Long Branch


 One of the biggest cities along the Jersey Shore is Long Branch. In the 1860’s it was one of the most popular resort towns in the country and remained that way up until the first World War. Most of the tourism in this town mainly came from Philadelphia and New York. Many famous people throughout history have been known to visit this town because of its breathtaking views and promises of relaxation.
In 1861 the town was honored by Mrs. Lincoln and in 1869 President Grant visited for the first time. President Grant became a faithful visitor and came to stay at Long Branch every summer during his Presidency and many summers afterwards.

Other Presidents that graced Long Branch with their presents includes President Woodrow Wilson and President James Garfield. President Garfield was known to visit rather frequently and after an assassination attempt on his life, he was brought to Long Beach in hopes of recovery. Unfortunately, as we all know that didn’t happen and he passed away in this town. Long Branch’s popularity as a resort town lasted until the early 1920’s, until the laws that forbid gambling stopped the stream on incoming money.

Long Branch has many area attractions such as the St. James Episcopal Church that still remains. Once a church where seven presidents worshipped, it is now a museum that is ran by the Long Branch Historical Society and is now called the Church of the Presidents. While site-seeing, you might also want to check out the Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park. This country park sits on 33-acres where you can enjoy outdoor activities such as, swimming, boating and picnicking. They also have several restaurants throughout the park and once the sun goes down you can enjoy a night on the town and meet other people.

If you choose to come to this seaside paradise and are looking for nightly accommodations, you will have plenty to choose from. The Cedars and Beeches Bed & Breakfast is located in the suburbs of Long Branch and is one quarter mile from the beach. This Victorian-style mansion offers complimentary high-speed Internet and a complimentary breakfast each morning.

Restaurants in the area include places like the Ocean View Restaurant that has a breathtaking coastline view while dining. Another place to consider is Rooney’s Ocean Crab House where they boast to have “A View for the Soul.” This restaurant & bar lounge offers a large outdoor deck where you can enjoy your meal during the spring and summer months.
Vacation rentals and local real estate information can be found at several local real estate agencies like Beale Howard Real Estate Agency in Long Branch NJ. They have several vacation homes available for sale or rent along the beach and in the suburbs of this town.

Directions from the south: Take I-95 east (it will turn into NJ-138 east). From there you will take the Garden State Parkway North exit. Merge onto Garden State PKWYN. Then merge onto NJ-36 east via Exit 105 towards Long Branch. You will then turn Right onto Broadway / CR-537 and continue to follow Broadway until you see the turn for Morris Ave where you will make a right. Follow it until you see the turn off for Hillside Ave then make a left.