Swimming
The recently installed water trampoline and slide makes Captain Kilroy Park one of the main staples of Wayne residents during the summer months. May through August, the poolside is filled with families lounging in the park-provided chaises, basking in the sun and watching children splash around in the large swimming facility. The Kilroy Lake and James Roe Pool both require interested patrons to pass a swimming test before jumping into the fresh water, while swim lessons are additionally offered. More than 15,000 square feet of pool keep the entire family and guests entertained during the long summer days, with a surrounding forest for those who like to explore Mother Nature. Additionally, the Roe Pool offers several large umbrellas for those concerned about the power of the sun. Lap swimming is available during specific times; the pool opens during the week at noon and 11 a.m. on holidays and weekends.
Captain Kilroy Park
Kiwanis Drive
Wayne, NJ
973-694-6466
waynetownship.com/parks-facility.htm
Historic House Museums
Even during Wayne's below-zero-temperature months, residents and visitors spend time exploring the area's rich history. This small New Jersey township owns and operates three historic house museums, including the Van Riper-Hopper home. Built in 1786, tours are offered year-round as families enjoy traveling back in time to this farmstead, complete with an archaeology lab and Albert Payson Terhune Collection. All tours are made by appointment and for children 8 years and older. Other homes include the Schuyler-Colfax House Museum, built in 1695, as well as the Mead-Van Duyne House Museum from around 1740. Equally as impressive is the Dey Mansion and George Washington headquarters of 1780, where actors reinterpret colonial events annually.
Interactive tours
973-694-7192
waynetownship.com/his-mus.htm
Laurelwoods Garden & Arboretum
Created by local Dorothy Knippenberg, the Laurelwoods Arboretum and gardens is home to some of the area's most gorgeous scenery. With several woodland trails perfect for the avid runner or hiker, two ponds and dozens upon dozens of vegetation that thrives during the spring and summer, the Laurelwoods Gardens and Arboretum is filled with colors and adventure. Owned by the Township of Wayne and maintained by private donors and donations, this hidden treasure is the area's most talked about. Enjoy an early morning hike or afternoon stroll through these gardens with friends who love to bird-watch--as the wildlife is equally as expansive--or chat with local artists filling their canvases with the bright colors of rhododendrons nearby.
FOLA
725 Pines Lake Drive W.
Wayne, NJ 07470
973-202-9579
laurelwoodarboretum.org
Article Written By Meaghan Clark
A Southern California native, Meaghan Clark has written about everything from interior design to San Diego lifestyles and their accompanying tunes. She has written for San Diego Magazine, Decor and Style, Santa Barbara Magazine, StubHub.com, PlayPhone.com, eHow and MyFDB.com. She is currently the San Diego Women's Fashion Examiner. Clark graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in communication from the University of California, San Diego.
