5 Things To Do In Bernardsville Before The Kids Go Back To School

It's hard to believe, but soon summer will be winding down. So before the kids head back to school, why not spend some time as a family enjoying all that our community has to offer?

If you're looking for a place to get started, we've rounded up five fun things to do in the Bernardsville-Bedminster area before the kids head back to school. Pro tip: Call ahead to confirm hours and access, stay hydrated, and if you're heading outdoors, bring plenty of SPF and bug spray!

1. Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary

Address: 11 Hardscrabble Road, Bernardsville, NJ 07924
Phone: 908-396-6386

Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering trails and educational programs for children. The sanctuary is almost 300 acres of woodland, field and floodplain habitat that support over 200 species of wildlife. Kids can enjoy bird watching, nature hikes and hands-on activities in the visitor center. Click here for more info.

2. Environmental Education Center at Lord Stirling Park

Address: 190 Lord Stirling Road, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Phone: 908-722-1200 ext. 5002

The Environmental Education Center at Lord Stirling Park provides interactive exhibits and nature programs for kids, including a permanent, interactive, educational exhibit about the Great Swamp. The center includes nine miles of hiking trails through diverse ecosystems. Be aware that the education center building is closed on Saturdays in August. Click here for more info.

3. Leonard J. Buck Garden

Address: 11 Layton Road, Far Hills, NJ 07931
Phone: 908-722-1200 ext. 5621

Leonard J. Buck Garden is a 33-acre public botanical garden offering a variety of plants and picturesque trails. The garden features rock gardens, woodland trails and a serene pond. Kids can explore different plant species and the seasonal blooms year-round. As a note, no pets, except for service animals, are allowed in the garden. Click here for more info.

4. Natirar Park

Address: 2 Main Street, Peapack, NJ 07977
Phone: 908-722-1200 ext. 5140

Natirar Park offers vast green spaces, walking trails and scenic views of the Raritan River. The park spans over 400 acres across Bedminster, Peapack/Gladstone, and Far Hills; 40 acres are located in Bedminster. The park boasts a variety of outdoor activities for kids, such as hiking and fishing. Click here for more info.

5. Liberty Park

Address: 168 Main St, Peapack, NJ 07977
Phone: N/A

Liberty Park features a variety of walking paths in addition to picnic tables and benches, a large pond where swans and ducks gather and a gazebo. Many seasonal, town-wide events are hosted in the park, such as Community Day, Art in the Park, and the fire department’s classic car show. Click here for more info.

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