The Wildwoods, NJ are a premier East Coast resort destination, attracting over 9 million visitors each year who enjoy everything they could ever want in a vacation destination, all on one 5-mile island.
Our world-famous, 38-block Boardwalk with three action-packed amusement piers, three beachfront waterparks, shops, arcades, carnival games and over 200 eateries and our free white sand beaches have always been perennial favorites among vacationers. Visitors find new favorites each time they visit the island, from lively downtowns, a vibrant and diverse restaurant scene, live entertainment, shop ping, and of course the town’s famous beaches and boardwalk.
Nestled across the island are hidden gems waiting to be discovered by new and returning visitors looking to make lasting memories in a resort that has charmed generations of travelers.
The Wildwoods have been experiencing a development renaissance, with many new resort properties and businesses opening. Whether it’s the Madison Resort Wildwoods Crest, Seaport Suites, Oasis by Seaport Stays, MudHen Hospitality’s ‘Hen Houses,’ or the chic Waves Hotel, each new accommodation beckons the modern explorer.
Developments in the Wildwoods have been attracting new visitors and garnering national attention. The Madison Resort was named the ‘Best New Hotel’ in USA Today’s 10Best list of new hotels in the United States. The Honky Tonk Saloon was also named as one of the top 5 ‘Best New Attraction’ in the country by USA Today, and North Wildwood was named as a “quaint, comfy town,” attractive to everyone from Gen Z to Baby Boomers, a trend which Priceline dubbed “townsizing” in their ‘Where to Next?’ 2025 travel trends report.
| “No other vacation destination offers the variety of events and festivals that the Wildwoods offer, with over 160 events year-round, including free outdoor concerts, movies under the stars, and fireworks shows every Friday night all season long.” |
Googie Capital of the World
The Wildwoods have been receiving national attention for our newest developments and long-lasting treasures, spreading the message that locals have always known– the Wildwoods are the premier vacation destination of the Jersey Shore.
The modern establishments complement the island’s existing array of mid-century themed hotels and motels, designed to evoke the architecture, decor, and colors of r buildings from the 1950s and ‘60s by embracing a distinctive “Googie” mid-century style popularized during the Doo wop era.
The Wildwoods are home to the largest collection of this Googie architecture in the country. More than 92 of what once were hundreds of historically significant motels remain in the Wildwoods, while some newer business arrivals, such as the TD Bank, McDonalds and Wawa have incorporated the colorful space-age theme into their architecture.
Plastic palm trees overlook kidney-shaped pools, roof angles jut out, wrought iron balconies adorn structures, bright, colorful neon signs light up the night, and imaginative names and vibrant themes provide each building with its unique character. Surrounded by this architectural style, guests can envision tropical paradises and other exotic destinations of days gone by.
Free Events
The Wildwoods are also home to over 160 events and festivals throughout the year, many of which are completely FREE! From Italian and Irish ethnic festivals and food and music festivals to monster truck and vintage car and motorcycle races on the beach, the International Kite Festival, the Wildwoods Baby Parade, and many more.
Plus, there are free outdoor concerts three nights each week, free movies under the stars, and a free fireworks show every Friday night all season long. No other vacation destination offers the variety of events and festivals that the Wildwoods offer. You’ll have something fun to do every day and night of the week!
Birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll
The Barefoot Country Music Festival has been a flagship event in the Wildwoods for five years, but the town’s musical roots stretch back decades to the 50’s and 60’s and the very beginnings of Doo-Wop and rock ‘n roll.
World-class entertainment in the Wildwoods is a tradition that dates to the Big Band era when names like Jimmy Dorsey, Tommy Dorsey, Count Basie, and Guy Lombardo were common atop the resort’s marquees.
The tradition continued through the ‘50s with top headliners like Sammy Davis, Jr., Dean Martin & Jerry Lewis, Sarah Vaughn, and Tony Bennett; and the ‘60s when Dick Clark brought his American Bandstand to the former Starlight Ballroom; Bill Haley and the Comets launched the country’s first Rock ‘n Roll hit single “Rock Around the Clock” from the stage of the Wildwood’s Hof Brau Hotel giving rise to the Wildwoods being known as “The Birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll Music”.
