By Delaney Crawford
There’s a fresh energy in the air, and it’s not just the change in season. As spring settles in, our local towns are blooming — not just with flowers and warm breezes, but with new businesses, creative ventures, and exciting events that are adding even more life to the community. From fresh faces on the boardwalks to unique experiences popping up downtown, now’s the perfect time to rediscover the charm of our coastal towns — and find out what’s making waves this season.
The boardwalks of South Jersey aren’t just walking paths, but the heartbeat of our area. For generations, they’ve drawn crowds and are now some of the biggest tourist attractions in the region. Because of that, keeping the boardwalks fresh, fun, and evolving is essential, not only to preserve the beauty, but to ensure people keep coming back year after year.
What’s new in Ocean City
As of April 2025, Ocean City is buzzing with new developments and upcoming attractions that prove our beloved family resort town is always looking to improve and inspire return visits.
Playland’s Castaway Cove Arcade: After the devastating fire in 2021, locals and visitors alike have missed the fun and nostalgia of Playland’s arcade. The wait is nearly over as crews have been working diligently to rebuild, and the brand-new arcade is set to open this spring, bringing excitement and memories back to the Boardwalk just in time for summer.
ICONA at Wonderland: Big plans are in motion for ICONA to take over the site of the former Wonderland Pier. The proposed 252-room luxury resort hotel is still in the early proposal phase, but anticipation is high.
Spring Cruisin’ The Boards: On May 10, OC is revving up for spring with the debut of a brand-new car show rolling onto the iconic boardwalk. This first-ever event will showcase vehicles from 1990 and newer, offering a fresh take for modern auto enthusiasts. Whether you’re showing off your ride or just there to admire sleek lines and polished chrome, it’s a day of horsepower, style, and ocean views. With the boardwalk as its backdrop, this event promises a unique experience for car lovers and beachgoers alike.
Off-the-Boardwalk Buzz
Beyond the boards, Ocean City has welcomed a wave of exciting new businesses to town in recent years. Keep an eye out for: Ashore Fit, Ocean City Pickle Company,Agape Gourmet, Old School Burgers, SoulBerri, PJ Buckets,Green Eggs Café, Pete’s Mercantile,The Shoppes at AsburyandLisa’s Sweet Treats.
Each one brings a new flavor, vibe, or experience, perfect for locals and visitors looking for something fresh.
Atlantic City steps up its game
Just a short ride away, Atlantic City is also investing in major improvements and exciting new attractions to breathe even more life into its iconic Boardwalk.
Boardwalk repair project: In March 2024, Mayor Marty Small Sr. announced a $26 million initiative to enhance and restore Atlantic City’s Boardwalk. Thanks to a $20 million grant from New Jersey’s Boardwalk Preservation Fund, the project will focus on critical repairs between New Jersey and Tennessee Avenues, ensuring the Boardwalk stays safe and scenic for years to come.
Buddy’s Boardwalk Empire at Harrah’s: Foodies rejoice, for celebrity chef Buddy Valastro opened Buddy’s Boardwalk Empire at Harrah’s Resort in early summer 2024. This new dining destination offers Jersey-style sandwiches, pizzas, a pasta station, and of course, the iconic desserts from Carlo’s Bake Shop.
The Top Hat Boutique Hotel: Construction is underway on The Top Hat, a Monopoly-inspired boutique hotel set in the Orange Loop district. With retail shops below and stylish vacation units above, this playful nod to AC’s Monopoly roots is expected to bring charm, character, and a new kind of overnight experience to the area.
The Atlantic City Aquarium returns: One of the city’s most beloved attractions is officially back! After a five-year closure, the Atlantic City Aquarium has reopened its doors. With fresh exhibits and family-friendly features, it’s a welcome return that locals and tourists alike are eager to dive into.
With so many exciting developments happening up and down the coast, there’s never been a better time to explore, support, and celebrate our shore towns. Whether you’re catching live music in Ocean City or trying a new dish in AC, this season is all about discovery, and it’s only just getting started. So, head over soon to catch the new sights, sounds and same old magic that the boardwalks bring each and every season!
Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. After earning a BA in Communications, Delaney built a successful career in the newspaper industry, honing skills in, news writing, media, and content creation. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DC’s Social Media & Content Creation, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.
