The Wildwoods, NJ are a premier East Coast resort destination, attracting over 9 million visitors each year who enjoy everything they could ever want in a vacation destination, all on one 5-mile island.
Our world-famous, 38-block Boardwalk with three action-packed amusement piers, three beachfront waterparks, shops, arcades, carnival games and over 200 eateries and our free white sand beaches have always been perennial favorites among vacationers. Visitors find new favorites each time they visit the island, from lively downtowns, a vibrant and diverse restaurant scene, live entertainment, shop ping, and of course the town’s famous beaches and boardwalk.
Nestled across the island are hidden gems waiting to be discovered by new and returning visitors looking to make lasting memories in a resort that has charmed generations of travelers.
The Wildwoods have been experiencing a development renaissance, with many new resort properties and businesses opening. Whether it’s the Madison Resort Wildwoods Crest, Seaport Suites, Oasis by Seaport Stays, MudHen Hospitality’s ‘Hen Houses,’ or the chic Waves Hotel, each new accommodation beckons the modern explorer.
Developments in the Wildwoods have been attracting new visitors and garnering national attention. The Madison Resort was named the ‘Best New Hotel’ in USA Today’s 10Best list of new hotels in the United States. The Honky Tonk Saloon was also named as one of the top 5 ‘Best New Attraction’ in the country by USA Today, and North Wildwood was named as a “quaint, comfy town,” attractive to everyone from Gen Z to Baby Boomers, a trend which Priceline dubbed “townsizing” in their ‘Where to Next?’ 2025 travel trends report.
“No other vacation destination offers the variety of events and festivals that the Wildwoods offer, with over 160 events year-round, including free outdoor concerts, movies under the stars, and fireworks shows every Friday night all season long.” |
Googie Capital of the World
The Wildwoods have been receiving national attention for our newest developments and long-lasting treasures, spreading the message that locals have always known– the Wildwoods are the premier vacation destination of the Jersey Shore.
The modern establishments complement the island’s existing array of mid-century themed hotels and motels, designed to evoke the architecture, decor, and colors of r buildings from the 1950s and ‘60s by embracing a distinctive “Googie” mid-century style popularized during the Doo wop era.
The Wildwoods are home to the largest collection of this Googie architecture in the country. More than 92 of what once were hundreds of historically significant motels remain in the Wildwoods, while some newer business arrivals, such as the TD Bank, McDonalds and Wawa have incorporated the colorful space-age theme into their architecture.
Plastic palm trees overlook kidney-shaped pools, roof angles jut out, wrought iron balconies adorn structures, bright, colorful neon signs light up the night, and imaginative names and vibrant themes provide each building with its unique character. Surrounded by this architectural style, guests can envision tropical paradises and other exotic destinations of days gone by.
Free Events
The Wildwoods are also home to over 160 events and festivals throughout the year, many of which are completely FREE! From Italian and Irish ethnic festivals and food and music festivals to monster truck and vintage car and motorcycle races on the beach, the International Kite Festival, the Wildwoods Baby Parade, and many more.
Plus, there are free outdoor concerts three nights each week, free movies under the stars, and a free fireworks show every Friday night all season long. No other vacation destination offers the variety of events and festivals that the Wildwoods offer. You’ll have something fun to do every day and night of the week!
Birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll
The Barefoot Country Music Festival has been a flagship event in the Wildwoods for five years, but the town’s musical roots stretch back decades to the 50’s and 60’s and the very beginnings of Doo-Wop and rock ‘n roll.
World-class entertainment in the Wildwoods is a tradition that dates to the Big Band era when names like Jimmy Dorsey, Tommy Dorsey, Count Basie, and Guy Lombardo were common atop the resort’s marquees.
The tradition continued through the ‘50s with top headliners like Sammy Davis, Jr., Dean Martin & Jerry Lewis, Sarah Vaughn, and Tony Bennett; and the ‘60s when Dick Clark brought his American Bandstand to the former Starlight Ballroom; Bill Haley and the Comets launched the country’s first Rock ‘n Roll hit single “Rock Around the Clock” from the stage of the Wildwood’s Hof Brau Hotel giving rise to the Wildwoods being known as “The Birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll Music”.
