Planning your first Wildwood vacation with toddlers and preschoolers? Morey’s Piers offers dozens of gentle rides perfect for your little adventurers, and knowing which ones are best can make all the difference in creating magical memories.
Adventure Pier’s Toddler Paradise
Adventure Pier, located at 25th and the Boardwalk, is your go-to destination for the youngest family members. The Kiddie Convoy train ride is perfect for children as young as two, offering a gentle journey through colorful tunnels and around fun obstacles. The Mini Himalaya provides just enough spinning excitement without being overwhelming, while the classic Dizzy Dragons lets kids control their own spinning adventure.
The Balloon Race is another winner – children sit in colorful hot air balloon cars that gently rise and fall while slowly rotating. It’s thrilling enough to feel like a “big kid” ride but mild enough for nervous first-timers.
Local Tip: Visit Adventure Pier in the early evening when crowds thin out but rides are still operating. The cooler temperatures make it more comfortable for little ones, and shorter lines mean more rides!
Surfside Pier’s Gentle Giants
At Surfside Pier (located at Schellenger Avenue), don’t miss the Tea Cups – a timeless favorite where families can ride together and control the spinning speed. The Convoy fire trucks let kids play firefighter while enjoying a scenic ride around the pier.
The Helicopters offer the excitement of “flying” with parents able to ride alongside children who meet the height requirement. For water fun without the chaos of a water park, the Dunes Splashboat provides a gentle boat ride with just enough splashing to cool off on hot summer days.
Mariner’s Landing Must-Rides
Mariner’s Landing at Schellenger Avenue features the iconic Ferris Wheel – perfect for toddlers who love heights but need a calm experience. The enclosed gondolas keep everyone safe while offering stunning views of Wildwood’s free beaches and the Atlantic Ocean.
The Kite Flyer provides a gentle up-and-down motion that mimics flying a kite, while the Parachute Jump offers controlled thrills with a slow, scenic descent that won’t overwhelm sensitive riders.
Height Requirements to Know: Most kiddie rides require children to be at least 36 inches tall to ride alone, or accompanied by an adult if they’re shorter. Always check posted signs at each ride entrance.
Smart Planning Tips for Families
Purchase wristbands rather than individual ride tickets – they typically pay for themselves after 6-8 rides. The piers offer various pricing options, with weekday rates generally lower than weekend prices. Consider starting your pier adventure around 4 PM when temperatures begin to cool but you still have plenty of riding time.
Pack essentials in a small backpack: hand sanitizer, wet wipes, a change of clothes for water rides, and snacks. Many rides have cubbies for storing belongings, but keeping valuables with you is always wise.
Local Tip: Staying at any of our five locally-owned Coastal Collection properties means you’re within easy walking distance of all three piers. No need to worry about parking or driving with tired kids – just a short stroll back to your comfortable room when the fun winds down.
After a day of rides and boardwalk treats, you’ll appreciate being steps away from Wildwood’s free beaches for some quiet family time. Our family-friendly accommodations provide the perfect home base for creating those precious early vacation memories with your little ones.
Stay Steps from the Action.
Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.