Maybe you’re from the East Coast and grew up vacationing in Asbury Park. But for many of us around the country, it was Bruce Springsteen who gave us a peek into this New Jersey town.
While it may not be the same as when the musician was growing up, it still holds a similar magic, as he describes in one of his songs.
Today, we’re traveling to the Jersey Shore to discover if Asbury Park is worth a visit.
Let’s hit it!
Which Bruce Springsteen Song Features Asbury Park?
When you think of Bruce Springsteen, New Jersey is usually not far behind. The state is as endearing to The Boss as Indiana is to John Mellencamp.
Many casual Springsteen fans know about the seaside city from one of his earliest hits. Released in 1973, the song 4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy), highlights this popular location on the Jersey Shore.
While Sandy is the only tune the musician wrote mentioning Asbury Park, it’s chock full of references locals would surely know. Most notable is Madame Marie. She was a real-life fortuneteller working out of a small booth on the boardwalk. And it’s where young Bruce chose to sit for hours a day playing guitar and singing for passersby.
In addition to Madame Marie, you also hear about the casino, arcade, pier lights, and, of course, the beach. It’s a song about a summertime fling that many of us can relate to on one level or another.
About Asbury Park
Asbury Park’s history dates back to the latter part of the 19th century. Established in 1871, it’d be another 17 years before it became a popular destination. A merry-go-round was the first of many attractions drawing nearly 600,000 visitors to the city each year.
Over the following 100 years, Asbury Park underwent several changes. After the 1970s, fewer people visited the boardwalk. Eventually, it closed in 1988 despite being listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Fortunately, in the early 2000s, a revival effort began, and the seaside location is once again a hotbed of activity. Numerous retail shops, museums, breweries, and music venues will keep you entertained day and night.
Where Is Asbury Park?
Even if you’re not from the East Coast, chances are good you know of the Jersey Shore. Asbury Park is one town among many along the state’s coastline, which stretches over 100 miles.
Located a little more than one hour south of New York City, it’s a regular vacation and weekend getaway spot for folks in the region. Asbury Park is at the northern end of the shoreline. You could easily use that as a base camp and enjoy a drive down the coast to explore other beaches and boardwalks.
Famous Bruce Springsteen Landmarks Near Asbury Park
It’s no surprise Springsteen spent so much time in Asbury Park when he was younger. He grew up in Long Branch, another coastal town about seven miles north. So when you visit his old stomping ground, you can check out a few places where The Boss hung out.
The Stone Pony
When The Stone Pony opened in 1974, Springsteen was already on his way to fame. He had two albums released when the music venue started booking local bands. However, Bruce and fellow Jerseyite Steve Van Zandt helped put it on the map in those early days.
Up through the late 1980s, it wasn’t uncommon to see The Boss and his E Street Band performing on the Pony’s stage. In fact, they opened their 1984 Born In the USA tour there. But even as recently as 2020, Springsteen joined other Jersey Shore rockers at a benefit gig. So you never know when he might show up again!
The club is still a happening place. You can catch up-and-coming acts to nationwide touring groups like The Motet or Lukas Nelson performing at this legendary venue.
Hungry for more? Here are the best places to get one of New Jersey’s favorite snacks… Disco Fries!
The Paramount Theater and Convention Hall
Two other stages Springsteen graced are the 1,600-seat Paramount Theater and the larger Convention Hall. Housed under one roof at the north end of Asbury Park’s boardwalk, they’re both nearly a century old.
The Boss played several surprise gigs at The Paramount. And the Convention Hall was a regular location where he’d schedule ticketed rehearsal shows before hitting the road.
Unfortunately, neither venue is open today. But the buildings remain, so you can hang out nearby and imagine Springsteen walking up with a guitar slung around his neck.
WindMill Hot Dogs West End
Although you’ll find several WindMill locations near Asbury Park, the original spot was in Springsteen’s hometown of Long Branch. It’s about a block from the house where The Boss wrote much of his 1975 album Born to Run.
On nights when he’d play impromptu gigs at The Stone Pony, he’d enjoy late-night grub at this hot dog joint before going home. The WindMill would also stay open late if they knew Bruce and the band planned to stop in after a show.
You know a place serves good food if they’ve been open for 60 years. And if The Boss eats there, it must be worth a visit.
Best Places to Stay Near Asbury Park
You’ll probably want to spend a few days exploring Asbury Park and checking out Springsteen’s old haunts. Here are three places close to the boardwalk and other nearby attractions.
Turkey Swamp Park Campground
You won’t find many RV or tent camping options around Asbury Park. However, the beautiful wooded Turkey Swamp Park Campground is about a half-hour drive away.
Sites include water and 20- and 30-Amp electrical hookups. A dump station is also available on-site for guests to use. In addition, you’ll have access to laundry and shower facilities. Bring your fishing pole because the property’s 17-acre lake will be calling to you. They even offer boat, canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals.
Read about the New Jersey Creek that Inspired the Movie Jaws!
The Ocean Plaza Hotel
This charming boutique hotel is in the neighboring Ocean Grove. Rather than a high-rise building, you’ll rest in a century-old renovated Victorian house. Porches wrap around the first and second floors, offering views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Guest rooms include a refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, and free WiFi. Enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast before heading out for the day. You’ll be within walking distance of Asbury Park’s beaches, retail shops, and restaurants.
The James Bradley
A stay at The James Bradley will be a memorable one. From contemporary design elements to Northeastern beach-town decor, you’ll feel relaxed from the moment you step inside.
Choose from single rooms, suites, or a private bungalow for your weekend getaway. Amenities include bathrobes, designer toiletries, a rainfall showerhead, and a minibar.
In addition to being a hotel, The James also offers spa and massage services. So, after a day of exploring nearby Ashbury Park, pamper yourself with a relaxing treatment to soothe your tired muscles.
Grab a copy of Bruce Springsteen’s book, Born to Run, to learn about his life in Asbury Park and beyond!
Is a Road Trip to Asbury Park Worth It?
A visit to the Jersey Shore offers plenty of activities. Whether you want beaches, shopping, or nightlife, this area has it all.
You don’t have to be a fan of The Boss to enjoy Asbury Park. But knowing he spent his youth and early musical years here certainly adds to the charm. You may even find yourself humming Born to Run as you stroll down the boardwalk!
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