Usually if you say, "Hey kids, let's go to the mall!", they suspiciously wonder how many pairs of jeans they're going to have to wait for you to try on. But these days, when you suggest a trip to the mall, their eyes will light up at the prospect of a visit to Arena STEM, the recently opened indoor Education and Entertainment Center for kids ages 5 and up at Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus, New Jersey.
Arena STEM offers eight interactive play zones (Arenas) where kids can choose their own adventures. Arenas include a Flying Field where kids can pilot a drone, On-Road/Off-Road Drift Track for remote-controlled cars and trucks, a Battlefield Challenge, Aqua Zone, Slot Car Racing track, Rock Crawling Course and a VR Zone.
While kids and parents are invited to visit and play, Arena STEM also has a variety of classes and workshops for children ages 6 and up. Kids will learn skills like 3D Pen Art, Drone Dynamics & Programming, Robotics and Engineering – all skills they'll want and need in our rapidly evolving technology environment.
Arena STEM hosts field trips and summer camps, too. Perfect for schools, scouts, or other groups, Arena STEM field trips are both fun and educational. Field trips are up to 2 hours long depending on the package and activities selected. Or, sign your kid up for a summer STEM Camp. Sessions run for 5 days and include both morning and afternoon options. Check out the website for dates, times and pricing.
Finally, for a new and different birthday party idea, book a date to celebrate your child at Arena STEM. Private birthday parties are offered for kids ages 5 and up. Birthday party packages include the guest of honor's choice of any three activity zones – and they take care of everything else. Food, drinks and a dedicated party room are included in most packages. And, bonus! Weekday parties are 20% off!
So get ready for your kids to ask you to go to the mall. Arena STEM also has a vareity of STEM-based activities, toys and hobby kits available for purchase. Arena STEM is located at Westfield Garden State Plaza on Level 2, near Entrance 10, in between Neiman Marcus and Shopper's Find.