You may be familiar with the water tower emblazoned with the name of this small historic town as you leave the Parkway at Exit 117. Most of us just hurry on by as we choose to follow Routes 35 or 36 to other places. But by taking the time to actually visit Keyport, you may be surprised to find a number of antique shops and eateries adjacent to a revitalized waterfront.
Organized as a town in 1870, Keyport was once famous for its oyster industry and a walk through town is a reminder of a rich maritime history. Since 2011, the municipal government and the Keyport Bayfront Business Cooperative have created a promenade on the water and encouraged new businesses and music venues.
Keyport is definitely worth a visit. If antiquing isn’t your thing, come for the music or the food. McDonagh’s Pub, the Keyport Fishery, and the award-winning Broad Street Diner won’t disappoint you.
The Monmouth Muse 