America’s East Coast is filled with scenic roads perfect for a road trip, including Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire and Route 6 in Massachusetts. One particularly beautiful East Coast road trip route is traveling from New York City to Atlantic City along the Jersey Shore.

New York features top-rated museums, incredible skyscrapers, and delicious restaurants with breathtaking views of NYC. Atlantic City is known for its casinos, bustling boardwalk, and sandy beaches. Must-visit Atlantic City attractions include Absecon Lighthouse and Borgata Casino.

The drive between these two cities is also filled with fun spots to visit and explore. The Jersey Shore stretches about 130 miles along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, containing beautiful beaches, charming towns, and exciting boardwalks.

Related: Which New Jersey Shore Is For You?

10 The Statue Of Liberty

Before departing from New York City, travelers should visit the Statue of Liberty as their first road trip attraction. This inspirational statue symbolizes hope and the patriotic spirit. Lady Liberty holds up a torch, welcoming immigrants into the New York Harbor.

First-time visitors should read up on the Statue of Liberty prior to visiting to learn the best time to visit and what to pack.

A 4-star hotel a short boat ride away from the Statue of Liberty is the Hyatt Regency in Jersey City.

9 Asbury Park Boardwalk

A road trip from New York to New Jersey should also include a stop at Asbury Park Boardwalk. Known for its stellar food, shopping, and live music, this boardwalk is a must-visit. Afternoons are the perfect time to admire the sandy beach, shop in the unique boutiques, and admire the colorful murals. Nighttime is marked by bright lights and live music.

  • Address: 1300 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Vacationers wishing to spend the night in Asbury Park will enjoy the lively Asbury Hotel. The Asbury Hotel is known for its stellar location, ocean views, and social scene.

8 Silverball Retro Arcade

Another spot to visit in Asbury Park when road-tripping to Atlantic City is Silverball Retro Arcade. Located on the Asbury Park Boardwalk, this arcade features pinball machines from the 1930s-today. The 600 games, string lights, and flashing machines create a nostalgic and unique ambiance.

  • Address: 1000 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ 07712
  • Hours: Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday 11am-12am, Saturday 10am-12am, Sunday 10am-9pm
  • Cost: 1 hour- $17.50, half day- $20, all day- $25

Once guests pay the entry fee, all games inside are free to play.

Another strong hotel option in Asbury Park is the Asbury Ocean Club Hotel.

7 Ocean Grove Beach

There are lots of must-visit beaches in New Jersey, including Ocean Grove Beach. Perfect for families, this charming beach features shallow waters, umbrella and chair rentals, and a snack stand.

Guests are required to purchase a $12 beach pass.

  • Address: 81 Main Ave, Ocean Grove, NJ 07756
  • Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm, Sunday 12-5:30 pm
  • Cost: $12

The exquisite Victorian homes lining the nearby Ocean Avenue are another reason to visit. A beautiful inn featuring Victorian architecture is The Ocean Plaza Hotel.

6 St. Catharine Church

When passing by Spring Lake on a road trip from New York to Atlantic City, be sure to stop and explore St. Catharine Church. This beautiful church was built in 1901 and is known for its Classical Revival architecture. The church’s interior features detailed ceilings, with gold molding and intricate murals. The artwork and sculptures found inside are also mesmerizing.

  • Address: 215 Essex Ave, Spring Lake, NJ 07762

The Hewitt Wellington Hotel is a wonderful boutique hotel in the area, offering comfortable and spacious rooms, lake views, and friendly service.

Related: These Are The 10 Most Beautiful Towns In New Jersey You Should Visit

5 Jenkinson’s Boardwalk

Another New Jersey boardwalk worth visiting on a road trip is Jenkinson’s Boardwalk. This exciting oceanside boardwalk is known for its amusement rides, arcade, and delicious food. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk features plenty of family-friendly attractions, including an aquarium, amusement park, high ropes course, and mini golf course.

  • Address: 300 Ocean Ave N, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742

A great hotel within walking distance of the boardwalk is the Surfside Motel. Guests enjoy Surfside's amenities, including an outdoor pool and bike rental.

4 Point Pleasant Beach

Located alongside Jenkinson’s Boardwalk is the lovely Point Pleasant Beach. This beach is the perfect place to lay out and enjoy a lazy afternoon in the sun. Guests looking for a more active afternoon enjoy swimming or surfing in the beautiful blue waters.

Another hotel in the area is the Pelican Point Motel. Each room features coastal decor, and the hotel is only two blocks from the beach.

3 Seaside Heights

No Jersey Shore road trip is complete without a stop at Seaside Heights. Known as the filming location for MTV’s hit show Jersey Shore, Seaside’s boardwalk is the perfect spot to enjoy amusement park rides, mini golf, arcade games, and stellar ocean views. The food is also to die for, and must-try Jersey Shore boardwalk foods include hotdogs and frozen custard.

Craving a sweet treat? Pick up a few donuts at Broad Street Dough Co., a Seaside Heights staple.

Searching for an affordable hotel within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Seaside Heights nightlife? Consider staying at the Bay Breeze Motel.

2 Surf City

Another New York to New Jersey road trip stop is the beautiful city of Surf City, New Jersey. Located in Long Beach Island, Surf City is the perfect spot to spend a relaxing and chill afternoon. An abundance of local shops and restaurants line the city streets, while Surf City’s beach offers a tranquil spot to swim, tan, read, and watch the sunset.

Vacationers desiring a large, lavish, and coastal-chic accommodation need to book a stay at Hotel LBI. This luxury hotel features studios, suites with kitchens and seating areas, and 1,200-square-foot penthouse suites.

1 Bass River State Forest

A final stop to make before visiting Atlantic City’s top-rated attractions is Bass River State Forest. This national forest, located in Tuckerton, New Jersey, stretches 23,563 acres. The beautiful Lake Absegami is located in this state park and is a superb spot for canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and boating. Enjoy time out in nature at Bass River State Forest before living it up in the bustling and bright Atlantic City.

A nearby bed and breakfast overflowing with character and charm is the J.D. Thompson Inn Bed and Breakfast.