Local Attractions

From Long Branch to Asbury Park, here are the Best Things to do

The premier New Jersey weekend getaway destination, Ocean Place is only minutes from the most amazing attractions and things to do in Long Branch, NJ, from the excitement of thoroughbred racing at Monmouth Park to shopping at Pier Village or the Jersey Shore Outlets and Sandy Hook/ Gateway National Park.

Day trips can be arranged for small to large groups for diving, deep-sea fishing, charters and parties. Finally, if you wish to experience the high-stakes action at Monmouth Park Racetrack, this luxurious Jersey beach hotel resort offers convenient access.

Things to Do in Long branch:

Just named the "Coolest Small Town in America" by Budget Travel, Asbury Park lives up to its recognition. 10 miles south and you can take a day trip and walk "the boards" or visit the music town of New Jersey. The Stone Pony is iconic by any standard, like CBGBs was in NYC, everyone who is anyone has played The Pony. You might even see Bruce Springsteen jump on stage. We can’t guarantee you’ll see the Boss, but you can surely stop in at the Stone Pony for some great music all year round. The Pony offers up its own Summer Stage with live music with ocean as the backdrop.

LEARN MORE

Take a day trip to some of Jersey Shore's best breweries and wineries.

LEARN MORE

Discover the great outdoors. Take your family to some of New Jersey's National Parks, including Sandy Hook National Park, Seven Presidents and more.

LEARN MORE

Don't let a rainy day at the beach stop you from having fun! There are plenty local indoor entertainment activities including, AMC Theaters, Count Basie Theater, The Stone Pony and more.

LEARN MORE

The family can experience a wide range of local family friendly activities, including Blue Grass Mini Golf, IPlay America, and Escape Puzzle.

LEARN MORE

Need a shopping spree? Visit the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, Monmouth Mall or Pier Village for your vacation essentials

LEARN MORE

The focal point of Long Beach life is Pier Village, an upscale, trendy community along the beachfront that encompasses the boardwalk, boutique shops, restaurants, and multistory luxury residences overlooking the ocean. During weekends and evenings, and especially during the summer, the large variety of outstanding restaurants and lively nightlife attracts a crowd of young professionals.

LEARN MORE

history

In the 19th century, Long Branch was known as "Hollywood" of the east, where some of the greatest theatrical and other performers of the day gathered and performed. It was visited by presidents Chester A. Arthur, James A. Garfield, Ulysses S. Grant, Benjamin Harrison, Rutherford B. Hayes, William McKinley, and Woodrow Wilson. Seven Presidents Park, a park near the beach, is named in honor of their visits.

President Garfield was brought to Long Branch in the hope that the fresh air and quiet might aid his recovery after being shot on July 2, 1881, an incident that left the assassin's bullet lodged in his spine. He died here on September 19, 1881, exactly two months before his 50th birthday. The Garfield Tea House, constructed from railroad ties that had been laid to carry Garfield's train, is in Elberon.

While he might take Asbury Park as his home, Bruce Springsteen was born in Long Branch and will always be our favorite son. Dorothy Parker (1893–1967), writer and storied member of the Algonquin Round Table, whose birthplace at 792 Ocean Avenue has been designated as a National Literary Landmark.

Invisible App Zone

Drag apps