One apartment and one beachfront smoke shop at a time, Wildwood is gradually losing its old-fashioned appeal, but one man is clinging to the nostalgia and family charm that New Jersey’s boardwalks previously offered.
New Jersey’s Wildwood Boardwalk has long been associated with summertime enjoyment. Millions of tourists seeking the ideal coastal getaway have been drawn to this destination by its wide wooden planks, carnival attractions, neon signs, and well-known tram car.
But hidden away among the child rides, hot dog vendors, and saltwater taffy stores is a little-known gem that has subtly survived for decades: Fascination, an arcade unlike any other that has been painstakingly preserved by its owner, Randy Senna.
Fascination offers something unique these days for local and regional visitors, whether they are traveling from Philadelphia, North Jersey, New York, or even the Delaware Valley: a genuine throwback that is still functioning largely as it did in its prime.
What Exactly is Fascination?
You’re not alone if you’ve never heard of Fascination, but once you do, you could become enamored.
Fascination centers on a distinctive game that originated in the early 20th century, in contrast to conventional arcades that are crowded with flashing claw and ticket-spitting games.
Think of it as a hybrid of skee-ball, bingo, and pure luck. In front of glass-topped consoles, players are seated in a line of red-cushioned seats. A tiny rubber ball is rolled by each participant with the goal of letting it land in one of the holes on the board in front of them. The first person to get five lights in a row wins. Each hole illuminates a matching bulb.
It’s surprisingly addictive while being incredibly simple. As players compete side by side, observing each other’s boards and cheering and moaning with each ball drop, the tension increases. Fascination fosters a sense of exhilaration among players, in contrast to contemporary video games that isolate them behind screens. Every round makes friends, family, and even total strangers laugh and connect.
The Man Behind the Magic: Randy Senna
Randy Senna, who has devoted a significant portion of his life to conserving this unique piece of boardwalk history, is at the core of Fascination’s timeless appeal. Senna took over Fascination decades ago and has maintained it through unwavering enthusiasm and personal dedication. Senna grew up working on arcades along the Jersey Shore.
Randy is a living museum of the history of fun, not just an arcade operator. Many of the amazing vintage arcade machines in his personal collection are beautifully displayed throughout Fascination’s grounds. Here in Wildwood, he has given machines a fresh lease on life by rescuing them from closed arcades across the nation.
Entering Fascination is like entering a time capsule, complete with mechanical scoreboards, wood-paneled walls, old signs, and machinery that dates back to the 1940s and 1950s. But what really makes this facility unique is Senna’s love for the game and the memories it fosters, not the d cor.
Why Local and Regional Travelers Should Visit
It’s easy to take Wildwood for granted for those of us fortunate enough to live nearby. Families have been coming to Wildwood for centuries to enjoy the notoriously wide beaches, eat funnel cakes, ride the tram cars, and soak up the sun. Even the most seasoned Jersey Shore regular finds something new and invigorating in Fascination.
1.
A Rare, Living Slice of History
Originally found along boardwalks from Coney Island to Atlantic City, fascination arcades are now rare worldwide, with Wildwood’s Fascination being one of the best-preserved examples.
2.
Family-Friendly Fun
Fascination appeals to all ages, whether you’re going with friends, your children, or your grandchildren. The competition is amicable and the rules are straightforward. All you need is a few quarters, a little luck, and the desire to have fun—neither gaming expertise nor prior experience are required.
3.
Nostalgia and Tradition
Many guests are introducing their own children and grandkids to the game Fascination, which they played as youngsters. It’s one of the rare locations where generations may sit next to one other and enjoy the same activity, creating new memories and revisiting old ones.
4.
Perfect for Rainy Days or Evening Entertainment
Fascination is the perfect place to pass an hour or two if the weather goes bad or you need a respite from the sun. A pleasant break from the heat or the occasional summer downpour can be found in the cool, dimly lighted arcade.
Beyond Fascination: Making a Day (or Weekend) of It
Naturally, a visit to Wildwood wouldn’t be complete without taking advantage of all the other attractions the Boardwalk has to offer. Your visit to Fascination can easily be turned into a whole day:
-
Morey s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks
for thrilling rides and waterslides. -
The Boardwalk Tram Car
hop aboard for a scenic ride along the nearly 2-mile stretch of Boardwalk. -
Doo Wop Architecture Tour
explore the town s famous mid-century motels and neon signs. -
Classic Boardwalk Eats
try Curley s Fries, Kohr Bros frozen custard, and of course, some saltwater taffy.
