Free New Jersey indoor play spots–which range from malls and toy stores to libraries and bookstores–help banish winter boredom...at least for a little while. So grab a coffee, a friend, and schedule your next play date at one of these indoor gems.

For even more family fun, don't miss our guide to great indoor play spaces on Long Island with fees for winter drop-in hours. 

New Jersey is teeming with potential rainy-day activities that are perfect for when your active kiddos want to do more than curl up with a book or stomp in a puddle. No matter the season, New Jersey has an array of great indoor activities for the whole family, from museums and indoor play spaces to bowling alleys, roller rinks, and more.

If staying in sounds better, we've got plenty of ideas for at-home rainy-day fun, too. Find more picks for things to do with kids on the next bad weather day in our Guide to Indoor Play Spaces in New Jersey for Kids. 

New Jersey laser tag and paintball venues both feature running, hiding, and shooting at your opponents. Kids will race through rough outdoor terrain to avoid the harsh splat of incoming paint pellets, or dart from cover to cover in a darkened arena trying to dodge laser beams.

Teens, tweens, and older kids will feel the rush of competition as their teams try to stay alive in the game. Both are great for older kids' birthday parties or family outings.

Most paintball venues allow players age 10 and up, while laser tag is appropriate for children as young as 5 or 6. Check websites for age limits, drop-in hours, party packages, equipment rentals, and reservations. 

Check out our Guide to Indoor Play Spaces for New Jersey Kids for more great indoor play spots.