Thinking of the Shore? You're Thinking of Jenkinson's

When one thinks of Point Pleasant Beach, one automatically thinks of Jenkinson’s  and .

The seaside attraction has been a constant at the Jersey Shore since it opened in 1928. Things have changed over the years, including the addition of miniature golf courses in the '60s and the arrival of the aquarium in 1991. But one thing has stayed the same—the combination of rides, games, food and family fun.

Marilou Halvorsen, public relations associate for the Jenkinson’s organization, sums up the experience: “Jenkinson's has something to offer the whole family.  We have a state-of-the-art aquarium, the amusement park, three mini-golf courses, funhouse, arcades, restaurants, shopping, games of chance, etc. Our free entertainment is good for the whole family.”

The park is known for its amusement attractions, so prepare yourself for rides like  mini-roller coaster The Tornado and the larger Flitzer, featuring a longer length of track and much steeper dives. The classic carousel, the Tilt-A-Whirl and bumper cars are classic waterfront rides and are all represented, and the rising, spinning Wave Swinger lifts riders up into the sky (perfect for an aerial view of the park) and around in a circle.

There are many more rides and games to go, but not on an empty stomach, so Jenkinson’s also offers a wide variety of snacks and foods. It’s an all-in-one kind of trip, which is why we've selected it for this installment of Day Tripper, a weekly look at destinations that are out of town, but in reach, and worth the trip.

DAY TRIPPER DIGEST

Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour, 20 minutes.

Why it’s Worth the Trip: Jenkinson’s is a New Jersey institution and now is a great time to head out and beat the rush.

How to Get There from Here: Detailed driving directions. Halvorsen reminds all potential visitors: “Parking, as with every shore town, is tight, so come early.”

You’ll Probably Get Hungry:  The boardwalk has many snack options including Inlet Ice Cream, Dippin’ Dots, and . For more substantial food, there’s the Pavilion Restaurant and the Boardwalk Bar and Grill. If you’re looking to step away from the crowd for a little while, head into town for a little while and stop by Surf Taco, Jersey Mike’s Sub Sandwiches, or Luigi’s Pizza.

While you’re in the Area:  How about a fishing trip, or perhaps a shot at parasailing? If you’re into antiques, Point Pleasant has several ideal shops in town as well as storefronts offering souvenirs of every kind.

Halvorsen said the boardwalk is next to a fantastic beachfront setting. “Because we have some much to offer, it is the perfect day-trip destination.  Families should be prepared to spend a whole day and evening here.  We have bathhouses with hot showers, so after a day on the beach, you can shower and be ready to spend the evening enjoying the boardwalk.”

 “This year we will have free family entertainment daily events,” Halvorsen continued. Among them, visitors will find events held by Radio Disney, arts and crafts workshops for kids, hermit crab races on Wednesdays, fireworks on Thursday nights, movies on the beach each Friday night, and the Big Joe Talent Show on Sundays hosted by New Jersey FM 101.5’s Big Joe Henry.

The most unique attraction on the boardwalk is the aquarium, now in its 20th year. The facility is home to penguins and seals that easily meet the cuteness requirement, and more fierce animals such as sharks and alligators.

For adults looking for night life and a getaway, there’s Jenk's, the dance club featuring area DJs turning up the music and getting the crowd going, starting at 9 p.m.