Imagine spending summers at the Jersey Shore in a tent. The idea sheds new light on the concept of camping. Tent City is a unique community in Ocean Grove, New Jersey dating back to 1859. Renters pay $4,000-$5,000 for the season that runs from May 15 through September 15. Canvas tents that usually serve as living rooms, complete with porches, attach to wooden cottages. Space is limited inside and out. Neighbors are so close that when someone sneezes, everyone says, "Bless you." Tents are so hotly coveted that there is a waiting list years long.
How to get to Tent City in Ocean Grove, New Jersey
Tent City surrounds Ocean Grove's Great Auditorium. The 114-canvas tent community sits in close quarters on Mount Zion Way, Front Street, and other streets adjacent to the Great Auditorium. Ocean Grove is a popular summertime destination along the Jersey Shore and is easily accessible via NJ Transit's North Jersey Coastline. Travelers can exit the train at the Asbury Park-Ocean Grove Train Station. Tent City is a short, pleasant walk away. Academy Bus Line also runs buses directly into Ocean Grove from NYC's Penn Station and other North Jersey towns. The town of Ocean Grove is actually less than a square mile wide so the distance from Asbury Park is manageable and delightful to walk.
Best and worst times to go to Tent City in Ocean Grove, New Jersey
Tents are only up from May 15 through September 15, which is prime beach-going time along the Jersey Shore. Weekdays are the best time to visit Ocean Grove since the population triples on the weekends. Parking is free on the streets on Ocean Grove, but spaces fill up quickly on the narrow roads. While the summertime is jam packed, crowds ease significantly after Labor Day.
Admission to Tent City in Ocean Grove, New Jersey
Fees are not required to take a picturesque walk around the distinctive Tent City community in Ocean Grove. Parking is free as well, however, spaces vanish quickly especially on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Must see/do at Tent City in Ocean Grove, New Jersey
Some residents have been tenting for over 40 years. Others waited a decade or more for the chance to do so. Take a walk amongst the close-knit community. It is a sight to behold, complete with porches, American flags, flowers, and indoor plumbing. It's a Norman Rockwell painting with a unique slant.
Other Places to visit near Tent City in Ocean Grove, New Jersey
When you are finished admiring Tent City, be sure to spend some time enjoying the quaint Victorian village of Ocean Grove. The beach, which does charge in the summer, is pristine and was named one of the fifteen best beaches in the world by Fodor's in 2014. A long pier dotted with benches that jut out over the sand is an ideal spot to take in the breathtaking splendor of the Atlantic Ocean. Main Avenue houses charming shops and eateries. The Great Auditorium was built in 1894. It is used for Sunday services, but the building also hosts concerts, exhibits, and other events. The historic landmark is the "largest enclosed auditorium" in the state of New Jersey.
Insider tip for visitors to Tent City in Ocean Grove, New Jersey
Ocean Grove is a 'dry town,' meaning alcohol is not sold within the town limits. Up until 1979, driving in the town on Sundays was prohibited with shops and businesses remaining closed. Restaurants now allow customers to BYO. However, do not crack open a beer on the beach or boardwalk. Alcohol is strictly prohibited. If you are looking for cocktails, head to its neighbor Asbury Park when you are done enjoying Ocean Grove.
Author's bio: Dawn Miller is a freelance writer and mystery author. She lives in New Jersey.