Wildwood Crowned America’s Best Boardwalk, Jersey Dominates
New Jersey’s iconic boardwalks have secured national recognition with the Wildwood Boardwalk capturing the prestigious title of “Best Boardwalk in America” according to a recent USA Today ranking. The Garden State demonstrated its boardwalk supremacy by claiming three spots in the nationwide top ten, cementing the Jersey Shore’s reputation as the ultimate summer destination for boardwalk enthusiasts.
What began as a modest 150-yard wooden walkway has evolved into an impressive 38-block entertainment mecca that draws millions of visitors annually. The Wildwood Boardwalk’s combination of nostalgic charm and modern attractions helped it edge out competitors from coast to coast in the ranking, which was compiled by a panel of travel experts, according to 94.3 The Point.
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Jersey Shore’s Triple Crown
The Garden State’s dominance didn’t stop with Wildwood. Atlantic City’s historic boardwalk – the first in the nation – secured the sixth position, while Ocean City’s family-friendly promenade landed at number eight. This remarkable showing highlights New Jersey’s unique boardwalk culture that has been cultivated over generations.
“Whether you are seeking the glitz of Atlantic City or the family-friendly fun in Wildwood, the Jersey Shore seemingly provides something for everyone,” noted NBC Philadelphia, which also reported that Wildwood experienced a record-breaking tourism season in 2024, likely bolstered by its reputation for exceptional boardwalk experiences.
Notable boardwalks from Connecticut, North Carolina, California, Texas, Maryland, and Virginia rounded out the top ten, but none could dethrone New Jersey’s flagship attraction.
Gaming Paradise Along The Shore
A key element of the Jersey Shore boardwalk experience is the exceptional arcade scene, where visitors can enjoy everything from cutting-edge virtual reality games to beloved classics like skee-ball and pinball machines. These entertainment hubs serve as the heart of boardwalk culture, drawing in families and gaming enthusiasts alike.
Among the standouts is Silverball Retro Arcade in Asbury Park, where classic pinball machines and vintage video games create an atmosphere of nostalgia. For those seeking the latest gaming technology alongside traditional favorites, Jenkinson’s South Arcade in Point Pleasant Beach offers an expansive selection that keeps pace with modern gaming trends.
“Whether you’re a serious gamer or just looking for some light-hearted entertainment, the arcades along the Jersey Shore boardwalk provide a diverse range of gaming options to ensure everyone has a memorable day out,” reports Shore News Network, which highlighted ten premier arcade destinations along the coast.
More Than Just Games
The appeal of New Jersey’s boardwalks extends far beyond gaming centers. The Wildwood Boardwalk, stretching nearly two miles, features an astonishing array of attractions including over 100 rides across multiple amusement piers, water parks, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Meanwhile, Atlantic City’s boardwalk blends casino glamour with family entertainment, creating a uniquely diverse experience that has retained its appeal for over a century. Ocean City maintains its reputation as a wholesome, family-oriented destination with an alcohol-free boardwalk filled with sweet treats and gentle amusements appropriate for all ages.
Local enthusiasts have noted that other notable boardwalks, including Jenkinson’s in Point Pleasant Beach and the revitalized Seaside Heights promenade, were surprisingly absent from the national ranking despite their significant popularity among repeat visitors.
Economic Impact
The recognition comes at a crucial time for shore communities heavily dependent on tourism revenue. Boardwalk businesses generate thousands of seasonal jobs and millions in tax revenue, with the summer months representing the economic lifeblood for many coastal towns.
Tourism officials anticipate that the national recognition will attract even more visitors to New Jersey’s coastal communities this summer, potentially extending beyond the traditional Memorial Day to Labor Day season as visitors seek to experience America’s best boardwalk for themselves.
As summer approaches, these wooden walkways – originally designed to keep sand out of hotel lobbies in the Victorian era – continue to evolve while maintaining the timeless appeal that has made them central to the American summer vacation experience for over a century.
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