Looking for a retro-chic beach town with music, murals, and boardwalk bites? Head to Asbury Park! Located along the Jersey Shore, Asbury Park blends vintage vibes with fresh creativity—think oceanfront concerts, iconic venues, and trendy shops. Whether you're catching a live show or lounging by the sea, this coastal city delivers charm, culture, and fun in equal measure.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Asbury Park is from late spring through early fall (May to October). If you want beach weather, boardwalk energy, and live music under the stars, summer is ideal. September is also great—warm enough for the beach, but with fewer crowds and lower rates.
Tips for getting There
- By Car: Asbury Park is easily reached via the Garden State Parkway or Route 18, about 1.5 hours from New York City and 1 hour from Philadelphia.
- By Train: NJ Transit’s North Jersey Coast Line runs from New York Penn Station to Asbury Park. If you want a stress-free ride and walkable arrival, this is a great option.
- By Bus: Academy Bus and NJ Transit also offer limited direct service from Manhattan and nearby cities.
Where I like to stay
- The Asbury Hotel – A modern hotel with rooftop movies, stylish rooms, and a lively social scene—perfect for couples or weekenders.
- Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel – A grand historic hotel right on the boardwalk with beach views and vintage elegance.
- Hotel Tides – A cozy boutique stay with a bar, art gallery, and laid-back vibe just a short walk from the beach.
Top Attractions
1. Asbury Park Boardwalk
The Asbury Park Boardwalk is Asbury’s most popular meeting place. The historic ocean-front boardwalk was originally built shortly after the town was founded in 1871 and now, almost 150 years later, the boardwalk still attracts crowds of locals and visitors. Besides enjoying the fresh ocean breeze, visitors come to explore a variety of up-scale boutiques, bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment venues like the famous Stone Pony music club and the recently restored 1920’s Paramount Theatre. A few of the family highlights of the boardwalk include the beach, the Asbury Splashpark, the Silverball Museum and the Asbury Eighteen mini-golf course.
Asbury Park Boardwalk, 1300 Ocean Ave, Asbury, NJ 07712-5782, Phone: 732-897-6500
2. Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall
History and architecture enthusiasts should not miss a visit to the Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall while visiting the Asbury Park Boardwalk. The Theatre and Convention Hall complex was built in 1927 in an effort to attract more visitors to the already-popular sea-side resort of Asbury. Perfectly positioned adjacent to the Asbury Park Boardwalk, the Paramount Theatre can accommodate 1600 guests. While it is nearly 100 years old, the superior acoustics of the theatre has ensured that it is still a leading venue for live performances. The Paramount Theater is connected to the Convention Hall (which can accommodate up to 3200 delegates), by the Asbury Park Grand Arcade, where you will find restaurants, cafes and craft outlets.
Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall, 1300 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, Phone: 732-897-6500
3. Parlor Gallery
Providing an outlet for the artistic talents of both established and emerging artists from around the world, Parlor Gallery is a must-visit attraction for all admirers of modern contemporary art. There is always something happening at Parlor Gallery, which hosts 11 -12 exhibitions and arty events annually. All the innovative works on display are for sale and the expert artists at the gallery will be happy to assist and advise you is you are starting your art collection or would like to add to it. If you prefer a more intimate viewing you can make an appointment for a private tour of the gallery.
Parlor Gallery, 717 Cookman Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, Phone: 732-869-0606
4. Asbury Park Distilling Company
Located right in the heart of the downtown business area, Asbury Park Distilling Company is the first distillery since prohibition to set up production in Asbury Park. The company produces a range of artisanal small-batch spirits including gin, bourbon, vodka, aquavit and a decadent Espresso Limoncello. Visitors are invited to come and see what goes on behind the scenes by joining one of their 45-minute weekend distillery tours. At the end of the tour you can enjoy a tasting flight to find your favorite. The Tasting Room is open from Thursday to Sunday and tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays.
527 Lake Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, 732 455 3935
5. Moonstruck
Moonstruck Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge is housed in a lovely three-story Victorian-style building on Lake Avenue. The light-filled restaurant offers wrap-around verandahs for summertime alfresco dining overlooking Wesley Lake and every month guests are treated to wonderful full-moon views to enhance the romantic atmosphere. You can start your night out by enjoying cocktails in the first-floor bar and lounge before moving upstairs to the main dining rooms for your meal. The menu offers a great mix of American favorites and popular Mediterranean influences including specialties like Fillet Mignon, Grilled Seafood and a simple but delicious Linguine Pesto. A private dining room on the third floor is ideal for special celebrations for up to 70 guests.
Moonstruck, 517 Lake Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, Phone: 732-988-0123
6. Confections of a RockStar
If you happen to have a sweet tooth, Confections of a RockStar Bakery is the place to get your fix in Asbury Park. Rumored to make the best cupcakes ever baked, Confections of a RockStar are constantly changing and adding to their entertainment-themed delights – this means that every time you visit you can try something new. All the delicious cakes, cookies, tarts and specialty cakes (for weddings, special occasions or kid’s birthdays) are made from scratch each day and the shop stays open until everything is sold out. Vegans, nut allergy and gluten free customers are also catered for, so there is no excuse not to stop by for a treat.
