It's summertime. Wildwood is ready for you.

Honestly, for me, nothing says summer like the Wildwood boardwalk.

Wildwood
Wildwood
loading...

The smells of funnel cakes, pizza, and fries fill the air.

The sounds of the seagulls, midway games, and "Watch the Tram Car" have created a continuity with Wildwood that has lasted for decades.

Wildwood Tram Car
WildwoodsNJ.com press room
loading...

When my son had friends visiting from California, Wildwood topped the list of "must-sees" while on the East Coast.

If you've never been, you owe it to yourself even for a day trip.

There's the high-end fancy part in Wildwood Crest and Diamond Beach, then there's the raw Jersey Central and Northern end of the 2.5-mile-long boardwalk.

It's great, it's like a slice out of the '50s.

If you are a ride person, you can get the thrills of fast motion and free-falling sensations that compare with the best of the best parks around the country.

Here are the top 5 rides:

The Sea Serpent

The SkyCoaster

Dante's Dungeon

Shotgun Falls

The Great Nor'easter

The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Bill Spadea. Any opinions expressed are Bill's own. Bill Spadea is on the air weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m., talkin’ Jersey, taking your calls at 1-800-283-1015.

Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.

LOOK: 31 breathtaking images from NASA's public library

In 2017, NASA opened the digital doors to its image and video library website, allowing the public to access more than 140,000 images, videos, and audio files. The collection provides unprecedented views of space. Stacker reviewed the collection to select 31 of the most breathtaking images, including the first from the James Webb Space Telescope. Keep reading to see these stunning images, curated with further information about the captured scenes.

15 sensational places to visit in Seaside Heights and Seaside Park

From amusement rides to all the boardwalk food and lots of water fun, Seaside Heights and neighboring Seaside Park have endured as a family friendly spot for all ages.

Along the way, the Seaside Heights Boardwalk and Casino Pier have been struck with tragic disasters - such as fire, Superstorm Sandy and another fire. Both have proven their resiliency through rebuilding and expansion.

More From New Jersey 101.5 FM