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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Atlantic City, NJ

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Atlantic City is perhaps the best-known seaside resort in New Jersey, if not on the East Coast of the USA. Founded in the 1850s, Atlantic City offers vacationers long sandy beaches and an immense range of entertainment and things to do.

It's also widely known as the "Las Vegas of the East," largely due to the numerous revue theaters found here. These usually bustling destinations provide glitzy stage shows around the clock, as well as one-off events such as rock and pop concerts, boxing matches, and even beauty pageants.

Most restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment venues are located on the Atlantic City Boardwalk . This five-and-a-half-mile-long, 60-foot-wide seafront promenade is also the place to go for a pleasant stroll and some people-watching. The city has grown tremendously since the boardwalk was added in 1870, with an average of 27 million people spending many millions of dollars at its top attractions each and every year.

Although Atlantic City started off as a quiet fishing village, by the late 1800s, it had blossomed into one of the USA's leading oceanside resort destinations. For decades, it has also been a popular place to visit for water sports such as surfing, swimming, and sailing.

To learn more about one of the best places to visit in the US for a fun seaside vacation, be sure to read through this list of the top things to do in Atlantic City, NJ.

See also: Where to Stay in Atlantic City

1. Enjoy a Seaside Stroll along the Boardwalk

2. enjoy the rides at the famous steel pier, 3. see the views from absecon lighthouse, 4. visit ocean city, 5. climb aboard lucy the margate elephant, 6. jim whelan boardwalk hall, 7. take the kids to atlantic city aquarium, 8. explore the past at the atlantic city historical museum, 9. pay your respects at the atlantic city war memorials, 10. african american heritage museum of southern new jersey, 11. historic gardner's basin, 12. get creative at the atlantic city art center, where to stay in atlantic city for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in atlantic city, nj, atlantic city, nj - climate chart.

The Boardwalk

The Boardwalk is the most famous and most popular attraction in Atlantic City, and is packed with a wide array of fun things to do. Just about everything worth seeing in the city lines the original four-mile-long stretch of wood that was built in 1870, most of which survived 2012's Hurricane Sandy.

It's a wonderful place to see and be seen as you catch a gentle sea breeze, and can easily be explored on foot. Other fun ways to explore the boardwalk include on the city's iconic electric tram, or with a ride on one of the famous " rolling chairs ," large wicker chairs pushed like a rickshaw.

Other things to do on the Atlantic City Boardwalk including taking in a show, enjoying a meal, or getting in some shopping . And for the kids, there's plenty of opportunity for them to blow off some steam at one of the many arcades that line the waterfront.

Among the attractions on the boardwalk is the famous Entrance to the Stars . Atlantic City's version of Hollywood's Walk of Fame, it's here you'll see handprints from such stars as Johnny Carson, Cher, Stevie Wonder, Frank Sinatra, and many more.

Address: 3109 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey

The Steel Pier

The Steel Pier is Atlantic City's answer to Coney Island in New York. Built in 1898, this wonderful old amusement pier was once even ranked one of the nation's most visited tourist attractions. Still incredibly popular, it juts out 1,000 feet into the Atlantic and has found a new lease on life after being completely rebuilt in 1993 after a devastating fire in 1983.

There are a variety of rides for all ages , including teacups and tiny trains for kiddies and more adventurous rides like the swing carousel and roller coasters for older kids and adults. The most daring visitors will get a thrill on rides like the Flyer, the MIX, or the Slingshot.

Those who want to catch amazing views over the Boardwalk and Atlantic City will want to ride the latest addition, The Wheel . This impressive Ferris wheel stands at a height of 227 feet and carries 240 passengers in its temperature-controlled gondolas, allowing it to be operated year-round, weather permitting. Admission to rides are ticket-based, and there are also plenty of carnival-style games for the whole family to enjoy.

A little farther along the boardwalk is another old pier, Playground Pier . Formerly known as Ocean Pier, this historic pier has been attracting visitors since 1906, when Captain John Young opened his famous Million Dollar Pier at this location. The pier has since become home to a high-end shopping mall, the Pier Shops at Caesars . A highlight of a visit is seeing its spectacular musical fountain.

