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This Small Beach Town Was Just Named the Best in the U.S.—and It's Only 90 Minutes From NYC
This Small Beach Town Was Just Named the Best in the U.S.—and It's Only 90 Minutes From NYC

Travel + Leisure

time6 days ago

  • Entertainment
  • Travel + Leisure

This Small Beach Town Was Just Named the Best in the U.S.—and It's Only 90 Minutes From NYC

The annual, two-day music, surf, art festival held each September. The Sunday night Boardwalk Boogie with DJ Foggy Notion at Low Dive. Low Dive, but specifically Sunday nights for Boardwalk Boogie with DJ Drinks at Harry's, the new bar at the St. Laurent Social Club helmed by cocktail maestro Ricardo Rodriguez, formerly of Miami's Broken Shaker. The striking beaux arts Carousel Building on the boardwalk now houses many of the Wooden Walls Project works. The loft suites at the Asbury Ocean Club have 11-foot ceilings and landscaped dune grass terraces or ocean-view balconies. I grew up on the Jersey Shore, about 10 miles south (or four parkway exits) from Asbury Park. During my youth, in the '80s and '90s, it was still mostly known as the stomping grounds of Bruce Springsteen, whose 1973 album, "Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J.," put the town on the global music map. Celebrated rock photographer and New Jersey native Danny Clinch photographed Springsteen and many other notable musicians on the then deserted Asbury Park boardwalk. 'Back then bands wanted a gritty album cover with some vibe but they didn't want a city record,' he says. 'Asbury is a block from the beach and you can't get more vibey. We'd say it was the type of town where you wouldn't stop at a red light, you just slow down.' The town's rebellious spirit and dreamy beach backdrop attracted a who's who in music, from Duke Ellington in the 1920s to Led Zeppelin, who skipped Woodstock in 1969 to play the Asbury Park Convention Hall. For years, only die-hard music fans made the trip to Asbury Park in hopes of scoring tickets to shows at legendary venues like the Stone Pony and now-shuttered Saint. A string of setbacks, including economic dips, race riots, and Superstorm Sandy, made it feel like music was the shore town's only future. But in the early aughts, the LGBTQ+ community invested heavily in the town, restoring its Victorian colonial homes. 'Their investments in real estate and business start ups helped fuel the rebirth which we see exploding today,' says Deb Masco, an employee at the Asbury Ocean Club hotel. The historic boardwalk has been completely reimagined and rivals the coolest street in Brooklyn. 'The diversity is incredible,' says Clinch. 'You can walk down the boardwalk and see gay, straight, black, white, tattooed, conservative, you name it, types of people,' he says. The diverse community has fostered creativity that extends beyond music, to the arts, food, and design scenes. 'There's a raw, creative energy that's hard to describe unless you've spent time here,' says Shauna Lagala, complex hotel manager at the Asbury Collection. 'It's weird in the best way—a mix of old-school Jersey, artists, punks, surfers, and people who just don't want to live anywhere typical. It's the kind of town where you can grab a cold brew at a café run by someone in a band, then walk five minutes and end up in a tattoo shop or an art gallery.' With Netflix establishing a major production hub nearby, Asbury's popularity and entertainment cred is only likely to rise. I know I still find myself flying back each fall to attend Clinch's Festival, a gathering of top musicians who also have connections to surf culture and art. The 2025 festival sold out months in advance, so plan ahead. The exterior of the iconic Stone Pony. Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure Asbury Park delivers both big city culture and small beach town charm. In recent years, the revitalized Shore town has seen a surge of boutique accommodations, indie shops, art galleries, and fantastic restaurants debut along the boardwalk and downtown. Some of the biggest names in music and surf descended here for the annual festival, held each September, and it's not uncommon to have an award-winning musician perform an impromptu jam session in one of the town's iconic music venues or even a local watering hole. Panoramic ocean views from the pool deck, and a common space at the Asbury Ocean Club Hotel. Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure Locals credit the 2016 opening of the Asbury Hotel with kicking off the shore town's recent wave of tourism. Co-owner David Bowd, of SALT Hotels, masterminded the transformation of a 1950s red brick Salvation Army building located a block and a half from the beach into a retro cool space that draws just as many locals as visitors with its calendar of live music performances in the lobby, rooftop movie nights, and seasonal pool parties. The 100 rooms range from standard doubles to suites and group-friendly bunks for up to eight. The Asbury's sleek 54-key sister hotel opened in 2019 and wouldn't feel out of place in South Beach with its rooftop pool and wellness offerings including a spa, gym, and meditation terrace. The vibe is quiet luxury and a bit dressed up. 'It's the kind of place you go when you want to feel a little bougie, but still be in Asbury,' says Lagala. In 2002, the adults-only St. Laurent Social Club infused new life into a hotel that dated to the 1880s. Each of the 20 minimalist-modern rooms is decorated with a custom surfboard by local artist Lana Macchiaverna and comes with complimentary beach passes and access to the backyard pool. Judy, the hotel's new restaurant from Top Chef alum David Viana, serves Italian dishes with a Jewish twist. Beachgoer enjoying the day at the Asbury Park Beach. Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure 'It's hard to beat our beaches,' says Clinch. 'I'd put them up against any in the country.' The combination of boardwalk patio bars and dining venues, lifeguarded waves, and wide swaths of sand make the mile-long Asbury Park Beach one of the most popular on the Shore during the summer. Arrive early to stake out a spot and remember you need to buy a beach badge (from $7 to $10) between Memorial and Labor Day. Home to the country's oldest saltwater fishing club, Asbury is a mecca for anglers. 'I caught a 500 pound tuna off the beach here,' says Clinch. Throughout summer, the area between the jetties on Deal Lake Drive and Eighth Avenue is designated for surfing. Sign up for a lesson with Summertime Surf. 