We’re throwing it back to some of New Jersey’s beach towns in the early to mid-1950s thanks to the Library of Congress! While you may no longer be able to take a hot sea water bath in the Wildwood Historic District or listen to Chubby Checker twist at the Surf Club, one thing remains the same: endless fun in the sun. Scroll on for a peek into the past and discover some of New Jersey’s famous coastal destinations.  

Cape May

Cape May’s Historic District was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976 and showcases late Victorian area architecture. Many of the buildings incorporate improvised elements from various architectural styles such as Gothic, Queen Anne, Italianate, and Greek Revival. These stylistic elements are thought to have been designed by local carpenters. In addition to being famous for its architecture, Cape May is also known as the oldest seaside resort in the country that has been welcoming vacationers to Cape May since the mid-eighteenth century.  

Stay, tour, or dine in one of the historic buildings contributing to the Cape May Historic District. Don’t forget to take your camera as you stroll through the town to capture the beautifully preserved buildings.

 Congress Hall, Courtesy of the Library of Congress

 Star Villa, Courtesy of the Library of Congress

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is one of the Jersey Shore’s most famous cities with the world’s first and longest boardwalk, with the creation of saltwater taffy, and, of course, at one point, being the most popular casino town in the country. Atlantic City has experienced many evolutions since its original founding in 1854, first serving as a summer retreat for tourists from New York and Philadelphia upon completion of the Camden-Atlantic rail line that connected the town to both major cities. In the 1920s, Atlantic City hit its first heyday as a home to theatrical productions from Broadway and then became an infamous nightlife destination in the 1930s and 1940s. Today, Atlantic City has reemerged as a combination of family-friendly activities and popular casino resorts.  

 Atlantic City Boardwalk, Library of Congress

 Atlantic City Casino, Library of Congress

Wildwood

The Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District is known today for its Doo-wop inspired architectural style from the 1950s and 1960s. Known as Little Las Vegas, Wildwood accommodated visitors with over 300 motels, a dynamic seaside boardwalk, amusement piers, and nightclubs that became a proving ground for the period's biggest music stars. The island resort's Doo-wop architecture reflected the spirit of the people: brash, bold, and boastful. Today, there are about 50 motels in the historic district featuring its own fantasy theme, vivid color palette, and kitschy ornamentation.  

 Ebb Tide Motel, first Doo-wop motel in Wildwood Crest, Library of Congress

 Casino and Boardwalk, Courtesy of the Library of Congress

For a complete list of New Jersey’s quintessential beach towns and activities spanning 130 miles, please visit: https://visitnj.org/nj/beaches.