Things to do in Newark, DE with kids
The Newark side of the county has its own strong lineup — a standout playground, an indoor rink for any weather, and two of the area's best big parks just down the road. This is what we'd do with kids around Newark and Bear, with the logistics that matter. Facts come from each place's page.
1. Glasgow Park
Newark
A big inclusive playground, a fishing pond, and Thursday-night summer concerts — the best all-rounder on the Newark side, with easy parking.
2. Fred Rust Ice Arena (UD)
Newark
UD's twin-rink ice complex — public skates on scheduled dates, mostly weekend afternoons, with extra sessions over the winter holidays. $12 ages 7+, $8 ages 6 and under, plus $5 skate rental.
3. White Clay Creek State Park
Newark
About 3,600 acres of creek, woods, and meadow up against the PA line — real trails for kids who can hike. Construction of a new nature center closes car access to that area, and some nearby trails close at times during work hours.
4. Lums Pond State Park
Bear
Delaware's biggest freshwater pond, just south in Bear — trails year-round, plus seasonal paddleboats and the Go Ape treetop ropes course.
5. Bear Library
Bear
Free story times most days and a Stay & Play — the indoor stop while Newark Free Library is closed for its rebuild (reopening 2027). Bear Library is closed Fridays.
Questions parents ask
What's the best playground in Newark, DE?
Glasgow Park's big inclusive playground is the Newark-side standout, with easy parking, a fishing pond, and free summer concerts nearby.
What can families do outdoors near Newark?
White Clay Creek State Park has real trails for kids who can hike, and Lums Pond in Bear adds paddleboats and a ropes course. Both charge a vehicle entrance fee March 1–November 30 ($5 Delaware plates, $10 out-of-state).
Get the good ones before they fill up
One countywide shortlist every Friday morning, with ages, cost and logistics on each pick. Free.
More guides
Checked against each place’s current info.
Admission and hours come straight from each place’s guide. Last reviewed October 23, 2026. Confirm anything dated on the source before you go.