College students from New Jersey are often asked the one question they dread the most: "Where are you from?" You hesitate for a moment because you are unsure of how to handle the situation this time. "Central Jersey," you reply. The room is filled with laughter and yet again, you are unsure of what exactly it was that you said wrong. "Central Jersey doesn't exist," they claim. "No, seriously, though. North or South Jersey?" Confused, you reply with "North, I guess?" You're unsure and maybe even a little embarrassed at this point.

All true New Jerseyans know that central Jersey does, in fact, exist. The area is filled with the best restaurants, sights, and attractions that always seem to be jam-packed with interested tourists. Here are the top five best places to visit when visiting central New Jersey.

Asbury Park boardwalk

Over the past couple of years, the Asbury Park boardwalk has become increasingly popular. The boardwalk contains many boutiques and shops that hold beautiful articles of clothing, bathing suits, beach toys, and even Asbury Park related trinkets. There are many incredibly delicious restaurants on the boardwalk or within a five-minute walk. The Asbury Park beach is one of the best places to spend your time during the day. The beach bar is located right off of the boardwalk and many beachgoers are allowed into a specific, enclosed area of the beach where the bar is located and you can drink your drink in a special beach chair.

Playa Bowls

Playa Bowls has recently expanded all over New Jersey, but there are many great locations in central New Jersey—especially right off the beach. Playa Bowls is a grab-and-go restaurant where you can order items such as açai bowls, organic smoothies, fresh juices, and at certain locations, even coffee. The restaurant has many different options as far as bowls and fruits to add. They are always willing to work with you if you want to make a substitution. Their food is delicious, refreshing, and even extremely healthy!

Coney Waffle

Coney Waffle is one of the best and most well-rounded ice cream shops in central New Jersey. They have everything from your typical ice cream cone to ice cream waffle sandwiches. Of course, they also have extremely delicious and insanely decorated edible specialty milkshakes. Their shop is so one-of-a-kind that it attracts large crowds of intrigued individuals who are dying to try their ice cream masterpieces!

Pier Village

Pier Village is one of the best locations to visit in the summertime at the Jersey Shore. Located right next to the boardwalk, there is an array of different shops and restaurants. They are known for having some of the best clothing stores and boutiques. After a long day at the beach, many beachgoers go straight to these shops for dinner and some shopping.

WindMill of Belmar

The WindMill is one of the best fast food places to visit when in central Jersey. They are known for their classic cheese fries and also have some of the best hot dogs and hamburgers in the state. This location is known for their late-night crowd and for the actual windmill, featured on the buildings of their other locations.