Confections of a RockStar, 550 Cookman Ave, ste 104, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, Phone: 732-455-3510
7. Booskerdoo Coffee and Bakery
Booskerdoo Coffee and Bakery was officially established in 2011 when New York City coffee enthusiasts James and Amelia decided to move to the beach and start a coffee roastery. The aim was to provide the best and freshest coffee, made from bean s roasted on the premises and to show customers what a great cup of coffee should taste like. The bakery side of the business owes its success of Amelia’s obsession with baking, quality and flavor. In 2016 Booskerdoo Coffee and Bakery opened in a great location in Asbury Park where James and Amelia offer their loyal customers excellent coffee and treats to enjoy on site or take home with you.
Booskerdoo Coffee and Bakery, 1321A Memorial Dr, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, Phone: 732-361-5261
508 Fourth Ave, Asbury Park 07712, Phone: 732-775-5682
If you enjoy art
8. Hot Sand
Located in the heart of Downtown Asbury Park, Hot Sand is a glass blowing studio where everyone is welcome to come and try out a new artistic hobby. Even children (over the age of 4) are welcome to come and learn how to create a masterpiece out of imagination and some hot sand. Each participant will get the chance to blow glass under the expert guidance of a glass artist and everything you need is provided. If you do not want to create your own piece of unique glass art you can commission one of the glass artists to do it for you during a one-on-one demonstration.
550 Cookman Ave, Suite 103, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, 732 927 5475
9. WHITEPOINT Gallery and Studio
There is always something interesting to see at the WHITEPOINT Gallery and Studio in Asbury Park. The gallery hosts regular themed exhibitions featuring work by established and emerging contemporary artists and photographers from all over the world. Whitepoint Gallery is the ideal place to visit to add some new and exciting works to your personal or corporate art collections. They also specialize in bespoke art framing and will be happy to advise you on the best frames to suit any particular piece. If you are lucky enough to live nearby you can join their regular seminars and artists talks. The gallery is open by appointment only – you can book online.
550 Cookman Ave, Unit 112, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, 908 818 8970
10. Para-normal Tower Books and Curiosities
Anyone who has an interest in the paranormal, and things that go bump in the night, will thoroughly enjoy visiting the Para-normal Tower Books and Curiosities in Asbury Park. Visitors are welcome to come and browse the Tower and the Paranormal Museum and book store (if they dare), and private group visits can be arranged so that you and your friends or family can have exclusive access to the haunted museum for an evening. Weekly Public Haunted Tours are also available and the attraction also offers their popular After Dark Tours and Psychic Readings. You can even book a haunted tea or dinner for up to 6 intrepid visitors. 621 Cookman Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, 732 455 3188
If you are a first time visitor to Asbury Park
- The Stone Pony – This legendary rock club launched the careers of Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi. Catch a show or just soak in the history.
- Silverball Retro Arcade – Packed with playable vintage pinball and arcade games, this is a hit for kids and nostalgic adults alike.
- Asbury Splash Park – Great for families, this boardwalk water playground is perfect for cooling off on a summer day.
- Asbury Park Convention Hall – Explore this iconic waterfront venue’s shops, art, and rotating events in a beautifully restored building.
Where I Like to Eat
- Porta – A go-to for wood-fired pizza, craft cocktails, and rooftop lounging—always buzzing with energy.
- Talula’s – Known for artisan pizzas and house-made kombucha, this hip downtown spot is perfect for brunch or a casual dinner.
- The Bonney Read – Upscale seafood and raw bar just steps from the beach. If you're craving oysters and cocktails, this is the place.
- Cardinal Provisions – An eclectic brunch café with inventive dishes and bold flavors. Try the French toast or one of their rotating specials.
If You’re Interested in Local Events
- Asbury Park Music & Film Festival (Spring) – Celebrate music and cinema with screenings, live performances, and special guests.
- Asbury Park Pride Weekend (June) – A vibrant celebration with parades, beach parties, and community events supporting LGBTQ+ pride.
- Sea.Hear.Now Festival (September) – A two-day surf and music fest featuring major artists right on the beach. If you love oceanfront concerts, this is a must.
- Asbury Park Zombie Walk (October) – This quirky annual event fills the boardwalk with undead creativity and is fun for all ages.
Day Trips from Asbury Park
- Ocean Grove (5 min) – A quaint neighboring town with Victorian architecture, peaceful beaches, and a slower pace—ideal for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
- Red Bank (25 min) – A bustling riverside town known for its shopping, theaters, and restaurants. Great for a more urban-style outing.
- Sandy Hook/Gateway National Recreation Area (45 min) – Explore beaches, hiking trails, and historic forts with sweeping ocean views.
- Point Pleasant Beach (30 min) – For boardwalk rides, aquarium visits, and classic beach-town energy, Point Pleasant is a great family day trip.
- Allaire State Park (25 min) – Hike wooded trails or visit the historic village and vintage train for a step back in time.
Plan Your Trip