Boardwalks have long been a quintessential part of American beach towns, captivating visitors with their oceanic charm and providing a leisurely promenade. From the esteemed Atlantic City Boardwalk in New Jersey to the vibrant Santa Monica Pier in California, discover the top 10 boardwalks across the United States that deserve a coveted spot on your travel bucket list.

1. Atlantic City Boardwalk, New Jersey

This iconic granddaddy of all boardwalks was established in 1870, making it the inaugural boardwalk in the United States. Stretching 4 miles along the Atlantic City beach, it offers a variety of attractions and entertainment options. Delight in amusement parks, casinos, and restaurants that grace this renowned tourist magnet. Take a stroll along the boardwalk to encounter charming shops and souvenir stands, boasting a variety of beachwear and delectable boardwalk snacks.

Historical landmarks like the Absecon Lighthouse, New Jersey’s oldest lighthouse, and the Steel Pier, an amusement park and entertainment venue, add to the boardwalk’s allure.

The Atlantic City Boardwalk caters to outdoor enthusiasts and ocean lovers, inviting them to bask on the beach, enjoy a leisurely walk, and indulge in the city’s myriad amenities. Whether it's a day trip or a weekend getaway, visitors of all ages are bound to have a fun and enjoyable experience here.

2. Ocean City Boardwalk, Maryland

This timeless boardwalk boasts an array of shops, restaurants, and amusement parks. It gained fame for its iconic Thrasher’s French Fries, served for over 80 years. Roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and mini-golf are just some of the captivating rides and attractions that grace this classic boardwalk. Delight in a variety of souvenir shops, ice cream parlors, and arcades as you traverse its length.

With year-round availability, the Ocean City Boardwalk presents live entertainment performances during the summer, including musicians, magicians, and comedians. Immerse yourself in the coastal charm as you relax on the beach, saunter along the boardwalk, and savor the delightful amenities this destination has to offer. A day trip or a weekend escape to Ocean City Boardwalk promises a memorable and pleasurable experience.

3. Santa Monica Pier, California

The Santa Monica Pier embodies a vibrant and lively atmosphere, offering an assortment of entertainment options such as an amusement park, aquarium, and arcade. Marvel at the original Muscle Beach, once frequented by Arnold Schwarzenegger and other bodybuilders in their training days.

Indulge in the pier’s assortment of restaurants and shops, including the historic 1922 carousel and the Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome, a classic American carousel. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the pier’s popularity as a fishing spot, and at its end lies the original Muscle Beach gym. Visitors can unwind on the beach, traverse the pier, and enjoy the multitude of amenities Santa Monica offers. With its diverse appeal, the Santa Monica Pier beckons as an ideal destination for day trips or weekend getaways, promising a delightful experience for all ages.

4. Coney Island Boardwalk, New York

With its rich history, the Coney Island Boardwalk is home to the iconic Cyclone roller coaster and the Wonder Wheel, operating for over 90 years. Delight in a range of culinary options, including Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs and the renowned Coney Island Circus Sideshow.

The boardwalk boasts a wide array of rides and attractions, such as the Coney Island Museum, the New York Aquarium, and Coney Island Beach. During the summer, street performers, including musicians, magicians, and comedians, entertain visitors. Offering an abundance of outdoor charm and oceanic allure, the Coney Island Boardwalk beckons beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Unwind on the beach, traverse the boardwalk, and immerse yourself in the city’s abundant offerings. A day trip or a weekend getaway to Coney Island ensures a fun and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

5. Wildwood Boardwalk, New Jersey

The Wildwood Boardwalk stretches 2 miles along Wildwood, making it one of the country’s largest boardwalks. Boasting over 100 rides and attractions, this boardwalk guarantees endless amusement.

Treat your taste buds to delectable delights like funnel cakes, cotton candy, and saltwater taffy. Multiple amusement parks, including Morey’s Piers and Water Parks, enthrall visitors with roller coasters, water rides, and a Ferris wheel. Street performers, such as musicians, magicians, and comedians, bring the boardwalk to life, particularly during the summer. Souvenir shops, ice cream parlors, and arcades abound, offering an array of indulgences. The Wildwood Boardwalk caters to outdoor enthusiasts and ocean lovers, inviting them to unwind on the beach, amble along the boardwalk, and luxuriate in the city’s diverse offerings. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend getaway, visitors will find enjoyment and fun in abundance.

6. Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Virginia

Stretching 3 miles, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers a myriad of entertainment options, including live music, street performers, and beach volleyball courts. Food enthusiasts will relish the variety of seafood and ice cream options available. The Oceanfront Boardwalk mesmerizes visitors with live music and street performers during the summer months.

Numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars dot the boardwalk, allowing for delightful ocean views while indulging in a meal or a refreshing drink. Notable attractions include the famous 34-foot-tall bronze Neptune Statue, symbolizing the city, and the First Landing Cross, commemorating the first English settlers’ arrival in the New World in 1607. Traverse the boardwalk, soak in the beach ambiance, and enjoy the wealth of amenities offered. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk serves as an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend escape, offering a pleasurable and unforgettable experience.

7. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, South Carolina

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk spans 1.2 miles and is a haven for shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can enjoy live music and street performers, particularly during the summer. Family Kingdom Amusement Park, with its assortment of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and a water park, guarantees endless excitement. Souvenir shops, ice cream parlors, and arcades enhance the boardwalk experience. Embrace the coastal allure and immerse yourself in the Myrtle Beach ambiance. Relax on the beach, traverse the boardwalk, and savor the city’s many offerings. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend getaway, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk guarantees a delightful and enjoyable time.

8. Navy Pier, Chicago, Illinois

Nestled along the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago, the Navy Pier extends 3,300 feet and stands as one of the Midwest’s most visited tourist attractions, captivating over 9 million visitors annually. Originally established in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, it underwent a redesign in the 1990s, transforming into a cultural and entertainment destination.

The pier boasts an amusement park featuring a 150-foot Ferris wheel, an IMAX theater, and an array of boat tours on Lake Michigan. Abundant shops and restaurants offer a diverse selection of souvenirs, food, and beverages. Museums and cultural institutions, including the Chicago Children’s Museum and the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows, add to the pier’s allure. The Chicago Shakespeare Theater, situated on the pier, hosts captivating performances.

Throughout the year, the Navy Pier hosts various events, such as the Chicago Flower and Garden Show, the Chicago Wine Festival, and the Chicago Air and Water Show. Beyond the entertainment options, the Navy Pier affords breathtaking views of the city skyline, Lake Michigan, and the surrounding area. A leisurely stroll along the pier allows visitors to savor the sights and sounds of the lake while enjoying the pier’s numerous amenities. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend retreat, the Navy Pier promises a memorable experience for all visitors.

9. Hampton Beach Boardwalk, New Hampshire

The historic Hampton Beach Boardwalk offers a diverse range of entertainment options, including live music and street performers. Seafood aficionados will delight in the variety of options available, alongside scrumptious ice cream. This half-mile boardwalk meanders along the beach, providing a picturesque pathway with breathtaking ocean views.

The Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, a popular attraction, hosts an array of live performances and events throughout the year, encompassing concerts, comedy shows, and dance performances. Additionally, the boardwalk is home to the Hampton Beach State Park, which offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. Immerse yourself in the Hampton Beach ambiance, enjoy a leisurely walk along the boardwalk, and experience the city’s attractions.

The Hampton Beach Boardwalk serves as an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

10. Venice Beach Boardwalk, California

The renowned Venice Beach Boardwalk enthralls visitors with its vibrant street performers, including musicians, artists, and acrobats, who captivate audiences along the boardwalk. A diverse selection of seafood and ice cream options tantalize the taste buds. Numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars grace the boardwalk, allowing visitors to relish a meal or a refreshing drink while reveling in ocean views.

The Venice Beach Boardwalk showcases an array of shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and other beach-related items. The famous Muscle Beach Gym, frequented by Arnold Schwarzenegger and other bodybuilders, adds to the boardwalk’s allure.

Delight in the coastal splendor, unwind on the beach, stroll along the boardwalk, and indulge in the city’s abundant offerings. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend escape, the Venice Beach Boardwalk ensures a memorable experience for all.

Summary

No matter which boardwalk you choose to explore, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy strolling along the ocean, soaking in the sights, and savoring the many entertainment and culinary delights these iconic American destinations offer. Whether you seek a touch of history or a bustling atmosphere, these top 10 boardwalks in the United States cater to every preference.