New Jersey locals already know, but we’re putting you New Yorkers on: summer isn’t summer without a trip to the Wildwoods boardwalk.
Stretching 38 blocks along the Jersey Shore, this iconic strip is packed with retro amusement rides, classic boardwalk eats (think fried Oreos, curly fries, frozen custard), neon-lit arcades, and souvenir shops galore.
And now, it’s getting national love.
USA Today just named the Wildwoods boardwalk the best in the entire country, beating out iconic spots like Atlantic City, Ocean City, and even Coney Island.
So if you’re sweating through the 100º heat wave that’s rolling in this weekend, here’s your excuse to get out of the city—this legendary boardwalk is only a two-hour drive away.
Wildwood is everything you want in a throwback beach town: free beaches, vintage neon motels, fireworks every Friday night, and that unmistakable salty air.
The beach it sits on has even been named one of New Jersey’s best beaches and the town itself shows up on just about every list of top beach towns at the Jersey Shore.
You’ve got three piers worth of rides at Morey’s, a literal tram car cruising the boards, and every kind of snack you could possibly want after a swim.
It’s loud, it’s nostalgic, and it’s peak summer vibes.
Not up for a full weekend away? Here are some NYC beaches you can hit instead—but if you’re up for a short road trip, Wildwood’s boardwalk is the move.
According to USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, the ranking was based on public votes and expert picks, highlighting boardwalks that check all the boxes: size, safety, affordability, and family fun.
Ready to visit? Grab your SPF, cue up a summer playlist, and go see what all the buzz is about. Stay cool this weekend, NYC!
The 10 best boardwalks in the country, according to USA Today
- Wildwoods Beach (Wildwoods, New Jersey)
- Ocean Beach Park Boardwalk (New London, Connecticut)
- Carolina Beach Boardwalk (Carolina Beach, North Carolina)
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (Santa Cruz, California)
- Kemah Boardwalk (Kemah, Texas)
- Atlantic City Boardwalk (Atlantic City, New Jersey
- Venice Beach Boardwalk (Venice, California)
- Ocean City Boardwalk (Ocean City, New Jersey)
- Ocean City Boardwalk (Ocean City, Maryland)
- Virginia Beach Boardwalk (Virginia Beach, Virginia)
Must-try foods at the Wildwoods boardwalk
Let’s be real—the food is half the reason to come. No Wildwoods trip is complete without:
- Curly fries from Curley’s Fries (yes, that’s the real name)
- Fresh funnel cake dusted with powdered sugar
- Fried Oreos and frozen custard from Kohr Bros
- Mack’s Pizza—a local legend with loyal fans
- Saltwater taffy and fudge from Douglass Candies
- Hand-dipped ice cream cones and oversized lemonades from just about every corner stand
Are there any special events or festivals held on the Wildwoods boardwalk?
Yes! Wildwood doesn’t just do summer—it celebrates it. Here are just a few of the events happening right on the boardwalk:
- Friday night fireworks every week all summer, visible right from the beach.
- Wildwoods International Kite Festival – The largest of its kind in North America, held every May.
- Boardwalk Classic Car Show – Rows of vintage rides line the boards in September.
- Wildwood Beer Fest – Sample local brews under the sun (21+ of course).
- Doo Wop Music Festival – Live throwback tunes echoing that retro vibe.
How to get to Wildwoods Boardwalk from NYC
Getting to Wildwood from New York City is easier than you might think. Here are a few travel options:
- By Car: Wildwood is about 2.5 hours from Manhattan by car, depending on traffic. Just hop on the Garden State Parkway and head south—exit 4B will lead you right into town.
- By Train (and Shuttle): You can take an NJ Transit train to Atlantic City, then transfer to a seasonal shuttle or local bus (like the 552 route) that connects to Wildwood.
- By Bus: Several companies offer direct or one-stop bus service from Port Authority to Wildwood, especially during peak summer weekends. Look into NJ Transit, Martz Trailways, and Greyhound for schedules and fares.
What are the best times to visit the Wildwoods boardwalk to avoid crowds?
If you’re aiming to beat the rush, consider these tips:
- Go midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) for fewer crowds and better hotel rates.
- Arrive early in the morning or after 7 pm—mornings are peaceful, nights come alive with lights.
- Avoid major holiday weekends like Fourth of July or Labor Day unless you’re ready for shoulder-to-shoulder boardwalk traffic.
- June and early September still offer warm weather without peak-season chaos.
Where to stay near Wildwoods Boardwalk if planning an overnight stay
Absolutely—Wildwood is packed with places to stay, whether you want something right on the boardwalk or a retro motel with a pool.
Hotel Cabana sits directly on the beach and is walking distance to all the boardwalk action.
For a more classic Jersey Shore vibe, check out Matador Oceanfront Resort or The Vibes Hotel, both offering ocean views and easy access to Morey’s Piers.
Families love Adventurer Oceanfront Inn, and for budget travelers, Mango Motel and Sea Kist Motel are just a few blocks away with great reviews and wallet-friendly rates.
If you’re planning a summer weekend, be sure to book early—rooms fill fast once fireworks season kicks off.