23 Jersey Shore Places We Wish Would Come Back

Maybe it's the salty breeze coming off the bay, the familiar back roads, or those neighborhood places where everyone seemed to know your name.

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Long before new shopping centers and chain restaurants arrived, these local favorites helped shape our childhoods and family traditions in New Jersey.

I recently asked on Facebook a simple question: What Ocean County business, restaurant or attraction do you miss the most?

The response was overwhelming.

Hundreds of people from Toms River, Brick, Point Pleasant, Manahawkin, Bayville, Lacey, and beyond shared the places they wish they could visit just one more time. Reading through the comments felt like taking a trip back in time.

Many of the favorites that disappeared across Ocean County, and even throughout New Jersey, left behind memories that are impossible to replace.

Family Memories That Never Fade

For me, one place will always stand out above the rest: Ground Round.

My mom and dad absolutely loved going there. I can still picture the basket of peanuts on the table and hear one of them asking, "Want to go to the Ground Round tonight?"

The Magic of Funtown Pier

Another place that came up over and over again was Funtown Pier in Seaside Park.

Keep Reading: We Are Ranking Ocean County Beaches, Do You Agree?

If you grew up around Ocean County, chances are you have a story from that boardwalk.

Why These Places Still Matter Today

Ocean County has changed a lot over the years.

Some businesses closed as towns grew. Others disappeared after devastating storms or changing times. New neighborhoods and new stores continue to pop up, but there's something special about the places that helped define an era.

Did Your Favorite Make the List?

The businesses on this list may have closed their doors, but they clearly haven't left our hearts.