New Jersey is in the middle of it all, so it’s no surprise there were a lot of celebrities born in NJ over the decades. They range from talk show hosts to politicians and even some of the most famous musicians in the world. However, if there’s one celebrity born in NJ that might have made the biggest impact, it’s the eccentric actor Jack Nicholson. Over a half-century career, Nicholson played some of the most iconic villains and antiheroes in movie history, won two Academy Awards for Best Actor and one for Best Supporting Actor, and always kept audiences guessing just how much of himself he was putting into his often terrifying characters. Born in the small shore town of Neptune City, Nicholson is a true Jersey original – and you can take a walk in his footsteps.

For over half a century, Jack Nicholson was one of the most iconic movie stars around. He's retired now - but this Jersey original's career left a huge footprint!
Kingkongphoto/Wikipedia
He first came to Hollywood from New Jersey in 1950, and made an early name for himself in horror movies.
Roger Corman/Wikipedia
His most famous role might be Jack Torrance in the notorious Stanley Kubrick movie The Shining! He's also well known for his role as The Joker, and in acclaimed Oscar-winners like As Good as it Gets or One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.
Another Believer/Wikipedia
Nicholson was born in the town of Neptune City, NJ - a relaxing shore town in Central NJ with around 4,800 residents.
Mr. Matte/Wikipedia

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The best reason to come here is the gorgeous shore views, which can be enjoyed from Memorial Park.
Danielle King/Google Local
If you're in town, you'll definitely want to make a stop at Kelly's Pub - a 4th-generation restaurant with a unique atmosphere.
Scott Walker/Google Local
In addition to all the classic pub grub, make sure to try the shore specialties like the blackened fish sandwich.
Rima Samman/Google Local
There's no better way to enjoy a day in Neptune City than watching the sun go down off the pier. Did Nicholson see this sight as he grew up here? The odds are good!
Sarah Magazzo/Google Local

Have you visited Neptune City and explored the old grounds of an iconic celebrity born in NJ? Let us know about your visit in the comments section! It wouldn’t be a visit to Neptune City without a meal at Kelly’s Tavern, so make sure to stop by the official website to see what’s on the menu at this iconic Irish pub!

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Featured Addresses
Neptune City, NJ, USA
Kelly's Tavern, 43 NJ-35, Neptune City, NJ 07753, USA