The Land of Make Believe – Hope, New Jersey

If you are currently cruising I-80 through the scenic, rolling hills of Northern New Jersey, you might feel like you’re just passing through “commuter territory.” However, tucked away just minutes from Exit 12 in the historic town of Hope, New Jersey, lies a destination that has been capturing the hearts of families for seven decades. The Land of Make Believe is more than just an amusement park; it is a nostalgic journey into a world of imagination, a refreshing splash in a state-of-the-art water park, and quite possibly the best break you could take on your road trip.

Before we dive into the enchanted woods and pirate coves, here are the three things you need to know:

A Hidden Gem Just Off the Highway

As a traveler on I-80, you are likely used to the standard rest stops-fast food, gas stations, and grey asphalt. But if you take that turn toward Hope, the scenery shifts almost instantly. You’ll find yourself in a town that looks like it was plucked from a postcard, featuring stone buildings dating back to the 1700s. In the heart of this pastoral beauty sits the Land of Make Believe.

Founded in 1954 by Hermann Maier, the park was built on the philosophy that children should be able to play in a safe, wholesome environment where their imagination is the main attraction. Today, it remains family-owned and operated, maintaining a charming “vintage” feel while constantly upgrading with modern, high-thrill water slides and rides. For the road-weary traveler, it is a breath of fresh air.

Step Into a Storybook: The Dry Rides

The “Land” side of the park is a delightful mix of classic Americana and whimsical fantasy. As you walk through the gates, the first thing you’ll notice is the lack of concrete. The park is nestled under a canopy of massive, ancient trees, providing natural shade that you won’t find at larger parks.

One of the most iconic features is Santa’s Summer Home. Yes, even in the middle of July, you can walk into a cozy, air-conditioned cottage and meet Santa Claus himself. It’s a surreal and wonderful experience for kids to see Santa in his “vacation” gear, and it makes for a fantastic photo opportunity that beats a standard highway selfie any day.

For those looking for a bit of a thrill, the “Thriller” Roller Coaster is a perfect “first” coaster for kids, offering enough speed to get the heart racing without being too intimidating. You can also hop on the T-Rex Adventure, take a spin on the Ferris Wheel for a stunning view of the surrounding Warren County mountains, or enjoy the Off-Road Adventure, where kids get to “drive” their own safari trucks.

Don’t forget to visit Old McDonald’s Farm. This isn’t just a display; it’s an interactive area where children can get up close with friendly farm animals. It provides a peaceful, tactile experience that serves as a great “reset” button for kids who have been cooped up in a car for several hours.

Splash Into Adventure: Pirate’s Cove Water Park

Once the midday sun starts beating down on I-80, there is no better place to be than Pirate’s Cove. This isn’t just a small pool in the corner of the park; it is a full-scale water park that rivals many standalone aquatic centers.

The centerpiece is Blackbeard’s Pirate Fort, a massive multi-level water play structure equipped with slides, sprayers, and a giant tipping bucket that douses everyone below in hundreds of gallons of cool water. For the younger toddlers, there are expansive wading pools with gentle features, ensuring that even the littlest travelers can safely enjoy the water.

If you’re looking for relaxation, you can float down Blackbeard’s River, a lazy river that meanders through the park. For the adrenaline seekers, the Pirate’s Escape and Pirate’s Revenge slides offer high-speed drops and turns. The water park is clean, well-staffed with attentive lifeguards, and provides a level of excitement that will have your kids sleeping soundly in the back seat for the next 200 miles of your journey.

The Details

Address:
Land of Make Believe
354 Great Meadows Road
Rt. 611
Hope, New Jersey 07844
Telephone: (908) 459-9000
Website: https://www.lomb.com/

Hours of Operation:
Monday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Tuesday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wednesday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Water Park closes at 5:30 PM. Amusement Rides close at 5:45 PM

Admission:
Adults: $45.00
Children (2-18): $45.00
Senior Citizens (62 & up): $43.00)
Children under 24 months: Free
Admission includes ALL Rides, Shows, Attractions, Family Picnic Grove, and WaterPark! FREE Parking!

Directions:
From I-80 East (coming from Pennsylvania): Turn right at the bottom of the Exit 12 ramp. Then take County Road 521 toward Hope / Blairstown. Turn south onto CR-521 (Hope Blairstown Road) following signs for Hope. Drive south for about 1.2 miles into the historic center of Hope. Turn left at the flashing light onto County Road 611 (Great Meadows Road). Arrive at the park in less than a half-mile; the entrance to the Land of Make Believe will be on your left at 354 Great Meadows Road.