Address: 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey

Official site: https://steelpier.com/

Absecon Lighthouse

Located at the north end of Atlantic City, the 228-step Absecon Lighthouse is notable for still having the original First-Order Fresnel lens installed when the structure was built in 1857. At 171 feet, it's the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and the third tallest of its type in the US .

Renovated to commemorate New Jersey's 300th anniversary in 1964, the lighthouse is made of granite blocks, brick, and iron, and painted in its original black and yellow. The climb is well worth it for the superb views over the Atlantic.

Other highlights include the lighthouse keeper's quarters and an interesting museum that includes exhibits about the history of lighthouses and their keepers. It also features exhibits relating to local maritime history and shipwrecks.

For a truly memorable experience, check out the attraction's Keeper Sleeper sleepover events. These unique experiences also include a nighttime climb to the lantern.

Address: 31 South Rhode Island Ave, Atlantic City, New Jersey

Official site: www.abseconlighthouse.org

Ferris wheel at Ocean City, New Jersey

Just 11 miles south of Atlantic City, Ocean City is an extremely popular place to visit for those traveling with kids. Not only does this seaside destination offer some of the best beaches on the Atlantic coast, it has been completely alcohol-free since its establishment by church ministers in 1879.

Like its big cousin to the north, Ocean City also has an excellent boardwalk . Though not quite as long, this one stretches for two-and-a-half miles, and features an eclectic mix of shops and dining options in a picturesque downtown core. Attractions include several amusement parks, as well as theaters.

Family-Friendly Ocean City

A must-visit is the Ocean City Historical Museum . Housed in the Ocean City Community Center, it's here you'll find many interesting displays depicting the city's early history through period furniture, artifacts, and vintage clothing. There are also interesting displays of old photographs and postcards.

Other fun things to do in Ocean City include bicycling on the city's numerous bike paths or playing some golf at the 12-hole municipal course. Popular water-based activities include fishing, boating, and water sports rentals, from kayaks to kiteboarding.

Address: 1735 Simpson Ave, Ocean City, Maryland, New Jersey

Lucy the Margate Elephant

Few seaside attractions are as iconic as Lucy, a 65-foot, six-story-high wood and tin elephant built in the small coastal town of Margate in 1881 to attract prospective buyers to summer homes in the area. Since then, Lucy has been a tavern, a summer home, and an observation deck.

After being rescued from near demise in the 1960s, today Lucy stands proud in Josephine Harron Park and has been listed on the National Park Registry of Historical Landmarks. Highlights of a visit to the oldest surviving novelty architecture in the US includes climbing the spiral staircase up to the "howdah," the small cabin-like structure on her back, with its wonderful panoramic views. Fun guided tours are available.

Traveling with kids? Try to time your visit for July 20, when Lucy's birthday is celebrated with a free party kids are encouraged to attend.

Address: 9200 Atlantic Ave, Margate City, New Jersey

Official site: www.lucytheelephant.org

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

If you're planning on staying in Atlantic City, be sure to check the concert line-up at the famous Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall . Opened in 1929, it remains the city's most popular concert and event venue, and is particularly famous as the home of the Miss America finals.

This historic venue is also where you'll find the largest musical instrument in the world, a pipe organ with 33,000 pipes, eight chambers, and 1,000 stop keys. Visitors can enjoy a listen to this recently renovated organ every weekday at noon for a free 30-minute concert.

Address: 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey

Official site: www.boardwalkhall.com

Atlantic City Aquarium

The Atlantic City Aquarium has many fun hands-on, interactive exhibits showcasing marine life from across the world. Highlights include sea life from the New Jersey coast , such as sea bass, sand tiger sharks, and northern stingrays to creatures from coral reefs, as well as predators.

Kids love the tropical shark and stingray touch tanks, as well as the numerous species of reptiles and amphibians on display. Twice daily, there is an exotic animal show that introduces some of the aquarium's more interesting residents and provides information about their eating habits, habitats, and more.

Address: 800 North New Hampshire Ave, Atlantic City, New Jersey

Official site: www.cityofatlanticcity.org/pages/acaquarium/

Located in the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, the Atlantic City Historical Museum chronicles the history of the city's conversion from a small fishing village to one of the busiest resort destinations in the US.

Exhibits include artifacts, costumes, photographs, song sheets, postcards, and an array of Miss America memorabilia. There are also archival Thomas Edison beach shots and fascinating footage of the Miss America Pageant from years past, as well as of the world-famous high-diving horse of Steel Pier .

