The name Bruce Springsteen has become utterly synonymous with Asbury Park’s entire aesthetic. In fact, some even argue that if he hadn’t become the Jewel of the Jersey Shore in Rock Stardom, the city mightn’t have become what it is today. This iconic staple of boardwalk, beachside, seashore towns in New Jersey is a can’t-miss destination and one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly in the state. With so much to see and do, this iconic point on the Jersey Shore can be a little overwhelming when trying to pick an activity. So we’re here with another edition of Atlantic Auto Group’s Travel Guide to help break it down into bite sized pieces!
Asbury Park is the perfect group trip destination; it’s fun for all ages and all persuasions and all flavors of people, which is precisely what gives it so much eclectic appeal and uniqueness. In addition, it’s an incredibly dog-friendly destination, so you won’t have to exclude your furry family members either! Bring them to Yappy Hour at the Wonder Bar, or a traipse down the Boardwalk, or a refreshing dip in the sea. ( Plus, it’s right next door to another charming seaside destination, Ocean Grove, which is also worth exploring and enjoying if you have a little extra time.)
The fresh creative influx of artists in Asbury Park has done wonders! There’s no shortage of color, creativity, and photo ops through the town. Walking the boards from Convention Hall and down to the Casino and Carousel, you’ll notice a wide array of gorgeous murals and street art installations, part of the revitalization of the downtown by The Wooden Walls Project. Head into the downtown area, and you’ll find even more vivid paintings, beautiful art installations and galleries. Feel free to swing into any of the downtown shops, too, for unique and one-of-a-kind local art and artisan goods, too. There’s no shortage of things to see and take pictures of, and it’s perfect for family photos or even a snap for the ‘gram.
For the music aficionados in our midst, there’s plenty of fun to be had at concerts and festivals at places like the Stone Pony and the Stone Pony Summer Stage, Convention Hall Concert Venue, Asbury Lanes, Springwood Park, Bradley Park, Wonder Bar, and House of Independents. And closing out the end of summer, you’ll also be able to enjoy the annual Sea.Hear.Now Festival!
You’ll find plenty of unique stores along the boardwalk, wonderful little restaurants, souvenirs, and plenty of shopping inside Convention Hall. But that’s not all! There’s museums, performance spaces, DIY Art studios, and unique venues. You’ll even find a one-of-a-kind Paranormal Museum for those looking for a memorable excursion! Check out these great shops in and around the downtown area, along the boardwalk, and tucked away on little side streets:
Asbury Park is perfect for walking and biking, but all that physical activity is going to leave you famished. Good thing there’s no shortage of great restaurants and eateries in AP and the surrounding area! You can even swing by Asbury Park Distilling Co and take home a local brew to share with friends and family at your summer cookouts! Check out our picks for great local eats any time of day:
Do you have a favourite shop, stop, eatery, or event in Asbury Park? Let us know in a comment on our social media! Your suggestions may just make it into a future post update.
EVENTS IN AND NEARBY ASBURY PARK THIS SUMMER:
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Conscious Creatives: Art Show & Open Mic Night in Red Bank NJ on June 30th 2022
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SHORE to Laugh Comedy Revue in Neptune City NJ on July 8th 2022
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Tutti Frutti Cookie Decorating Class on July 10th in Asbury Park
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Watercolor Beach Painting Workshop in Asbury Park NJ on July 12th 2022
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Watercolor Pet Portrait Class in Asbury Park on July 14th 2022
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Mermaids & Sharks Cookie Decorating Class at The Asbury Hotel in Asbury Park on July 19th 2022
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Open Heart MOVEMENT Experience in Long Branch on July 24th 2022
Take a Virtual Tour of Asbury Park and Ocean Grove:
