Labor Day may be in the rearview mirror, but summer isn’t officially over yet.
If you are looking to soak up the last warm ocean breezes before crisp fall weather takes over the city, we found the ideal end-of-summer road trip.
Voted the No. 1 Best Boardwalk in the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, New Jersey’s Wildwoods Boardwalk is an absolute staple for a classic shore escape. Located just a drive down the coast from NYC, this giant promenade offers endless nostalgic energy and oceanfront fun.
A 38-block playground by the ocean
Stretching almost 2.5 miles and built with over 70,000 wooden planks, the Wildwoods Boardwalk spans a massive 38 blocks packed end-to-end with attractions.
Whether you are looking for high-speed thrills or a relaxed stroll, there is no shortage of things to do. The boardwalk features three action-packed amusement piers with over 100 rides, plus three beachfront waterparks equipped with lazy rivers, surf pools, and speed slides.
Retro vibes and iconic boardwalk eats
The Wildwoods area is world-famous for its colorful Doo Wop architecture and vintage shore-town charm. As you walk the boards, you will hear carnival games, retro skee-ball arcades, and the chime of the legendary yellow Sightseer Tramcar.
It is also a total dream for foodies craving classic boardwalk flavors. You can grab fresh breakfast bites with a view of the water, grab hot pizza slices, or stock up on sweets at one of the town’s renowned local fudge shops.
Over a century of seaside history
This promenade was not always a massive amusement hub. Originally built in the 1890s as a modest 150-yard stretch, the boardwalk grew rapidly over the decades to match the country’s booming love for beach resorts.
As the coastline shifted over the last century, the entire wooden structure had to be moved closer to the ocean twice. Today, it remains celebrated as one of the country’s last great seaside promenades.
What to know before you go
Ready to squeeze in one last beach trip before autumn arrives? Here are the practical details for your drive:
- 📍 3500 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260 (stretching from Cresse Avenue in Wildwood Crest to 15th Avenue in North Wildwood)
- 🕐 The promenade itself is open year-round from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. (individual shops, eateries, and rides set their own seasonal hours)
- 🚗 You can park at the Wildwoods Convention Center lot (4601 Ocean Avenue), or utilize private lots and metered street parking between Cresse and 15th Avenues.