Family Activities Span Four Cities: Goats to Lobster Races This Summer

If your family’s summer plans include a trip to any of the world’s Camdens, in New South Wales, Maine, London or New Jersey, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly things to do. Each city offers its own distinct flavour, from animal encounters to water play, and July is the perfect time to dive in.

Camden, NSW: Markets and mud kitchens

In Camden, New South Wales, families can start their Saturday at the Camden Growers’ Markets, held every week from 7am to noon. The market is particularly enjoyable for young children, according to local guides [1]. For animal lovers, The Camden Fruit Barn lets kids feed goats and sheep [1]. On warmer days, head to Curry Reserve for free water play, or visit the Centre for Sustainable Living, which features a mud kitchen [1]. Thrifting families should stop by Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard, a second-hand toy shop that’s popular with little ones [1].

Camden, Maine: Hiking and harbour festivals

Up the coast in Camden, Maine, outdoor adventures abound. Camden Hills State Park offers 30 miles of hiking trails suitable for all levels, and the summit of the park features a WWI memorial stone tower with sweeping views [2][5]. Over Labor Day Weekend, the annual Camden Windjammer Festival brings lobster crate racing and boat building activities for families [1][5]. In mid-July, harbour cruises covering lobstering, wildlife and sunset tours are available, and the Owls Head Transportation Museum makes for an easy day trip [2].

Camden Town, London: Canal boats and crazy golf

In London’s Camden Town, families can take boat rides on Regent’s Canal all the way to Little Venice [3]. Plonk Golf, an indoor crazy golf venue rebuilt in late 2020, is a hit with older kids and teens [4][7]. For water-based activities, Pirate Castle on Regent’s Canal offers kayaking and paddleboarding [6][11]. And ZSL London Zoo, a short walk away in Regent’s Park, houses more than 15,000 animals [4][7]. Camden Market, meanwhile, provides street food and vintage stalls that appeal to all ages [7][9][13].

Camden County, New Jersey: Diggerland and manatees

Across the Atlantic in Camden County, New Jersey, the construction-themed amusement park Diggerland features over 40 attractions, including wave pools, water slides and operating real machinery that kids can drive [11]. The local aquarium also has manatee exhibits, offering a quieter counterpoint to the park’s adrenaline [11].

Whatever Camden you choose, a little planning goes a long way. For outdoor activities like hiking and water play, check the weather and pack sunscreen. For indoor attractions like Plonk Golf or the zoo, booking ahead is recommended. And if you’re in Camden, NSW, don’t forget to hit the markets early, the best produce and toys go fast.