From I-80 West (coming from NYC/Eastern NJ): Turn left at the bottom of the Exit 12 ramp. Then take County Road 521 toward Hope / Blairstown. Turn south onto CR-521 (Hope Blairstown Road) following signs for Hope. Drive south for about 1.2 miles into the historic center of Hope. Turn left at the flashing light onto County Road 611 (Great Meadows Road). Arrive at the park in less than a half-mile; the entrance to the Land of Make Believe will be on your left at 354 Great Meadows Road.

Why It’s the Perfect I-80 Stop

You might be wondering, “Why should I spend my travel time here instead of just pushing through to my destination?” The answer lies in the unique “stress-free” atmosphere of the park.

1. The Picnic Grove Advantage: Most amusement parks force you to pay $15 for a mediocre burger. At the Land of Make Believe, they actually encourage you to bring your own food. There is a massive, shaded picnic area where families can sit down, open their coolers, and enjoy a healthy meal. For a traveler, this means you can pack your lunch in the car, save money, and enjoy a peaceful meal in the woods rather than a cramped car seat.

2. Accessibility: From the moment you get off Exit 12 on I-80, you are less than five minutes away from the parking lot. You don’t have to navigate complex city streets or deal with heavy local traffic. It is a seamless transition from the highway to the park.

3. The “Talking Scarecrow”: One of the park’s most beloved “insider” features is the Talking Scarecrow who sits near the entrance. He interacts with guests in real-time, cracking jokes and calling out to kids by name (or by the color of their shirt). It’s a small, personal touch that exemplifies the park’s friendly, welcoming spirit. It’s these moments of genuine interaction that make the Land of Make Believe feel like a community, not just a business.

A Note on History and Charm

In an era of high-tech virtual reality and massive corporate mergers, there is something deeply comforting about the Land of Make Believe. It feels like a time capsule of a simpler era, yet it never feels “old” or “run down.” The grounds are impeccably clean, the staff is predominantly made up of local students and residents who take pride in the park, and the Maier family is often seen on-site ensuring everything is running smoothly.

For a tourist traveling through New Jersey, this park offers a glimpse into the “Garden State” that many people miss-the side of the state defined by lush forests, rolling hills, and a commitment to family traditions.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

• Tip 1: The Cooler Strategy. Take full advantage of the park’s unique policy by packing a cooler with ice-cold drinks and a full lunch; you can leave it in your car and grab it when you’re ready, or carry it into the designated picnic grove to save a significant amount of money.
• Tip 2: Start with the Dry Rides. If you arrive in the morning, hit the mechanical rides and the T-Rex Adventure first while the air is still cool, then transition to the Pirate’s Cove water park in the afternoon when the sun is at its peak.
• Tip 3: Bring Your Own Socks. If your kids want to play in the “Middle-Earth” soft play area or certain indoor attractions, they may be required to wear socks, so keep a spare pair in your day bag to avoid having to purchase them at the gift shop.

Conclusion: Make a Memory, Not Just a Mile

Driving across I-80 can often feel like a race against the clock, but the best parts of a road trip are often the unexpected detours. The Land of Make Believe offers a rare opportunity to trade the hum of the highway for the sound of laughter and splashing water. Whether you spend four hours or the entire day there, you’ll leave with more than just a break from driving-you’ll leave with a family memory that will be talked about long after you’ve reached your final destination.

So, when you see the signs for Hope, New Jersey, take the exit. Follow the signs for the Land of Make Believe. Give your family a day of magic, and give yourself a break in one of the most charming corners of the Northeast. You won’t regret it!

The I-80 Exit Guide is the Internet’s largest and most complete website dedicated to Interstate 80 travelers. Find detailed exit service listings… lodging, camping, food, gas and more for every exit from New Jersey to California!

On the road? Why not take us with you. The I-80 Exit Guide is mobile-friendly and totally FREE. No App Required.

Traveling another route? Visit our growing family of exit guides:  I-4 Exit Guide, I-5 Exit Guide, I-10 Exit Guide, I-75 Exit Guide, I-80 Exit Guide and I-95 Exit Guide. Detailed exit service listings… discount lodging, camping, food, gas and more for every exit along the way!