Red Bank’s been given several titles and names throughout the year, but the one that stands out most in our opinion has to be the title of “a cool little town.” It certainly lives up to the title thanks to its rich history, vibrant downtown district, active nightlife, and family-friendly atmosphere. Obviously, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Red Bank.
There’s just an abundance of fun things, so in this guide, we detail the best of the best. The best part about our guide on fun things to do in Red Bank is that we’ve actually checked them all out at some point recently, so you know this list is a legitimate one — and one that’s not curated through reviews, other online lists, and other social media accounts.
Without any further wait, here are 10 fun things to do in Red Bank. As always, don’t forget to check out some of our other fun guides below.
- Best ice cream shops in Monmouth County, NJ
- Best happy hours in Red Bank
- Best breweries in Monmouth County, NJ
- 10 fun date night ideas in Red Bank for couples to do
- Best parks in Monmouth County, NJ
- Most iconic landmarks in Red Bank
- Art galleries you need to visit in Red Bank
- The best hidden gems in Red Bank
- Best sushi in Red Bank
Visit Kevin Smith’s famed Jay & Silent Bob’s Secret Stash
Location: 65 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701
Who’s it for: Kevin Smith fans & comic book lovers
Why we picked Jay & Silent Bob’s Secret Stash:
After making a big move recently from being at one spot for over two decades, Kevin Smith’s famed Jay & Silent Bob’s Secret Stash new home is now on 65 Broad Street in downtown Red Bank. The new space is a sprawling location for any fan of Kevin Smith, as well as comic book lovers. It’s filled from corner to corner with comic books, toys, trading cards, costumers, and memorabilia. It’s a fun thing to do in Red Bank because not only can you find some of AMC’s Comic Book Men working the store from time to time, but the shop is filled with memorabilia from Kevin Smith’s movies.
Play old school arcade games at YESTERcades
Location: 80 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701
Who’s it for: Gamers
Why we picked YESTERcades:
There are few arcades nowadays, which is why the few that are around are worth noting. In Red Bank, YESTERcades in the heart of downtown Red Bank is paradise for those arcade games you loved and missed. From classic titles from the 80s, to pinball machines, and even some home consoles, there’s plenty to play and check out at YESTERcades. Not only is there the competitive fun playing with others, but it also makes a wonderful spot to celebrate special occasions!
Enjoy drinks & bites at rooftop bars
Locations:
Teak (64 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701)
Red Rock Tap + Grill (14 Wharf Ave, Red Bank, NJ 07701)
Who’s it for: Young professionals, socialites, bar crawlers
Why we picked Teak & Red Rock Tap + Grill:
You wouldn’t think Red Bank to be the kind of town have rooftop bars, since there aren’t that many tall buildings in its skyline. But in reality, you don’t need them — you just need buzzing spots. The two rooftop bars in Red Bank can be found at Teak Restaurant off Monmouth Street and Red Rock Tap + Grill on Wharf Avenue. They’re two very different rooftop bars, as Teak offers both and indoor and outdoor area, while Red Rock Tap + Grill is completely outdoors, but spans two levels. During those cool summer evenings, these two locations are ideal for their refreshing drink menu and nightlife. If you’re looking for a good time, one that involves hanging out with friends, listening to live music, and experiencing some of Red Bank’s best rooftop views, you won’t be disappointed by either place.
Watch scenic sunset views off the Navesink River
Locations:
Marine Park (1 Marine Park, Red Bank, NJ 07701)
Riverside Gardens Park (50 W Front St, Red Bank, NJ 07701)
Who’s it for: everyone
Why we picked Marine Park and Riverside Gardens Park:
If you’re looking for something fun in Red Bank, but has a more relaxed tone to it, then check out the amazing sunset views off the Navesink River. They’re truly breathtaking, especially the moments right before the sun goes below the horizon and bathes the area in that beautiful golden blow. Riverside Gardens Park and Marine Park in Red Bank are ideal locations to see these immaculate sunset views in all of their glory. It’s even better in the summertime as the longer daytime yields sunset views well after 6:00 p.m.
