(*this post has been freshly updated for 2024!)
Disclosure: I received tickets to Diggerland USA in exchange for an honest review/media coverage. But I say this time and time again- I would not recommend someplace to you that I totally did not love myself. That's not how I roll! All opinions here are my own, and I'm about as honest as you can get. Can you dig it? Ha! See what I did there? Dig? Ah, you get it.
*Winterfest Going On Now Through 12/29!
Before I tell you all about Diggerland USA, I just wanted to let you know that their Winterfest is going on now through December 29th. They have holiday music, decorations, a holiday-themed parade, yummy seasonal snacks, and more. It's definitely worth checking out! We loved it!
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| photo courtesy of Diggerland |
Diggerland USA Expansion - The Water Main
Also important to note is that Diggerland USA is planning to expand! Get ready for The Water Main, scheduled to open in May of 2020!
What is Diggerland?
Diggerland is the only construction themed adventure park in all of North America (aren't we lucky to have it right here in New Jersey?). You might see the 'USA' tacked onto the end of it on their website and around the internet, and that's because there is another Diggerland in Europe. But my focus is here, on the fabulous Diggerland of West Berlin, New Jersey. Here's a little blurb from their brochure about what they offer:
"Diggerland USA is a construction-themed adventure park where children and their families drive, ride and operate heavy machinery in a safe, family-friendly environment. Diggerland is the most unique amusement experience in the world."
I'd have to say I totally agree with that. I've never been anyplace quite like Diggerland. The only thing I would add is that it's not just about operating heavy machinery. There are also rides, things to climb on, swings and more! Read on, you'll see.
Where is Diggerland Located?
Diggerland USA is located in West Berlin, New Jersey. If you live in New Jersey and you're wondering, 'where is that?' it is in southern New Jersey, off of the Turnpike. It's not far from Philadelphia, and close to towns like Cherry Hill, Voorhees and one I had never heard of called Evesham (sorry, peeps of Evesham, I don't get down your way too much). There is also a water park called Sahara Sam's Oasis right next door. You can find directions to Diggerland here.
I was surprised to see how much this whole area had been built up since the last time I had seen it. There were tons of shops, restaurants and stores along the way as we drove into Diggerland. We passed a Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Aldi, Target, Chick-fil-A, Lowe's... you name it, the store seemed to be down there! So lots of shopping opportunities along the way, too. You can find out all about the local area from the map below.
What Age is Diggerland Appropriate For?
It's not so much the age, it's the height. You see, Diggerland USA is wonderful for anyone who loves construction (there are SO many kids -and adults, too- who are fascinated by construction equipment). Diggerland USA offers a little something for everyone, but you have to keep in mind that all of Diggerland's rides require a minimum of 36" (sometimes 42") to participate. See this info below from their park brochure:
I will go over some of the rides in a minute, but if you're wondering whether the park is right for your child, check out these helpful links:
Diggerland's Ride Descriptions (lists rides and their height requirement)
Diggerland's Know Before You Go (FAQ and rules of the park)
So once you look at these links, hopefully you can decide what's best for your family. I can tell you quickly that I saw a variety of ages at the park while I was there. Even if a little one couldn't ride a certain ride, there were other things for them to be occupied with. You'll see! Read on.
How Much Does Diggerland Cost?
There are a few options for purchasing tickets- you can purchase an 'any day' ticket (you choose to visit any day you like) and there are specific date tickets (you pick an exact date to visit). I suggest you visit their ticket page for the most up to date prices. You can also purchase a season pass, which provides you with savings and discounts in the park. Non-participating guests over 65 years old and any children under 36" are free! The Soaring Eagle ride is an additional charge per ticket (and half off for season pass holders).
I also highly suggest you follow Diggerland on Facebook or Twitter to get the latest coupon codes and deals.
How Much is Parking at Diggerland?
I love saying this, because I don't get to say it often when writing about theme parks: PARKING IS FREE! Not only that, but because this is a smaller-sized theme park (it sits on roughly 14 acres), the parking lot is adjacent to the park and an easy walk to the entrance. You don't need a shuttle bus or a tram or a complex series of secret underground tunnels to get to and from the park! You can even run back to your car to get things if you need them.
