There are many ways to define the word "strange." Synonyms include unusual, peculiar and unexpected. Strange can be a good thing and, oftentimes, I think it is. New Jersey is home to some pretty strange towns, like Asbury Park. While certainly a strong contender for this particular article, I've given the town plenty of attention in the past. Recently voted among the best vacation destinations in the world, you can learn more about Asbury Park by clicking here. We do have a few other towns that offer the unexpected, however. Margate City is one.
First, and most famously, there's Lucy The Elephant.
At six stories (65 feet) high and 90 tons, Lucy is the largest elephant in the world. She was built in 1881 as part of a real estate promotion. Over the years, Lucy has served as a restaurant, office, guest cottage and tavern (closed by Prohibition). A New Jersey icon, she is easily recognized by fans all over the world. Lucy has been featured on the Travel Channel and in the 2015 movie, Vacation. Visiting the grounds is free and guided tours of the inside are offered for a reasonable fee. You can climb to the top for incredible ocean views. You can climb up her leg, through her tummy and even look out her eye while enjoying historic artifacts along the way.
The giant elephant isn't the only oversized attraction in Margate City.
The town is also home to a giant food truck, which isn't really a food truck at all. It does look like one, though, and it's awesome. Located at 7903 Ventnor Avenue, the eatery offers a creative mix of American and Latin cuisines. You'll find everything from burgers to empanadas, with unique dishes like bacon cheeseburger burrito. If you're up for something spicy, go for the Hot Mama (a burger with hot sauce, jalepenos, pepper jack cheese and guacamole). The tacos al pastor is another favorite.
And then, there's Marven Gardens.
This historic Margate City neighborhood was the inspiration behind Marvin Gardens in the boardgame, Monopoly. It is the only property on the board that is not located within Atlantic City. The misspelling of "Marven" was unintentional and Parker Brothers has apologized for the mix-up. You may also recognize the name from 1972 Jack Nicholson film, The King of Marvin Gardens. The film is mostly set in AC and gives a nod to Marven Gardens. For a while, the neighborhood fell into disrepair, but many of the homes have now been restored to their former glory.
Last, but not least, there's a log cabin in the middle of the town.
It doesn't quite fit in with the rest of the town's architecture and seems a little out of place, bit it's been a community staple since 1935. Made with local lumber brought in from the Pine Barrens, it was originally established by the fire department as a secondary meeting place. It was opened up to the public for a time but is once again members only. It's one of the few standalone private clubs left in the state not affiliated with an international organization. Want in? You need to be asked to join by another member, but there are plenty of events made available to everyone. There are holiday parties, concerts, benefits and more.
In addition to these "strange" attractions, Margate City has beautiful beaches and iconic eateries like Steve & Cookies By The Bay. It's definitely worth a visit and in close proximity to major shore destinations including Atlantic City and Ocean City. To discover another charmingly quirky town in New Jersey, check out this article.
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