While Atlantic City's legendary boardwalk often steals the spotlight as the world's longest at four miles, another Jersey Shore destination has captured the hearts of visitors nationwide. The Wildwoods Boardwalk, located 45 minutes south of Atlantic City in Cape May County, has been crowned the top-ranked boardwalk for 2026 by USA Today's "10 Best List" — marking the second consecutive year this vibrant promenade has earned the prestigious distinction.
This recognition speaks volumes about what our community has long known: the Wildwoods offers an unmatched seaside experience that draws nearly 9 million visitors annually. The boardwalk's nickname, "two miles of smiles," perfectly captures the joy that radiates from this 38-block-long entertainment paradise packed with rides, food, and fun for all ages.
A Rich History Dating Back to 1890
The Wildwoods Boardwalk's storied legacy began in 1890 as a modest 450-foot wooden promenade near the tip of a barrier island. By the turn of the century, it had already established itself as a major attraction, and its popularity has only grown over the decades. The boardwalk has been relocated closer to the ocean multiple times to adapt to changing shorelines and now stretches nearly 2.5 miles along our beautiful coast.
One of the boardwalk's most charming features arrived in 1949: the electric-powered Sightseer Tramcars. Eight of these historic tram cars, originally used during the 1939 World's Fair, continue to transport passengers today. For just $5, riders can enjoy a 30-minute one-way journey along the boardwalk's 70,000 wooden planks, with the trams carrying an estimated 500,000 passengers annually.
Over 100 Rides and Three Thrilling Piers
What sets the Wildwoods Boardwalk apart is its incredible concentration of attractions. With over 100 rides and attractions spread across three amusement piers operated by Morey's Piers, plus countless eateries, shops, and arcades, there's something for every member of the family.
At Mariner's Pier, visitors can experience classic seaside attractions like the Giant Wheel, a 156-foot-tall ferris wheel that ranks among the largest on the East Coast. Those seeking heart-pounding thrills should head to Adventure Pier, home to the famous Great White wooden roller coaster, which reaches speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour and features a stomach-dropping 105-foot descent.
Surfside Pier offers both extreme excitement and family-friendly fun. The Great Nor' Easter delivers screams with its inverted loop and 95-foot drop, while gentler attractions like Happy Feet and the classic Carousel provide entertainment for younger visitors.
Water Parks and Beach Access
The aquatic adventures continue at three oceanfront water parks operated by Morey's Piers. Ocean Oasis Water Park and Beach Club features waterslides, a lazy river, and a poolside bar for adults looking to relax. Raging Waters Water Park caters to families with big slides and dedicated splash zones for children.
When hunger strikes, Seaport Pier offers a variety of restaurants serving up hearty meals and refreshing drinks, all with spectacular Atlantic Ocean views. And perhaps best of all, the award-winning Wildwoods beaches remain free and spacious, providing the perfect complement to a day on the boardwalk.
This latest recognition as the nation's top boardwalk confirms what locals and regular visitors have always known: the Wildwoods Boardwalk represents the very best of Jersey Shore entertainment, combining nostalgic charm with modern thrills in a setting that keeps families coming back year after year.
About the Author
Karen Johnson
With over 30 years of news experience in major markets like Los Angeles, Denver, and Columbus, Karen now covers our area for South Jersey NewsBeat. She also brings her articulate and conversational news delivery to WOND radio listeners every weekday. Her background includes work with the NBC Radio Network, and she thrives in fast-paced news environments.