Don't worry, Diggerland stays open rain or shine (except in cases of severe weather). They are open March through December.
What Can I Eat at Diggerland?
Diggerland USA is one of the few theme parks that actually offered a view of their entire menu online (you can check that out on their Food Options page). I thought that was pretty neat, because I have a picky eater on my hands so I wanted to see what was available before I got there. There are three places to eat at Diggerland - The Munch Box, The Lunch Pail and The Forklift. Cute, right? We actually enjoyed all of the food we had here (we've tried chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, cheese steak, fries, corn dog and funnel cake), and prices are comparable to most theme parks. There are also drink vending machines located throughout the park.
I also do recommend the souvenir cup for beverages (especially if you're visiting during the summer). I didn't think it was worth it at first, but since we wound up getting more than one drink a piece during our all-day visit at the park, it would have been worth it to buy the cup (an average soft drink at the park is about $3.95, even in the soda bottle machines).
Outside food is not allowed in the park (with the exception of some items for toddlers, babies, etc. and a water bottle). Both indoor and outdoor picnic tables are available, and there are benches throughout the park, too.
About the Rides at Diggerland USA
I have talked to so many people about Diggerland USA, and they're always curious about what exactly is there. Is it just construction equipment? Is it loud? Is it dangerous? Is it scary? Is it boring? Let me explain a few things for you! I won't go over every single ride (as mentioned above, you can view a detailed description of their rides here). But I'll highlight some things for you so you can get an idea of what this park is all about. Here is a map of the park so you can see what they have to offer (as of the publication date of this entry - click to zoom in):
In a nutshell, here's what you'll find at Diggerland USA:
- machinery you can operate (you can operate diggers to dig for treasures, knock over bowling pins and more)
- machinery you can drive (or an adult can drive with you)
- 'train' type rides that take you around the park
- rides, but not exactly 'thrill' rides, really -think more along the lines of a physical ride- like something that carries you from place to place, or up and down, or spins you around
- a seated zipline (for an extra fee)
- play areas (like arcade, playground, rock wall, rope course)
And here's a highlight of a few of the rides and attractions you'll see there:
The Greased Beast debuted in 2017 at Diggerland USA. Their press site describes it as a ride that "seats guests, not inside the cab, but in the back of a demolition trailer complete with hydraulic systems poised to bring its occupants 34 feet in the air before a simulated 'dump' of its cargo." I was scared to go on it, but I fought through my fear and tried it. I was seated next to a smart young boy in a green t-shirt, who didn't seem the slightest bit frightened. He actually talked me through the whole thing because he 'wasn't scared at all.' I wish I caught his name so I could mention him here, but you know, I was preoccupied with being tipped inside of a truck and everything.
The Jersey Momma's Boy and his pal were seated at the very back of the truck, while I was in the middle with Mr. Jersey Momma. I think the scariest seats might be the very back (since the door opens and you can see the ground!) and the very front (near the cab) because you'll be pretty high up in the air.
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| Inside The Greased Beast - it now has a shade cover over the top (not pictured here) |
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| Since this photo was taken there is now a sunshade cover added over the top of The Greased Beast! |
The Greased Beast turned out to be my favorite ride at Diggerland, so that goes to show you not to fear something you haven't tried yet! My second favorite was the Argo, which you can see me waving in if you scroll down below.
Yes, the Spin Dizzy actually spins you around. I had to skip that one because I'm not a spinnin' kind o' gal. But The Jersey Momma's Boy's pal went on it all by himself. He was very brave.
The Dig A Round didn't go too fast at all, and it even went backwards.
Although the Sky Shuttle looks terrifying, it was actually pretty peaceful (if you don't mind heights), and you got a great view of the whole park.
Diggers of all sizes were super cool because you could actually use them (alone or as a lap rider). They came in three different sizes and you could dig or knock down bowling pins!
