Things To Do in the Area
The population of Toms River swells during the summer months with tourists and part-time residents. But year-round, the city is the center of activities, including antique fairs; art exhibits; ethnic, music and ice cream festivals; a farmer’s market; chili cook-off; and wooden and in-water boat shows, among many other events spanning the calendar.
The annual Halloween parade alone attracts more than 100,000 visitors, making it the second-largest such parade in the world -- and it passes right by Mathis House, where guests can enjoy the procession of more than 6,000 costumed participants right from the expansive front porch.
Midway between New York and Philadelphia, and a short ride from Atlantic City, Toms River is located at Exit 82B off the Garden State Parkway. The house has had a prominent place in this lively city since 1898, and it continues to preside over a tree-shaded avenue filled with other historic homes.
Your trip to the Jersey Shore from the Inn will include crossing an area landmark known as the “Mathis Bridge”, which was dedicated to the original owner of 600 Main in 1950. The Bed & Breakfast offers luxury accommodations for Jersey Shore visitors while they make memories at the Jersey Shore that will last a lifetime.
For a detailed calendar of events including festivals, concerts, and family events, visit the Ocean County website for Tourism at www.OceanCountyTourism.com or call 1-800-ENJOY33 to receive a copy of Explore Ocean County-Travel Guide.
Antique Shopping
Visit a quaint antique shop with something for everyone! Been in business for over 54 years. Friendly staff and numerous dealers with revolving stock.
251 Main Street, Toms River, NJ 08753
Jersey Shore Beaches
Escape the Ordinary! The beach is a year-round destination for many of the visitors to the Ocean County area. The Inn is nestled in the quaint downtown of Toms River which is ten miles from many of Ocean County’s most beautiful beaches. The Inn provides complimentary chairs, towels, and a beach bag to guests planning a trip to area beaches such as Lavallette, Ortley and Sea Side.
The area beaches offer charming downtowns, boutiques, boating and fishing, and eclectic waterfront dining. Whether it’s warm or cool, you will find many activities for any lifestyle throughout the year at the Jersey Shore.
Wineries & Breweries
Pour it and they will come! In addition to receiving a complimentary glass of “Main Street” Cabernet at check-in, the Inn recommends adding the local wine and brewery tours to your stay.
Destinations to visit in the area:
Toms River Brewery
Bacchus Winery
Renault Winery
Laurita Winery
Downtown Toms River
The Historic Mathis House is nestled in the heart of Downtown Toms River.
The downtown is within walking distance to antique shops, various boutiques, outdoor bistros, museums, theaters and a waterfront restaurant that offers live entertainment.
The Downtown Improvement District offers visitors an annual calendar of events that includes a Farmers’ Market, trolley rides, Cruisin’ Downtown Antique Car Shows, Chili Festival, Harvest Festival, Shakespeare in the Park, and Summer in the Streets.
As you walk the downtown of Toms River you will discover the quaint Main Street living that America was built on. Enjoy the sunset from the Huddy Park on the Toms River or enjoy an evening cruise on the River Lady.
Maritime Memories
The Inn is a sailor’s retreat, as the original owner of the Inn was a Master Mariner that sailed around the world who later built his lifetime dream of the magnificent Mathis-Berry Mansion.
The Inn is centrally located to dozens of area marinas on the Jersey Coastline. While planning your sailing trip be sure to visit the Maritime Museums of Downtown Toms River, New Jersey Maritime Museum, and the Tuckerton Seaport.
The area's Maritime and Seaport Museums are designed to help visitors discover the Jersey Shore’s unique maritime heritage by preserving the contributions of the baymen that built our history.
For more information on planning the perfect sailor’s get-away, visit www.sparkexploreocean.com or email havefun@tomsriverseaport.org.
Ecotourism in Ocean County
Ocean County offers access to acres of natural recreational destinations that provide opportunities for outdoor adventures. The Inn is minutes away from Cattus Island, Island Beach State Park, and Viking Village.
Whether your vacation includes hiking, kayaking, biking, birding, or finding cultural treasures by planning lighthouse & historic landmark tours, the location of the Inn is perfect for your trip. For resources to explore the Ocean County Ecotourism on the Go, visit www.nature.org, www.lighthousecenternj.org, or www.visitnj.org to enjoy a unique vacation experience.
Traveling to America
In addition to these local activities, the location of the Inn is central for the North East Region of America, for visitors traveling abroad. The Inn is within a one and a half hour (or less) driving distance to major tourist attractions such as New York City, Philadelphia, Atlantic City, and Princeton.
Contact your travel agent today to plan your trip to America while enjoying a five-star Bed & Breakfast located in the Garden State of New Jersey. To book your extended stay of five days or more, please email the Innkeeper for special rates and availability.
101 Things To Do in Ocean County, NJ
Wednesday to Sunday Seating Times starting at 11 AM
732-818-7580
600 Main Street
Toms River, NJ 08753
vweiss@mathishouse600main.com