New Jersey is home to a lot of history. In school, we learn about the Garden State's role in the founding of this country, in the Revolutionary War, in welcoming immigrants with open arms to their New World -- but we don't learn a whole lot about more modern New Jersey history, like how our home state is where you'll find one of the most legendary music cities in the country. While Asbury Park doesn't have the name-recognition of Austin or Nashville, its vibrant music scene and legendary venues have helped this beach town become one of New Jersey's most visited spots, and the fantastic downtown area, award-winning restaurants, and unique boutiques make it the best town in the state to spend time in when the weather warms up.

From the beach to the vibrant downtown, Asbury Park has something to offer everyone looking for a fun day trip in New Jersey.

Summertime here can be very crowded, but if you visit in the warm-weather shoulder seasons, you'll find that Asbury Park is absolutely a delight.

All year long, Asbury Park's world-famous music venues draw in acts from all over. The Wonder Bar, House of Independents, Asbury Lanes, and the Stone Pony are just a few places you can catch a show.

And hey, if you're lucky, you'll even get to see The Boss make an appearance.

Speaking of venues, we can't overlook Convention Hall. Home to shops, restaurants, and a performance venue, it's the true center of town, and its architecture is unmistakable.

The Boardwalk is a great spot for families to shop, play games, and find food. Many of the restaurants and boutiques here are open year-round. Once the weather warms up, even the seasonal ones start to open their doors.

Downtown Asbury Park, along Cookman Ave, has been revitalized over the last decade, and now you'll find all sorts of great places to grab a drink and a bite to eat, like the Biergarten or Talula's gourmet pizzeria.

While the city does get crowded in the summer, it's for good reason. Huge festivals and concerts happen right here on the beach!

If you prefer to share the sand with no one, come in the early morning or on a weekday and you'll have plenty of room to lay down your towel.

Where do you like to dine and shop in Asbury Park? We'd love to hear about your favorite spots here -- and any Bruce sightings you might want to share! Let's talk in the comments below.