We are so lucky to have two great zipline and ropes courses on Long Island – The Adventure Park Long Island and WildPlay Jones Beach. The two are quite different and if you love adventure, I recommend trying both experiences! As you can see, we have become a zipline and ropes course family. It seems to be the natural progression from our hikes around Long Island. Zipline & ropes courses on Long Island are like hikes up in the sky!
Why We Love The Adventure Park Long Island
We have been fans of The Adventure Park Long Island – an “adventure in the trees” – for years. We fell in love with this zipline and ropes course four years ago. With its 34 ziplines and 14 treetop trails, everyone is destined to have a good time. It’s a great place to go with your friends, family, in a group, alone, or just for the kids.
My first experience at The Adventure Park Long Island was Glow in the Park with some friends. My third child was just born and I was not yet back to my normal strength. I was very proud that I did it (and loved it) – and I vowed to get in shape and return.
My second visit was with our Girl Scout Troop and – after a year of yoga – I was ready to return. I was amazed how much easier it was! The girls had a blast and took advantage of The Adventure Park Long Island‘s Scout month group adventure!
The Perfect Seventh Birthday Celebration
My son – who turned seven in October of 2020 – was dying to go. This was literally all he wanted to do for his birthday. With COVID halting normal birthday party options, an outdoor aerial zipline and ropes course on Long Island seemed like the perfect adventure. Luckily, the date coincided with “Firepit Fridays,” so our après climb involved birthday s’mores. Heaven for a seven-year-old Evan.
The excitement of this visit was very much shared by his little brother. At four he was not yet allowed to join on the ropes courses. However, he was able to rock the new Adventure Playground (for kids age 3-6). It was so much fun, filled with age-appropriate adventure, and he has asked every day to return. Which leads us to his May birthday request…
Why We Love WildPlay Jones Beach
We are a beach family. Ever since WildPlay at Jones Beach opened my kids’ eyes go wide as we pass it heading to our town beach. They have been begging to go. With a gorgeous beach view, this new zipline and ropes course on Long Island looks so cool and just calls out to you. It is the perfect way to end your beach day or as a fun destination on any day.
As you climb from structure to structure at WildPlay Jones Beach, you feel connected to a larger course. Each of their orange structures are linked together, making it a continuous path. We went late afternoon to take advantage of the beautiful view, avoid the heat, and enjoy the sunset.
The Perfect Fifth Birthday Celebration
With a minimum age of five, we decided to make our youngest’s wish come true and celebrate his 5th birthday at WildPlay Jones Beach. After all – he also wanted to be at a zipline and ropes course on Long Island for his birthday – just like his big brother!
My boys did the Kid’s Adventure Course – with a beautiful view of the famous Jones Beach tower. Their pass allowed them to go through the course twice.
My daughter and I did the Classic Course –with three levels (ascending with difficulty) of climbing. As she continued to the upper levels, we cheered her on below and took some great pictures!
Comparing the Ropes Courses on Long Island
Both locations offer many options. At The Adventure Park Long Island there is not a “kids” ropes course. There are different levels (like a ski slope) and you can choose your own adventure. Each level has a suggested age range (beginning at age seven) but you’re good for all if you can reach or are with an adult.
At WildPlay Jones Beach, there is a specific kid’s course for ages 5-12 catering towards the “vertically challenged” set. This is perfect if the larger course intimidates them.
My seven-year-old loved both places and liked the difference and variety of both.
Ziplines on Long Island
Many adventure seekers rush to ziplines. At The Adventure Park Long Island the ziplines are throughout the courses – with the Grand Rapids course – chock full of them.
WildPlay Jones Beach has two zipline options. As you climb through the course you zipline from structure to structure. BUT if your true heart lies with a zipline – they have an even better option. The Jones Beach Zipline (for ages 7+) offers a view of the beach as you zip through the air. With four side by side 700-foot long ziplines, this ala carte experience can’t be beat.
Type of Ticket for Zipline & Ropes Courses on Long Island
The Adventure Park Long Island offers an unlimited three hour ticket throughout the park.
WildPlay Jones Beach offers an ala carte option (with a bundle package available). This allows you to customize your adventure.
Neither location charges admission for non-climbers (read: parents you can sit while your kids climb if it’s not your thing).
What to Bring to Zipline & Ropes Courses on Long Island
I would recommend a bottle of water, a small bag (like a fanny pack), and/or zippered pockets. Fingerless climbing gloves are also a great addition and will help at both locations. I like the inexpensive ones sold at The Adventure Park Long Island. You also need to wear closed toe shoes.
Seating Areas for Non-Climbers at Zipline & Ropes Courses on Long Island
The Adventure Park Long Island has a seating area where your guests can wait as you climb. As you finish each course you can walk over to say hello, take a quick break, and grab a drink.
WildPlay Jones Beach is more of a continuous journey. Once you begin you are up there until you finish the course. There were ample places for observers to pop a squat and watch as you climb.
All The Climbing Makes You Hungry!
You can bring food into The Adventure Park Long Island and enjoy your meal at one of their many picnic tables.
Since WildPlay Jones Beach is located on the famous Jones Beach Boardwalk there are tons of open tables (and restaurants) where you can enjoy a post adventure meal.
A View from the Top
Both ropes courses on Long Island offer unique adventures, exciting challenges, and tons of fun. In addition to the standard courses, The Adventure Park Long Island has great programs and events.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie WildPlay Jones Beach has some great experiences – including the 40 foot drop in the What’s To Fear Jump.
Where to Find Ropes Courses & Ziplines on Long Island
The Adventure Park Long Island is located at 75 Colonial Springs Rd, East Gate, Wheatley Heights, New York 11798. This is in Suffolk County – mid island.
WildPlay Jones Beach is located at 2600 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh, NY 11793. This is on the south shore of Nassau County right at Jones Beach. Paid parking (unaffiliated with WildPlay) is available in fields 4 and 5. You will see signs for WildPlay Jones Beach Guest Services on the boardwalk near the Boardwalk Cafe.
With so many exciting options you will win no matter where you go. Both offer not only a sense of adventure but moments of serenity if you stop to look and around and soak it all in.
Good luck. Have fun. Be safe.
But above all, don’t forget to stretch!
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Don’t forget to check out all the family friendly destinations we’ve researched!
