Things to Do in Asbury Park
Where Music Meets the Sea. Discover beaches, attractions, dining, and local experiences.
3
Beaches
58
Restaurants
8
Must-See Spots
3/5
Family Rating
Don't Miss in Asbury Park
The Stone Pony
Must Seebar
Legendary rock club where Springsteen got his start. 850-capacity indoor venue year-round; 4,500-capacity Summer Stage runs May-October. At 4.0 stars, visitors call it "one of the greatest music venues of all time."
Silverball Retro Arcade
Must Seemuseum
Playable pinball museum with 180+ machines spanning the 1950s to present on free play. $10-20 admission. 4.5+ stars as "the coolest place on Earth." 2025 Newsweek Readers' Choice Award winner.
Asbury Park Boardwalk
Must Seeboardwalk
Mile-long boardwalk featuring the Wooden Walls Mural Project with 28+ murals by international artists. Home to Convention Hall and the iconic Casino building.
Wonder Bar
Must Seebar
Famous for "Yappy Hour" dog-friendly happy hour. Surprising "burgers cooked to perfection" alongside live music—4.3-star rating. You never know who might drop by—Springsteen still makes appearances.
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All Attractions
🍻Bars & Nightlife
The Stone Pony
Legendary rock club where Springsteen got his start. 850-capacity indoor venue year-round; 4,500-capacity Summer Stage runs May-October. At 4.0 stars, visitors call it "one of the greatest music venues of all time."
Wonder Bar
Famous for "Yappy Hour" dog-friendly happy hour. Surprising "burgers cooked to perfection" alongside live music—4.3-star rating. You never know who might drop by—Springsteen still makes appearances.
Paradise Nightclub
LGBTQ+ nightlife anchor at The Empress Hotel featuring Saturday dance parties, Sunday Tea Dance, and RuPaul's Drag Race stars. "The best place to go dancing in Asbury."
Georgie's Bar
"The Gay Cheers of Asbury Park" (cash only). Karaoke nights, Sunday Drag Brunch, and welcoming atmosphere at 810 5th Avenue.
🏛️Museums
Silverball Retro Arcade
Playable pinball museum with 180+ machines spanning the 1950s to present on free play. $10-20 admission. 4.5+ stars as "the coolest place on Earth." 2025 Newsweek Readers' Choice Award winner.
🎡Boardwalks
Asbury Park Boardwalk
Mile-long boardwalk featuring the Wooden Walls Mural Project with 28+ murals by international artists. Home to Convention Hall and the iconic Casino building.
🛍️Shopping
Cookman Avenue
Downtown shopping and dining district with independent boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Home to Cross & Orange, Talula's, and TAKA sushi.
🎢Attractions
Convention Hall
Historic venue hosting concerts, events, and the Sea.Hear.Now festival each September.
Beach Highlights
View all beaches →Main Beach
The primary beach stretching along the boardwalk. Lively atmosphere with easy access to food and entertainment.
North End Beach
Quieter stretch near Deal Lake. Popular with surfers and those seeking less crowds.
South End Beach
LGBTQ+ friendly section near the Casino. Welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
Asbury Park Vibe
Primary Vibe
Arts & Music
Family Friendly
3/5 Stars
Nightlife
5/5 Stars
Quietness
2/5 Stars
Asbury Park is Best For
Events & Festivals
Stone Pony Anniversary
Early FebruaryAnniversary celebration at the legendary Stone Pony with special performances and tributes to the venue's storied history.
Asbury Park Music Awards
Late FebruaryAnnual celebration of the Jersey Shore music scene honoring local artists, venues, and industry professionals at Convention Hall.
Asbury Park St. Patrick's Day Parade
March 8, 2026 (1 PM)The 12th annual parade along Ocean Avenue passes iconic Stone Pony, Wonder Bar, and Carousel House. 2026 Grand Marshal: Kim Guadagno (former NJ Lt. Governor). Johnny Mac's is parade HQ with free pizza. Also catch the Shamrock N' Roll 5K at Stone Pony on March 14!
Asbury Park Film Festival
March 26-29, 2026Four-day film festival showcasing independent films at venues across Asbury Park. Features screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and industry panels.
Spring Disco Night Market
April 17, 2026Night market event featuring local vendors, food, and disco-themed entertainment. Part of the vibrant Asbury Park market scene.
Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival
May 16-17, 2026Two-day plant-based food festival featuring vegan vendors, cooking demos, and live entertainment. One of the largest vegan festivals in NJ.
Asbury Park Pride
June 5-7, 2026Annual LGBTQ+ Pride celebration with parade, festival, and events throughout the city. Features performances, vendors, and community gatherings.
July 4th Fireworks
July 4thIndependence Day fireworks display over the ocean from Asbury Park beach. Spectacular show with viewing from boardwalk and beachfront.
Sea.Hear.Now Festival
September 19-20Two-day music and surf festival on North Beach featuring 25+ bands on three stages (two in sand, one in park), pro surf competitions, and large-scale art installations. All ages.