There are several distinct neighborhoods and areas in the City of Long Branch, each with its own character, strengths. Among these are North End (once known as "Atlanticville"), Branchport, Beachfront North and South (including the tony Pier Village, adjacent to the site of the former Long Branch Pier at the foot of Laird Street), Downtown, Uptown, West End and Elberon. As the city's now famous redevelopment initiatives continue to grow in scope and renown, the lower Broadway area (a portion of the city's Downtown) will become an Arts District. One of the first successes of the art district has been the Shore Institute for Contemporary Art on Broadway and Third Avenue.

In years past, Long Branch was a major destination for beachgoers and enjoyed an upscale connotation with tourists. Long Branch is home to Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, named for the United States presidents who visited the fashionable resort town, including Ulysses S. Grant, Chester A. Arthur, Rutherford Hayes, Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, Woodrow Wilson and James Garfield.[Monmouth County]

Long Branch's previous fame as the Nation's First Seaside Resort was waning in the years following World War II.[Asbury Park Press] The defining moment marking the end of this era occurred on June 8, 1987 when the largest fire in the history of the city destroyed the landmark amusement pier and adjoining Haunted Mansion, "Kid's World" Amusement Park and other businesses.