Home to the country’s largest concentration of mid-century commercial architecture, the Wildwoods, New Jersey is known as the Doo Wop capital of the world. With its fabulous fifties vibe and vibrant Doo Wop culture, the Wildwoods is truly one of the most unique places to visit.
But first…what is Doo Wop culture?
“Doo Wop” is a term used to describe rock and roll music that was popular in the 1950s and 60s. Later in the early 1990s, the term was also used to describe the unique, space-age architectural style that was common in this era. The architecture blended modern angles, bright colors, boomerang-like shapes, plastic palm trees, and angular roof styles. It is one of the most distinctive styles of architecture in the country.
“Doo Wop” style architecture
What makes the Wildwoods the Doo Wop capital of the world is its large concentration of hotels and buildings with this particular decor and style. They originally were built in the 1950s and 1960s when the spirit of the nation was reflected in the architectural style called “doo wop.”
The Doo Wop style is largely associated with large plastic palm trees, kidney-shaped pools, angled roofs, wrought-iron balconies, vibrant colors, and fanciful names that all gave way to this iconic time in American history.
Ther are different designated groups of Doo Wop architecture that include the following:
- Modern: This was popular for its angular roof style that conjures up the jet-age airports of the 1950s and 1960s
- Vroom: A style shown in angular and pointed building elements.
- Chinatown Revival: A style that pulls upon the interest and fascination of foreign travel, particularly to the Orient.
- Phony Colonee: Architectural style that reflects Colonial America with red brick facades, cupolas, or turret crowned roofs.
- Tiki/Polynesian: This style is best known for incorporating plastic palm trees and tiki heads.
A fantastic representation of the Tiki/Polynesian style of Doo Wop architecture is the Ala Kai Motel. Built in 1963, the Ala Kai Motel is an iconic representation of the Doo Wop culture that makes the Wildwoods so unique. The motel is located at 8301 Atlantic Avenue.
Formed in 1996, the Doo Wop Preservation League works to ensure that the 220+ 1950s buildings are well-preserved and still carry on the “doo wop” culture that the Wildwoods are known for.
Learn about the Doo Wop history
Visit The Wildwoods’ Doo Wop Experience Museum to learn more about the architecture, design, music, and pop culture that made Wildwoods so popular. See unique artifacts, fun photos, and bright neon lights for the ultimate Doo Wop experience. Located at 450 Ocean Avenue in Wildwood, the museum is free to explore (donations are accepted) and open seasonally from April to October.
In the summer, the museum hosts a Doo Wop bus tour that runs every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings. Visitors will enjoy a guided tour of the unique architecture and places that make the Wildwoods the Doo Wop capital of the world.
The “Neon Garden” shines brightly
When visiting the museum be sure to also stop at the “neon garden” that exhibits restored neon signs that were rescued from old Wildwood landmarks who weren’t so lucky. The best time to visit is at night when the entire area glows brightly with all its Doo Wop style.
Icon Wall Murals
Located throughout Wildwoods, the Icon Wall murals were created to highlight and commemorate those who have significantly contributed to the area’s colorful history. The murals are located in select public spaces for all to view. The murals feature icons such as Bobby Rydell and Chubby Checker.
The Chubby Checker mural was created to commemorate the 55th anniversary of his hit song and dance ‘The Twist.’ The song was first performed in the Wildwoods at the Rainbow Club – located a block from where the memorialized mural is located on Pacific Avenue.
Stay at Ala Kai Motel
Experience the Doo Wop culture first hand with a stay at the Ala Kai Motel. Our retro motel captures the spirit of the 1950s culture with updated and modern rooms for today’s travelers. Conveniently located in the center of beautiful Wildwood Crest, New Jersey, our beach block property provides you and your family with the best budget-friendly accommodations for your vacation.
Booking now for the 2022 season, find your Jersey Shore escape with the Ala Kai Motel!