'Fall is best for great waves,' says Scott Szegeski, a local artist and surfer. 'The crowds thin and the entire beach is open for surfing.' The boardwalk has been luring vacationers since the 19th century. Travel back in time playing old-school pinball, '80s video games, Skee Ball, and more at the Silverball Retro Arcade, then get your fortune read at Madame Marie's Temple of Knowledge. The tiny blue booth has been in business since 1932 and is now run by Marie's granddaughter. Amusement rides have long disappeared, but that's part of the appeal, according to Viana. 'Most Shore boardwalks feel kid- and family-focused, but the lack of rides draws an older crowd and there are great options for dining and shopping,' he says. Don't miss new oceanfront venues like AP Rooftop, Mutiny Beach, and Palmetto Southern Kitchen + Bar from Jersey native and Hell's Kitchen star James Avery. Music pulses through Asbury Park. You can catch a live show nearly anywhere, from the local bookstore to the beach. Music fans make pilgrimages to the Stone Pony, the legendary venue that launched the careers of Bruce Springsteen and Southside Johnny. 'The Stone Pony opens its backyard right off the beach for Summer Stage and they get great acts, like the Head and the Heart,' says Bob McLynn, co-founder of Asbury Park Brewery and Crush Management, which represents bands like Green Day. Wonder Bar and the revamped Asbury Lanes, a bowling alley and music venue, are other classics that bring in big acts. Murals along the walls of the historic Asbury Park Carousel. Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure Asbury Park's art scene has become as dynamic as its music culture. 'When the city was just coming up Jenn [Hampton] raised money to fund artists to paint over dilapidated warehouses around town that just looked crappy,' recalls Clinch. Her efforts led to the Wooden Walls Project, a public art nonprofit responsible for the collection of permanent murals—many by internationally recognized artists—decorating the once empty walls along the boardwalk. Cookman Avenue has become home to town's top galleries, including Hampton's Parlor Gallery, which showcases work from emerging and established talents, along with Art629 and Whitepoint. Hand blown glass beach decorations from Hot Sand. Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure When the town's beloved indie bookstore, Words!, was on the brink of closure in 2020, the local community created a cooperative to keep the business alive. The nonprofit is run by about 50 volunteers and hosts free concerts, author events, and a queer book club. 'There is a real sense of community there,' says Lagala. 'It's one of those places where you end up making friends just browsing.' Co-founder Phil Browne is locally known as the 'Surfboard Man.' His shop stocks 20 to 30 handmade boards, along with wetsuits and responsibly sourced, coastal-inspired apparel and accessories. Glide Surf Co. is the only spot on the East Coast that carries boards made by acclaimed shaper Ryan Lovelace. Mike Pimco, former frontman of punk pop band Kid with Man Head and co-founder of Asbury Park Brewery, runs this clothing and accessories boutique at the south end of the boardwalk. The store frequently hosts DJ performances and fashion shows. Grammy-nominated photographer Danny Clinch displays and sells his prints of rock n' roll icons including the Boss (aka Bruce Springsteen), Eddie Vedder, and Debbie Harry at this gallery space that frequently doubles as a music venue. The tomato carpaccio, caviar cake, summertide refresher, tutu, and fire and rain cocktails from Homesick. Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure The team behind sustainably sourced seafood shop Local 130 recently opened this intimate oyster bar on the boardwalk inside Convention Hall. In addition to a rotating selection of east and west coast oysters, the menu features fish sammys and Jersey-caught crudos. Viana ranks their dayboat scallops brought in from the nearby shore towns of Point Pleasant and Barnegat Light as some of the 'best in the world.' Husband and wife Steve and Shanti Mignogna's backyard pizza oven inspired this Asbury Park institution known for its sourdough crust pies and vegan-friendly menu. 'They pioneered a culture for whimsical food that prioritized ingredients and taste and they still do it really well,' says Viana. Asbury Park Brewery opened in an old warehouse in 2016 and instantly earned a cult following with beer nerds and touring bands. Last May the brewery debuted shiny new downtown digs inspired by Japanese listening bars. A wall of 8,000 vinyl records frames 12 taps that pour both seasonal (Watermelon Summer) and signature beers (Sea Dragon IPA) and a mural by local artist Porkshop pays homage to the town's musical roots. Live bands play here regularly, so check their online events calendar. 'This is the quintessential Jersey diner,' says Viana, noting the thick, laminated menu, formica-topped booths, bottomless black coffee, and cash-only policy. When the late Anthony Bourdain visited Frank's, he ordered the No. 4 sub (salami, ham, capicola, pepperoni, provolone, and hot peppers). Viana prefers breakfast. 'Their corned beef hash is second to none,' he says. Szegeski sends friends for the pork roll, egg, and cheese, Jersey's unofficial state sandwich. Sunset Landing, a locally loved luncheonette housed in a historic cabin on the shores of Deal Lake at the entrance to town, was reopened last year by an alum of Asbury favorites Porta and Talulas. 'It's the new hot spot,' says Masco. 'With awesome sunset views, the deck is the place to be. Order the Big G burger and a mocktail.' Take note: The restaurant is walk-in only and BYOB. No longer a seasonal destination, Asbury Park's businesses now largely stay open year round. 'As a local, I probably shouldn't say this, but local summer is the sweet spot,' says Teresa Dantone, referring to September and early October. The senior food and beverage managers at Asbury Ocean Club notes that by then the crowds are gone, the kids are in school, the beaches are free, the humidity fades, and it's easy to nab a parking spot anywhere in town. Part of Asbury Park's appeal is its accessibility. It's about a 90-minute drive (exit 102 on the Garden State Parkway) from New York City and Philadelphia. Avoid the inevitable summer traffic and take New Jersey Transit's North Jersey Coast Line from New York City's Penn Station or Newark Liberty International Airport directly to town. At just 1.6 square miles, nearly everything is walkable or bikeable once you've arrived.

