Atlantic City, New Jersey, is a vibrant seaside destination that offers a diverse array of activities and attractions, making it an ideal vacation spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your visit.
The Atlantic City Boardwalk
The heart of Atlantic City’s charm is its historic boardwalk, which stretches for four miles along the Atlantic Ocean coastline and extends an additional 1.5 miles into neighboring Ventnor City. This iconic boardwalk, first built in 1870, is the longest in the world and offers a plethora of activities and attractions.
Walking and Biking: Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the boardwalk, taking in the stunning ocean views and accessing various hotels, casinos, and attractions[2][5].
Rolling Chairs: For a unique experience, take a ride in a rolling chair pushed by attendants, a tradition that dates back to the late 19th century[2].
Shopping and Dining: The boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and snack shacks. Be sure to visit Fralinger’s, the famous candy shop that has been making saltwater taffy since 1885[2].
Amusement and Entertainment
Steel Pier Amusement Park
Located on the boardwalk, Steel Pier is one of the most popular attractions in Atlantic City. This amusement park features 25 rides, including a Ferris wheel, double-decker carousel, and bumper cars. Don’t miss The Wheel, the third-largest observation wheel in the United States, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean[2][5].
Other Entertainment Options
Central Pier Arcade and Speedway: Engage in video and carnival games, and even race go-karts for some adrenaline-packed fun[2].
Lucky Snake Arcade and Sports Bar: Located inside the Showboat Hotel, this arcade boasts over 300 games and a go-kart race track[5].
North Beach Mini Golf & Bike Rentals: Enjoy an 18-hole miniature golf course with Atlantic City-themed obstacles and rent bikes or Surrey bikes for a family-friendly outing[4].
Historical and Educational Attractions
Absecon Lighthouse
At the North End of Atlantic City, the Absecon Lighthouse stands as the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and the third-tallest of its type in the U.S. Built in 1857, it still features the original first-order Fresnel lens. Guided tours are available to explore its rich history[1].
Atlantic City Historical Museum
Located on the Garden Pier, this museum offers a deep dive into Atlantic City’s past through photographs, memorabilia, and detailed timelines. It’s a great place to learn about the city’s history and cultural significance[2].
Civil Rights Garden
This inspiring garden, located at the back of the boardwalk, commemorates the struggle against slavery and features 11 black African granite columns with inscribed quotes from notable Americans. The garden is designed by Larry Kirkland and includes a brick path through a beautiful garden filled with seasonal plants and flowers[1].
Family-Friendly Activities
Atlantic City Aquarium
This aquarium is a hidden gem, especially for families. It features touch tanks with marine life such as horseshoe crabs, sea urchins, and stingrays. There are also live diver feeding shows and an observational lookout on the top floor offering panoramic views. The aquarium is small but packed with educational value and interactive experiences[1][3].
Beach Activities
Atlantic City’s beaches are free and open to all, offering a perfect spot for building sandcastles, swimming, or engaging in water sports like kayaking, surfing, and windsurfing[2][4].
Casinos and Shopping
Casinos
The boardwalk is home to several prominent casinos, including the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Borgata Hotel Casino, and Bally’s Atlantic City Casino. These casinos offer a range of gaming options, dining experiences, and entertainment venues[1][5].
Tanger Outlets Atlantic City
For shoppers, Tanger Outlets Atlantic City is an open-air mall featuring 109 stores, offering a wide range of products at discounted prices[1][2].
Special Events and Nightlife
Boardwalk Hall
This venue hosts various events, including sports matches, concerts, and the annual Miss America pageant. Don’t miss the 3-D Light Show, a nightly summer event where lights, colors, and images are projected onto the building’s facade to music[2][5].
Thunder Over the Boardwalk
Witness the annual aerial stunt show that takes place above the Atlantic City beaches, a thrilling event that is a must-see[2].
T Street
Located inside the Playground Mall, T Street is an oceanfront complex that includes a Texas Roadhouse, a dueling piano bar, and a Prohibition-era speakeasy, each offering live music performances[2].
Free Activities
Atlantic City Beaches: Enjoy the beaches without any fees, perfect for a day of relaxation or water activities[4].
Atlantic City Boardwalk: Walking the boardwalk is free and offers a wealth of sights and experiences[4].
Bass Pro Shops: Visit the 13,000-gallon freshwater fish tank and explore the murals depicting local wildlife[4].
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall Pipe Organ Tour and Recital: Experience the largest musical instrument in the world with guided tours and recitals[4].
Most Important Facts About Things to Do in Atlantic City
Atlantic City Boardwalk: A 4-mile-long historic boardwalk with various attractions, shops, and dining options.
Steel Pier Amusement Park: Features 25 rides, including The Wheel, a Ferris wheel with panoramic views.
Absecon Lighthouse: The tallest lighthouse in New Jersey, offering guided tours.
Atlantic City Aquarium: A family-friendly aquarium with touch tanks and live feeding shows.
Beach Activities: Free access to beaches for swimming, kayaking, surfing, and other water sports.
Casinos: Several prominent casinos along the boardwalk, including Hard Rock, Borgata, and Bally’s.
Tanger Outlets Atlantic City: An open-air mall with 109 stores offering discounted products.
Special Events: Annual events like the Miss America pageant, Thunder Over the Boardwalk, and free summer concerts.
Free Activities: Free access to beaches, the boardwalk, Bass Pro Shops fish tank, and Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall Pipe Organ tours.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, historical insights, or entertainment and nightlife, Atlantic City has something for everyone.
