trips ranging anywhere from 1 to 8 hours. Check out some trails here.