People often ask me what there is to do in Mount Laurel. The answer is more than you might think. While Mount Laurel is primarily a residential suburb without a traditional downtown, it has a surprising amount to offer in terms of parks, dining, annual events, and nearby attractions. Here is my complete guide to things to do in Mount Laurel.
For a broader overview of the town, see our Mount Laurel overview. And if you are looking for dining specifically, check our restaurant guide for the full list.
Parks and Recreation
Laurel Acres Park
Laurel Acres Park is the crown jewel of Mount Laurel's park system. This 142-acre park on Centerton Road is the go-to destination for families, joggers, dog walkers, and sports enthusiasts. The park features:
- A 1.2-mile paved walking and jogging trail around a scenic pond
- A large, modern playground that kids love
- Multiple athletic fields for soccer, baseball, and softball
- A fishing pier on the pond
- Picnic areas with tables and pavilions for gatherings
- Basketball and tennis courts
- A dog park (Mount Laurel Dog Park) located within the park
Laurel Acres Park also hosts many of Mount Laurel's annual community events, including the summer concert series and the Mount Laurel Community Festival.
Springdale Park
Springdale Park is a smaller neighborhood park located off Springdale Road. It features a playground, basketball courts, open fields for casual sports, and walking paths. It is a popular spot for local families and a nice alternative to the larger Laurel Acres Park when you want something quieter.
Other Parks and Green Spaces
Mount Laurel has several additional parks and recreation areas, including the Mount Laurel Swim Club for summer swimming, pocket parks scattered throughout neighborhoods, and the Ramblewood Country Club golf course for golf enthusiasts. The Mount Laurel Recreation Department runs programs year-round for all ages, from youth sports leagues to adult fitness classes.
Dining in Mount Laurel
Mount Laurel has a solid dining scene with something for every palate and budget. While it does not have a walkable downtown restaurant row, the dining options are spread along the major corridors (Route 38, Route 73, and Centerton Road). You will find:
- Family-friendly dining including classics like pizza, Italian, and American fare at multiple local spots
- International cuisine with Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Indian, and Mediterranean restaurants
- Casual dining and fast-casual chains and local eateries along the Route 38 corridor
- Coffee shops and bakeries for your morning fix or afternoon treat
For a more extensive dining experience, nearby Moorestown (5-10 minutes) and Cherry Hill (10 minutes) offer dozens more restaurants, from upscale dining to casual neighborhood spots. See our restaurant guide for the complete list.
Annual Events and Community Gatherings
Mount Laurel Community Festival
Held annually at Laurel Acres Park, the Mount Laurel Community Festival is the town's signature event. It features live music, food vendors, craft artisans, children's activities, and a fireworks display. The festival draws thousands of residents and is a highlight of the summer calendar.
Summer Concert Series
Throughout the summer months, the township hosts free outdoor concerts at Laurel Acres Park. The lineup typically includes a mix of cover bands, tribute acts, and local musicians across multiple genres. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of music under the stars.
Farmers Markets
Mount Laurel hosts seasonal farmers markets where local vendors sell fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and prepared foods. The market is a popular Saturday morning destination for residents and a great way to support local businesses.
Holiday and Seasonal Events
The township organizes events throughout the year including an Easter egg hunt, Halloween parade and trunk-or-treat, tree lighting ceremony, and holiday craft fairs. The Mount Laurel Recreation Department maintains a full calendar of programs and events for all ages. Visit our community events page for the latest schedule.
Nearby Attractions in Moorestown and Cherry Hill
One of Mount Laurel's best features is its proximity to neighboring towns with their own attractions. Within a 10-minute drive, you can reach:
- Moorestown's historic downtown. Walkable Main Street with boutique shops, excellent restaurants, a movie theater, and the Moorestown Mall. The Moorestown Farmers Market is also a local favorite.
- Cherry Hill's shopping and dining. Cherry Hill Mall, Wegmans, and an endless variety of restaurants along Route 70 and Route 38 make Cherry Hill a go-to destination for errands and nights out.
- Philadelphia. Center City is 25 minutes away, giving you access to world-class museums, professional sports, theater, live music, and the historic district.
- The Jersey Shore. Beaches in Point Pleasant, Seaside Heights, and Long Beach Island are all under an hour's drive, making day trips easy.
- Medford and the Pinelands. For nature lovers, the Pine Barrens and Medford's parks and trails offer hiking, kayaking, and a quiet escape from suburbia.
Shopping in Mount Laurel
Mount Laurel has several shopping centers along Route 38 and Route 73 that cover everyday needs. The Centerton Square shopping center, the Mount Laurel Plaza, and the Route 38 corridor offer grocery stores, pharmacies, home goods, and retail shopping. For larger shopping trips, the Cherry Hill Mall and Moorestown Mall are both within a 10-minute drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Mount Laurel for families?
Families love Laurel Acres Park for its playground, walking trails, fishing pond, and sports fields. The town also hosts family-friendly events throughout the year including the Community Festival, summer concert series, and seasonal holiday events.
Does Mount Laurel have a downtown or Main Street?
Mount Laurel does not have a traditional walkable downtown. Shopping and dining are concentrated in shopping centers along Route 38 and Route 73. Nearby Moorestown (5 minutes away) has a historic downtown with shops and restaurants.
What are the best parks in Mount Laurel?
Laurel Acres Park is the best and largest park in Mount Laurel, featuring walking trails, a pond, playground, sports fields, and a dog park. Springdale Park is a smaller neighborhood option with a playground and basketball courts.
What annual events does Mount Laurel have?
Mount Laurel hosts a Community Festival in the summer with live music and fireworks, a free summer concert series at Laurel Acres Park, seasonal farmers markets, and holiday events including an Easter egg hunt, Halloween parade, and tree lighting ceremony.
What is near Mount Laurel for entertainment?
Moorestown (5 min) offers a historic downtown with dining and shopping. Cherry Hill (10 min) has the Cherry Hill Mall and extensive restaurant options. Philadelphia (25 min) offers world-class museums, sports, and cultural attractions. The Jersey Shore is under an hour away.
Is there a farmers market in Mount Laurel?
Yes, Mount Laurel hosts a seasonal farmers market with local produce, baked goods, crafts, and prepared foods. Check the township's recreation calendar for exact dates and locations.
Bob Millaway
Epique Realty Agent · AI Certified Agent
I know Mount Laurel inside and out. If you are considering a move here and want to know what the lifestyle is really like, call me at 856.426.1522 or send a message. I would be happy to show you around.