Also of interest is the Atlantic City Experience . This free attraction consists of a series of collections and research materials related to the city's unique development, all of it on display at the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.

Address: 600-698 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey

Official site: www.atlanticcityexperience.org

War Memorials

Perhaps surprisingly for a city with a reputation for fun, Atlantic City is home to two excellent war memorials. The oldest is the World War I Memorial , built in 1922 and dedicated to those who lost their lives in the Great War of 1914-1918. It features an impressive rotunda that houses Liberty in Distress , a nine-foot bronze statue.

The other notable monument is the New Jersey Korean War Veterans Memorial . Constructed as a reminder of those who died in the name of democracy while fighting in the Korean peninsula from 1950 to 1953, ensuring a better future for the people of South Korea, it's a lasting tribute to those who died in the conflict.

Official site: www.state.nj.us/military/korea/

The African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey provides an important and fascinating look at the struggle of African Americans through the centuries. Highlights include interesting displays and more than 11,000 historical and cultural artifacts.

The museum also houses a collection of memorabilia of soldiers from Atlantic County spanning WWI to present day conflicts. Permanent exhibits include a look at how stereotypes in media and marketing have had a lasting negative effect on African Americans.

Also of interest are its collections of furniture and housewares from early African American life, and the story of the African American entertainers who held prominent roles during Atlantic City's glory days.

Address: 661 Jackson Road, Newtonville, New Jersey

Official site: www.aahmsnj.org

Gardner's Basin

Historic Gardner's Basin is a maritime village and waterfront park with a variety of interesting features that make it a worthwhile destination for travelers. Highlights include original maritime exhibits such as the Steel Pier Diving Bell, once used to lower guests to the seabed.

Gardner's Basin is also a popular spot from which to embark on a fishing or dolphin-sighting cruise, or just to explore as you visit the unique shops of the Crafters Village . It also offers waterfront dining with fine views over the Atlantic, and is where you'll find the Atlantic City Aquarium .

The Atlantic City Art Center, once the country's only gallery built on a municipal pier, has also moved to the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. Despite having relocated, the gallery is a popular attraction and is noted for its exhibits of art from both national and regional artists.

A respite from the commercialism and excess of the city, the museum features constantly changing exhibits that include photography, sculpture, and paintings among other media.

The Art Center also offers concerts, gallery talks, artist demonstrations, and literary readings throughout the year, so be sure to check ahead to see what's on.

Official site: www.acartcenter.org

Where to stay in Atlantic City really comes down to personal preference. Some people may prefer to stay near the ocean for easy access to the boardwalk with its Walk of Fame, the Steel Pier, and, of course, the beautiful sandy beach. Alternatively, hotels nearer the main marina offer exceptional amenities and are closer to attractions like the aquarium. Below are some highly rated hotels in good locations:

Luxury Hotels:

  • The Borgata Hotel & Spa is one of the newer hotels in Atlantic City, and is located near the aquarium. This hotel features modern rooms with upgraded bathrooms, including oversized showers.
  • Nearby, The Water Club by Borgata offers an upscale accommodation option with luxurious rooms and one of the finest spas in the city.
  • Caesars Atlantic City , right on the beach, has exceptional rooms with beautiful ocean views, and the boardwalk is right outside the front doors.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • The Resorts Hotel is a good beachfront option in this category. A short stroll from the Steel Pier and all its attractions, this smaller hotel has comfortable rooms and an indoor/outdoor pool.
  • Recently renovated, The Claridge - A Radisson Hotel is an iconic Atlantic City property that has hosted famous celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra.
  • The hotel restaurant has a 1920s theme. Also recently upgraded is the Club Wyndham Skyline Tower . The hotel is set back from the beach but offers large one- and two-bedroom suites, some with balconies.

Budget Hotels :

  • In the center of the action, just a block off the beach, is the BEST WESTERN Atlantic City Hotel . Rooms come with a complimentary breakfast.
  • The Quality Inn Flamingo is a low-rise hotel and has standard rooms, some with mini fridges, and also provides a complimentary breakfast.

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More on New Jersey

New Jersey Travel Guide

24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Atlantic City (New Jersey)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: July 8, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

things to do in Atlantic City

Atlantic City, New Jersey is a fun town to visit any time of year, but no time is better than during the summer months.

