Atlantic City
Jersey shore's premier destination famous for its boardwalk, casinos, and entertainment venues. Known for lively nightlife, restaurants, beach access, and historic Boardwalk Hall with its iconic rolling chairs.
Things to do
- Boardwalk Stroll — Walk the 5.5-mile iconic wooden boardwalk lined with shops, arcades, and ocean views, featuring the famous rolling chairs for rent.
- Boardwalk Hall — Visit the 1930s historic venue with its distinctive domed roof, hosting concerts, shows, and serving as a symbol of Atlantic City's entertainment heritage.
- Casino Gaming — Experience world-class casinos like the Borgata, Ocean Casino Resort, and Golden Nugget offering slots, table games, poker rooms, and high-end entertainment.
- Atlantic City Beach — Enjoy the sandy shores and Atlantic Ocean swimming during summer months, with lifeguard protection and easy access from the Boardwalk.
- Absecon Lighthouse — Climb the 228 steps of New Jersey's tallest lighthouse, built in 1857, for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
- Steel Pier — Experience the historic amusement pier featuring rides, arcade games, and live entertainment with ocean views from the end of the structure.
Food to try
- Saltwater Taffy — This chewy candy made famous by Atlantic City's boardwalk vendors since the 1880s comes in countless flavors and is a quintessential souvenir.
- Boardwalk Fries — Crispy, hot french fries served in paper cones from iconic vendors along the Boardwalk, often topped with vinegar or cheese.
- Fresh Jersey Seafood — Enjoy locally caught flounder, crab, and clams prepared at waterfront restaurants like The Knife and Fork Inn or casual seafood shacks.
- Clam Chowder — New England-style clam chowder is a regional favorite found at many Atlantic City restaurants near the shore.
- Italian-American Cuisine — Savor hearty pasta dishes and Italian specialties reflecting Atlantic City's strong Italian-American heritage and community.
Local customs & good to know
- Rolling Chair Etiquette — The iconic rolling chairs are a Boardwalk tradition; negotiate prices with pushers beforehand and they're perfect for tired feet after long walks.
- Casual Gaming Culture — While casinos are upscale, Atlantic City embraces both high-roller and casual players; dress code varies by venue but beachwear on the Boardwalk is standard daytime attire.
- Off-Season Charm — Visit in fall or winter for fewer crowds, lower hotel rates, and a more authentic local experience, though some attractions have reduced hours.
- Historic Preservation Pride — Locals value the city's Roaring Twenties heritage and ongoing revitalization efforts; asking about neighborhood history at restaurants and shops reveals deep community connection to the past.
Nearby
- Cape May — 64 km
- Philadelphia — 91 km
- Ocean City — 128 km
- New York City — 154 km