Eat, Stay, Drink: A Weekend In Asbury Park, New Jersey

You may know Asbury Park as the home of the legendary Bruce Springsteen (or at least recognize the infamous album cover). Maybe Jon Bon Jovi or Patti Smith is the rock star you associate with the beach town. Either way, this small town has a rich musical history and continues to add more to the list of reasons to visit.

Eat, Stay, Drink: A Weekend in Asbury Park, New Jersey (Slideshow)

Don't be afraid of the term "Jersey Shore." Forget the associations with hair gel, tanning oils, and bodycon. Think cute, vintage boardwalk with shops and beachfront snacks. The Asbury Park boardwalk offers bites like the iconic Ralph's Italian ice, lemonade, crêpes, and more. There are also a number of full-service restaurants on the boardwalk with beach-facing patios and plenty of cocktails. 

A few steps from the boardwalk is the iconic Stone Pony, The Boss' former stomping ground, and where the E Street Band used to frequently play. The venue still has live music nightly. Explore the area and you'll find more great restaurants throughout the cozy beach community.

The Beach

I know what you're thinking. "I want to go to there."

Stay: The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel

The recently renovated hotel, designed by Beaux Arts architect Warren Whitney of New York, sits just steps from the Asbury Park boardwalk. Booking an ocean-view room is totally worth it.

Click here for more tips on what to eat and drink in Asbury Park, New Jersey.

Jane Bruce is the Photo Editor at The Daily Meal. Follow her on Twitter @janeebruce.