Greetings From Asbury Park - A Local’s Guide to the Coolest Spot on the Jersey Shore

Asbury Park Beach and Boardwalk

If you do one thing in Asbury Park, check out the fabulous beach and boardwalk. There's lots to see and do from shops, restaurants, kids play areas, and the old Convention Hall and carousel. You’ll find artwork from local artists all over this area too! Pro tip: If you plan to spend a day on the sand, be sure to purchase a beach pass.

The Stone Pony

A legendary bar and music venue since 1974, the Stone Pony is an AP staple. Jersey's own Bruce Springsteen got his start here, and he's still known to drop in from time to time. If you’re visiting in the warmer months and music is your scene, you’ll definitely want to catch an outdoor show at the Stone Pony Summer Stage!

Silverball Retro Arcade

A delightful spot on the boardwalk with hundreds of pinball machines, arcade games, and skeeball! A perfect place to spend a rainy day or take a break from the sun and sand.

Paradise

Located in the iconic Empress Hotel, this LGBTQ+ bar and nightclub features regular live entertainment including DJs, drag shows, theme nights and karaoke. Every night is a party at Paradise!

Asbury Lanes

Asbury Lanes isn’t just a vintage bowling alley—there’s also an adjacent diner for all of your comfort food and drink needs. And because this is Asbury Park after all, it’s also a live music venue! If you’re staying in town, the Lanes are attached to the Asbury Hotel and the Asbury Ocean Club is directly across the street—ideal for a rainy day or a night out!

Hot Sand

Indulge your creative side at New Jersey’s only walk-in glassblowing studio. On the weekends, you have the opportunity to create your own glass artwork with the guidance of an expert. You can also purchase hand blown glass creations in the shop. It’s a truly unique experience!

Paranormal Tower

If you like it spooky, this place can’t be missed! Paranormal Tower is home to the Paranormal Museum and Paranormal Books & Curiosities. Schedule your own private tour of the museum to see allegedly haunted artifacts, or take a walking ghost tour.

Rebel Supply Co.

One of the coolest shops in Asbury Park, Rebel Supply Co. has something unique waiting for you. Their clothing selection is half new and half vintage consignment—whether you’re looking for a graphic tee or a unique retro piece, you’ll find it here! There’s also a great variety of vinyl records, housewares, games and other fun tchotchkes. Definitely worth a stop if you find yourself exploring Cookman Avenue!

Cross + Orange

One of my favorite restaurants in Asbury Park, this warm and inviting casual spot has something for everyone. Featuring classic American dishes with an international flair, there are vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options as well as a kid’s menu and even bowls for your pup! Be sure to check their hours before you go, as they vary from season to season.

Homesick

Homesick is a beautiful restaurant where everything is lovingly made from scratch. Serving excellent elevated comfort food, many menu options can be prepared vegetarian, vegan or gluten free. The cocktails are nothing short of delightful and their desserts are out of this world.

Lovesick

Lovesick is Homesick’s sister wine bar located right next door and the perfect place to enjoy a drink before your dinner reservation. With an incredibly extensive wine list and a colorful neon ambience, it’s sophisticated, yet fun and never stuffy. If the sommelier is behind the bar, you can even share your favorite flavors and types of wine, and they’ll pour you a glass of something new you’re sure to love.

Heirloom at the St. Laurent

Located in the ridiculously hip St. Laurent Social Club, this restaurant is helmed by Top Chef alum David Viana. The menu changes every few weeks to feature the freshest seasonal ingredients, and the food is some of the best in New Jersey! Don’t sleep on their drink menu either—the wine selection and cocktails are crafted with just as much love and care as their incredible cuisine.

The Black Swan

A gastropub with a strong British influence located in a historic building that was once a bank (check out the vault!). The food is hearty and delicious and in addition to their creative house cocktails, they have a menu just for gin & tonics. The gorgeous floral decor is also highly Instagram-able!

Iron Whale

This restaurant is right on the Boardwalk, and the modern yet rustic nautical atmosphere is one of my favorite things about it. The drink menu is expansive and the cocktails are beautiful. The food menu is seafood-forward (featuring a raw bar), but there are plenty of other options as well, including vegetarian selections.

Talula's

This spot is so much more than a pizza joint, but boy is it good pizza. Brunch, amazing sandwiches at lunchtime, cocktails and mocktails galore. You’ll also find vegan and gluten free options are available on their menu. Pizza for all!

Beach Haus Brewery

Just over the AP border in Belmar, you’ll find Beach Haus. They offer an excellent selection of beers on tap, as well as craft cocktails and elevated pub fare. You can also purchase local beers to go if you’d like to bring a taste of the Shore home with you. Bonus—they have a rooftop seating area!

Wonder Bar

An Asbury Park classic and a favorite among locals. A laid back divey vibe with an outdoor tiki terrace in the summer, and live music indoors in the evenings. If you’re a dog-lover, be sure to check out their Yappy Hour!