New Jersey is known for many great things, but most notably for the gorgeous Jersey Shore beaches.

White sand beaches with world-class restaurants, epic nightlife, exciting casinos, water sports galore, and so much more, line the Atlantic Ocean in this aptly named city.

The resort town is rife with luxury destinations like world-class spas, high-end shopping, and fine dining, however, Atlantic City is a humble town with tons to do at all price points.

Whether you’re visiting AC for the first time, a short time, or an extended stay, narrowing down noteworthy and reputable attractions can be difficult for a tourist.

Herein, we have compiled a dynamic list of amazing attractions, historical landmarks, restaurants, amusements, and arts to help you compile an extraordinary itinerary.

Table of Contents

1. Atlantic City Boardwalk

Atlantic City Boardwalk

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Beyond the casinos and beaches, Atlantic City’s most iconic attraction is the Atlantic City Boardwalk in New Jersey.

Stretching five miles along the Atlantic Oceans coast, the boardwalk lines this New Jersey beach town and is a bustling tourist attraction.

Of note, the boardwalk is packed with attractions for all ages and tastes.

You may weave in and out of towering casinos to try your luck at card tables and slot machines or just check out the restaurants, shows, and nightlife within.

Outside of the casinos, the boardwalk is home to lively artists and musicians, boutique and luxury shopping, small local restaurants, and amusements galore.

Along the boardwalk, piers jut out into the ocean and have countless points of interest.

For instance, Garden Pier is known for its arts and cultural scene, while the Steel Pier is known for its thrilling rides and carnival games.

Finally, the boardwalk is home to many unique shops purveying regional delights like Saltwater Taffy, homemade fudge, and AC souvenirs.

Of all the exciting places to visit in New Jersey, the Atlantic City Boardwalk is a must see.

Address: 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

2. Steel Pier Amusement Park

Steel Pier Amusement Park

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Steel Pier Amusement Park is a top 10 Atlantic City attraction that’s suitable for visitors of all ages.

New Jersey is fraught with shore towns and boardwalks but this boardwalk amusement park takes the cake.

Situated adjacent to the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, the 1,000 foot-long amusement park is packed with thrill rides like wild roller coasters, a swinging carousel, and the “Monster Plunge,” the adventure seekers in your group will be right at home.

More kid-friendly amusements like a teacups ride, bumper cars, and the “Silly Steamer” are all perfect for little ones.

In addition to the super-fun rides, Steel Pier Amusement Park has tons of food and drink vendors, fun games with top prizes, and so much more.

Each of these amusements is situated on an open-air pier space that juts out over the Atlantic Ocean.

The seaspray and ocean breeze add to the charming summer nights at the park.

Whether you’re planning to visit today or this weekend, Steel Pier is always bustling with high-energy excitement.

Address: 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

3. Ripley’s Believe it or Not!

Ripley’s Believe it or Not!

John Arehart / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for unique, family-fun things to do in Atlantic City, New Jersey, be sure to check out this wild museum.

Ripley’s Believe it or Not! houses amusing oddities from all over the world as well as local curiosities.

The museum’s aptly named “Odditorium” is home to bizarre exhibits by the hundreds.

Some of the many unique things visitors can expect to see include a spider made from scissors and knives, a roulette table crafted entirely of jelly beans, the world’s tiniest car, and creepy shrunken heads.

With over 12,000 square feet of museum space, the oddities keep coming.

In addition to the wild exhibits, Ripley’s Believe it or Not! is also home to a super fun “Lazer Maze Challenge” that is like something out of an action movie.

Visitors will duck, crawl, and navigate the maze comprised entirely of laser beams hoping not to touch a laser.

With so much stuff to do under one bizarre roof, you’ll leave the museum scratching your brain at all you’ve just encountered.

Be sure to enjoy walking around the museum and navigating the maze at one of Atlantic City’s truly interesting points of interest.

Address: 1441 Boardwalk Corner of Boardwalk and, S New York Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

4. Chicken Bone Beach

Chicken Bone Beach

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Atlantic City’s Chicken Bone Beach is a bit of New Jersey history that the city is likely not proud of.