How to watch 2025 NASCAR Mexico City: Schedule, start time, TV channel for Viva Mexico 250
How to watch 2025 NASCAR Mexico City: Schedule, start time, TV channel for Viva Mexico 250

Fox Sports

time13-06-2025

  • Automotive
  • Fox Sports

How to watch 2025 NASCAR Mexico City: Schedule, start time, TV channel for Viva Mexico 250

The Viva Mexico 250 marks a historic moment as the NASCAR Cup Series races internationally for the first time in 25 years — and for the first time in a points race since the 1950s. Set at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, a legendary track built in 1959 and home to the Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix, this event promises high-stakes action in a landmark setting. Here's what you need to know about the race, how to watch and more. When is the Viva Mexico 250? The Viva Mexico 250 is scheduled for Sunday, June 15th at 3 p.m. ET. Where is the race? The Viva Mexico 250 will take place at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City, Mexico. How long is the race? The Viva Mexico 250 is a total of 100 laps and 241 miles. Where can I watch the Viva Mexico 250? What channel will it be on? The race will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video. Check out the best highlights from the NASCAR Cup Series: FireKeepers Casino 400! How can I stream or watch the race without cable? The Viva Mexico 250 can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video. What is the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez Schedule? Friday, June 13th NASCAR Mexico Series - Practice & Qualifying - 11 a.m. ET NASCAR Cup Series - Practice 1 - 1:05 p.m. ET (Amazon Prime) NASCAR Xfinity Series - Practice 1 - 2:05 p.m. ET (CW App) NASCAR Cup Series - Practice 2 - 3 p.m. ET (Amazon Prime) NASCAR Xfinity Series - Practice 2 - 3:30 p.m. ET (CW App) NASCAR Mexico Series - Ricardo Rodriguez 120 (NASCAR Mexico Series) Saturday, June 14th NASCAR Xfinity Series - Qualifying - 10:30 a.m. ET (CW App) NASCAR Cup Series - Qualifying - 12 p.m. ET (Amazon Prime) NASCAR Mexico Series - Pedro Rodriguez 100 (NASCAR Mexico Series) NASCAR Xfinity Series - The Chilango 150 - 10:30 a.m. ET (CW App) Sunday, June 15th Who is driving in the race? There are 37 drivers entered into the Viva Mexico 250. Qualifying starts on Saturday, 6/14. recommended Get more from NASCAR Cup Series Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more in this topic

