Best Boardwalks in America ?

The United States boasts some of the best boardwalks in the world. Whether you and your family are visiting the East Coast or West Coast of the United States, our team at DrivetheNation.com has compiled a few of our favorite boardwalks across the nation:

Atlantic City Boardwalk – Atlantic City, New Jersey

Known for its beaches and famous parties, the 4.6-mile Atlantic City boardwalk in New Jersey has been an American landmark since its construction in 1870. One side of the boardwalk features picturesque views of the ocean, while the other provides visitors with endless shopping and entertainment. From high-end retail stores to tourist gift shops, the boardwalk offers all within walking distance. If shopping isn’t your forté, why not try some open-water fun? The boardwalk features surfing, kayaking, windsurfing and fishing adventures for visitors and locals alike.

(DTN Tip: Bring your camera for some stellar photo opportunities! One such photo op includes Lucy the Margate Elephant, A National Historic Landmark in New Jersey located on the beach at Margate. The elephantine structure stands 65-feet high and weighs 90 tons!)

Venice Beach Boardwalk  –  Venice Beach, California

Stretching almost three miles alongside the manicured sands of the Pacific Ocean, the Venice Beach Boardwalk is a historic landmark and an absolute must-see attraction for visitors. Without a doubt, the Ocean Front Walk is one of the best places for people watching! While strolling along the boardwalk, visitors will see an eclectic group of people, ranging from sand sculptors to bodybuilders. The East Side of the boardwalk features souvenir shops and restaurants, while street performers wow tourists with their unique talents on the West Side.

(DTN Tip: Bring cash, as many of the performers will expect tips. Some of the “must see” performers include the man who walks on glass, the chainsaw juggler, and the man who paints himself gold from head to toe. If you’re lucky, you just might be able to catch a performance from the local escape artist!

 

The Coney Island Boardwalk  – Brooklyn, New York

A trip to Brooklyn wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this American icon. Boasting three miles of sandy beaches, Coney Island is a perfect getaway near the city that never sleeps. The amusement area features more than 50 rides and attractions, all open to the public between Easter and Halloween. Lifeguards are present from Memorial Day until Labor Day, and Nathan’s Hot Dogs and the New York Aquarium are open almost every day of the year.

(DTN Tip: Portions of the boardwalk are currently closed due to reconstruction in the areas surrounding Brighton 2^nd Street and West 33^rd Street. The final project is expected to be completed in the Spring of 2016. Upon completion, visitors will be able to enjoy ADA compliant ramps to the boardwalk, sitting areas, and improved lighting.)

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk  –  Santa Cruz, California

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is an oceanfront amusement park in Santa Cruz, California. Founded in 1907, it is California’s oldest surviving amusement park and one of the few seaside parks on the West Coast of the United States. Since its early beginnings, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is known for its wooden Giant Dipper roller coaster and has been referred to fondly as the “West Coast answer to Coney Island.” Boardwalk rides are open for full operation from Memorial Day (late May) through Labor Day (early September) plus most weekends and holidays throughout the year. Visit BeachBoardwalk.com for more information and FAQs.

(DTN Tip: From June 19 through September 4, visitors can enjoy FREE Friday night concerts. With two free shows each Friday, “Friday Night Bands on the Beach” is a must-experience activity this summer!)

 

Have you visited any of these boardwalks? We can’t wait to hear about your favorite experiences. Share your stories with us in the comment section below or connect with us on social media!