Need a hip small-town getaway with river views and artsy flair? Head to Red Bank! Located along the Navesink River in Monmouth County, Red Bank blends culture, dining, and boutique shopping with a walkable downtown. Whether you're catching a live show, sipping craft cocktails, or strolling the waterfront, Red Bank offers an upscale but relaxed escape near the Jersey Shore.
Red Bank, NJ Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Paddle or kayak the Navesink River – Explore Red Bank from the water and enjoy scenic views of the town and nature.
- For History Buffs: Visit the T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center – Tour the restored home of a pioneering African-American journalist and civil rights leader.
- For Shoppers: Browse boutiques on Broad and Monmouth Streets – Find stylish clothes, indie bookshops, home goods, and galleries in Red Bank’s charming downtown.
- For Couples: See a live show at Count Basie Center for the Arts – Enjoy concerts, comedy, and theater in this beautifully restored venue named for the jazz legend.
- For Families: Picnic and play at Riverside Gardens Park – This waterfront park offers green space, a playground, and outdoor events right by the river.
Best Time to Visit Red Bank, NJ
The best time to visit Red Bank is from late spring to early fall (May–October). Warm weather brings open-air concerts, sidewalk dining, art festivals, and river recreation. Fall offers scenic foliage and quieter streets.
How to Get to Red Bank, NJ
- If you are traveling by car: Red Bank is just off the Garden State Parkway (Exit 109), about 1 hour south of New York City and 30 minutes north of Asbury Park.
- By Train: The NJ Transit North Jersey Coast Line stops directly in downtown Red Bank with service to NYC’s Penn Station.
- By Ferry: Nearby Atlantic Highlands offers Seastreak Ferry service to Manhattan (20 minutes from Red Bank by car or ride-share).
Where to Stay in Red Bank, NJ
- Recommended for Families: Molly Pitcher Inn – Elegant riverside hotel with a pool, marina views, and family-friendly rooms near the park.
- For Couples: Oyster Point Hotel – Boutique hotel on the river with modern design, a romantic vibe, and waterfront dining.
- For a Boutique Stay: The T. Thomas Fortune House Guest Suites – Cozy, history-rich accommodations with unique touches and a great location.
Best Things to Do in Red Bank, NJ
1. Catch the Spotlight at Count Basie Theatre
Legendary performances and big-name acts light up this historic downtown icon
The Count Basie Theatre is located in downtown Red Bank’s Basie Center. This historic theater dates back to 1926 and presents more than two hundred shows every year, and is also home to the Count Basie Center Performing Arts Academy. In addition to Count Basie, the theater has hosted several legends like Tony Bennett and James Brown, as well as many other headline performers, such as Jon Stewart, Brian Willson, Jon Bon Jovi, Counting Crows, Bruce Springsteen, and George Carlin. Along with shows, the Count Basie Theatre also offers an array of professional training courses and workshops.
99 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701, Phone: 732-842-9000
2. Experience Live Storytelling at Two River Theater
Bold productions and intimate stages bring fresh voices to the forefront
Two River Theater strives to stay true to its founding principles, bringing a fresh perspective to both world and American classics, along with producing a number of original projects, such as Hurricane Diane and Be More Chill. Every performance season, the Two River Theater hosts many artist residencies, readings, and workshops, as well as the annual Cabaret of New Songs for the Musical Theater, produced in partnership with the Graduate Musical Theatre Writing program of New York University. The theater, which was founded by Robert and Joan Rechnitz in 1994, is easily accessible with several hotels, shops, and restaurants nearby.
21 Bridge Ave, Red Bank, NJ 07701
Where to Eat:
3. Raise a Glass at Dublin House
Lively pub vibes, local bands, and plenty of charm in this beloved Irish haunt
The Dublin House is a popular local watering hole that dishes up Irish-style eats alongside beer on tap to loyal customers. The pub itself is located within a historic Victorian-style building that has been moved and remodeled several times throughout its existence, which dates back to the 1840s. There is a packed menu available to patrons, but some of the classics and crowd pleasers for newcomers to sample include the Dublin House Burger, the Dublin House Bangers and Mash, and the Irish Surf and Turf. Now when it comes to alcoholic beverages, a good old Guinness beer from the tap is definitely the local favorite, but there are several beers to choose from and a number of cocktails as well.
