The Wildwoods have always been the Shore’s loud, neon, unapologetically fun alternative to the quieter beach towns. As a teen in the 1980s, it was our summer go to and prom night weekend adventure.
And this summer, they’re getting quite an upgrade.
New boardwalk. Refurbished rides. A rooftop hotel. A Doo Wop Wawa. (Yes, really.)
Here’s what’s actually happening down there in 2026.
The Boardwalk Itself Is Being Rebuilt
Not patched. Not touched up. Rebuilt.
North Wildwood is in the middle of a full-scale reconstruction between 24th and 26th Avenues — new base support, fresh timber decking, updated signage, railings, lighting, and ADA-accessible ramps. The target for completion is this month.
The Wildwood section of the boardwalk is also mid-renovation, replacing old boards and tram car tracks in phases timed to open before the summer crowds hit.
It’s been a long time coming. The boardwalk is the whole point down there, and this version should hold up a lot better than the last one.
Morey’s Piers Is Upgrading Its Two Biggest Draws
Morey’s Piers opens for the season on May 1–3, and two iconic rides are coming back better than before.
- The Giant Wheel — 156 feet tall, one of the largest Ferris wheels on the East Coast — is getting all 40 gondolas refurbished for a smoother ride. The views from the top are already absurd. Now you’ll actually be comfortable enjoying them.
- The Great White roller coaster is getting a mechanical overhaul too, with upgrades that promise a faster, smoother experience. If you haven’t ridden it in a few years, it’s worth another shot.
A Rooftop Hotel Is Opening on the Boardwalk This Summer
This is new. The Wild Resort is a 75-room boutique hotel opening at Glenwood Avenue and the Boardwalk — five stories, fitness center, boardwalk-level gift shop, and a rooftop pool and bar with panoramic views of the beach, the boardwalk, and the ocean.
It’s a different vibe than the classic Wildwoods motel — more polished, aimed at people who want a comfortable base without leaving the island. The rooftop situation alone is going to be a draw.
The Food Scene Keeps Growing
The Wildwoods have quietly been building a real dining scene over the past few years, and 2026 adds over 20 new places to eat!
A few of the new spots include Cavu BYOB, DeAngelis Culinary, Effie’s Buttercup Cafe, Crest Coffee Company, and Antney’s Grub, among others. One existing restaurant is also getting a full overhaul — multi-level renovation, large outdoor courtyard, rooftop dining deck.
It’s not all funnel cake and Kohr Brothers anymore.
There’s a Doo Wop Wawa Coming and It Makes Complete Sense
A new Wawa is under construction in the Wildwoods — designed to honor the town’s iconic Doo Wop mid-century architecture. Neon, retro flair, 24-hour coffee and hoagies.
This is exactly the kind of thing the Wildwoods do well: lean into the nostalgia, make it fun, and somehow make a Wawa feel like a destination.
Quick Tips Before You Go
- Opening weekend for Morey’s Piers: May 1–3 — good time to beat the summer crowds
- Parking: Free on the beach in Wildwood — yes, actually free
- Best season: Memorial Day through Labor Day for full boardwalk energy; shoulder season (May, September) for a calmer trip
- Stay: The Wild Resort is the new option on the boardwalk; classic Doo Wop motels are still the most fun if you want the full experience
The Wildwoods have always had the best boardwalk energy on the Shore. This summer, they’ve got the infrastructure to back it up.