Chubby Checker introduced a new dance at the Rainbow Club in the Wildwoods called the Twist that would later take the country by storm; and the then up-and-coming star Bobby Rydell made the Wildwoods his summer home. Rydell’s affection for the Wildwoods was so great that he recorded what has become the resort’s anthem, “Wildwood Days,” where, as the song says, ‘every day is a holiday, and every night is a Saturday night!’
Free Beaches
The Wildwoods remain one of only three Jersey Shore destinations that never charge for beach tags; visitors can enjoy the free, spacious, clean, and safe beaches, that are consistently voted the “Best Beaches in New Jersey” and “Top 10 Beaches in the US.”
Our beaches are also home to numerous events throughout the summer season.
The National Marbles Tournament is a Wildwoods tradition that attracts Mibsters and their families from across the country to play and compete for national honors, scholarships, and prizes.
Also returning to the beach in 2025 is The Race of Gentlemen and Monster Truck Beach Races and the fifth annual Barefoot Country Music Fest. This four-day music concert event, taking place June 19-22, 2025, will host the industry’s biggest stars – bringing a unique blend of today’s country headliners, regional stars, up-and-comers, and local favorites performing across 5 unique stages. A country music fan’s dream, this festival will feature Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, and Rascal Flatts, plus over 40 other artists June 19 – 22.
Wildwoods World-Famous Boardwalk
Just off the island’s wide, spacious beaches is the famous Wildwoods Boardwalk and this wooden way has been called ‘two miles of smiles’ for good reason. Spectacular amusement piers, world-class roller coasters, interactive waterparks, family atmosphere, carnival-style games of chance, flashing arcades, shops, and irresistible food make the Wildwoods Boardwalk a summer ‘must-do’ for nearly nine million visitors every year.
Since its birth as a mere 150-yard stretch of boards in the 1890s, the Wildwoods Boardwalk has always been the center of activity. Throughout the years, the Boardwalk has gone through many transformations, growing, and evolving with the mood of the country; and in its 100-year history, it was moved closer to the ocean twice due to the changing shoreline.
Today, the Wildwoods Boardwalk is one of the country’s last great seaside promenades. Its history and world-famous ambiance have led to the very concept of the Wildwoods Boardwalk being replicated both in Disneyland and in Hershey Park, PA.
Stretching for two and a half miles, the 38-block Wildwoods Boardwalk offers a pure sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. With over 100 rides and attractions ranging from world-class roller coasters and wet ‘n wild waterparks, to carnival-style midway games, flashing arcades, and a myriad of retail shops and eateries, it is the quintessential Jersey Shore Boardwalk.
Byrne Plaza in Downtown Wildwood is another vibrant, family-friendly destination located in the heart of the Wildwoods. Offering activities and entertainment for all ages, the district boasts Fitness in the Plaza classes, Saturday morning Farmers Markets, and an array of fantastic restaurants, bars and shops. Visitors can also enjoy exciting festivals, Free Movie Nights, and live Music Nights, making Downtown Wildwood a welcoming and lively hub for the entire family.
Outdoors
If biking is more of your thing, the Wildwoods are famous for its ‘bikeability.’ Recharge, exercise, and relish the beautiful shore air and scenery by taking a leisurely 12-mile round-trip ride, starting at the southern end of the island along the Dunes Bike Path in Wildwood Crest. Travel along the path up onto the Wildwoods’ 2.5-mile Boardwalk, and through North Wildwood’s Mulberry Bike Path to the North Wildwood Sea Wall. You can also ride along the Wildwoods streets and downtown, with special ‘bike only’ lanes available around the entire island.
In the Wildwoods, adventure isn’t just on the horizon; it’s built into the very fabric of the destination. Encompassing the cities of Wildwood, North Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest, the resort offers 8,000 hotel and motel rooms, along with 4,000 vacation rentals, making it the perfect setting for an unforgettable family getaway. New hotel properties, tantalizing dining establishments, and Boardwalk renovations create an atmosphere where progress and nostalgia coexist.