Backhoe Adventures was a favorite of Mr. Jersey Momma. He liked being able to drive a real backhoe around the course.
Turnpike Tractors seemed popular with lap riders:
The Ground Shuttle took you up in the air and for a slow ride around the track:
The Elevation Station also takes you HIGH up in the air for an awesome view. There was so much to choose from and do!
There's obviously more to see than can fit in one blog post, so visit Diggerland USA online to check out all of their rides in the park. OR view my video slideshow below:
(*updated video coming soon!)
Kid Zone Playground, Rock Wall and Ropes Course
Diggerland USA has a kids zone for little ones to slide, swing and play, with plenty of benches and picnic tables to sit at.
Next to this is the rock climbing wall, which both of the boys I was with chose to skip because they felt like the line was too long. This is something you might want to do when you first arrive, before the park gets too crowded, since you have to wait for each guest to take their turn climbing the wall (more than one guest climbs at a time, on different sides).
And beside the rock wall was the ropes course. This was quite intimidating in my opinion, but The Jersey Momma's Boy was determined to try it. I sat below as he climbed to the top with Mr. Jersey Momma. And I mean - all the way to the top (that's him at the top of the picture, holding the safety rope with one hand!). This was a huge accomplishment for The Boy. My heart was full of Momma pride (he was in a safety harness, so I wasn't worried about him getting hurt). He had so much fun and he was so proud of himself, too.
Soaring Eagle
The Soaring Eagle is like a sitting version of a zipline. You sit in a small side-by-side two seater with a lap belt, and it propels you backwards (and up), till you reach the top (130 feet up!). Enjoy a panoramic view just before you and your ride companion roar down the 700-foot zipline. There are no stair towers to climb, no harnesses or other gear required. Minimum rider height when accompanied by parents/guardian is 42″ You can also purchase photos and a video of your ride when you get home. They will give you a small card with directions on how to do so. I think we paid about $9.95 for ours, which was a pretty good deal for a nice quality video (with sound) and several photos. The Soaring Eagle is an additional fee per rider ($6.00 as of the publication date of this entry, and half off for season pass members). I really enjoyed this- it was thrilling and a little scary to be up so high. The soaring part was not ridiculously fast, and coming in for a "landing" was fun! My husband was terrified of the height- he is over 6 feet tall and I think he would've preferred to be seated in a larger seat at that height! 😂
Duck Races and Gold Rush
You can try out some fun rubber ducky races at Diggerland USA, or try your hand in panning for gems and minerals (for an added fee).
The Arcade
There is a small arcade at Diggerland USA with crane games, skee ball, air hockey, video games and more. Kids can earn tickets and trade them in for prizes. Games vary in price and kids use a plastic card to swipe and play. There was a machine available where you could recharge your card if needed. There were also little bumper cars there the last time we visited.
The Gift Shop
There is also a souvenir shop at Diggerland USA that you have to walk through on your way out. The shop had tons of construction type toys, construction vests and hats for kids, t-shirts, pullovers, plush mascots (a dinosaur!), candy, mugs, cups and more. We got a cute digger mug and some candy for the ride home.
Safety and The Diggerland USA Staff
Can you believe this was one of my favorite things about Diggerland USA? I can't even express to you how absolutely nice everyone was who worked here. Pretty much every employee we encountered was friendly, knowledgeable, patient, and helpful. I was taking careful note of this kind of thing, because the ride operators had to show each guest how to operate machines. They had to help people on and off rides. They had to assist in hooking up safety equipment (on some rides). Diggerland USA management should totally give a hats-off to their staff because they were truly awesome. and all of them seemed to love what they were doing. Do you see the face of the guy running this Argo car ride?
His name was Dominic, I think (sorry to single you out here, Dominic), but can you see the smile on his face? He was like this for every group he rode with! He explained kindly to each person how to drive the Argo. He warned us when the course was going to get bumpy. He double-checked and made sure our safety belts were on correctly. And you can see the look on his face- I think he really likes what he does and it shows. Anyway, just had to point that out. This is what we encountered at pretty much every ride at the park, and it did not go unnoticed or unappreciated.