A once segregated beach, Chicken Bone Beach was named for the unfounded claim that the shore was littered with the discarded chicken bones left behind by African Americans on this “blacks only beach” in the early to mid-1900s.

A woeful time in American history, the beach became segregated long after the end of the Civil War because of pressure from local businesses.

It wasn’t until 1964, with the passing of the Civil Rights Act, that the beach, like all AC beaches, was opened to all.

Although the beach blends in with surrounding ones, there is a memorial plaque that distinguishes it from others.

If you’re interested in enjoying a lovely stroll along the New Jersey shoreline with a touch of American history, this beach is one of many interesting yet beautiful places to see.

What’s more, it’s one of a few free things to do in the small town.

Address: 2100 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

5. Borgata Casino

Borgata Casino

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This premier Atlantic City venue is out of this world.

Opened in 2003, this hotel and casino is home to several world-class accommodations, restaurants, gaming, and amenities.

It’s quite literally an adult’s playground.

To begin, the hotel accommodations run the gamut from small, economy rooms to presidential suites, all of which are superbly outfitted and decorated.

On the facility’s casino floor, visitors can win big playing slot machines, card games, roulette, sports betting, and more.

Beyond the hotel and casino, Borgata houses dozens of amazing restaurants, some of which are owned by celebrity chefs like Bobby Flay and Michael Symon.

A handful of nightclubs and bars keep the party going day and night at Borgata.

Moreover, Borgata’s event center frequently hosts big-time musicians, comedy acts, and more.

Finally, after long days and nights of dining, imbibing, and gambling, you can wind down in the pools, spa, salon, or fitness center.

With so many fun things to do in Atlantic City, Borgata is on a shortlist of top tourist attractions you won’t want to miss.

Address: 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

Visiting other parts of New Jersey? Why not check out some of the things to do in Cape May ?

6. Chef Vola’s

Chef Vola’s

Chef Vola’s

Chef Vola’s is a fine Italian restaurant that has existed as Atlantic City’s best-kept secret since the Roaring Twenties.

Situated amid a suburban neighborhood of AC, New Jersey, Chef Vola’s, a long-time speakeasy, has always operated as a secret club of sorts.

If you were to visit their website, you’d discover no public record of the establishment’s phone number or address.

Now, with modern technology, that information can be found in other ways, but it doesn’t make it any easier to obtain a reservation.

This restaurant is so popular that if you plan to patronize it, you’ll have to make a reservation many months in advance.

What makes Chef Vola’s so unique, besides its fabulous cuisine, is its ambiance.

When approaching the restaurant, visitors walk through a residential neighborhood and find no indication of its existence; there’s no sign, parking lot, or other common indicators of a restaurant.

The restaurant is quite literally in the basement of an assuming home.

The walls are lined with pictures of celebrity guests from decades of patronage.

The restroom is in the kitchen and besides the impeccable service and delightful cuisine, you feel like you’re having dinner in your grandmother’s basement.

If you’re wondering about cool places to go when visiting Atlantic City, wonder no more; Chef Vola’s is a must do.

Address: 111 S Albion Pl, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

7. Atlantic City Ballet

There are so many amazing things to do in New Jersey , especially in AC, but none is more sophisticated than visiting the Atlantic City Ballet .

Residing at the Circus Maximus Theatre, the dance company is cast with the most talented dancers from all over the world.

Choreographed by acclaimed artistic director, Phyllis Papa, the beauty and artistry of each show is unprecedented.

The company aims to deliver a wide breadth of ballet artistry and through its 38 years as a company the Atlantic City Ballet has performed classic and original pieces.

Some of the pieces the company has performed in years past include “Nutcracker,” “Dracula,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “Swan Lake,” “Cinderella,” and more.

The shows change seasonally, so no matter the time of year you’re visiting, you can be sure to catch an awe-inspiring show at Atlantic City Ballet.

The company has earned national recognition for its technical prowess and on-stage presence.

With so many wonderful activities in Atlantic City be sure to check out this.

8. Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

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One of the top vacation spots in Atlantic City, New Jersey, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino serves up epic entertainment and so much more.

Comprising 120,000 square feet of casino space, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is thought to be the largest casino in the world.

So if you’re looking to win big in Atlantic City, this is the place to visit.

After gaming to your heart’s content, staying in one of the hotel’s luxury yet edgy rooms is your safest bet.