As a seaside destination, the Wildwoods are naturally a favorite for those who enjoy fishing, boating, and water sports in addition to the relaxed beach days and thrilling boardwalk nights. For much of the year, the waters off the Wildwoods, which also include the bay, inlets, and marshes, are bustling with commercial and sport fishing boats departing early with bait and hooks ready and returning with the day’s catch. Not only do commercial fishermen know the value of the area, but those who fish for fun and sport are aware of the ocean’s plentiful bounty, too. During the warmer months of the year, visitors and locals alike enjoy taking the entire family out for a day of boating and fishing. Whether it’s fishing or crabbing, it’s not uncommon to see the island dotted with experts and newcomers alike hauling in their fresh-caught dinners.
Exciting Dining Scene
The Wildwoods’ dining scene has greatly expanded over the past few years. Choose from fresh seafood caught daily, Italian cuisine, Continental fare, and other favorites served al fresco or indoors, many with waterfront seating. For a more budget-conscious meal, I recommend one of our Doo Wop diners, complete with retro jukeboxes, futuristic exterior architecture, and black and white checkered floors.
One of the most enjoyable places for a summer night outing with my family is the renowned Wildwoods Boardwalk. It’s a quintessential part of American culture, celebrated for being one of the most vibrant and entertaining stretches along the East Coast. The Wildwoods Boardwalk delights visitors with a sensory feast, featuring breathtaking amusement piers featuring over 100 rides and attractions, top-rated roller coasters, three exhilarating beachfront water parks, classic midway games, dazzling arcades, and a plethora of retail outlets and eateries.
| Did You know? The Wildwoods hosts over 9 million visitors a year. The boardwalk has more than 70,000 planks. The first Wildwoods Baby Parade was in 1909. The beaches grow each year due to sand deposits. The Tram Cars were for the 1939 World’s Fair. |
For my family, a trip to the Wildwoods Boardwalk isn’t complete without savoring delectable boardwalk treats such as hand-tossed pizza, Curley Fries, burgers, freshly crafted fudge, frozen custard and, of course, those irresistible funnel cakes.
The Wildwoods welcome everyone to explore the island and all it has to offer from events to restaurants, entertainment and more, but the Wildwoods are also located in the heart of Cape May County, just minutes from all the additional amusements and surroundings of the cape. Explore renowned wineries, breweries, restaurants, and attractions just minutes away from the excitement of the Wildwoods. Cape May county is home to the famous Cape May County Zoo and Park, and many other attractions just off the shores of the Wildwoods.
Affordable Family Fun
Explore the Wildwoods this summer season and see what everyone’s been talking about, whether you’re experiencing generational favorites like the Wildwoods Boardwalk for the very first time or discovering newfound gems on your return visit. There’s a lot to experience in the Wildwoods, so for a budget-friendly or quick trip, follow these easy tips:
Timing is Everything: Opt for a visit in May, June, September, or October for lower hotel-motel rates, spectacular weather, and a crowd-free experience.
Midweek Escapes: Maximize savings with midweek stays from Sunday to Thursday. Enjoy more affordable hotel and vacation rental rates while leaving the weekends for additional activities.
Holiday Sales and Coupons: Keep an eye out for holiday sales from Morey’s Piers and Splash Zone Waterpark. Adventurers can save big on amusement and waterpark passes. Don’t forget the free Wildwoods Family Value Coupon Book, filled with over $300 in money-saving coupons.
As you plan your family vacation this year, experience what all the buzz and excitement is about in the Wildwoods. All you could ever want in a family vacation is all right here on one five-mile island, so start creating new, lasting family
memories in the Wildwoods.
The Wildwoods have the best of the Jersey Shore and a whole lot more!
| For more information www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732. |
About the Author
Discovering Korea's Lost <br>SILLA KINGDOM
General Kim Yushin sat atop his horse, surveying the battlefield from a vantage point on the hill. He knew that the battle was not going well. Despite having the best of the Silla army at his command and backed up with their allies the Tang army from China, his forces were far outnumbered by the 300,000 soldiers of the Baekje and Goguryeo kingdoms. But he also knew that he had a plan.
