Somers Point, NJ

Somers Point claims the spot as the oldest settlement in all of Atlantic County, originating in 1693 as the Somerset Plantation. Much of Somers Point's early culture centered around the ocean, with its harbor designated as a point of entry for over 100 years. After this designation was abolished in the early 1900s, Somers Point's cultural focus shifted primarily to residential neighborhoods and tourist attractions.

The Atlantic County Historical Society, located on Shore Road, has one of the largest collections of local paraphernalia in the state. Here you can peruse over 20,000 different items, including dolls, antiques and historical artifacts, many of which date back hundreds of years.

The Somers Point Bayfest runs each year and boasts such attractions as food and merchandise vendors, children's activities and live music. While the arts scene can be considered sparse in Somers Point proper, several excellent venues exist in nearby Atlantic City.

Somers Point's close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean brings with it a wide variety of restaurants catering to seafood lovers. Rest assured, however, that the types of restaurants available to choose from range far beyond the ocean, spanning from traditional American cuisine to more international selections.

Shining brightly amidst all others, Smitty's Clam Bar proves itself to be a true representation of just how tasty the seafood in this area can be. The New England clam chowder served here ranks as one of the best in the area, made with a thick and creamy white sauce and packed full of freshly caught clams. Next, pack your tummy full with the Baked Seafood Combo, a plate piled high with shrimp, scallops and flounder and complimented nicely with a side order of fries and corn salsa.

Traditional American fare can be found at the Anchorage Tavern Restaurant on Bay Avenue. Pig out on the blackened mahi mahi, seared to perfection and served on a bed of rice with applesauce and coleslaw.

Scrumptious Italian fare is served at Sal's Coal Fired Pizza, situated conveniently on New Road. Sal's provides brick-oven favorites like the Italian pizza, comprised of hot capicola, sweet peppers, onion and fresh mozzarella, all coal-fired to perfection.

Nightlife choices in Somers Point primarily range from restaurant/bar hybrids to small dive bars. The Windjammer Diner Bar and Grill, located on MacArthur Boulevard, serves as an excellent example of the former with good food and an extensive drink menu. Live music venues can also be found in nearby Atlantic City.

Private-vehicle travel comprises the lion's share of travel done in Somers Point. New Jersey Transit provides two bus routes, the 507 and the 509, which connect Somers Point to surrounding Ocean City and Atlantic City. No public transportation options exist that connect Somers Point to Philadelphia.

Taxis stand ready from Fast Car Service, serving Somers Point and the surrounding area. These are primarily summoned by telephone since there are no venues large enough for standby. Parking meters on public streets stand as the primary source of public parking.

Somers Point has a couple of major roadways to choose from, such as the Garden State Parkway passing directly through the city. Multiple bridges lie to the south and connect Somers Point to Cape May County and Ocean City.

Somers Point's close proximity to the ocean provides many options for both bikers and walkers alike. Public roads are accompanied by sidewalks and bike lanes, making adventure through either of these two mediums safe and secure.

Somers Point, being so close to the beach, provides the perfect setting for outside fun and exercise. The John F. Kennedy Park, located on Broadway, overlooks the harbor and provides an excellent opportunity to picnic while looking at beautiful scenery. Exercise options abound as well, with a wide swath of beach available for this purpose. The Somers Point Good Old Days festival, held here every year, holds court with live music, children's activities and antique cars.

If you want your canine companion to experience the fun of sand and surf, the Longport Dog Beach, located on Ocean Drive, provides fee-free fun for you and your pooch. Here your dog can enjoy hours of fun with no leash or permit needed.

Life in Somers Point does come with a higher cost of living than the rest of the state by about 14 percent. The average cost to rent a one-bedroom apartment stands at approximately $834 per month, which makes it also around 14 percent higher than the rest of New Jersey.

Zones stand as the keystone of the prices charged by New Jersey Transit, with prices starting at $1.50 and reaching a height of $3.20. Gas prices in Somers Point compare with the rest of New Jersey exactly, while a pint of your favorite brew will run around $4 at a local pub.

Shopping exists relatively sparsely in Somers Point proper, with much of its land dedicated to marinas and residential neighborhoods. Chain stores litter the landscape, with a few larger stores found on New Road and Bethel Road. High-end stores can also be found in nearby Atlantic City.

Somers Point contains a few true gems tucked away just waiting to be found. Sherry's Closet, a thrift store found on Shore Road, is one such example, providing a space stuffed full of different bargains. Browse products originating primarily from estate sales, including clothing, books and women's apparel.

Little Luna Landing, also located on Shore Road, contains an eclectic mix of music, books and DVDs. Kristine Knowlton, a local published photographer and musician, makes it her goal to provide as many original books and albums as she can find.

Grocery shopping in Somers Point is limited to convenience and grocery chains, like ShopRite. If you want access to fresh bread, sandwiches and soup, Barefoot Market can be found right over the bridge in Ocean City. The Ocean City Farmers Market also makes its home in the same area.