Are you ready to explore Wildwood, New Jersey? This lively Jersey Shore spot has lots to offer. You can enjoy the famous boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and exciting rides. This guide will show you the best things to do in Wildwood for a memorable trip.
Key Takeaways
- Wildwood offers free access to its beautiful beaches, making it an economical option for visitors.
- The Wildwood Boardwalk spans around two miles and is home to amusement piers, waterparks, games, shops, and delicious food establishments.
- Morey’s Piers, a popular amusement park in Wildwood, boasts over 40 rides, including roller coasters and carnival games.
- Wildwood is known for its bike-friendly environment, with a 12-mile scenic bike path around the island and bike rentals available.
- Visitors can explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Wildwood through various museums and historic sites.
Iconic Wildwood Beach Balls and Boardwalk Sights
Visiting the Wildwood boardwalk is a must for anyone at the Jersey Shore. You’ll love posing with the Wildwoods sign and colorful beach ball sculptures. It’s a fun way to capture the Wildwoods’ playful vibe.
The Wildwoods also celebrate their rock and roll history. You can take photos with murals of Bill Haley and the Comets, Chubby Checker, and Bobby Rydell. These legends helped make Wildwood famous as the “Home of Rock and Roll”.
Pose with the Wildwoods Sign and Beach Ball Sculptures
Don’t miss the Wildwoods sign on your visit. Standing at 19 feet tall, it’s a great spot for photos. You can also climb on the beach ball sculptures for a fun, playful photo.
Snap Photos with the Wildwoods’ Icon Murals
The Wildwoods’ murals honor the town’s musical past. You can take memorable photos with murals of Bill Haley and the Comets, Chubby Checker, and Bobby Rydell. They helped make Wildwood known as the “Home of Rock and Roll”.
Classic Boardwalk Eats and Treats
No visit to the Wildwoods is complete without trying the best boardwalk pizza. Mack’s and Sam’s are the top spots, each with its own fans. Try slices from both to see if you like the greasier Mack’s or the sweeter Sam’s.
Wildwood is famous for its sweet treats. You must try the town’s famous salt water taffy. Visit Douglass Candies, Fudge Kitchen, and Laura’s Fudge for the best. And don’t forget an ice cream cone from Kohr Bros.
| Iconic Boardwalk Eats | Local Favorites |
|---|---|
| Mack’s Pizza | Sam’s Pizza |
| Salt Water Taffy | Fudge |
| Kohr Bros Ice Cream | Douglass Candies |
“No Jersey Shore trip is complete without an ice cream cone from iconic spots like Kohr Bros.”
Explore Wildwood’s Doo Wop Motels and Architecture
Wildwood, New Jersey, is famous for its Doo Wop-inspired architecture. Over 200 motels and hotels show off the bright, futuristic look of the 1950s and 1960s. Visitors can dive into this unique time by checking out the Doo Wop-themed motels, the Doo Wop Museum, and even a Doo Wop-style Wawa. All celebrate Wildwood’s rock and roll history.
The Wildwoods in New Jersey have the most Midcentury Modern motels worldwide. Sadly, over 50 were torn down from 2003 to 2006 for new condos. In 2006, the Doo Wop Motels were named one of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places. This led New Jersey to protect the Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District.
The Doo Wop Preservation League works to save these buildings. They run the Doo Wop Experience museum, sharing Wildwood’s motel history. They also offer bus tours to see the remaining vintage motels. This lets visitors feel the lively, neon glow that drew people from everywhere.
