Monmouth County Tourism Revenue Soars to $32M Record as Season Grows Beyond Summer

Tourism income in Monmouth County hit $32 million this year, setting new marks as plans take shape to pull in visitors year-round. Officials shared the results at an autumn tourism meeting held recently at the Molly Pitcher Inn.

"We have hit the shoulder season, and we're going to continue to make the shoulder season probably as vital as the actual tourism season, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, because, quite frankly, businesses cannot survive on three months," said Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas Arnone, according to Two River Times.

New off-season activities aim to keep visitors coming when temperatures drop. Food lovers can now find 300-plus pizza spots in a fresh "Slice in Monmouth" guide. Families seeking autumn fun can check out local farms for mazes, rides, and pumpkin picking.

Drink makers are making their mark too, with 30 spots to sample local beer, wine, spirits, and mead. "This is not a fad. Craft brews are here to stay," said Adam Rechnitz, who runs Triumph Restaurant & Brewery.

Netflix picked Fort Monmouth for its new studios, bringing fresh money to local shops. Workers will move old military monuments this week, with a special ceremony planned soon.

Music fills the air as officials team up with Count Basie Center to bring shows to Freehold parks. Big plans are brewing for America's 250th birthday in 2026: think town parties, a 5K at Bell Works, and a fancy June party.

When soccer's World Cup hits New York-New Jersey in 2026, experts say it'll bring $3 billion and a million fans to the area. The matches should pack local hotels and restaurants.

Want to shop local? Check out "Made in Monmouth" on Dec. 13 at Brookdale College. Or grab a beer at Red Bank's Oktoberfest this weekend, right after Freehold's own beer fest wrapped up.