Looking Back at My Childhood in New Jersey: How Visiting the Land of Make Believe Became an Unforgettable Experience

The Land of Make Believe, a charming family theme park in New Jersey, is the first amusement park I ever visited—and it kicked off a life-long passion.

These days, I can usually be found traveling up and down the East Coast whenever the opportunity presents itself, with some longer sojourns planned in the years to come. When I travel, it's usually to find specific attractions I've always wanted to visit. I've made journeys to iconic buffets, massive malls packed with attractions, unique retro music halls, and of course, amusement parks. As a New Jerseyan, it's no surprise I'm into these coaster-packed entertainment destinations; we are home to Six Flags Great Adventure, one of the top coaster parks in the USA. But that's not where my theme park journey began. The first amusement park I ever visited was Land of Make Believe, a fantastic family theme park in New Jersey that's still going strong with retro charm after over 70 years. I was only six years old, but a lifelong love for amusement parks began in this little spot in Hope, New Jersey.

One of the first things that stood out to me upon arriving at the Land of Make Believe as a kid was that this truly was a theme park for kids. At most theme parks today, even ones like Disney, the park is heavily geared towards teens and other thrill-seekers. Not here; all the attractions are easily enjoyed by kids under 13, and the whimsical atmosphere combines carnival fun with fairy tale whimsy.

The park has 33 attractions, including two roller coasters, plus a wide variety of stores, games, and concessions. There's no better way to see it all than with a ride aboard the miniature train, which is a recreation of a Civil War-era locomotive that departs from an old-fashioned train depot.

This is a seasonal park, which means it's gearing up for a new season in May. Not only is the park in full swing during the summer, but so is its adjoining waterpark, which features water attractions that are both relaxing and thrilling. The towering waterslides in the park are a rite of passage for local kids as they get old enough to brave the big ones!

While the park initially focused on gentle family-friendly entertainment, it's started to add some roller coasters and more thrilling rides. This is a great way to get kids into the more adrenaline-pumping aspects of amusement parks in an environment that's made just for them. This little theme park isn't as well-known as Six Flags or Morey's Piers, but it's just as charming as when I visited it as a little kid.

Have you visited this charming family theme park in New Jersey? If you know any families with kids who would love the Land of Make Believe, share this article with them! You can find out more information about attractions and operating hours on the Land of Make Believe website and the Land of Make Believe Facebook page. If you're on a road trip and need a place to rest after a long day of fun in the park, check out the Hotel Belvidere, which offers a cosy atmosphere and free breakfast only fifteen minutes away by car.