Things To Do
in Atlantic City
Atlantic City, United States (coordinates: 39.3797, -74.4527) is a storied seaside resort on New Jersey's Atlantic Coast, renowned for its iconic boardwalk, historic hotels, and vibrant entertainment scene. The city blends nostalgic Deco era glamour with modern casinos, live music venues, and a busy waterfront skyline. Visitors come for the beaches, boardwalk attractions, and a mix of culture, dining, and shopping along the promenade.
The surrounding marina, Absecon Island's marshes, and nearby Pine Barrens offer a contrast of urban energy and natural scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café before heading to the Atlantic City Historical Museum to learn about the city's rich past. Stroll along the iconic Boardwalk, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant area. Don't forget to stop by the Absecon Lighthouse for a climb to the top, offering stunning views of the coastline.
After lunch at a seaside restaurant, explore the shops and boutiques along Atlantic Avenue, where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts. Visit the Steel Pier amusement park for some thrilling rides and games, perfect for all ages. As the sun begins to lower, take a scenic walk along the beach, enjoying the ocean breeze and the sound of the waves.
In the evening, dine at one of the city's renowned seafood restaurants, where you can indulge in fresh catch of the day. After dinner, head to a live show or concert at the Boardwalk Hall, experiencing the local entertainment scene. Cap off the night with a relaxing stroll on the beach, watching the moonlight dance on the water.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the beach for a morning of sun and sand. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastal waters, enjoying the beautiful scenery and maybe spotting some local wildlife. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at jet skiing for an exhilarating ride on the waves.
After working up an appetite, grab lunch at a beachside café and refuel for the afternoon's activities. Spend the rest of the day lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, or playing beach volleyball with new friends. For a more relaxing option, consider a beach chair rental where you can read or take a nap with the sound of the ocean in the background.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beach bonfire or a sunset picnic with friends or family. Grab dinner at a beachfront restaurant, savoring local cuisine with an ocean view. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the Boardwalk, where you can enjoy the vibrant nightlife and live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic boardwalk and casinos with varied entertainment
- Strong dining scene including seafood and casual eats
- Accessible by air from ACY and nearby hubs
- Vibrant nightlife and festivals in season
- Crowds during peak season can be overwhelming
- Casinos and many venues can be expensive
- Parking can be challenging and sometimes pricey
- Seasonal damage and weather can affect outdoor plans
Places to Visit in Atlantic City
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic skyline and ferris wheel views with neon lights at night; great for long-exposure shots and reflections on the water.
Historic beacon with city views from the top—panoramic shots of the coastline and downtown.
Harbor-side photos with boats, piers, and sunset reflections; great for wildlife and maritime vibes.
Vibrant storefronts and retro signage ideal for colorful, travel-forward photography.
Food in Atlantic City
Atlantic City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fries served hot, often enjoyed with malt vinegar and a sprinkle of salt, available from boardwalk stands across the city.
Must-Try!
Sweet, chewy candy that has become synonymous with shore towns; best found in classic boardwalk candy shops.
Pan-seared or fried crab cakes served on a bun with toppings; common at seafood shacks along the waterfront.
Chilled or warm lobster filling in a toasted roll, available at seafood joints near the harbor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls along the Boardwalk offering pretzels, seafood bites, ice cream, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be respectful toward dealers and staff; if you need help, ask politely and avoid disruptive behavior in casino floors.
Stand in line; avoid blocking walkways; be mindful of others on crowded boardwalks and venues.
Safety
Tipping in Atlantic City
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard in the US: 15-20% at restaurants and bars; $1-2 per bag for hotel staff; casino dealers often expect similar tips; check if a service charge is included.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; ATMs are common; most casinos and many restaurants support contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with peak beach and boardwalk activity; humidity and afternoon thunderstorms are common; evenings are lively with outdoor concerts and events.
Milder weather, fewer crowds, great for walks along the beach and waterfront; sea breezes and colorful skies in early autumn.
Chillier and quieter; many outdoor attractions reduce hours, but shows, casinos, and dining remain lively indoors.
Pleasant weather for outdoor exploring; wildlife along marshes returns, and boardwalks reopen seasonal venues.
Atlantic City at Night
Hiking in Atlantic City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of pine and hardwood trails through diverse habitats; suitable for day hikes and nature photography.
Forest trails including lake and swamp views; part of the Pine Barrens landscape.
Coastal wetlands and birding trails with water vistas and seasonal wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Atlantic City by plane.
Located in Egg Harbor Township, ACY serves several domestic carriers and is the closest airport to Atlantic City, with shuttle and taxi access to the city.
A major international hub about 60-90 minutes by car or train, offering wide selection of flights and easy connections to NYC and beyond.
A major northeast hub about 2 hours away by car or rail, with extensive domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large influx of visitors during warm months; diverse backgrounds and age groups.
Year-round population employed in hospitality, retail, and services.
Many visitors and day-trippers from nearby metro areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular during summer on the city beaches and boardwalks.
Harbor and Back Bay areas offer fishing charters and boat tours.
Nearby courses in the region for casual and resort-style rounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Atlantic City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many AC spots offer meat-free options; look for veggie burgers, salads, seafood-free pastas, and sides; ask for customization and avoid fish stock in sauces.