Day Trip to Asbury Park
From Philadelphia • 1hr 30min drive
Asbury Park makes an excellent day trip from Philadelphia—just 1hr 30min on the Garden State Parkway. Known for its arts & music vibe, Asbury Park offers beaches, dining, and activities that make it worth the drive.
Getting to Asbury Park from Philadelphia
car
1hr 30min
Take the Garden State Parkway. Weekend traffic can add 30-60 minutes—leave early or late evening.
💡 E-ZPass strongly recommended for toll plazas
bus
46min
NJ Transit bus service available. Routes: 317, 830, 832.
💰 $10-20 one way
Doing Asbury Park without your own car?
The train and bus get you to town. A one-day rental from Philadelphia gets you to the beaches the schedules skip.
Things to Do in Asbury Park
Book tours and activities with free cancellation
Book Now - Free Cancellation→Your Asbury Park Day Trip Itinerary
☀️ Morning
Depart
Leave early to beat traffic and maximize beach time
Arrive in Asbury Park
Find parking and get oriented
Beach time
Claim your spot on the beach
⏱️ 2 hours
🏖️ Afternoon
Lunch
Grab a casual lunch at a local spot
Explore downtown
Check out the murals, vintage shops, and craft cocktail bars
⏱️ 2 hours
Late beach or activity
Another swim or try a local attraction
🌅 Evening
Early dinner
Eat before the drive home to avoid rush
Head home
Depart to avoid late-night traffic
Top Things to Do in Asbury Park
The Stone Pony
Silverball Retro Arcade
Asbury Park Boardwalk
Wonder Bar
Paradise Nightclub
Where to Eat in Asbury Park
Johnny Mac's House of Spirits
Stella Marina Bar & Restaurant
Speakeatery
Soon C Deli
Practical Information
Parking
Free parking available on residential streets 4+ blocks from beach. Metered parking near boardwalk.
Budget
$50-100 per person including gas, tolls, parking, food, and activities. Beach badges typically $8-12/day if required.
Day Trip Tips
- Leave early to beat traffic and secure parking
- Bring cash for beach badges and parking meters
- Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks to save money
- Check weather forecast—rain ruins a day trip
- Download Google Maps offline in case of spotty cell service
Turn Your Day Trip into a Weekend
Falling in love with Asbury Park? Turn your day trip into a weekend getaway. Hotels and rentals book fast in summer—reserve ahead.
Popular hotels:
Asbury Park Day Trip FAQ
More Day Trips
Make the Asbury Park Trip Easy
Get the free Shore Insider Guide — badge savings, packing lists, and booking timing — plus seasonal planning tips.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.