Asbury Park, New Jersey

I can’t help but imagine if cities were people with personalities and quirks all their own. In the case of Asbury Park, New Jersey, a shore town with undeniable music cred, a sad past, and a bright future, it carries itself like a lonesome showman who has long perished in the sea and resurrected as an urban, cold-brew-drinking, tattoo-covered mermaid with a plan. When I return to Asbury each summer there's always a new treasure to uncover, and an old one to bury beneath the sand. From restored swan boats to boarded-up punk sanctuaries to local distilleries, it’s hard to imagine a time when this city wasn’t one of the most relevant cultural gems in the area.  

Rook Coffee

The I-can’t-believe-this-stuff-is-legal class of coffee with just the right amount zip to fuel your adventure through Asbury. Rook is easily one of New Jersey’s greatest exports (I first spotted it at Black Gold Records in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn) alongs with blueberries, corn, and Saves The Day. 

Try: New Orleans-style cold brew with coconut milk for a particularly gnarly buzz before hitting the beach. (2005 Route 35, www.rookcoffee.com)

Talula’s

Fresh, made-to-order, made-to-share mini pizzas paired with deceiving strong cocktails in a sun-flooded industrial space.

Try: Zoey Bechamel: a brunch-minded white pizza with house mozzarella, diced new potatoes, Jersey corn, fresh oregano, bacon*, and of course béchamel sauce. Gin + Jam: a genius concoction of Dorothy Park gin, lemongrass simple syrup, lime, and a generous teaspoon of seasonal jam.  (550 Cookman Avenue, www.talulaspizza.com)

*Note: Since the pies are made-to-order, customizing isn't a biggie. Vegetarians like myself shouldn't be ashamed to opt out of meat toppings, even if it does smell enticing. 

Flux Modern

No budget is without spoils in this floor to ceiling treasure trove of mid-century modern decor. From candy-colored pyrex bakeware to the Eames chairs of your dreams, it’s a true test of willpower to leave without one, absolutely necessary, new addition to your home. (658 Cookman Avenue, www.fluxmodern.net)

Paranormal Books & Curiosities

A quirky, local-obsessed bookstore specializing in folklore, ghost tours, and spiritual readings. A must-stop for any self-proclaimed beach goth looking to channel something more than a wicked sunburn.  (627 Cookman Avenue, www.paranormalbooksnj.com)

Pedal Boats

Twenty bucks will get you half an hour out on Wesley Lake, plus a bit of a workout—if that's your thing. Pick from a classic swan boat or go wild with a dragon, blue heron, or pink flamingo (Wesley Lake between Heck Street & Grand Avenue, www.asburyparkpedalboats.com)

Silverball Museum

Get dizzy with history and pinging balls at this niche museum and pinball arcade, located smack dab in the middle of the boardwalk. 

Convention Hall

The climax of the boardwalk, this event center houses dozens of independently owned shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as the beloved Paramount Theatre. Duck  into the hall if only to take respite in its shade and alternative view of the Atlantic. 

Try: The all-natural watermelon-lime ice pops at Betty’s Icebox are a slight sweet and simple way to stay hydrated while worshipping the sun. (1300 Ocean Avenue, www.apboardwalk.com)

Wonder Bar

Quite literally the face of Asbury, Wonder Bar is just as iconic from the outside as it is inside. Twin “Tillie” murals greet you as you approach and remind you of the brotherhood of boardwalk communities from Asbury to Coney Island and beyond. (5th & Ocean Avenues, www.wonderbarasburypark.com)

Asbury Lanes

While the legendary bowling alley turned show venue may have closed its doors indefinitely back in October 2015, no tour of Asbury would be complete without paying homage to this punk rock landmark. I personally have only had the privilege of admiring the structure from the outside, but my boyfriend and other Jersey kids are quick to wax nostalgic when remembering all of the great acts the Lanes drew to the area. While Stone Pony has Springsteen, Asbury Lanes had a major hand in cultivating a following for bands like the Bouncing Souls and other local punk bands.  ( 209 4th Avenue, www.asburylanes.com)