There’s something timeless about a stroll down Asbury Avenue in Ocean City. Maybe it’s the salt air drifting in from the ocean just a few blocks away, or the cheerful rhythm of shoppers ducking in and out of boutiques with sun-kissed shoulders and iced coffees in hand. Whatever the reason, it’s a local treasure that’s finally getting national recognition.
Asbury Avenue has been named one of 20 finalists in USA TODAY’s search for the Top 10 Main Streets in the United States, standing as the only New Jersey nominee in the running for the national winner. The honor puts a spotlight on the heart of the island’s downtown district, which continues to thrive as both a tourist destination and a year-round community hub.
According to USA TODAY’s panel of judges, which selected a list of top nominees, Asbury Avenue’s appeal lies in both its location and its lively character. Conveniently situated between the beach and the bay, the shopping corridor stretches from Sixth to 14th streets and features dozens of specialty stores, boutiques and cafés.
For locals, the nomination comes as no surprise. Downtown Ocean City has long been a cornerstone of the community, hosting events like the Ocean City Block Party, Earlier Than the Bird and the Doo Dah Parade. Community staples like 7th Street Surf Shop, Stainton’s, B&B, Ocean City Coffee Company and Hooked On Breakfast draw locals and tourists alike.
Ocean City faces stiff competition from 19 other main streets across the country, including destinations in Pennsylvania, Texas, Colorado and even Alaska. But Asbury Avenue has something special that sets it apart: a blend of nostalgia and vibrancy that feels increasingly rare.
The towns competing for the USA Today accolade include Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; Amarillo, Texas; DeLand, Florida; Denver, Colorado; Emporia, Kansas; Grand Junction, Colorado; Grapevine, Texas; Greenville, South Carolina; Howell, Michigan; McMinnville, Oregon; Ogden, Utah; Paso Robles, California; Safety Harbor, Florida; Salem, Massachusetts; Talkeetna, Alaska; Virginia City, Nevada; Waynesville, North Carolina; Winchester, Virginia; and Woodstock, Vermont.
The final result is being made with reader input; a public voting period closed on April 6. The top 10 as determined by public vote will be announced April 15.
So, why should America’s Greatest Family Resort take home the top spot? Here are a few reasons:
Farm market at the Ocean City Tabernacle
Our main street begins at a unique and historic locale: the Ocean City Tabernacle. The space hosts multiple events including concerts and speakers throughout the year, but in the summer, the lawn comes alive with vendors for the weekly farm market.
Charming architecture
City Hall, Crown Bank, the Chatterbox and the Ninth Street gazebo plaza are hallmarks of Asbury Avenue. This is more than just a shopping district; it’s a living museum.
Holiday spectaculars
How could we forget the horse-drawn carriages at Christmas along the Avenue? Every holiday — from Easter to Halloween to Christmas — brings seasonal festivities like parades, festivals and entertainment.
Weekly family fun
On Tuesdays and Thursdays in the summer, the Avenue comes alive with pony rides, face painting, princesses and characters and balloon animals. Your little ones will grin from ear to ear.
Iconic boutiques and restaurants
The main draw of Asbury Avenue is its storefronts. Check out Kaye’s Doll Shoppe, Bowfish Kids, Yianni’s, Playa Bowls, Hoy’s 5&10, and Seagrass Boutique.
You can check the competition yourself at
https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-main-street/#
Featured photo by Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce
Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.
