Things To Do
Sandy Hook Lighthouse & Fort Hancock
The Sandy Hook Lighthouse is the oldest working lighthouse in the United States! It was designed and built on June 11, 1764 by Isaac Conro. Fort Hancock is a former United States Army fort located within the Sandy Hook National Park. The coastal artillery base defended the Atlantic coast and the entrance to New York Harbor, with its first gun batteries operational in 1896. It was operational until 1974. Many of the defensive structures still stand today.
Twin Lights State Historic Site
The Twin Lights are prominent in American maritime history as the first lighthouse to use the Fresnel lens. In 1841, two of these revolutionary lighthouse lenses were installed: a "first-order" fixed light in the South Tower and a "second-order" revolving light in the North Tower. The Twin Lights is a steep drive to a panoramic view of the New York City skyline and the Jersey Shore. When the museum is open, exhibits feature the many scientific “firsts” witnessed here. The towers may even be open to climb!
Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook & 9/11 Memorial
At 266 feet, this overlook in Atlantic Highlands sits on the highest natural elevation on the Atlantic seaboard (excluding islands) from Maine to the Yucatan providing beautiful views of Sandy Hook, Sandy Hook Bay, Raritan Bay, and the New York City skyline. This 12-acre site is also home to Monmouth County's 9/11 Memorial.
Seastreak Ferry to NYC
Want to take a day trip to New York City? Avoid the traffic and catch the Ferry from either Highlands or Atlantic Highlands, NJ for a 40-minute ride across the bay! The ferry stops at Pier 11 and East 35th St. in NYC. Seastreak boats were designed with your comfort and safety in mind. Each vessel is well equipped with the comforts of home but with a MUCH better view. They have plenty of seating spanning across multiple decks. You can enjoy the view from the outside decks, or sit comfortably inside in the air-conditioned cabin. Onboard you’ll find amenities like: plush seating, satellite T.V., a well-equipped bar, and lots of legroom. All of our boats are equipped with the right technology to make for a smooth ride to your destination. So, grab a drink, sit back, and relax in all of the comforts Seastreak has to offer!
Sea Bright Public Beach
Bring your beach chair, towel, and umbrella to relax and unwind. The Borough of Sea Bright has seven free public beach access ways on Ocean Avenue which are identified by signage. The wedding will be after Labor Day so no fees or passes are needed. Permitted: Fishing, surfing, swimming, and volleyball Prohibited: Alcohol, drive-on cars, smoking, and camping Click the link to see current conditions and real-time webcam
Pier Village
Pier Village is a vibrant oceanfront mixed-use community beautifully nestled along the sandy beach and boardwalk in Long Branch, NJ. This year-round oceanfront destination features an eclectic array of unique shops, retail, dining, live public events, and fun activities.
Downtown Red Bank
Nestled in a cozy nook just minutes away from the beautiful Jersey beaches is a place that Smithsonian Magazine named the 3rd best small town in America. Each day the sidewalks come alive and offer an experience that is as unique as their town itself. Frequently called the SoHo of New Jersey, Red Bank has some of the most sought-after and diverse retail, entertainment, and dining options on the East Coast and so much more. Downtown Red Bank offers entertainment, shopping, and special events all year long.
Count Basie Center for the Arts
The Count Basie Center for the Arts, originally Count Basie Theatre, is a landmarked performing arts center in Red Bank, New Jersey. The building first opened in 1926 as the Carlton Theater and later, in 1973, became known as the Monmouth Arts Center. Click the link for upcoming events & shows
Red Bank Train Station
Catch the "North Jersey Coast Line" north to Madison Square Garden, NYC, or south down through Asbury Park, and end at Point Pleasant Beach, NJ. Red Bank sits about midway through the trip. It's the perfect way to relax on a day trip and avoid traffic!
Monmouth Park Racetrack
Monmouth Park Racetrack is an American race track for thoroughbred horse racing. While the seasonal racetrack is the main draw, the Monmouth Park grounds also contain live music, tours, mini golf, dining, and more!