5 LGBTQ+ Shops & Boutiques in Asbury Park, NJ

Heaven Art and Antiques is an LGBTQ-owned shop in Asbury Park that doubles as an art gallery and community event space. It offers an eclectic mix of quality antiques, including small furniture, glassware, lamps, mirrors, Roseville pottery, vintage jewelry, vintage kitchenware, and collectibles. The space also hosts a variety of community events, making it more than just a store. You'll find everything from vintage kitchenware to unique gifts. The shop is located right off Main Street, making it easy to pop in while exploring downtown. For another local stop, check out Paranormal Books & Curiosities nearby.

Asbury Book Cooperative, formerly Words!, is a woman-owned independent bookstore that became an employee- and customer-owned cooperative in 2021 to compete with online retailers. It's a proud, community-focused space with a great selection of books. They host regular events with artists and authors, and late hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 9pm make it easy to stop by after dinner. Check their schedule for readings and signings.

Forget the typical beach shop. Paranormal Books & Curiosities is a one-of-a-kind spot in Asbury Park where you can browse the largest brick-and-mortar selection of paranormal books and gifts, from ghost hunting primers to cryptozoology research. Owner Kathy Kelly, a paranormal investigator with over twenty years of experience, opened the store in 2008 to bring enthusiasts together. It's also part museum and gallery, with exclusive paranormal art and exhibits on display. You can join ghost hunting classes or paranormal investigations here. Friday hours are limited (3-7pm), but Saturday and Sunday offer more time to explore. If you're looking for more local finds, swing by Asbury Book Cooperative, a nearby queer-friendly shop.

If you're looking for a smart modern design store with a playful edge, Fun House Downtown is your spot. The shop, co-owned by partners Scott and Gene, combines Scott's fashion industry experience in Europe with Gene's print business that has created fabric for Broadway costumes and the Rockettes. You'll find a curated selection of furniture from Gus Modern and Blu Dot, plus gifts like kitchen gadgets, quirky toys, and Asbury Park memorabilia. The vibe is clean and bright, with local artists featured prominently. Dog-friendly and open Wednesday through Sunday (closed Tuesdays), Fun House also has a satellite store on the Asbury Park boardwalk for more souvenirs. It's a great stop before heading to Paranormal Books & Curiosities, just down the street. The owners stock practical yet cool brands like Alessi, Joseph Joseph, and Jonathan Adler, making it easy to find something unique for your home or a friend.

Walking into PeterJames Floral Couture, you're greeted by high-fashion floral arrangements that blend artistry with elegance. Owner Peter James started this business in 2009 as part of Asbury Park's revitalization, and it has since served clients from a commercial space and a private studio at The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel. Now settled on Sunset Avenue, the shop creates exquisite arrangements for homes, offices, weddings, and special events. They also have a strong commitment to nonprofit work, regularly giving back to the local community. The shop is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pup while you browse. Hours are limited, especially on Saturday (11am-1pm), so plan ahead. If you're exploring other local spots, Paranormal Books & Curiosities is nearby for a unique shopping experience.