Asbury Park: The Coolest Destination on the Jersey Shore

This summer, head to a destination brimming with rock ‘n’ roll energy. Long celebrated as a haven for music lovers and architectural enthusiasts, Asbury Park has emerged as a cultural hotspot on the Jersey Shore. While its popularity has been rising since the ’90s, it has gained momentum as a must-visit getaway from New York City, located just about a 70-minute drive away.

“Asbury Park isn’t just for locals anymore,” noted Tina Kerekes, a local designer and manager at the Danny Clinch Transparent Gallery. “We’re attracting people from all over the world now.”

An average stroll through town might unveil a drag queen bingo party or a spontaneous drum circle on the boardwalk—Asbury Park truly delights in the unexpected. “This town is about acceptance,” shared local musician Rachel Ana Dobken. “People here are so accepting of new art and music, anything that’s eclectic and unique.”

Creativity flourishes in Asbury Park; every local seems to have a side project. A newspaper editor manages a beloved coffee shop, while drag balls are orchestrated by local restaurant managers, and musicians run vintage clothing boutiques. The beachy scent wafts through each block, with swimsuits being the norm almost everywhere.

If a destination can have a distinctive charm, Asbury Park might just be the East Coast’s leading contender.

Asbury Park History

Asbury Park began as a carnival town in the late 19th century, attracting visitors with its modern merry-go-round and boardwalk. By 1930, the Convention Hall and Paramount Theatre were drawing crowds for live entertainment, establishing the city as a cultural epicenter, a spirit that persists today.

To recall the history, visit the Silverball Museum, a boardwalk attraction housing over 600 vintage pinball machines dating back to the 1950s. Enjoy an interactive history lesson or challenge friends on the machines.

Asbury Park Music Scene

Music pulses through Asbury Park, exemplified by a diverse array of live music venues within its 1.6-square-mile borders. From at least ten official venues to nearly every bar and restaurant, the scene thrives.

To soak up the local music flavor, visit The Stone Pony, famed for launching artists like Bruce Springsteen. Alternatively, the nearby Wonder Bar is a local favorite (*”Bruce hangs out there on Sundays,”* a local shared). For free tunes, locals often gather at spots like Asbury Park Yacht Club, Langosta Lounge, or the Danny Clinch Transparent Gallery.

“Parking here on weekends is nearly impossible,” remarked Kerekes. “We’re witnessing history in the making. Many of these musicians are rising stars. You can feel it, you can see it.”

The Asbury Lanes has returned to Asbury Park’s resurgence since its reopening in 2019. Previously a DIY punk music venue with a vintage bowling alley, the space has received modern upgrades while retaining relics of the past, including stickers and flyers from historical performances.

Every September, the Sea Hear Now festival — a blend of music, art, and surf culture — takes over the beach, featuring rising local stars alongside renowned acts like Stevie Nicks and Green Day.

Asbury Park Art Offerings

Art in Asbury Park flourishes both outdoors and in gallery spaces. The Wooden Walls Mural Project adorns the boardwalk with murals crafted by internationally acclaimed artists. Additionally, venues such as Art629, Parlor Gallery, and Whitepoint showcase contemporary works from local and global artists.

Where to Shop in Asbury Park

Interwoven’s curated boutique exudes urban sophistication with a beachy vibe, offering items from designers like Rachel Comey and Clare Vivier alongside exclusive Asbury Park merchandise.

Explore the Convention Hall, Asbury Park’s nearest version of a mall, featuring shops like Sanctum Handmade (offering locally crafted bohemian jewelry) and Drift (known for versatile beach dresses). Vintage enthusiasts can rummage through Antique Emporium of Asbury Park, which boasts everything from costume jewelry to cherished collectibles.

Asbury Park LGBTQ+ Community

Asbury Park is renowned as New Jersey’s unofficial gay capital. The LGBTQ+ community played a pivotal role in the city’s revival, hosting the first Asbury Pride parade in 1970.

Discover the local LGBTQ+ scene at weekly drag bingo at Paradise. Just a stone’s throw away, Georgie’s, in business since 1999, prides itself on its welcoming atmosphere.

Best Asbury Park Beaches

For accessibility, Asbury Park Beach is unbeatable. Transitioning from sipping margaritas on a boardwalk patio to diving into the ocean takes less than a minute! However, this convenience often leads to crowded beaches, especially during the summer. Therefore, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot.

Beach fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day; passes are $6 on weekdays and $9 on weekends and holidays for visitors aged 13 and older. Those under 12 enjoy free access.

As for pets, dogs are welcome at the Asbury Park Dog Beach, where they can frolic off-leash in a designated area at the northern edge of the beach. Owners should be mindful of their furry friends as they play!

Though surfing is ingrained in Asbury Park culture, many locals prefer to catch waves at Avon beach, just south of Asbury Park, known for less crowded waters while still offering excellent surf.

Best Asbury Park Restaurants

With the vibrant culture spilling into its culinary scene, Asbury Park offers a variety of dining experiences ranging from traditional boardwalk fare to refined Ethiopian cuisine.

For a taste of local favorites, start at Cardinal Provisions, a popular spot for weekend brunch, featuring crowd-pleasers like chicken and waffles and strawberry rhubarb French toast.

While at the beach, stop by Pop’s Garage for some delicious tacos. Located directly on the boardwalk, this colorful Mexican eatery creates a tropical atmosphere right on the Jersey Shore.

If nostalgia calls for classic American fare, visit Frank’s Deli, known for its legendary overstuffed sandwiches and old-school diner charm—cash only!

For upscale dining, indulge at Pascal & Sabine, a Parisian-style brasserie characterized by an elegant ambiance and a sophisticated menu featuring caviar and steak tartare.

In downtown Asbury Park, you will also find The Bonney Read, a celebrated seafood restaurant renowned for its raw bar and enticing cocktail selection. Don’t forget to indulge in their famed rum flights!

Best Asbury Park Hotels

The transformation of Asbury Park into a popular destination can be credited to The Asbury, which has become a key player in the resurgence of tourism. Located just a few blocks from the beach, its 110 rooms invite both locals and visitors to gather.

“The Asbury has always been about creating a welcoming community space,” mentioned David Bowd, a co-owner of the hotel. “It’s designed to be approachable and accessible, making everyone feel comfortable here.”

Typically, you will find a mix of locals and visitors enjoying nightly live music, artisanal cocktails on the rooftop, or lounging by the pool as temperatures rise.

If luxury is what you seek, the recently opened Asbury Ocean Club offers splendid amenities right on the beach, inviting a new breed of visitor. Located on the fourth floor of a striking beachfront tower, guests benefit from access to exclusive amenities such as a rooftop pool, suite-style rooms with panoramic views, and a fitness center that provides complimentary yoga classes.