Real Betis & Switzerland Star Reveals ‘Inzaghi Wanted Me At Inter Milan Last Summer'
Real Betis & Switzerland Star Reveals ‘Inzaghi Wanted Me At Inter Milan Last Summer'

Yahoo

time09-06-2025

  • Sport
  • Yahoo

Real Betis & Switzerland Star Reveals ‘Inzaghi Wanted Me At Inter Milan Last Summer'

Real Betis & Switzerland Star Reveals 'Inzaghi Wanted Me At Inter Milan Last Summer' Real Betis defender Ricardo Rodriguez says that Simone Inzaghi wanted to sign him at Inter Milan last summer. The Swiss international spoke to Italian outlet He revealed the background of the Nerazzurri's reported interest last summer. Advertisement Ricardo Rodriguez joined Real Betis last summer. He arrived at the Spanish club on a free transfer after his contract with Torino had expired. There had been some other transfer links as well, however. There were even reports that Inter had wanted to sign Rodriguez. This came after the Nerazzurri had lost Tajon Buchanan to a serious injury. With the Canadian unavailable to provide cover on the left flank, Inter had the idea to move Carlos Augusto to that position exclusively. Therefore, Inter were searching for a player capable of playing on the left of the back three. Reports named Rodriguez as a target in that respect. Meanwhile, Inter were also reportedly close to signing Juan Cabal before he went to Juventus. Advertisement However, in the end, it was Tomas Palacios who arrived. Real Betis Defender Ricardo Rodriguez: 'Simone Inzaghi Wanted Me At Inter' DUSSELDORF, GERMANY – JULY 06: Ricardo Rodriguez of Switzerland in action during the UEFA EURO 2024 quarter-final match between England and Switzerland at Düsseldorf Arena on July 06, 2024 in Dusseldorf, Germany. (Photo by) At the heart of this whole transfer tug-of-war was the question of whether to sign a younger or more experienced player. Inter owners Oaktree Capital have made little secret of the fact that they want to focus on younger defenders. Meanwhile, Inter coach Simone Inzaghi was reportedly hoping for a reliable veteran as a short-term option. And Ricardo Rodriguez would have certainly been more in line with the latter idea. 'Inter had wanted to sign me because Inzaghi wanted an experienced profile,' he explained. 'But Real Betis were strongly interested in me,' he then noted.

Three CBP officers accused of allowing undocumented migrants to enter US
Three CBP officers accused of allowing undocumented migrants to enter US

Yahoo

time07-05-2025

  • Yahoo

Three CBP officers accused of allowing undocumented migrants to enter US

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Three on-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers accused of allowing vehicles with undocumented individuals to pass through their lanes into the U.S. without inspection at the San Ysidro Port of Entry face multiple charges. Farlis Almonte, 38, of San Diego, Ricardo Rodriguez, 34, of Tijuana, Mexico, and Kairy Stephania Quiñonez, 31, of Imperial Beach, have all been charged with Conspiracy to Bring in Aliens for Financial Gain and Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain, Aiding and Abetting, the U.S. Department of Justice said in a news release Tuesday. The three CBP officers allegedly 'revealed their lane assignments and hours they were scheduled to work the primary inspection booths at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, so that co-conspirators would know when it was safe to transport undocumented individuals across the border with impunity — sometimes using code words to gain admittance,' according to the indictment. The indictment alleges the defendants falsely reported into the Transportation Enforcement Communications System database the number of occupants in the co-conspirators' vehicles 'to conceal the fact that those vehicles contained undocumented individuals.' Almonte and Rodriguez, both of whom have also been charged with Receipt of Bribes by Public Official, allegedly failed to enforce the immigration laws of the U.S. by allowing vehicles with undocumented immigrants to enter the U.S. in exchange for money, per the indictment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.

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