Chubby Checker introduced a new dance at the Rainbow Club in the Wildwoods called the Twist that would later take the country by storm; and the then up-and-coming star Bobby Rydell made the Wildwoods his summer home. Rydell’s affection for the Wildwoods was so great that he recorded what has become the resort’s anthem, “Wildwood Days,” where, as the song says, ‘every day is a holiday, and every night is a Saturday night!’
Free Beaches
The Wildwoods remain one of only three Jersey Shore destinations that never charge for beach tags; visitors can enjoy the free, spacious, clean, and safe beaches, that are consistently voted the “Best Beaches in New Jersey” and “Top 10 Beaches in the US.”
Our beaches are also home to numerous events throughout the summer season.
The National Marbles Tournament is a Wildwoods tradition that attracts Mibsters and their families from across the country to play and compete for national honors, scholarships, and prizes.
Also returning to the beach in 2025 is The Race of Gentlemen and Monster Truck Beach Races and the fifth annual Barefoot Country Music Fest. This four-day music concert event, taking place June 19-22, 2025, will host the industry’s biggest stars – bringing a unique blend of today’s country headliners, regional stars, up-and-comers, and local favorites performing across 5 unique stages. A country music fan’s dream, this festival will feature Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, and Rascal Flatts, plus over 40 other artists June 19 – 22.
Wildwoods World-Famous Boardwalk
Just off the island’s wide, spacious beaches is the famous Wildwoods Boardwalk and this wooden way has been called ‘two miles of smiles’ for good reason. Spectacular amusement piers, world-class roller coasters, interactive waterparks, family atmosphere, carnival-style games of chance, flashing arcades, shops, and irresistible food make the Wildwoods Boardwalk a summer ‘must-do’ for nearly nine million visitors every year.
Since its birth as a mere 150-yard stretch of boards in the 1890s, the Wildwoods Boardwalk has always been the center of activity. Throughout the years, the Boardwalk has gone through many transformations, growing, and evolving with the mood of the country; and in its 100-year history, it was moved closer to the ocean twice due to the changing shoreline.
Today, the Wildwoods Boardwalk is one of the country’s last great seaside promenades. Its history and world-famous ambiance have led to the very concept of the Wildwoods Boardwalk being replicated both in Disneyland and in Hershey Park, PA.
Stretching for two and a half miles, the 38-block Wildwoods Boardwalk offers a pure sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. With over 100 rides and attractions ranging from world-class roller coasters and wet ‘n wild waterparks, to carnival-style midway games, flashing arcades, and a myriad of retail shops and eateries, it is the quintessential Jersey Shore Boardwalk.
Byrne Plaza in Downtown Wildwood is another vibrant, family-friendly destination located in the heart of the Wildwoods. Offering activities and entertainment for all ages, the district boasts Fitness in the Plaza classes, Saturday morning Farmers Markets, and an array of fantastic restaurants, bars and shops. Visitors can also enjoy exciting festivals, Free Movie Nights, and live Music Nights, making Downtown Wildwood a welcoming and lively hub for the entire family.
Outdoors
If biking is more of your thing, the Wildwoods are famous for its ‘bikeability.’ Recharge, exercise, and relish the beautiful shore air and scenery by taking a leisurely 12-mile round-trip ride, starting at the southern end of the island along the Dunes Bike Path in Wildwood Crest. Travel along the path up onto the Wildwoods’ 2.5-mile Boardwalk, and through North Wildwood’s Mulberry Bike Path to the North Wildwood Sea Wall. You can also ride along the Wildwoods streets and downtown, with special ‘bike only’ lanes available around the entire island.
In the Wildwoods, adventure isn’t just on the horizon; it’s built into the very fabric of the destination. Encompassing the cities of Wildwood, North Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest, the resort offers 8,000 hotel and motel rooms, along with 4,000 vacation rentals, making it the perfect setting for an unforgettable family getaway. New hotel properties, tantalizing dining establishments, and Boardwalk renovations create an atmosphere where progress and nostalgia coexist.
