Red Bank Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Red Bank? Read our comprehensive guide to discover the best things to do, places to stay, food to eat, and more!


Introduction to Red Bank

Nestled in Monmouth County in Jersey Shore, Red Bank is among the most charming small towns in New Jersey. This quaint town boasts a vibrant riverfront downtown area teeming with art galleries, unique boutiques, and restaurants. It also boasts a rich history and outdoor recreational activities. There’s always something to do in Red Bank, whether you’re here for a day or longer.

List of Places to Visit in Red Bank

If you’re visiting Red Bank, be sure to add these top attractions to your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Red Bank has a rich history, and you can learn about it at various museums and historical sites. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Red Bank are:

  • The Count Basie Center for the Arts
  • Monmouth Museum
  • T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center
  • Re-DISCOVER Museum
  • Monmouth County Historical Association Museum

Natural Attractions of Red Bank: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Red Bank is a nature lover’s paradise, with various outdoor attractions to explore, including:

  • Marine Park
  • Red Bank Battlefield Park
  • Riverside Gardens Park
  • Navesink River
  • Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area

Hiking/Biking Routes of Red Bank

Red Bank has some great hiking and biking trails, including:

  • Hartshorne Woods Park
  • Henry Hudson Trail
  • Huber Woods Park
  • Thompson Park

Best Things to Do in Red Bank: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of things to do in Red Bank. Whether you’re looking for a day of shopping, music, or fun with the family, the following attractions offer something for everyone:

  • Red Bank Farmers Market
  • Silverball Museum Arcade
  • Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash
  • Hobbymasters
  • Red Bank Jazz & Blues Festival

Week-Long Itinerary for Red Bank

Here’s a sample itinerary you can follow to make the most of your week in Red Bank:

Day Itinerary
1 Visit The Count Basie Center for the Arts and dine at Char Steakhouse
2 Explore Red Bank’s nature trails and parks
3 Learn about local history at the Monmouth Museum and Re-DISCOVER Museum
4 Take a day trip to Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area
5 Discover the town’s unique boutiques and shops
6 Check out the Silverball Museum Arcade and Hobbymasters
7 Relax at Marine Park and dine at Bistro at Red Bank

Food and Drink Scene of Red Bank

Red Bank’s dining scene is impressive, with various eateries and bars to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood at Bistro at Red Bank
  • Pizza at Birravino
  • Sushi at Teak
  • Burgers at Surf Taco
  • Italian at Nicholas

Local Beverages

  • Carton Brewing Company
  • Triumph Brewing Company
  • Red Tank Brewing

Where to Stay in Red Bank: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Red Bank offers several accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the top-rated places to stay:

  • The Oyster Point Hotel
  • Molly Pitcher Inn
  • Courtyard Lincroft Red Bank
  • Extended Stay America - Red Bank

What to Buy in Red Bank: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Red Bank’s stores offer an array of souvenirs and local products that make for perfect keepsakes. Some things to look out for include:

  • Artworks and crafts at the Red Bank Artisan Collective
  • Antiques at the Red Bank Antique Center
  • T-shirts and accessories at the Red Bank Visitors Center

Local Culture and Customs of Red Bank

Red Bank residents are friendly and welcoming to visitors. While there are no specific customs or traditions to be aware of, it’s always polite to be respectful and courteous to those around you.

Best Time to Visit Red Bank

The best time to visit Red Bank is in the summer (June to August), when temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities and events are in full swing. Visitors can also enjoy the fall foliage and winter sports in the colder months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Red Bank

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Red Bank:

Do:

  • Explore the town’s outdoor recreational activities.
  • Check out the area’s unique boutiques and galleries.
  • Try the local seafood and beer.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Be disruptive or disrespectful to locals and other visitors.
  • Overlook the area’s cultural attractions and historical sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Red Bank

Red Bank is generally a safe town. Visitors should exercise the same precautions they would in any other city, including being aware of their surroundings, traveling in well-lit areas, and keeping their valuables secure.

Health in Red Bank

Red Bank has several hospitals and clinics that can address most health issues. Visitors are advised to confirm their medical coverage with their insurance provider before traveling.

Getting to Red Bank: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Red Bank

  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
  • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
  • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Bus Stations Near Red Bank

  • Academy Bus Terminal
  • NJ Transit - Red Bank Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Taxi service
  • Uber/Lyft

How to Get Around in Red Bank

Walking, biking, and driving are the most common modes of transportation in Red Bank. The town is small enough to explore on foot, and parking is generally easy to find.

Where to Go Next from Red Bank: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Red Bank is an excellent base for exploring the rest of New Jersey’s coast. Nearby towns worth checking out include:

  • Asbury Park
  • Ocean Grove
  • Long Branch

Conclusion

Red Bank offers a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and food, making it an idyllic destination for short getaways or longer vacations. This comprehensive guide highlights some of the top attractions and activities to help you make the most of your time in this charming town.

Count Basie Theatre Count Basie Theatre