NJShore Guide
🏖️

Historic Smithville

Free Beach

Charming Village by the Lake

Historic Smithville is a beloved destination that transforms a simple stagecoach stop from the 1700s into one of the Jersey Shore's most charming shopping and dining villages. Located in Galloway Township just 25 minutes from Atlantic City, this 60+ shop village offers a delightful escape from the casino lights with cobblestone pathways, a picturesque lake, and year-round events.

The village centers around Lake Meone, where visitors can rent paddle boats, take train rides around the property, or enjoy the antique carousel. The Historic Smithville Inn, dating to 1787, anchors the dining scene and was voted "Best Off-Shore Restaurant" by Atlantic City Magazine.

With 30+ free events throughout the year - from Oktoberfest and the Irish Festival to the Dickens Fest and Monster Bash - there's always a reason to visit. The free holiday light show on the water from Thanksgiving through early January is a Shore tradition that draws thousands.

charmingshoppingfamily-friendlyeventshistoric

What Makes Historic Smithville Special

Historic Shopping Village

Known for its charming and shopping atmosphere

Perfect For

shoppers, families, couples

Free Beach Access

No beach badge required - enjoy the sand for free!

Local Legend

The Historic Smithville Inn dates to 1787 when it was a simple stagecoach sto...

Where to Stay in Historic Smithville

🏡

Colonial Inn at Historic Smithville

B&B25 min to Atlantic City

$$

32 uniquely decorated rooms in the heart of the village. Walk to shops and restaurants. Package deals available for special events.

in-villageunique rooms
🏖️

Seaview Golf Resort

Resort20 min to Atlantic City

$$$

Nearby Marriott resort with two championship golf courses, spa, and fine dining. 10 minutes from Smithville.

golfspa
🏨

Atlantic City Hotels

HotelBeachfront options in AC

$$

Full range of hotels and casino resorts in Atlantic City, 25 minutes away. Combine a Smithville day trip with AC nightlife.

casinosentertainment

Compare prices across top booking sites for the best deals

Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more

Did You Know?

💡

Did You Know?

The Historic Smithville Inn dates to 1787 when it was a simple stagecoach stop - making it one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants at the Jersey Shore.

💡

Did You Know?

Fred and Ethel's Lantern Light Tavern is named after the founders who transformed Smithville from a forgotten village into the beloved destination it is today.

💡

Did You Know?

The free holiday light show on Lake Meone runs nightly from Thanksgiving through early January and features synchronized music and thousands of lights.

Beach Badge

FREE

Parking

Free

From NYC

2hr

Transit

Car only

Ad: 300x250

Don't Miss in Historic Smithville

Village Shops

Must See

60+ unique shops including A Tour of Italy (imported goods), Castle in the Air (antiques), Smithville Peanut Butter Co., and Trendie Treasures. Cobblestone pathways connect them all.

Historic Smithville Inn

Must See

Fine dining in a building dating to 1787. Voted "Best Off-Shore Restaurant" by Atlantic City Magazine. Colonial American cuisine with modern touches.

Lake Meone Paddle Boats

Must See

Rent paddle boats to explore the scenic lake at the heart of the village. $12 weekdays, $15 weekends. Great for families.

Holiday Light Show

Must See

Free nightly light show on Lake Meone from Thanksgiving through early January. Thousands of synchronized lights and music. A Shore tradition.

Also Worth Checking Out

Village Carousel & Train Antique carousel and train rides around the village property. Train rides $3 per person. Perfect for kids.
Fred and Ethel's Lantern Light Tavern Named after Smithville's founders. Bar and grill with indoor/outdoor seating, homemade French onion soup, and live weekend entertainment. 8 TVs for sports.

Where to Eat in Historic Smithville

See All 6 Restaurants

Historic Smithville Inn

americanfine dining
$$$

Try: Prime rib or seasonal specials

historic buildingfine dining

Fred and Ethel's Lantern Light Tavern

americanbar grill
$$

Try: Homemade French onion soup

live musicoutdoor seating

Smithville Bakery

cafeamerican
$

Try: Homemade doughnuts

fresh bakedbreakfast

Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more

Ad: 300x250

Getting to Historic Smithville

🚗 By Car

  • From NYC: 2hr
  • From Philadelphia: 1hr 10min
  • From Newark: 1hr 45min
Get Directions

Best Time to Visit Historic Smithville

Peak Season

June - August

Warmest weather, all attractions open, full beach services. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Off-Season Perks

  • Lower accommodation prices
  • Fewer crowds
  • Easier parking
  • More authentic local experience

Local Events

  • October:Oktoberfest
  • September:Irish Festival
  • October (Halloween):Monster Bash
  • November:Dickens Fest

Explore More

Nearby Towns to Explore