Truth be told, the Garden State is a hub for both local and visiting stars alike. These celebrities visit the hottest and trendiest hotspots in New Jersey – from the galleries and upscale event spaces of Hoboken to the lively and vibrant music scene of Asbury Park and the electrifying sports games in Newark and even some bonus spots like the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City, Red Bank, and even Princeton. We will take you on a journey through New Jersey’s hippest spots where you might be able to mingle with the who’s who of music, movies, TV, and beyond. Here, then, is your guide to spotting your favorite celebrity haunts in New Jersey.

The star-studded waterfront of Hoboken
Hoboken is known for its picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline and its bustling streets, and it has become a magnet for celebrities (and celebrity look-alikes as well!). This mile-square city offers plenty of opportunities to cross paths with the stars, especially in these notable locations:
Carlo’s Bakery
Address: 95 Washington Street
Opening hours: 8am to 8:30pm (Monday to Thursday); 8am to 9:30pm (Friday to Sunday)
Carlo’s Bakery is a veritable institution in Hoboken, and it was made famous by the hit TV show Cake Boss. Today, Carlo’s Bakery is a must-visit for fans of Buddy Valastro, who is a celebrity in his own right. What’s more, the bakery attracts not only fans but also fellow celebrities who stop by for its delectable pastries and cakes. Don’t be surprised if you spot a Food Network or TLC star or two grabbing a box of delicious cannoli!
Pier A Park
Address: 100 Sinatra Drive
Opening hours: All day, but the best time to visit is at sunrise or sunset
Known for its breathtaking views of the Hudson River, Pier A Park is a favorite spot for actors, musicians, and athletes. If the park looks familiar, you might well have seen it before – it often serves as a backdrop for film shoots, TV shows, and various promotional events. Who knows, you might even see stars jogging along the waterfront or enjoying a quiet moment on the grass.
Hudson Table
Address: 1403 Clinton Street
Opening hours: Depending on the scheduled cooking classes and events
Hudson Table is an upscale cooking school and event space which has proven to be a hotspot for celebrity chefs and food enthusiasts. Whether you are attending a cooking class or hosting a private event, it’s a great place to encounter food-world celebrities and influencers – it also hosts live chef competitions, so if you’re a foodie and would love to see a celebrity chef, come on down to Hudson Table and make your culinary dreams come true.
Asbury Park: the home of music and more
Asbury Park is synonymous with music and culture, and it has an unmistakable vibe – this makes it a prime destination for spotting musicians, actors, and other creative souls. It not only has some of the most iconic venues in New Jersey – it also has some of the trendiest eateries in the Garden State frequented by famous people and the general public alike. Here are the best places to catch a glimpse of your favorite stars:
The Stone Pony
Address: 913 Ocean Avenue
Opening hours: Noon until the wee hours!
This legendary music venue has played host to countless stars and music legends since 1974, including Bruce Springsteen, Steve Van Zandt, and Jon Bon Jovi. Whether they’re performing on stage or enjoying a night out, The Stone Pony is the perfect spot for music lovers (i.e., you) hoping to see their idols. It’s also got a whole lot of concerts every week, so even if you don’t see the musical greats, you are guaranteed to be fully entertained.

The Asbury Hotel
Address: 210 5th Avenue
Opening hours: The rooftop bar stays open ‘till late at night
A chic boutique hotel that’s popular with celebrities visiting the area and steeped in music history, The Asbury Hotel often hosts events, rooftop parties, and live music performances. Even today, its rooftop bar, Salvation, offers a prime setting for mingling with notable guests. Of course, you can also choose to stay for the night – it promises the most pleasant stay in its tastefully-appointed Scandinavian-inspired rooms.
Convention Hall and Paramount Theatre
Address: 1300 Ocean Avenue
Opening hours: Depends on scheduled performances
These historic venues – both the Paramount Theatre and the adjacent Convention Hall - regularly attract big names for concerts, film screenings, and special events. Stars such as Patti Smith and Jack Antonoff have been known to frequent these locations, especially during festivals and charity events. Both locations have achieved prominence because of their cultural and historical significance, and are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Newark: A perfect spot for sports, entertainment, and so much more
Newark is home to world-class sports arenas, theaters, and cultural landmarks – and this also makes it a hotspot for celebrity sightings! It doesn’t matter if you’re attending a game or exploring the city – we’ve come up with the best places where you might have a chance to rub shoulders with the stars in Newark:
Prudential Center
Address: 25 Lafayette Street
Opening hours: 9am to 5pm; also check the events schedule
As the home of the NHL’s New Jersey Devils and host to numerous concerts and events (including the famous Monster Jam!), the Prudential Center is a guaranteed spot for celebrity sightings. Athletes, musicians, and actors are known to attend games and performances here, and you might even get a glimpse of a famous face sitting courtside or in the VIP section.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
Address: 1 Center Street
Opening hours: 9am to 5pm (Monday to Friday); also check the events schedule
NJPAC is a cultural hub that attracts high-profile artists and performers from around the world. From Broadway stars and Hollywood legends like Meryl Streep to renowned musicians like The Stylistics, the center’s events are often graced by celebrity attendees. Check the event calendar for shows featuring big names – this early 2025 alone has a lineup that includes comedians like Dane Cook and iconic bands like Chicago.