Families who loved Wildwood in the 1950s and 1960s still come back. They keep the town alive as their favorite vacation spot. People from China, Japan, Australia, the UK, and more also visit. They come from New York City in just two and a half hours to see the Doo Wop architecture and rich culture.
| Doo Wop Motels and Architecture Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Concentration of Midcentury Modern Motels | Highest in the world |
| Demolished Distinctive Motels | Over 50 from 2003 to 2006 |
| Doo Wop Motels Listed as Endangered | In 2006 by the National Trust |
| Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District | Designated by the State of New Jersey as the epicenter of Doo Wop motels |
| Doo Wop Preservation League | Operates the Doo Wop Experience museum and offers bus tours |
| Visiting Families | Returning from the 1950s and 1960s |
| International Visitors | From China, Japan, Australia, UK, and more |
“The Wildwoods in New Jersey boast the highest concentration of Midcentury Modern motels in the world.”
Ride the Sightseer Tram Car Along the Boardwalk
Hop aboard the iconic Sightseer tram car and experience Wildwood’s boardwalk like a local. This vintage system has been around since 1939. It offers a leisurely and nostalgic way to enjoy the sights and sounds of the 2.5-mile boardwalk.
For just $3.50 each way, you can relax and let the tram car take you on a ride. As you glide along, you’ll hear the classic “Watch the tram car, please” announcement. It’s a timeless tradition that makes the ride even more charming.
The Sightseer tram car gives you a unique view of the bustling boardwalk. You’ll see amusement parks, arcades, shops, and eateries. It’s a front-row seat to the energy and excitement that makes Wildwood so beloved.
“Riding the Sightseer tram car is a must-do activity in Wildwood. It’s a perfect way to sit back, relax, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the boardwalk.”
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a Wildwood regular, the Sightseer tram car is a great way to explore. So hop on, sit back, and let the tram car guide you to the best of Wildwood.
Thrilling Rides and Water Parks at Morey’s Piers
Wildwood, New Jersey, isn’t complete without Morey’s Piers. This famous spot has three piers: Mariner’s, Surfside, and Adventure. Each pier offers exciting rides, family fun, and tasty treats.
Zoom Phloom on Surfside Pier is a must-try for thrill-seekers. It’s a water coaster with a 75-foot drop. Mariner’s Pier has the spooky Ghost Ship. And Adventure Pier has The Great White, a classic roller coaster.
The Giant Wheel at Mariner’s Pier gives you amazing views of Wildwood. It’s perfect for a calm moment.
Morey’s Piers also has two water parks: Raging Waters and Ocean Oasis. You can enjoy lazy rivers, splash zones, and water slides like Shotgun Falls and WipeOut racer slides.
Don’t forget to try the boardwalk’s favorites. You’ll find walking tacos, funnel cakes, crepes, pizza, and smoothie bowls. Stubborn Brothers on Surfside Pier and Jumbo’s mango margaritas are top picks.
Morey’s Piers is the perfect place for family fun and memories in Wildwood, New Jersey. It offers thrills, relaxation, and delicious food.
Cycling and Scenic Trails Around the Island
Wildwood is a great place for biking, with many Wildwood cycling shops. You can rent a bike and ride the Wildwood boardwalk early in the morning. It’s perfect because cars can’t go there until it opens.
Wildwood also lets you enjoy nature. You can bike through the Wildwood Crest Dunes and the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge. These places are full of wildlife and beautiful coastal views.
Take a Morning Bike Ride on the Boardwalk
Begin your day with a bike ride on the famous Wildwood boardwalk. It’s calm in the morning. You’ll see the Atlantic Ocean and the beach.
Discover the Wildwood Crest Dunes and Cape May National Wildlife Refuge
After the boardwalk, try the 12-mile bike path around the island. It takes you through the Wildwood Crest Dunes and the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll see lots of wildlife and beautiful nature.
| Trail Name | Length | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bike Path Through the Wildwoods | 5 miles | Easy | Scenic coastal views, Wildwood Crest Dunes |
| Cape May National Wildlife Refuge Trails | Varies | Easy to Moderate | Diverse wildlife, coastal habitats |
| Wildwood Boardwalk | 2.5 miles | Easy | Car-free until opening, scenic ocean views |
“Wildwood is a hidden gem for cyclists, with miles of scenic trails and the iconic boardwalk waiting to be explored.”