With a wave of his hand, he signaled to the center units of his army, in the open in an otherwise wooded and hilly countryside, exposed to a hailstorm of arrows and facing a rush of cavalry to pull back. The enemy forces, seeing the Silla-Tang alliance fleeing the field, surged forward in pursuit, eager to claim victory.
But as the Baekje and Goguryeo troops closed in, they suddenly found themselves surrounded by Silla-Tang forces who had held their positions in the dense woods and hills. The Silla army launched a surprise attack from their rear. The sound of steel on steel echoed across the battlefield as the two sides clashed in a fierce and brutal struggle.
The wide-ranging and chaotic battle turned in favor of the Silla-Tang alliance. The Baekje and Goguryeo forces, caught off guard by the sudden ambush, were thrown into disarray. With tens of thousands dead, their ranks shattered and their soldiers fled in all directions.
For General Kim, the Battle of Hwangsanbeol was a hard-fought and bitter struggle, one that tested the limits of his skill and courage. But with his tactical brilliance and leadership, he had emerged victorious, securing the future of the Silla kingdom and cementing his place in history as one of Korea's greatest military commanders.
The battle of Hwangsanbeol was the beginning of the end of the Three Kingdoms period of Korea and was a turning point in the unification of Korea under the Silla Kingdom for the next two hundred years.
Archeologists believe they know the location of the battle, not far from the historic capital of the Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju, in present day South Korea. You may not be able to stand in a spot in the forests and rolling hills and say with confidence that you stood where General Kim commanded his troops, but you can certainly see the wonders of the Silla Kingdom, from royal gardens to temples to astronomical observatories.
During the Silla Kingdom, starting with its birth in the 1st centruay BC, to its final days in the 10th century AD, the Korean Peninsula saw the development of a unique blend of Buddhism and native shamanism, which produced some of the most remarkable examples of Korean art and a rchitecture. Many of the tem ples and shrines built during this period still stand today, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail that was characteristic of the Silla Kingdom.
The Silla Kingdom was also known for its military prowess, which allowed it to expand its territories and assert its dominance over neighboring kingdoms. This was especially evident during the reign of King Jinheung, who with General Kim conquered the neighboring kingdoms of Baekje and Goguryeo, paving the way for the unification of Korea under the Silla Kingdom.
Despite the many achievements of the Silla Kingdom, its eventual downfall came with the rise of the Goryeo Dynasty, which succeeded it in the 10th century. Nevertheless, the legacy of the Silla Kingdom endures to this day, as seen in the numerous historical sites and cultural artifacts that can still be found in the region.
Many of these sites are in Gyeongju, located in the southeastern part of present-day South Korea, the capital of the Silla Kingdom from 57 BC to 935 AD. It is considered one of the most significant historical sites in Korea and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000.
At the heart of Gyeongju is the Gyeongju Historic Area, which includes numerous cultural heritage sites such as temples, palaces, royal tombs, and observatories. The most famous of these sites is the Bulguksa Temple, a masterpiece of Silla architecture that is widely regarded as one of the most important Buddhist temples in the world. The temple is home to a number of important relics, including the Seokguram Grotto, a magnificent stone temple that houses a large statue of the Buddha.
The Bulguksa Temple was constructed during the 8th century under the direction of Silla King Gyeongdeok, and was completed in 774. The temple was built in honor of the Buddha, and it remains one of the most important Buddhist temples in the country to this day.
Bulguksa Temple is a masterpiece of traditional Korean architecture, with numerous halls and pagodas spread across a large, picturesque complex that is nestled into the side of a mountain. The temple complex is divided into two main areas: the front, or "Buk," section, and the rear, or "Seo," section. The Buk section contains the temple's main entrance and several of its most important structures, including the Dabotap and Seokgatap pagodas. These structures are widely regarded as some of the finest examples of Korean Buddhist architecture in existence.
