BWW Reviews: KEANSBURG, New Jersey - A Wonderful and Iconic Family Amusement Park

Need a great "staycation" spot? For fun in the sun, take a day trip to Keansburg Amusement Park and Runaway Rapids Family Waterpark conveniently located on the New Jersey Bayshore. It is an ideal location for those living in the Garden State and for people traveling from the metropolitan area.

I have happy memories of visiting Keansburg with my family and I took my own children to the amusement park as they were growing up. I returned recently on date night with my husband to see if this iconic New Jersey spot has the same allure. And yes, it does.

The rides, concessions, and attractions at Keansburg are impeccably maintained. Owned by the Gelhaus family, they have been thoughtful about making the amusement park appealing while keeping prices family friendly and very reasonable for guests.

Keansburg will be celebrating its 110th Anniversary this summer. In fact, if you ever visited there as a child, you will recognize the rides that once captured your imagination; metal sports cars, wooden boats, little red fire engines, 2 seater motorcycles and propeller planes, all spinning around in a whirl of rainbow circles. Keansburg has a total of 14 Kiddie Rides that include 5 antique ones.

But, Keansburg is not just for youngsters. They have continually updated and improved their attractions for teens and adults. While you can still enjoy a twist on the old-fashioned Tilt-O-Whirl, or some Bumper Car fun, there are 10 thrill rides that include Looping Star, Double Shot, Pharaoh's Fury and Moby Dick.

Their Go-Karts continue to be an attraction that is sure to please with both a kiddie and adult track. And, Hollowgraves Manor, the very scary haunted house, is now a Keansburg happening. It has recently been relocated from Seaside Heights and promises to give even brave folks a real fright. Yet, Hollowgraves is considered totally family-friendly.

Gaming is also a favorite of visitors. Take your chance on a spinning wheel, Roll A Ball, Duck Pond, Racer's Edge or Ring Toss. There are games and prizes galore for everyone. What would summer be without the joy of winning plushy stuffed animals, candy and gift items.

Keansburg's water park, Runaway Rapids is conveniently located just across Beachway Avenue from the amusement park. It has a striking presence and towers well above the amusement area. Runaway Rapids all of the elements that make this water park a popular favorite. Toddler Reef, Lost Lagoon, Soaring Thunder, Nestea Plunge, Slides, and Mega Bunga Falls are just some of the wet and wild fun for all ages.

For dinner, visit the Miami Club, a welcoming spot located in the center of the amusement area. This casual bar and eatery has table service, a spacious bar and offers delicious seafood including raw bar specialties. Guests return again and again for their signature Manhattan Clam Chowder or favorite menu items like their chicken sliders and fried shrimp platter. And while a glass of beer feels great on a hot summer day, drink enthusiasts should try Miami Club's signature cocktails.

For those that prefer a quick bite, you can find a concession at Keansburg to suit all tastes from pizza and shish kebob, to pulled pork, fries, lemonade, zeppolis and ice cream.

Keansburg has made a remarkable recovery since Hurricane Sandy. In fact, only a few projects remain; the reopening of The Old Heidelberg, a boardwalk hot dog restaurant and bar and the re-opening of the Spook House, their well-known house of horrors. With Keansburg's rich history, one of the Spook House cars was actually renovated on the popular TV show, American Restoration.

While at the Bayshore, you may be looking for some beach adventure, Keansburg has a fishing pier and a free beach that boasts a lovely view of the bay and New York City. It should be noted that the beach is not guarded, and swimming is at your own risk.

Keansburg Amusement Park and Runaway Rapids is located at 275 Beachway Avenue, in Keansburg, New Jersey. It is easily accessed from the Garden State Parkway and other major area roadways and parking is convenient. Keansburg is also served by the Academy Bus Line from New York's Port of Authority bus terminal. For phone inquiries, call (732) 495-1400. You can also visit their website at www.keansburgamusementpark.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Keansburg Amusement Park