Long Branch was placed "on the map" in 1869 when President Grant made the city the nation's "Summer Capital," a tradition followed by Presidents Hayes, Garfield, Arthur, Harrison, McKinley, and Wilson. In the late 1800s Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park was the site of "The Reservation" that Long Branch businessman Nate Salsbury built for his Buffalo Bill Wild West Show. Buffalo Bill Cody, Annie Oakley, and Chief Sitting Bull were among the many performers. This 38-acre beach park is a great place to visit. There is 1 mile of clean, sandy beach to enjoy. More than just a clean place for fun in the sun, this park is also a protected ecological habitat. The Park System regularly reinforces the sand dunes by planting erosion-fighting beach grass. These dunes act as a natural barrier against severe storms and serve as a habitat for threatened bird and plant species. DRIVING TIME: 5-7 minutes from Holiday Inn Express Suites 10-15 minutes from DoubleTree Hilton Eatontown
Scott & Dorothy's favourite summer destination! This historic shore town features one of the best beaches in the state. Along with endless sand, great surf and unlimited fun, you’ll find a revitalized boardwalk that’s better than ever. You’ll also discover plenty of unique shops, eclectic restaurants with breathtaking views and the crown jewel—the restored Paramount Theater and Convention Hall. A distinctly unique beachside destination, Asbury Park is well on its way to becoming a vibrant “cultural hub” [Travel+Leisure] and one of the “hottest destinations” [Condé Nast] on the East Coast drawing millions of visitors every year—from beachgoers to foodies to music lovers—The Wonder Bar and The Stone Pony, where Bruce Springsteen has made numerous appearances, is regarded as one of the world’s most famous music “scenes.” DRIVING TIME: 15 minutes from Holiday Inn Express Suites 11-16 minutes from DoubleTree Hilton Eatontown
This is a pick-your-own apple orchard open 9 am - 5:30 pm weather permitting. There is no admission fee, and you must bring your own reusable bags due to NJ ban on plastic bags ( no backpacks allowed) DRIVING TIME: 3 minutes from Delicious Orchards 10 minutes from Holiday Inn Express Suites 10 minutes from DoubleTree Hilton Eatontown
The family owned 60,000 sq ft retail retail market specializes in fresh fruits & vegetables, also offers a wide array of baked goods all made on site in their scratch bakery. They’re home to the finest meats & cheeses with unique deli, prepared foods & grocery sections. Over 2.5 million people visit Delicious Orchards each year. Get the full experience & enjoy a bite to eat from the Cider Café. With soups, hot dogs, wraps, paninis, salads, & so much more everyone will find something to meet their appetite. With plenty of seating, choose to relax amongst the apple orchard, grab some shade on the patio, or escape the elements & sit inside. Their food and scenery can not be missed! You’ll also be able to warm up with their highest quality coffee, teas & ciders. Be sure to bring home apple cider donuts & fresh apple cider! DRIVING TIME: 3 minutes from Eastmont Orchards 10 minutes from Holiday Inn Express Suites 10 minutes from DoubleTree Hilton Eatontown
Conveniently located off Garden State Parkway at Exit 100B in Tinton Falls, Jersey Shore Premium Outlets® is a wonderful outdoor center that features 120 stores including adidas, Calvin Klein, Champion, Coach, Columbia Sportswear, Crocs, Fila, Gap Factory Outlet, Hanes Factory Store, Jockey, J.Crew Factory Store, kate spade new york, Michael Kors, Levis, Nike, Old Navy Outlet, Soma, Timberland, Vineyard Vines and more all at savings of 25%-65% every day. For our out of state friends, remember there's no tax on clothing in NJ! DRIVING TIME: 10 minutes from Holiday Inn Express Suites 10 minutes from Doubletree Hilton Eatontown
Currently under renovation, but still open, this 60 year old enclosed shopping center will become a modern, open-air town center and will boast 900,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, including a Whole Foods Market upon completion. Boscovs, Macys, some food establishments, and the movie theater are open so you can still enjoy the latest movie releases and grab a bite to eat with family and friends at Monmouth Mall. See website below for detailed listings. DRIVING TIME: 10 minutes from Holiday Inn Express Suites 10 minutes from DoubleTree Hilton Eatontown
Monmouth County boasts so much more than amazing beaches and beach towns. This region offers quaint little towns, and wealth of dining, theater, golf, historic parks, lighthouses, and entertainment venues. If the above suggestions didn't pique your interest, there are endless possibilities to explore and enjoy. To learn more, or plan your trip, visit the tourism website.