Asbury Park, NJ Nightlife: Bars, Clubs, And Live Music Venues

by newjerseyshores | May 5, 2023

Life is a roller coaster, and it’s an undeniable fact that we all face our fair share of ups and downs. It can be incredibly challenging when life throws us lemons; however, the hope is to find a way to turn them into something sweet, like ice-cold lemonade. Unfortunately, it often feels as if stress has latched onto our shoulders and won’t let go, no matter what we do or where we go!

No matter how hard life may be, it is important to remember that there is always a glimmer of hope – a light at the end of the tunnel. With this in mind, take some time to enjoy yourself and work hard, play hard! Asbury Park has amazing bars and clubs that come alive when night falls, making them wonderful places to unwind after a long week or celebrate the weekend.

Put aside the briefcase and slip off the tie. Ensure you have the most impressive, eye-catching shoes on your feet when you strut through the doors of these magnificent local late-night venues. Make sure to make a statement with your style, as if it’s an entrance that no one will ever forget!

asbury park music venue aerial

Porta

Porta Asbury Park, which is situated in the former abode of the renowned Student Prince, has a special place in music history. It was here that Bruce Springsteen and Clarence Clemons (the beloved Big Man who sadly passed away) first met. The two would go on to form an inseparable bond and make some of the most iconic music together. Since 2011, Porta has grown from nothing into a highly-regarded pizza destination.

It earned the praise of The New York Times in 2013 and has since become a favorite among locals, New Yorkers, jet setters, and those looking for some of the best pizza across the country. Its reputation is well deserved – it’s one of the best places to go if you’re looking for an unforgettable slice. Snap a selfie in front of the doors, throw on your dancing shoes, and get ready to dance all night long. Regardless of how crowded the restaurant becomes, its essence is that of a giant block party – full of family, vibrant details, and an abundance of love!

The “club happy hour” is held on Friday and Saturday evenings from 9 to 11 p.m., providing customers with discounted beverages, including $3 Miller and Coors Tall Boys, $4 shots of Café Patron and Fireball, as well as $5 well drinks. Additionally, for those looking to indulge in something extra special, there is a champagne bottle menu with items ranging from $50 to an extravagant $300.

The Saint

The Saint is a legendary music venue that has been an Asbury Park music scene staple for over three decades. With its intimate setting and top-notch sound system, The Saint is the perfect place to catch a live show by some of the area’s best up-and-coming bands and musicians.

One thing that makes The Saint unique is its commitment to showcasing local talent. The venue hosts regular open mic nights and showcases, giving local musicians and bands the opportunity to perform in front of a live audience.

If you’re a fan of live music, The Saint is a must-visit destination in Asbury Park. The venue’s calendar is packed with a diverse range of musical genres, from rock and punk to blues and jazz.

In addition to its live music offerings, The Saint is also a popular spot for private events and parties. The venue can accommodate up to 300 guests and offers a full bar and catering services.

Paradise

Paradise, an LGBT bar and dance club attached to The Empress Hotel, is New Jersey’s ultimate nightclub complex. It boasts a state-of-the-art sound and visual system, making it an ideal paradise for those seeking an unforgettable nightclub experience. According to the website, the venue provides top-notch equipment that promises to provide partygoers with a remarkable and enjoyable entertainment experience.

Paradise is a lively beachfront bar and restaurant popular with locals and tourists. With its stunning ocean views and relaxed atmosphere, Paradise is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a drink or two after a long day at the beach.

One thing that sets Paradise apart from other bars in the area is its extensive drink menu. The bar offers a wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as a number of specialty drinks that are perfect for sipping on the beach.

If you’re looking for a fun and festive nightlife experience, be sure to check out Paradise’s themed party nights. The bar hosts weekly events, including karaoke nights, trivia nights, and live music performances.

In addition to its nightlife offerings, Paradise is also a popular spot for casual dining. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of classic beach fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and seafood dishes.

The Stone Pony

The Stone Pony is perhaps the most iconic music venue in Asbury Park. It has been a staple of the local music scene for over 45 years and has hosted some of the biggest names in rock and roll history, including Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi, and Southside Johnny.

With its gritty dive bar atmosphere, The Stone Pony is the perfect place to catch an up-and-coming band or a well-known act in an intimate setting. The venue has a standing room capacity of 1,000, but the stage is just a few feet off the ground, giving the audience a sense of being up close and personal with the performers.

In addition to its live music offerings, The Stone Pony also hosts regular DJ nights and dance parties. The venue has a large dance floor and a state-of-the-art sound system, making it a great spot to dance the night away.

Wonder Bar

The Wonder Bar is a popular beachfront and live music venue just a few blocks from The Stone Pony. With its fun and lively atmosphere, the Wonder Bar is the perfect place to grab a drink and enjoy some live music.

One thing that sets the Wonder Bar apart from other bars in the area is its dog-friendly policy. The bar has an outdoor patio area that is open to dogs, making it a popular spot for pet owners to hang out with their furry friends.

In addition to its live music offerings, the Wonder Bar hosts regular events and parties, including beach and costume parties. The bar has a full menu of food and drinks, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.

Asbury Lanes

Asbury Lanes, situated in the renowned city of Asbury Park, New Jersey, is an iconic and timeless bowling alley and bar. With a wide array of live performances such as musical acts, burlesque shows, hot rod displays, dance parties, films, and art exhibitions – it instantly stands out from the rest of the music landmarks that fill this historic town. The venue has been a staple of the Asbury Park music scene since the 1960s, but it underwent a major renovation in 2018 that transformed it into a modern, state-of-the-art venue.

With its retro-chic decor and intimate setting, Asbury Lanes is the perfect place to catch a live show by some of the best up-and-coming bands in the area. The venue has a standing room capacity of 750, but it also has a number of VIP seating areas that offer a more exclusive and comfortable viewing experience.

In addition to its live music offerings, Asbury Lanes has a full-service bar and a bowling alley open to the public. The venue has a full menu of food and drinks, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or a date night.

Watermark

Watermark is a popular bar and restaurant located on the Asbury Park boardwalk. With its stunning ocean views and chic, modern decor, Watermark is the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic date night.

One of the highlights of Watermark is its rooftop bar, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding area. The bar has a full menu of specialty cocktails, craft beers, and fine wines, making it a great spot to unwind and relax after a long day.

In addition to its bar offerings, Watermark has a full-service restaurant serving a range of delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, steak, and vegetarian options. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options, and the atmosphere is lively and welcoming.

Throughout the year, Watermark also hosts a number of events and parties, including live music performances, wine tastings, and holiday-themed celebrations. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or a fun-filled evening with friends, Watermark is a must-visit destination in Asbury Park’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Enjoy The Asbury Park NightLife

Overall, Asbury Park is a vibrant and exciting destination for those looking for diverse nightlife options. No matter your preference, this thriving beach village has something for everyone – whether it’s concocting craft cocktails, listening to live music, or dancing all night long. From iconic venues like The Stone Pony and Wonder Bar to newer hotspots like Watermark and Asbury Lanes, the nightlife scene in Asbury Park is sure to leave a lasting impression.