The Seo section of the temple complex is accessed by walking up a steep set of stairs that lead up the side of the mountain. Once at the top, visitors are greeted by a large open plaza that is home to several more important temple structures, including the main worship hall, the Hall of Supreme Bliss, and the Hall of Great Enlightenment.
Inside the temple's many halls and buildings, visitors find a treasure trove of ancient Buddhist art and artifacts. The temple is home to over 500 sculptures and other religious art pieces, many of which date back to the 8th and 9th centuries. These pieces are all intricately carved and painted, with rich details and vibrant colors that bring the Buddha's teachings to life.
Visitors to Bulguksa Temple will also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of traditional Buddhist practices, including meditation and chanting. The temple offers a range of programs and classes for visitors of all ages and skill levels, and its peaceful, serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and connect with the spiritual traditions of Korea's past.
Seokguram Grotto is located on Mt. Tohamsan, just a few kilometers away from Bulguksa Temple. The grotto is a manmade cave that contains a monumental statue of Buddha and is considered one of the finest examples of Buddhist art in the world.
The grotto was built in the 8th century during the Unified Silla period by Kim Daeseong, a high-ranking official and devout Buddhist. It took over 20 years to complete and is said to have been built as a symbolic representation of the Buddha's journey to enlightenment.
To reach Seokguram Grotto, visitors must walk up a steep mountain trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The hike takes about 30-40 minutes, and it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. The trail is surrounded by pine trees, and visitors can enjoy the fresh mountain air and the peaceful sound of birds singing.
Upon reaching the grotto, visitors are greeted by a stone staircase that leads up to the entrance of the cave. Inside, the main chamber is small and dimly lit, with the focal point being the statue of Buddha seated on a pedestal in the center of the room. The statue is 3.5 meters tall and is surrounded by intricate carvings of Buddhist deities and symbols.
The statue of Buddha is carved from a single block of granite and is considered a masterpiece of Korean Buddhist art. The serene expression on the Buddha's face and the intricate details of the statue's clothing and accessories are a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans who created it.
Visitors are not allowed to take photographs inside the grotto to protect the fragile artwork, but there is a small museum located nearby that offers more information about the grotto's history and construction.
In addition to the Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, there are numerous other historical sites to explore in Gyeongju. These include the Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia, and the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, which contains the royal tombs of the Silla Kings.
Cheomseongdae Observatory served as an astronomical observatory during the Silla Dynasty in Korea. It is located in Gyeongju, South Korea, and is one of the most important cultural heritage sites in the country. The observatory was built in the seventh century, during the reign of Queen Seondeok, and it is the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in East Asia.
Cheomseongdae was used to observe the movement of the stars and planets and to calculate the seasons and the lunar calendar. It was an important tool for the Silla Dynasty in terms of agriculture, astronomy, and astrology. It was also used to predict the fortunes of the kingdom and the royal family.
The structure of Cheomseongdae is a 9.4-meter-high cylindrical tower made of 362 stone blocks, which are arranged in 27 layers. The base of the observatory is a square-shaped platform, which is 5.7 meters wide. The observatory is constructed in a way that it is slightly tilted towards the north, which helped the observers to align the structure with the stars.
Visitors can explore the interior of the tower, which is divided into four levels. The first level of the tower has a square-shaped entrance, which is believed to have been used to hold various astronomical instruments. The second and third levels are empty, and visitors can climb to the top of the observatory via a narrow spiral staircase to the fourth level, where there is a small platform. From there, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
Cheomseongdae Observatory is a popular tourist attraction in Gyeongju, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. The observatory is open to the public, and visitors can explore the interior of the tower and learn about the history of astronomy and the Silla Dynasty. The obsevatory is especially popular during the night, when the structure is illuminated with colorful lights.
The observatory is also surrounded by a beautiful park, which is a great place for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery. The park features walking paths, gardens, and various sculptures, including a statue of Queen Seondeok, who ordered the construction of the observatory.
