Santa Claus is coming to town….we have some suggestions of where to see him!
A rite of passage each holiday season is the photo with Santa Claus! While some families enjoy the same place and location each year which is a wonderful tradition, there has been a recent shift in Christmas experiences to visit Old Saint Nick in a fun and unique way. The new spaces offer interactive and immersive experiences that engage children as they wait on line. At many locations, children can engage in online apps or stop at interactive play stations that help build the excitement for their photo.
While there are several different experiences in NJ that offer this, we also appreciate locations that are unique and interesting. Some locations have existed for decades raising money for charity or just have a hands down good-looking Santa that has the magic touch to engage with your child. We have compiled this list of spaces for you to consider for a photo with Santa. We will be updating it as we find new experiences so please check back often.
2019 Amazing Places to See Santa Claus
Santa Land, Denville
The Denville Rotary hosts a wonderful stop for families in Santa Land! It opens at the conclusion of the town’s holiday parade and is not only fun but it’s FREE. Different stations (including one that plays movies) are outside Santa’s home. Children can drop off their letters to Old Saint Nick before visiting Santa indoors by fireplace. Bring your own camera (or a fully charged smartphone) to take photos as kids tell Santa what they want. They ask for a suggested donation of $5 but for a family experience that is a wonderful amount.
*This information has not yet been updated as we are awaiting information to be posted.
Santa’s Flight Academy at Short Hills Mall, Short Hills
Short Hills Mall has always had a massive draw for unique Santa experiences and this year is no different as they usher in Santa’s Flight Academy. Families can register prior to make an appointment time and offer information which will be used to create a customized badge. Children can make a virtual flight suit and learn about navigation as they attempt to maneuver his sleigh. As always, there is their iconic snow fall which children love to dance under!
Santa’s House at Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson
Six Flags Great Adventure has been well-known for thrilling roller coaster rides and safari, but it also offers other immersive experiences like Santa’s Home. As part of the Holiday in the Park celebration that still offers adrenaline filled rides, there is magical lights throughout the park, lights on the Christmas tree coordinated to music, reindeer and kids can send letters to the North Pole. However, children can also visit Santa in his home for a photo to capture this multi-sensory experience.
Santa’s Home in Turtle Back Zoo
There is nothing like visiting Turtle Back Zoo during their Holiday Lights Spectacular! And-it’s also a great time top stop and visit Santa who visits during select weekends. You can either purchase a photo or use your own camera! Read our post to find additional details about this phenomenal annual must do holiday experience here!
Williams Harley Davidson, Lebanon and Morris Plains
Every year, Williams Harley Davidson offers a weekend where you can bring your child to take a photo with Santa on a Harley. This is hands down our favorite annual holiday tradition for my family. The Harley used changes color every year and the money is always donated to charity. I have always been impressed with generosity of this event as you are usually greeted by a 6 foot Elf wearing a leather jacket (isn’t that how all Elves should look?) and cookies. If you arrive at the opening, Santa has been known to ride in on his Harley. It should be noted that dogs are welcome at this event. Check their website for upcoming dates!
Keep checking back to see what new and unique places we have added to our list. Know of an amazing santa experience, let us know in the comments section below!
Here are more ways to experience holiday magic in NJ
I like how you mentioned visiting Santa at Short Hills Mall since kids can take a virtual flight around his sleigh. My wife and I are wanting to travel this Christmas and need to find an exciting place for our kids to meet Santa. We’ll be sure to keep researching fun ideas for this upcoming holiday season.