Wildwood, New Jersey: Best Things to Do – Top Picks
Wildwood, New Jersey, is a top vacation spot for all ages. It has the famous boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and lots of fun activities. You can enjoy rides, family fun, and cultural experiences here.
Begin your Wildwood trip by walking the famous boardwalk. You’ll see the iconic Wildwoods sign and giant beach ball sculptures. Try classic treats like saltwater taffy, fudge, and ice cream. And don’t miss the debate over the best pizza – Mack’s or Sam’s?
For a fun night, visit the Wildwoods Convention Center. It hosts events, concerts, and dance parties all summer. If you love thrills, check out Morey’s Piers with over 100 rides and water attractions. Nature lovers can explore the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge’s trails and dunes.
Wildwood has activities for families and exciting nights out. Explore its historic Cold Spring Village, try the local restaurants, and more. Your Jersey Shore vacation is waiting!
“Wildwood is a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern excitement – where the boardwalk meets the waves and memories are made.”
Nightlife, Music, and Entertainment
Wildwood’s nightlife and entertainment scene is lively and varied. It has many venues and events to make your Jersey Shore vacation unforgettable. The Wildwoods Convention Center is a top spot for concerts, shows, and attractions all year. Make sure to check the calendar and get tickets for the best shows.
Attend Events at the Wildwoods Convention Center
The Wildwoods Convention Center is Wildwood’s entertainment hub. It attracts visitors from everywhere for its concerts, performances, and events. You can see local bands and famous national acts here. This venue offers something for everyone’s musical taste.
Enjoy Free Concerts and Dance Parties
Wildwood and nearby towns also have free entertainment for families and friends. Sea Isle City has “Summer Concerts Under the Stars” and Family Night Dance Parties. Avalon offers free beachfront concerts on Fridays and Saturdays. These events are great for enjoying the Jersey Shore’s music and dance scene under the stars.
FAQ
What are some of the top things to do in Wildwood, New Jersey?
Wildwood is full of fun activities and sights. You can enjoy the famous boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and exciting rides at Morey’s Piers. There’s also cool Doo Wop architecture and chances to bike and explore nature.
What are the must-see landmarks and photo spots in Wildwood?
Wildwood has great spots for photos. Don’t miss the 19-foot-high Wildwoods sign with beach ball sculptures. Also, check out the murals celebrating Wildwood’s rock and roll history, featuring famous artists like Bill Haley and Chubby Checker.
What are the best boardwalk foods and treats to try in Wildwood?
Wildwood is known for its delicious boardwalk foods. Try the famous pizza at Mack’s and Sam’s. Don’t forget to taste the salt water taffy, fudge, and ice cream at places like Douglass Candies and Kohr Bros.
What is unique about Wildwood’s Doo Wop architecture and culture?
Wildwood is famous for its Doo Wop architecture. Over 200 motels and hotels show off the 1950s and 60s style. You can explore these motels, the Doo Wop Museum, and even a Doo Wop-style Wawa.
What are the top rides and attractions at Morey’s Piers?
Morey’s Piers is Wildwood’s top amusement park. It has three piers with exciting rides. Zoom Phloom on Surfside Pier and Ghost Ship on Mariner’s Pier are thrilling. The Giant Wheel on Mariner’s Pier offers beautiful views.
What are the best ways to explore Wildwood’s natural surroundings?
Wildwood has more than just the boardwalk. Explore the Wildwood Crest Dunes and Cape May National Wildlife Refuge. These spots are great for wildlife watching and enjoying the coast. There’s also a 12-mile bike path around the island.
What kind of entertainment and events can visitors find in Wildwood?
Wildwood’s nightlife and entertainment are lively. The Wildwoods Convention Center hosts big events. Summer brings free concerts and dance parties in Sea Isle City and Avalon.
The above is subject to change.
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