In addition to exploring the observatory and the surrounding park, visitors can also participate in various cultural activities. There are regular traditional Korean music and dance performances, as well as workshops where visitors can learn about traditional crafts such as pottery and calligraphy.
Visitors should also take time to explore A napil Pond. The pond was built during the reign of King Munmu in the 7th century. The pond was originally part of the palace complex and served as a place for the royal family to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Anapji Pond covers an area of approximately 4,413 square meters and is surround ed by beautifully landscaped gardens, pavilions, and walking paths. The pond is fed by a natural spring and is home to several species of fish and water plants. The beauty of the pond is enhanced by the reflection of the surrounding trees and buildings in its calm waters, creating a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
The pond was excavated in the early 1970s and several artifacts were found in and around the pond. These artifacts, including pottery, metalware, and jewelry, give us a glimpse into the daily life of the Silla Kingdom and provide valuable insights into their culture and customs.
Today, Anapji Pond is a popular tourist attraction and is visited by thousands of visitors each year. Visitors can stroll along the walking paths that surround the pond, taking in the beautiful scenery and enjoying the peace and quiet. There are also several pavilions and viewing platforms where visitors can sit and admire the pond from a different angle.
During the evening, the pond is illuminated by colorful lights, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. The reflection of the lights in the water enhances the beauty of the pond and creates a breathtaking view that is truly unforgettable.
In addition to the pond itself, visitors can also explore the surrounding gardens and buildings. The gardens are home to several species of plants and trees, including lotus flowers, willow trees, and bamboo.
Nearby is the National Museum of Gyeongju, located in the heart of Gyeongju city, just a short distance from the Bulguksa Temple and the Cheomseongdae Observatory. The museum is one of the largest in Korea and contains a vast collection of artifacts that showcase the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Silla Kingdom.
The museum is divided into several exhibition halls, each with its own unique focus. Visitors can start their tour with the Prehistory and Proto-history Hall, which displays artifact s from the early periods of Korean history, including the Stone Age and the Bronze Age. The hall features a wide range of exhibits, including stone tools, pottery, and ancient weapons, as well as reconstructions of prehistoric homes and settlements.
Moving on to the Silla Kingdom Hall, visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Silla Dynasty. The hall features a stunning collection of artifacts, including royal treasures, ceramics, and Buddhist art. The exhibit also includes a replica of a Silla royal tomb, complete with the intricate wall paintings that were uncovered during the excavation process.
The Buddhist Art Hall is another must-see section of the museum, with an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts from Korea and other countries in the region. Visitors can admire the intricate details of Buddhist sculptures and paintings, including some of the earliest examples of Korean Buddhist art.
The museum also has a Children's Hall, which is dedicated to educating young visitors about the rich cultural heritage of Korea in an interactive and engaging way. The hall includes exhibits on traditional games, toys, and clothing, as well as hands-on activities that allow children to experience traditional Korean culture for themselves.
One of the highlights of the museum is the Cheonmachong Tomb Hall, which houses the excavated contents of a royal tomb from the Silla Kingdom. The tomb was discovered in the 1970s and contained a treasure trove of artifacts, including gold crowns, jewelry, and pottery. Visitors can explore the tomb and see the artifacts up close, gaining a glimpse into the lives of the Silla royals.
Exploring the historic sites makes it clear that the Silla Kingdom left a lasting legacy on the Korean peninsula that can still be seen and felt today. The kingdom's unification of the Three Kingdoms period paved the way for a golden age of Korean culture and arts, marked by advancements in technology, literature, and religion.
But the Silla Kingdom's legacy goes beyond its cultural achievements. The kingdom's military prowess, exemplified by General Kim Yushin's victory at the Battle of Hwangsanbeol, esured the survival and prosperity of the kingdom for centuries to come. It also helped establish the foundations for the subsequent unification of the Korean peninsula.
Today, visitors to Gyeongju can still sense the power and grandeur of the Silla Kingdom as they explore its historic sites and cultural treasures. From the tranquil gardens to the aweinspiring temples and observatories, the legacy of the Silla Kingdom lives on, a testament to the power of human creativity and perseverance.