As a seaside destination, the Wildwoods are naturally a favorite for those who enjoy fishing, boating, and water sports in addition to the relaxed beach days and thrilling boardwalk nights. For much of the year, the waters off the Wildwoods, which also include the bay, inlets, and marshes, are bustling with commercial and sport fishing boats departing early with bait and hooks ready and returning with the day’s catch. Not only do commercial fishermen know the value of the area, but those who fish for fun and sport are aware of the ocean’s plentiful bounty, too. During the warmer months of the year, visitors and locals alike enjoy taking the entire family out for a day of boating and fishing. Whether it’s fishing or crabbing, it’s not uncommon to see the island dotted with experts and newcomers alike hauling in their fresh-caught dinners.
Exciting Dining Scene
The Wildwoods’ dining scene has greatly expanded over the past few years. Choose from fresh seafood caught daily, Italian cuisine, Continental fare, and other favorites served al fresco or indoors, many with waterfront seating. For a more budget-conscious meal, I recommend one of our Doo Wop diners, complete with retro jukeboxes, futuristic exterior architecture, and black and white checkered floors.
One of the most enjoyable places for a summer night outing with my family is the renowned Wildwoods Boardwalk. It’s a quintessential part of American culture, celebrated for being one of the most vibrant and entertaining stretches along the East Coast. The Wildwoods Boardwalk delights visitors with a sensory feast, featuring breathtaking amusement piers featuring over 100 rides and attractions, top-rated roller coasters, three exhilarating beachfront water parks, classic midway games, dazzling arcades, and a plethora of retail outlets and eateries.
Did You know? The Wildwoods hosts over 9 million visitors a year. The boardwalk has more than 70,000 planks. The first Wildwoods Baby Parade was in 1909. The beaches grow each year due to sand deposits. The Tram Cars were for the 1939 World’s Fair. |
For my family, a trip to the Wildwoods Boardwalk isn’t complete without savoring delectable boardwalk treats such as hand-tossed pizza, Curley Fries, burgers, freshly crafted fudge, frozen custard and, of course, those irresistible funnel cakes.
The Wildwoods welcome everyone to explore the island and all it has to offer from events to restaurants, entertainment and more, but the Wildwoods are also located in the heart of Cape May County, just minutes from all the additional amusements and surroundings of the cape. Explore renowned wineries, breweries, restaurants, and attractions just minutes away from the excitement of the Wildwoods. Cape May county is home to the famous Cape May County Zoo and Park, and many other attractions just off the shores of the Wildwoods.
Affordable Family Fun
Explore the Wildwoods this summer season and see what everyone’s been talking about, whether you’re experiencing generational favorites like the Wildwoods Boardwalk for the very first time or discovering newfound gems on your return visit. There’s a lot to experience in the Wildwoods, so for a budget-friendly or quick trip, follow these easy tips:
Timing is Everything: Opt for a visit in May, June, September, or October for lower hotel-motel rates, spectacular weather, and a crowd-free experience.
Midweek Escapes: Maximize savings with midweek stays from Sunday to Thursday. Enjoy more affordable hotel and vacation rental rates while leaving the weekends for additional activities.
Holiday Sales and Coupons: Keep an eye out for holiday sales from Morey’s Piers and Splash Zone Waterpark. Adventurers can save big on amusement and waterpark passes. Don’t forget the free Wildwoods Family Value Coupon Book, filled with over $300 in money-saving coupons.
As you plan your family vacation this year, experience what all the buzz and excitement is about in the Wildwoods. All you could ever want in a family vacation is all right here on one five-mile island, so start creating new, lasting family
memories in the Wildwoods.
The Wildwoods have the best of the Jersey Shore and a whole lot more!
For more information www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732. |
Ben Rose
Ben Rosebrought to us his inside knowledge about Wildwoods, NJ in this month’s issue.
He serves as the Director of Marketing and Public relations for the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement Development Authority in Wildwood, NJ, where his innovative campaigns have significantly boosted regional tourism.
Ben was recently sworn in as president of the New Jersey Tourism Industry Association to elevate NJTIA's advocacy and influence across the tourism industry.