Under $100: Asbury Park

Although the city of Asbury Park is famous for its seashore destination identity, there is plenty to see and do in the off-season. The absence of summer crowds, the changing of the seasons and the ever-changing array of shows, events and other diversions means you can experience the historic and vibrant city through the locals’ eyes.

Start your day off with some breakfast at Frank’s Deli, 1406 Main St. Although this hole-in-the-wall eatery is a little off the beaten path of the city’s boardwalk area, you will not be disappointed by the amazing food Frank’s has been serving to locals for decades. Fill your belly with a glass of their fresh-squeezed orange juice and a plate of eggs or pancakes, plus sausage, homefries and toast, or Frank’s homemade danish and doughnuts, for around $10.

Make your way over to Asbury’s famed beachfront and soak in the sights, like Madame Marie’s fortune telling booth, Convention Hall, the Paramount Theatre and the Grand Arcade (the pass-through between them), all located on the boardwalk. In December, the Paramount is producing the classic holiday musical Scrooge, with tickets starting at $15.

You can also check out the world-famous Stone Pony concert venue, located just off the boardwalk and known as the birthplace of New Jersey greats like Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi.

For lunch, stroll into Asbury’s vibrant downtown, centered on Cookman Avenue. Head into the Shoppes at the Arcade and grab a seat at Crust and Crumble, a BYOB that serves up delicious, homemade pastas, pizzas, salads and baked goods. Try a personal-size specialty pizza, like the Asbury Pork and Pepper, the Tuscan Chicken or the Greek, for $10. While in the Shoppes building, check out awesome art galleries, the record store and the antique shop inside and chat up the always-interesting locals.

Once you’ve had your fill of traversing and shopping in the city’s quirky, diverse downtown area, enjoy a laidback dinner and brew at Brickwall Tavern, 522 Cookman Ave. Brickwall is known for its impressive selection of beer, with 24 different brews always on tap and plenty more available to order. Enjoy your favorite beer and a gourmet sandwich for $15.

Don’t miss two of Asbury’s quirkiest gems — Paranormal Books & Curiosities, 627 Cookman Ave., and the Silver Ball Museum Arcade, 1000 Ocean Ave. (just off the boardwalk). The paranormal store is filled with both creepy and funny collectibles, books and gifts, and boasts an attached Paranormal Museum open for tours. If you’re feeling brave, you can even sign up to attend a séance, visit with a psychic or embark on one of their city ghost tours. Prices vary.

The Silver Ball Museum Arcade offers guests the chance to play more than 200 pinball machine games, evoking nostalgia for adults and wonder for children. Each machine has a placard illuminating its history, but the machines are also playable, making the Silver Ball — as the name states — both museum and arcade. It costs $7.50 for a 30-minute pass, $10 for a one-hour pass and $20 for an all-day pass — all games are free with admission, so no coins required!