The Wildwoods Boardwalk is a true gem of the east coast, and has a long history, starting as a small 150-yard wooden platform in the 1890s and evolving over time with the country’s mood. It has been relocated twice closer to the ocean due to the changing shoreline, and today is one of the country’s last great seaside promenades. The Boardwalk’s rich history and famous atmosphere have even inspired replicas in Disneyland and Hersheypark in Pennsylvania.  

Wildwood NJ’s boardwalk is world-renowned for its classic Americana feel.  Dubbed “two miles of smiles,” Wildwoods NJ Boardwalk is a popular summer destination attracting nearly 9 million visitors every year. With its stunning amusement piers, top-notch roller coasters, interactive water parks, family-friendly atmosphere, carnival-style games, shops, and delicious food, it’s no wonder why.

From amusement rides, to fine dining, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.  That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate this incredible destination.  

Seeking Adventure?  

The Wildwoods offer three amusement parks: Morey’s Piers, Mariner’s Pier, and Surfside Pier. Each of these parks offer a unique set of attractions, so visitors can easily spend a full day exploring each. 

Morey’s Piers is the largest of the three and boasts three of the top seaside roller coasters in the country, including the Sea Serpent, the Great Nor’easter (an inverted looping coaster), and the Great White (one of the tallest and fastest wooden coasters on the East Coast), making for an exciting amusement experience for visitors. With over 100 rides and attractions, there is sure to be something for everyone in the family.  Be sure to check out the notable Wave Swinger, a classic swing ride which offers spectacular views of the boardwalk and beach. 

Mariner’s Pier is located at the northern end of the Boardwalk and offers more of a classic rides experience, such as the ferris wheel, carousel, and bumper cars.  There are also plenty of classic carnival games, where you can test your luck and skill to win memorable prizes. 

Surfside Pier is the smallest of the three amusement parks, yet still has plenty of excitement to offer.  This park is known for its classic roller coaster, Flitzer, which features a thrilling steep drop and multiple turns.  For the little ones and young at heart, Surfside Pier also hosts the classic spinning teacup ride. 

The Wildwoods also offer three large beachfront water parks, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day, complete with plunging waterfalls, cabanas, spas, hydro-chutes, speed slides, raft rides, tube floats, lazy rivers, waterslides, rope swings, water guns, and a 1,000-gallon dumping bucket.  

Morey’s Piers Raging Waters Water Park is located on Morey’s Piers and offers a slew of attractions including slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a complete children’s play area. 

Ocean Oasis Water Park and Beach Club is also located on Morey’s Piers and offers more slides, another lazy river, a raft ride, and a fun family play area. 

Splash Zone Water Park is located on the Surfside Pier and presents a wide range of attractions, such as a family raft ride, a lazy river, multiple water slides and another children’s play area. 

Wildwoods Boardwalk also offers an array of water sports and activities, including jet ski rentals as well as parasailing and paddleboarding.  For those seeking something that’s more off the beaten path, giant monster trucks are available for a high-speed, bumpy beach adventure. 

Other Must-Do Attractions

Ride the Sightseer Tram Car: The tram car was first introduced in 1949 and has since become an iconic part of the boardwalk experience.  The tram car runs the full length of the Wildwoods boardwalk and operates on two tracks, running in a continuous loop, which offers a convenient, affordable, and fun way to see all of the sights.  

Play Some Mini-Golf: There are several courses to choose from on the Wildwoods Boardwalk.  This classic game is fun for kids and adults alike.  Challenge your friends and maybe place a bet that the loser buys ice cream!

Take a Bike Ride: Wildwoods Boardwalk is bike friendly and bikes are easily available for rent.  Take a leisurely ride along the beach or bike on the boardwalk and soak in the sights, smells and sounds. 

Enjoy the Fireworks: Every Friday night at 10pm in the summertime, the Boardwalk hosts a stunning fireworks show.  The fireworks are launched from Pine Avenue and are synchronized to music playing along the boardwalk. The first show of the season is scheduled for June 23rd and runs every week through September 1st. 

Enjoy Wildwoods Boardwalk Shops

The Wildwoods Boardwalk is the place to be for a fun and unique shopping experience.  There are a plethora of souvenir shops where you are sure to find items that will be perfect for your stay such as hats, sun glasses, and sweatshirts with cool designs, along with mementos to take a piece of this special time with you.  Two of the most popular spots include the Boardwalk Mall and Surfside Souvenirs. There are also higher end shops, such as Posh on the Boardwalk, which have an array of designer clothing, including fashion-forward bathing suits and trendy beachwear.    

When in the Wildwoods don’t miss a shop to the boardwalk’s iconic candy stores.  From salt water taffy to fudge, there’s something for everyone to indulge in.  

The Wildwoods Boardwalk is also a great place to find unique jewelry and artisan crafts.  Some of the best shops to support artists and find unique goods include The Flying Carp and The Lazy Eye.  There are also many interesting specialty shops along the boardwalk, from hot sauce stores to kite stores.  The Doo Wop Experience Museum Gift Shop is a must for those who love retro and vintage goods.

Our suggestion would be to enjoy a stroll down the boardwalk and stop into any shops that catch your eye.  

Indulge in the Incredible Food

In the Wildwoods you will find everything from classic boardwalk fare, such as delicious fried oreos and funnel cakes, to gourmet dining experiences like seafood and sushi. 

There are numerous vendors throughout the boardwalk where you can get your sweet tooth fix, some of the most popular include: The Original Fudge Kitchen, Kohr Bros. Frozen Custard, and Curley’s Fries.  For a more substantial meal, one classic boardwalk restaurant is Sam’s Pizza Palace; they have been serving up delicious thin-crust pizza for over 50 years. 

If you are someone who loves to indulge in seafood while oceanside, rest assured there are many places to choose from!  For fresh seafood and breathtaking waterfront views go to The Crab House at Two Mile Landing.  Another great choice is The Lobster House, which offers classic options like crab cakes and fried shrimp. There’s also The Boathouse Restaurant, which offers a splendid menu of fresh seafood and steak, all served with a waterfront view.

Do you love international fare? Surfside Pier offers a variety of international options, including Mexican, Asian, and Mediterranean. Two notable spots are Spice it Up, which offers classic Indian dishes, and The Boardwalk Grill, which offers Mexican favorites like tacos and burritos.

For upscale dining, there are plenty of choices that are sure to please.  The Oceanic Restaurant is one of the most renowned and offers fresh seafood and steak dishes accompanied with oceanfront views. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, and is a great ambiance for a romantic dinner out or a lovely evening with friends.  Another great location for wine and lovers of Italian cuisine is Little Italy Restaurant.  This family owned gem has been serving up an extensive menu from classic pasta dishes to veal entrees for over 40 years. It’s a great spot to treat your special someone or for a family celebration. 

Events and Festivals

Last, but not least, be sure to take advantage of the events and festivals, some of which take place right on the boardwalk!  Check out the New Jersey Wildwoods Event Calendar for a complete overview of all the happenings, as there’s always something exciting going on in Wildwoods, New Jersey.  

Plan Your Wildwoods Boardwalk Adventure Today!

Bring your loved ones and come make memories at this must visit destination.  For a fun, affordable and memorable vacation, book a stay at Armada By-the-Sea, where every room offers fantastic oceanfront views. Explore our accommodations and book the perfect getaway to the Jersey shore.