Shore Thing: A Summer Bucket List, Part 2
We always keep our promises. Hence, here is the list of our favorite Jersey Shore things to do, part 2. Whether you’re looking for a great beach, good eats or just fun, there’s something for everyone. Are your favorites on the list?
Pizza. Who’s got the Shore’s best? We could argue for years. But surely two contenders are Fratelli’s in Middletown and Sam’s Pizza Palace in Wildwood, an open-air seaside joint.
Popcorn Park. This isn’t your ordinary zoo. Of today’s 200-plus residents, somewere abandoned by traditional zoos, others were illegally owned or could no longer survive in their natural habitat. The seven acres in Forked River earned their name because you can feed popcorn to any of the animals. Every creature was rescued from danger or exploitation; your entrance fee benefits the Associated Humane Societies of New Jersey.
Shut Up and Eat! Don’t let the name of this breakfast place scare you away; it’s lots of fun. Waitresses dress in pajamas, and there are toys for your kids to play with. You get a discount if you wear your PJs in the door.
Silverball Pinball Museum. You needn’t be a pinball wizard to love this classic Asbury Park attraction, one of just three of its kind worldwide. Vintage pinball games date back to the ’50s, and there’s a real arcade with more than 180 pinball and other machines to challenge you.
Take a taffy tour. For decades taffy has been a local specialty. At the James Candy Co., a fixture on the Atlantic City boardwalk, you can tour the factory. And at Shriver’s in Ocean City, watch taffy being made through a floor-to-ceiling glass window.
Willow Creek Winery. Wineries at the Shore? Sure. This establishment on Cape May Island has regular wine tastings and tours. Surrounded by the ocean and bay, the 50-acre vineyard enjoys a unique microclimate for growing wine grapes—and there’s a light tapas menu.
Windmill Hot Dog Stand. This Long Branch landmark is a Dutch-style windmill; its old-fashioned countertop will evoke memories. Try the cheese dogs!