30 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, New Jersey 07701, Phone: 732-747-6699
4. Dine with Downtown Energy at Bistro in Red Bank
Eclectic eats, stylish ambiance, and a buzzing scene steps from the Navesink
The Bistro In Red Bank is a Red Bank BYO that has been a significant part of the downtown restaurant scene since 1996, keeping techniques simple and highlighting the same passion for using market-fresh ingredients. The bistro features a sushi bar, an open kitchen, and an eclectic menu that offers something for nearly anyone. Options at the Bistro at Red Bank consists of an assortment of sushi, homemade pastas, both classic and artisan thin crust, brick-oven pizzas, and fresh salads. Popular Bistro classics include the Chicken Teriyaki, the Peking Duck Salad, and the Crackling Calamari Salad to name just a few.
14 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701, Phone: 732-530-5553
5. Taste Tradition at Monticello at Red Bank - Italian Restaurant
Old-world Italian recipes served with elegance and warmth in every dish
The Monticello At Red Bank is an Italian restaurant with a philosophy of “from the vine to the table.” The local eatery promotes clean eating and aims to provide guests tasty dishes made with the freshest and best ingredients possible. Since 2015, the Monticello has used ingredients from their on-site organic garden, available between June and October. Open six days a week, the restaurant specializes in non-processed, non-GMO food and all of the produce and meats used are premium quality, including all-natural pork, wild caught fresh seafood, free-range eggs, degreased and homemade all-natural stocks, and antibiotic-free, hormone-free chicken.
69 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701, Phone: 732-450-0255
For Couples:
6. Honor a Legacy at the T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center
Explore civil rights history and cultural education in a preserved national landmark
When it comes to historical and cultural sites to visit in Red Bank, the T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center is at the top of the list. The center exists to conserve the legacy and home of T. Thomas Fortune, a celebrated African American journalist and civil rights advocate who was born into slavery and later freed in 1863 by the Emancipation Proclamation. Because of its affiliation with African American History, the Fortune Home was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976 and was later placed on the National Register for Historic Places. Visitors to the T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center can see beautiful works of art and peruse educational exhibits about T. Thomas Fortune and his contributions to the civil rights movement as well as journalism. Tours and presentations can also be enjoyed alongside movie screenings, readings, and other similar events.
94 Drs. James Parker Boulevard, Red Bank, New Jersey 07701, Phone: 732-383-5483
If you are interested in local events:
- For Music Lovers: Red Bank Jazz & Blues Festival (June) – Free riverside festival with food vendors, live music, and family fun.
- For Families: Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival (September) – Celebrate the end of summer with seafood, drinks, and live entertainment.
- For Holiday Cheer: Red Bank Holiday Express Concert & Tree Lighting (December) – Live music and festive fun kick off the season downtown.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Red Bank, New Jersey:
- For Ocean Views: Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area (25–30 min) – Beaches, bike trails, historic lighthouses, and bay swimming.
- For Boardwalk Fun: Asbury Park (25–30 min) – Trendy beach town with music venues, shopping, and great restaurants.
- For Outdoor Hikes: Hartshorne Woods Park (20–25 min) – Scenic overlooks, forest trails, and historic military sites along the Navesink River.
- For Historic Charm: Ocean Grove (30 min) – Stroll Victorian streets, explore the Great Auditorium, or relax by the beach.
- For Nature Lovers: Huber Woods Park (20 min) – Serene trails and a nature center great for spotting wildlife or a peaceful walk.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Why is Red Bank referred to as the “Greenwich Village of the Garden State”?
- Red Bank, located in New Jersey, is sometimes called the “Greenwich Village of the Garden State” because of its eclectic cuisine, vibrant arts scene, and trendy stores, bistros, and restaurants.
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Where is Red Bank located?
- Red Bank is situated along the Navesink River, only five miles away from the ocean.
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Why is Red Bank a great place to visit?
- With its mix of arts, culture, shopping, and dining, Red Bank is an ideal stop on the way to the beach or for a weekend getaway.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Top Activities
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens.
Molly Pitcher Inn – A charming waterfront hotel with historic elegance.
Explore Riverside Gardens Park – Enjoy scenic views along the Navesink River.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for outdoor events.
Oyster Point Hotel – A modern riverside stay with stunning views.
Attend the Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival – A lively summer event with food and music.
Fall (September-November) – Mild weather and vibrant fall colors.
Courtyard by Marriott Lincroft Red Bank – A comfortable and centrally located stay.
See a show at Count Basie Center for the Arts – A historic venue for concerts and performances.
Winter (December-February) – Cool with festive holiday charm.
Extended Stay America Red Bank – A budget-friendly and cozy option.
Experience the Red Bank Holiday Lights Walk – Enjoy twinkling lights and holiday shopping.
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