About Long Branch NJ

The town of Long Branch NJ, is one of the largest cities on the Jersey Shore. From the period of the 1860's through the First World War, it was also the most glamorous. Long Branch's early years as a resort town was a virtual "Who's Who" of society, including such names as Astor, Fisk, & Drexel – and even more notorious names such as Diamond Jim Brady and Lily Langtree. First Lady Mary Lincoln visited in 1861, but it was in 1869 that Long Branch NJ had it's first presidential visit by President Grant. The President continued to visit every summer that he was president, and continued for many years after that.

In 1870, a racetrack opened, (which is still thriving today) and soon after, casinos. Long Branch NJ was in its heyday, such was its reputation that seven other presidents followed suit in visiting here. Chester A. Arthur, Rutherford Hayes, Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, Woodrow Wilson and James Garfield were frequent summer visitors. After an attempt was made on James Garfield's life, he was brought to Long Branch NJ in hopes of a recovery aided by the sea air. Indeed, a railroad spur from the main line to his house was built to make him more comfortable in his travels.

Long Branch NJ is now enjoying a rebirth. Visitors to Long Branch NJ will enjoy the beach, the new boardwalk, as well as Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, a 33-acre county park with facilities for swimming, boating and picnicking. Some of the summer bungalows have been replaced with high-rise condos. There is also a large selection of outstanding restaurants as well as a lively nightlife for the young and hip – or the young at heart!