What would the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino be without the world-class entertainment it pays homage to?

With more than 20 nightclubs, restaurants galore, and live entertainment by both local and world-famous acts, there are always awesome Atlantic City attractions hosted at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.

Hotel amenities are also out of this world.

The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is home to a superb spa, a full fitness center, a rooftop pool, and an epic gift shop.

Finally, the entire property is brimming with musical artifacts so that every step through the property is like visiting a museum.

You’ll never wonder what to see when visiting the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.

9. The Sugar Factory

Sugar Factory

Sugar Factory

The Sugar Factory in AC is a sweet place to visit today, tonight, or even this weekend.

Situated on the boardwalk of this popular New Jersey town, The Sugar Factory is a dining experience like no other.

Outfitted in bright pops of color, dazzling crystal chandeliers, and a giant yellow ducky that greets you upon entry, this establishment will bring out your inner child and gobsmack any children you’re visiting with.

The sweets-themed restaurant has a respectable lunch/dinner menu, but the real draw is the extravagant dessert menu.

Some of the amazing selections include towering milkshakes topped with candy necklaces, full-size cupcakes, and giant lollipops and a monster 24-scoop ice cream sundae topped with donuts, cones, and candy galore.

Beyond the extreme dessert selections, The Sugar Factory also has a sweets shop that you’ve got to visit before leaving.

You’ll grab a bag of your favorite candies, chocolates, and other delectable sweets for the road.

Located near the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, The Sugar Factory is a fun date night for couples or families.

Address: 1000 Boardwalk Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

10. Little Water Distillery

Little Water Distillery

Little Water Distillery

Located in the heart of Atlantic City, New Jersey and open Thursday through Sunday, Little Water Distillery is a craft distillery.

Producing exceptional spirits like rums, whiskey, vodka, and gin, Little Water Distillery answers the question of where to go when visiting the shore town.

The distillery’s acclaimed liquors stock the shelves of bars and liquor stores near and far as well as being available for online purchase.

If you’re visiting near the Atlantic City area, Little Water Distillery is one of many top places to visit.

The distillery offers guided tours and tastings where visitors can enjoy rotating cocktails in a chic atmosphere.

Additionally, Little Water Distillery hosts special events throughout the year.

If you’ll be visiting Atlantic City, be sure to check out their events calendar; maybe you’ll catch one of their fun happenings.

If you’re considering what to do in Atlantic City, a tour of or visit to Little Water Distillery is highly recommended.

Address: 807 Baltic Avenue, Lexington Ave unit B, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

11. Atlantic City Aquarium

Atlantic City Aquarium

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This fun Atlantic City attraction is one of the coolest aquariums around.

Open seven days a week, year-round, the Atlantic City Aquarium is one of many places to visit that is fun for the whole family.

The beachfront location of the aquarium makes its setting just as beautiful as its content, but once inside, you’ll be amazed at all of the fascinating marine life.

Visitors come face to face with tropical fish, turtles, tarantulas, sharks, octopi, stingrays, and so much more.

Best of all, each of the animals is housed in replicated habitats within tanks that make you feel as though you’re swimming in the depths of the ocean.

Beautiful coral, seaweed, plankton, and algae are brought to life before your eyes.

One of many awesome places to visit today or this weekend, Atlantic City Aquarium is a fun sight to see.

Best of all, it’s one of a few free things to do for children three and under.

If you’re narrowing what to do in the beautiful shore town of Atlantic City, be sure to add this destination to your list.

Address: 800 N New Hampshire Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

12. Absecon Lighthouse

Absecon Lighthouse

If you’re short on historical sights to see in Atlantic City, you’ll want to check out the Absecon Lighthouse .

First lit in 1857 as a beacon to Atlantic Ocean seafarers, the Absecon Lighthouse is the tallest one in all of New Jersey.

What’s more, the Absecon Lighthouse is the third tallest in all of the United States.

Although the lighthouse was decommissioned in 1933, it still draws visitors from near and far.

Of note, the lighthouse is constructed of 240 steps although visitors are welcome to climb to the 228th where they can enjoy a scenic overlook from its watch room.

One of the lighthouse’s noteworthy features is that it still has its original first-order Fresnel Lens at the top.

Since its decommissioning in 1933, the lens is still lit every night for observers and visitors to enjoy.