Solve puzzles at Trap Door Escape Room
Location: 60 White St, Red Bank, NJ 07701
Who’s it for: Families, puzzle solvers, date nights
Why we picked Trap Door Escape Room:
What’s more fun than solving puzzles and escape rooms? That’s exactly what you’ll find at Trap Door Escape Room in Red Bank because it’s a fun activity for anyone and anytime throughout the year. Whether it’s with family, friends, a work related event, or just date night, Trap Door Escape Room is a fun thing to check out because you’re given a limited time to solve puzzles. Previous incarnations included zombies and the boogeyman, which certainly added a level of fear and unknown into its escape rooms, but the popular destination is constantly changing things up — giving repeat visitors something new to check out!
Craft stunning creations at DIY studios
Locations:
A Time to Kiln (50 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701)
Board & Brush (26 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701)
AR Workshop (43A Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701)
Who’s it for: Everyone
Why we picked Trap Door Escape Room:
Creating artwork, whether it’s pottery, a piece of art on a canvas, or putting together a simple wooden sign for tour home, Red Bank’s various DIY art studios have something fun for everyone. If painting pottery is your kind of thing, then check out A Time to Kiln. For those looking to craft an adorable wooden sign, check out Board and Brush. And lastly, there’s AR Workshop that specializes in signs and other home décor. Best of all, these DIY art studios frequently host group events and classes where you can create something together.
Take a stroll through downtown district
Location: Broad Street and adjacent streets
Who’s it for: Families, couples, kids, everyone
Why we picked Red Bank’s downtown district:
Not only is a central figure in Red Bank’s identity, but the downtown district of Red Bank, in particular, is a place you should visit if you’re looking for some exciting fun. Not only is there the charm of the pedestrian plaza during the summertime, but you can still find plenty to see and do with the adjacent streets that run off of Broad Street. From dining at any of the amazing restaurants, to shopping the many retail boutiques, downtown Red Bank has plenty to experience.
During the wintertime, the pedestrian plaza is closed down, but is expected to return once spring returns.
Craft beer tasting at breweries
Locations:
Red Tank Brewery Company (77 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701)
Birravino (183 Riverside Ave, Red Bank, NJ 07701)
Triumph Brewing Company (1 Bridge Ave, Red Bank, NJ 07701)
Who’s it for: craft beer lovers
Why we picked these craft breweries:
In the last several years, Red Bank has become known for craft beers. That’s because there are a total of three breweries in town that make beer. It’s a fun and exciting thing to do, just because craft beers have been such a popular thing. And you know what, there’s plenty to check out in Red Bank! Red Tank Brewing Company has one of the most diverse selections of brews, Birravino has an outdoor beer garden perfect for gatherings, and Triumph Brewing Company has a sprawling location that’s wonderful for diners and theater viewers.
Live concerts at Count Basie Center for the Arts
Location: 99 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701
Who’s it for: Concert goers
Why we picked Count Basie:
Red Bank’s known for live music. Yes, you’ll find many local favorite bands playing it up at the many nearby bars and restaurants, but when it comes to live music, Count Basie Center for the Arts is where music lives. The sprawling music venue frequently hosts concerts from musicians and bands, local and well-known. You’ll want to check out its website to see the schedule of concerts held there. Additionally, the iconic venue also hosts a slew of festivals and events throughout the year!
The Broadway experience at Two River Theater
Location: 21 Bridge Ave, Red Bank, NJ 07701
Who’s it for: Theater goers
Why we picked Two River Theater:
Even though its doors remained closed throughout the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, Two River Theater is poised for a comeback soon. It’s the place in Red Bank to get that Broadway experience, but locally and without having to travel to New York City. Not only does Two River Theater offer Broadway caliber productions throughout the year, but it’s also a place where many local events are held.