Who among us – both children and adults alike – hasn’t been fascinated to watch construction vehicles and other big rigs in action as they clear property, make repairs, raise buildings, crush cars, or haul massive loads of materials? Have you ever wondered what it’s like to operate those kinds of heavy equipment? Well, you’re in luck, because here’s a suggestion that you’re sure to dig: Diggerland USA. Located in West Berlin, NJ, Diggerland USA is a unique construction-themed adventure park – the only one in North America – where visitors of all ages can ride, drive, and operate real machinery, all in a safe, specially designed environment.
Family owned and operated on an expanse of 21 acres, this cool new park began its fifth operating season in March 2018 and now features more than 25 attractions. Most of them are full-size, diesel-powered pieces of construction equipment that have been modified to make them safe for public operation, with little to no instruction. Climb aboard backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, bulldozers, off-road utility trucks, asphalt rollers, amphibious vehicles, and more to see what it’s like to dig, push, maneuver, and literally play in the dirt…on a grand scale!
The popular park has been undergoing a multi-million-dollar expansion and has unveiled several new attractions for 2018. They include the Rugged Riders, a fleet of rugged, rough terrain vehicles that are usually used in areas with challenging access, such as forests, beaches, and public works projects. There is also a new fleet of farm tractors that are commonly used for agriculture, a line of hydrostatic compact tractors, and a 60-foot-high aerial scissor lift. In addition to the heavy machinery, there are other activities to enjoy. At Diggerland USA, you can climb a rock wall, play in a video arcade, ride off road in a military truck, climb to dizzying heights on a rope course, soar on the exciting new 700-foot zip line, frolic in the playground, or take in one of the daily stunt shows.
While the park is suitable for both adults and children, attractions require a minimum height of 36″ to ride on, some under the assistance of a parent or guardian. A few attractions require a 42″ height to participate. Children under 36″ tall have free admission, but are limited to enjoying the playground and arcade. Non-participating guests over 65 years of age are also free. And although plenty of adults eagerly join the youngsters on attractions throughout the park, supersized heavy equipment for adults only is featured in the section of the park known as Diggerland XL, which is limited to guests age 18 years and older.
An awesome venue for planning truly groundbreaking events, the park also has a pavilion to accommodate groups and corporate functions, a dining and party pavilion for birthday parties, a concession building, and expanded parking. Diggerland USA is also deeply committed to supporting those with special needs, and hosts an annual fundraising celebration for the SAMBULANCE Program, a non-profit dedicated to bringing safety education to the special needs community, including hands-on presentations to schools and groups at no cost. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, June 2, 2018 from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m., where guests will enjoy Dirt Games Team Challenges, a hot dog eating competition, rides and attractions, a buffet dinner, and live entertainment. Details may be found at https://digdinedrive.org.
Diggerland USA is open for the 2018 season now through Sunday, November 25. The full calendar, with hours and special event dates, is available online, as are admission tickets. Date-specific single day admission is $29.95 for those under 42” tall and $34.95 for those 42” and over. Non-dated single day tickets, valid for one year from the date of purchase, are $38.95. Season passes are offered for $54.95, with admission as many times as you like, half off the $5 price for the Soaring Eagle Zip Line Ride, 10% off food, drinks, and merchandise, $30 off birthday party reservations, and discount tickets to bring friends along. Go for just one day to check it all out and if you love it, the full cost of your single day ticket will be credited before you leave towards the purchase of a season pass upgrade.
Want to do some more digging of your own? Visit Diggerland USA at www.diggerlandusa.com, call them at (856) 768-1110, email info@diggerlandusa.com, or visit Diggerland USA on Facebook.