I love spreading the good news, especially when it comes to where we live.

Photo by Benjamin Basch on Unsplash
Photo by Benjamin Basch on Unsplash
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Listen to Matt Ryan weekday afternoons on 94.3 The Point and download our free 94.3 The Point app.

This Jersey Shore town often gets bad press for no good reason. As a matter of fact, I told you that this town was named one of the 50 worst places to live in America.

Does this town have troubled areas? Yes. Was this town on the brink of burning down decades ago? Yes. That just makes its comeback story oh so sweet.

Photo by Harrison Kugler on Unsplash
Photo by Harrison Kugler on Unsplash
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I'm happy to announce that Asbury Park has been named one of 'America's Most Charming' towns by travelmag.com.

Am I a little biased toward Asbury Park? Possibly. It is our second home as we broadcast live from the New Jersey Natural Gas Asbury Park Boardwalk Studio all summer long.

But that's just the beginning of Asbury's awesomeness. When you walk the boardwalk you can see and feel the history. There are times when you are on a boardwalk that you want the bright flashing lights and rides. In Asbury Park, you get a very chill and relaxed experience.

Convention Hall is iconic.

Photo by Keith Luke on Unsplash
Photo by Keith Luke on Unsplash
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Off of the boardwalk, there are legendary music venues like The Stone Pony, Wonder Bar, and House of Independents.

Stroll down Cookman Avenue, and you'll have a hard time choosing which restaurant to sit down at.

Here's why travelmag.com thought Asbury Park deserved this honor.

Jersey Shore has today gotten itself a bit of a sleazy reputation, but few people realize that it is made up of 140 miles of direct coastline with plenty of diversity. For example, Asbury Park retains the traditional charm of the 1930s Jersey Shore, such as the boardwalks, arcades, and water parks. Although not immune to The Shore’s post-war decline, Asbury Park has managed to pull off the phoenix from the flames trick more than once. First, the city became a music hub, where locals like Bruce Springsteen got his start on the stages of venues like the Stone Pony and Asbury Lanes. The Garden State Film Festival brings filmmakers to Asbury Park every year, while the LGBTQ+ world enjoys a welcoming community and vibrant nightlife scene here too.

What other towns at the Jersey Shore you do find charming? Do you agree with Asbury Park getting this distinction? Connect with me at Matt.Ryan@townsquaremedia.com.

Asbury Park is just one of the many phenomenal towns in the Garden State. LOOK: These are the 25 Best Places To Live in New Jersey

Stacker compiled a list of the best places to live in New Jersey using data from Niche. Niche ranks places to live based on a variety of factors including cost of living, schools, health care, recreation, and weather. Cities, suburbs, and towns were included. Listings and images are from realtor.com.

On the list, there's a robust mix of offerings from great schools and nightlife to high walkability and public parks. Some areas have enjoyed rapid growth thanks to new businesses moving to the area, while others offer glimpses into area history with well-preserved architecture and museums. Keep reading to see if your hometown made the list.

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