I saw safety checks going on constantly throughout the park. There were always officials walking around and checking rides. The staff operating the rides were very attentive and aware.
Diggerland XL
Since our return from Diggerland, Mr. Jersey Momma has been watching more You Tube videos of it and reading up on its history because he loved it that much. Adults 18 and over can really experience all that Diggerland has to offer by participating in the Diggerland XL program. Book this at Diggerland and you'll get to experience real heavy machinery, and get to do things like crush cars and stuff. Seriously, it's a Dude's (or Dudette's) dream! Check it out here.
Birthday Parties
We saw a few birthday parties going on at Diggerland USA while we were there and we remarked at how much fun they would be. There are different packages available, but some birthday kids had their names announced over the loudspeaker and some even got to wear special Diggerland construction vests. All of the kids involved looked like they were having a blast. Can you imagine a birthday party there? What a blast! Read about their birthday options here.
Final Thoughts About Diggerland - Is it Really Worth It?
I have to be totally honest here (am I ever not?). I think Diggerland USA is one of the coolest, most unique parks I have ever been to. I really feel like the people who created this park created it with heart. Does that make sense? I mean, it doesn't seem like they were just trying to make money. It seems like they put a lot of heart and thought into this park, creating unique rides that guests would love to experience. I even appreciated the subtle decorative additions throughout the park, which were also construction themed:
JERSEY MOMMA TIPS
-If there's anything I didn't cover here or you still have questions, you can also check out the Diggerland FAQ page for more help.
-Wear closed toed shoes or comfy sneakers. This is actually a park requirement. It's not the type of place you wear flip flops or heels to. You'll be climbing in and out of machines, or possibly climbing on a rope course, so you want to have good shoes on. I actually don't think you should ever wear flip flops to a theme park (unless it's a water park), but that's just me! I was once standing behind a flip-flopped teenager at another theme park and there was blood dripping down the back of his heel from a cut he must have received somewhere in the park. Gross! And ouch! So wear shoes!! *Note that if you don't plan on going on any rides/attractions, then wear whatever shoes you want. The paths are flat and nicely paved throughout the park so you'll be fine.
-As I said, paths are paved and totally fine for strollers. There are plenty of benches and places to sit if you are more of an observer (might be a good option for grandparents or pregnant mommas- many of which I saw walking around!).
-Bathrooms were super clean. There was one set of bathrooms near the entrance and other smaller ones by the food stands. The larger bathrooms had a changing table for babies, too.
-We visited during the Spring so weather was not too hot. But I can see this being a VERY warm place to be on hot days (paths are asphalt and most rides are in direct sun, although most offer some kind of covering). Wear sunscreen or bring a hat if the weather is supposed to be hot while you're there. I did see fans and water misters located throughout the park, too. There are sunshades and umbrellas situated around the park.
-The park is open rain or shine, but is subject to close in severe weather
-Because some of the rides require safety gear or an explanation on how to work the machines, there is a bit of waiting between each guest's turn. Arrive early to the park if you can and go for the rides that take the longest first. By that I mean the rope climb, or the machines that each person rides individually. Save the rides that move the quickest (like the Operation Battle Truck, Ground Shuttle, DigAround) for last. I mean, you don't have to do that, it's just a suggestion if you're concerned about wait times or lines. Wait times were not bad for us- we waited the longest for the rope course (understandably so).
-Consider purchasing the souvenir cup for drinks, as that was a fairly good deal for drinks, especially on a hot day when you'll need refills.
-Consider upgrading your ticket to the annual pass if you enjoy Diggerland USA and think you'll be returning often. Pre-Summer annual pass prices are also super low online! So look into all of that before you go.
-You do get bumped around a bit on some of the rides (they are real pieces of construction equipment, after all), so if you have a bad back, or bad knees or just got over a head injury or something, you might want to reconsider your trip, or enjoy some quiet time on the many benches throughout the park.
Diggerland is located at
100 Pinedge Dr.
West Berlin, NJ 08091
West Berlin, NJ 08091
856-768-1110
