Your journey to Duke Farms begins at the Orientation Center, located at 1112 Dukes Parkway West in Hillsborough, N.J. (908) 722-3700 ext. 4. They offer a wide variety of free activities that can include the whole family. There are 18 miles of paved, gravel, wood-chipped and mown-grass trails and pathways through a variety of habitats. You can walk, bike, or take a tram ride around the property to see all of the sites from the outdoor fountains to sculpture garden. They have a Free Ride Bike share program with over 60 bikes that allows you to borrow adult bicycles for FREE!Makes it easy to throw the kids bikes in the car and go without having to load yours too. Go at 10 AM on weekends to be sure to get one or later in the afternoon after the morning ones are returned because they tend to run out by 11 AM.

One of my favorite features is The Orchid Range.  It is home to a Subtropical Display and a Tropical Orchid House featuring some of the 1,500 orchids grown at Duke Farms. Definitely worth seeing. Pack a picnic or stop by the cafe to grab a quick bite before you go see The Great Falls. They are programmed to flow for 10 minutes each day, from 12:30 PM to 12:40 PM. They also have a wide variety of educational programs so check out their calendar before you go.

Reviewed by Sarah Graves, NJ Mom Squad Team