Jersey Shore: loads of sun, sand, and stars
The Jersey Shore has long been a playground for celebrities and those who would like to experience the beachy lifestyle, especially during the summer months. With its stunning beaches, lively boardwalks, and exclusive beach clubs, it’s no wonder stars flock here! Here are some top locations to spot them:
Atlantic City
Address: The most notable address for Atlantic City is all along the Boardwalk
Opening hours: All day, every day!
Known as the "Las Vegas of the East Coast," Atlantic City is actually a part of the Jersey Shore and is on Absecon Island in South Jersey. Needless to say, it is a hotbed for celebrity sightings! From high-profile shows and concerts at Boardwalk Hall to poker stars at the city’s casinos, there are countless opportunities to encounter celebrities in Atlantic City. Additionally, look out for celebrity chefs hosting events at casino restaurants or performers headlining at venues like the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Bally’s Atlantic City, Caesars Atlantic City, and more. Don’t forget to visit the Absecon Lighthouse (NJ’s tallest lighthouse) as well as the Steel Pier Amusement Park.
Seaside Heights
Address: A borough along the Jersey Shore on Ocean County, along the Barnegat Peninsula
Opening hours: As long as there is a party, the fun never stops!
If you’ve ever seen reality TV at its finest – especially the legendary Jersey Shore series – then you know precisely what we’re talking about! Made famous by the reality show Jersey Shore, Seaside Heights remains a popular destination for reality TV stars and social media influencers. The boardwalk’s vibrant atmosphere and classic attractions make it a magnet for celebrities and those seeking a nostalgic experience.
Pier Village
Address: 50 Chelsea Avenue
Opening hours: Restaurants and shops are open from 9am to 6pm
This upscale waterfront destination is a favorite among celebrities for its boutique shops, luxury hotels, and gourmet restaurants. Stars visiting Long Branch often dine at venues like Avenue Long Branch or enjoy the serene beaches nearby.
Beyond the usual: the hidden gems of New Jersey
New Jersey’s celebrity scene isn’t limited to well-known hotspots. Many more stars frequent less obvious locations ranging from quiet suburbs to charming small towns. Here are a few hidden gems where you might encounter a famous face:
Red Bank
This artsy town is home to the Count Basie Center for the Arts, a venue that regularly hosts performances by A-list entertainers such as Ariana Grande, Kevin Smith (also a beloved New Jersey native), The Beach Boys, and more. Red Bank’s charming streets, boutique shops, and trendy restaurants also attract celebrities like Bruce Springsteen and Tracy Morgan looking for a low-key outing.
Montclair
Montclair is well-known for its vibrant arts scene and proximity to New York City – and the best part about it is that Montclair is a haven for actors, writers, and musicians, especially those who want to live near New York but still want the feel of suburbia. Also, the Montclair Film Festival often draws big names, and stars like Stephen Colbert have been spotted attending local events.
Princeton
Home to the prestigious Princeton University, this historic town attracts academics, authors, and celebrities alike. The McCarter Theatre Center is also a popular venue for world-class performances, often featuring or attended by notable figures in the Garden State and beyond.
Tips for spotting celebrities in New Jersey (or any other place)
If you’re eager to spot a celebrity, here are a few tips to increase your chances:
- Check event schedules: Keep an eye on schedules for concerts, sports games, and festivals in cities like Newark, Asbury Park, and Atlantic City.
- Follow social media: Many celebrities post about their travels and favorite hangout spots in platforms like Instagram and TikTok. You can follow local hotspots and venues to stay updated!
- Visit during events: Major events like games at the Prudential Center or shows at The Stone Pony often draw celebrities.
- Stay respectful: If you do spot a celebrity, remember to respect their privacy and avoid interrupting their personal time – they’ll appreciate you more for being respectful.
From the bustling and busy streets of Hoboken to the lively music scene in Asbury Park, there are countless opportunities for you to see your favorite celebrities in New Jersey. Regardless if you’re a fan of music, sports, acting, or even fine dining, the Garden State has something for everyone looking to hobnob with the famous (and infamous!). So what are you waiting for? Grab your camera or smartphone, keep your eyes peeled and your ears and nose to the ground, and you might just have a brush with fame.