Besides climbing the lighthouse, visitors can also opt for an adventurous “keeper sleeper overnight” visit.

The overnight allows visitors to experience life as a lighthouse keeper.

One of many fun activities in Atlantic City, New Jersey, a visit to Absecon Lighthouse is sure to wow your group.

Address: 31 S Rhode Island Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

13. Storybook Land

Storybook Land

Storybook Land

Storybook Land is a must-see destination near Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Atlantic City attractions that are so family-friendly are hard to come by, but Storybook Land is a top attraction for adults and children alike.

This quaint, old-timey amusement park brings to life the characters of your favorite children’s stories.

The park consists of rides and other amusements that are themed after stories like “The Three Little Pigs,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” and “Alice in Wonderland.”

Many lowkey rides are perfect for toddlers on up, as well as a few high-intensity rollercoasters and the like.

Additionally, the park offers sweet train rides, a maze, swings, and more.

Throughout the year, the park holds special events where you might find farm animals to interact with and beyond.

But no time is as special as Christmastime at Storybook Land.

Every evening during the holiday season, Santa emerges from the chimney of his workshop, greets the children, and with the wave of a wand, activates millions of Christmas Lights and snow.

Nonetheless, any time of year is a good time to visit Storybook Land, one of the cutest amusement parks around Atlantic City.

Address: 6415 E Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234, United States

14. AC Paintball

AC Paintball

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Things to do in Atlantic City concerning sports and outdoor activities may be hard to come by, but AC Paintball has you covered.

Whether you’re traveling with a group or looking to join an existing party, a day on the paintball field is high-energy and loads of excitement.

AC Paintball offers morning and afternoon packages for both groups and individuals.

Best of all, you can rent all the equipment you’ll need right on property; no need to worry about packing your gear.

Once you’re outfitted and ready for action, you’ll have a ball (pun intended) on one of the many varieties of field layouts.

Field sizes, landscaping, and obstacles range, so with each new game you’ll have the opportunity for a new challenge.

What’s more, AC Paintball changes field layouts periodically, so you can come back time and again and never play the same course.

If you’re wondering what to do outdoors in Atlantic City, we highly recommend AC Paintball.

15. Tanger Outlets The Walk

Tanger Outlets The Walk

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If you need a little retail therapy during your stay in Atlantic City, be sure to check out these many blocks of outlet shopping.

Tanger Outlets The Walk encompasses three city blocks in an open-air mall setting.

With more than 100 stores, there is something for every shopping sensibility.

Best of all, the outlet format means you can purchase top-notch apparel and items for a fraction of the retail cost.

Tanger Outlets The Walk is home to luxury brands, home decor outlets, apparel retailers, shoe stores, food purveyors, and so much more.

Whether you’re looking to pick up something you’ve forgotten to pack for your stay in AC, a hot new outfit for a night on the town, or souvenirs for your loved ones, you’re sure to find it at this epic shopping center.

In addition to tons of shopping, Tanger Outlets The Walk also has many wonderful dining options all in one central location; bars, grills, fast food, fine dining, and more can all be found on this three-block stretch of prime AC real estate.

Address: 2014 Baltic Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

16. Atlantic City Parasail

Atlantic City Parasail

Robert Hoetink / Shutterstock

If you’re wondering what to do in the way of cool adventures, be sure to check out Atlantic City Parasail .

Founded in 2010, this establishment will have you soaring high above the Atlantic Ocean with the most marvelous view of the boardwalk, casinos, hotels, and quaint neighborhood streets.

During your flight, you’ll marvel at the breathtaking views of the ocean and ocean wildlife.

Your flight is powered by a state-of-the-art boat that uses clean diesel fuel which improves your overall experience.

Although parasailing time is about 15 minutes, the boat ride, an experience in and of itself, will take about 90 minutes.

Another fun feature of your parasailing experience, albeit optional, is the water factor.

If you choose to, you can take a brief swim following your landing.

This is a great activity to do in tandem with a friend or partner, but could also be done solo.

Either way, you’re sure to enjoy your time with Atlantic City Parasail.

17. Atlantic City Surf School

Atlantic City Surf School

Kudriavtcev Mikhail / Shutterstock

If you’re interested in things to do in Atlantic City that involve water sports, you’ll love a lesson or two with Atlantic City Surf School .

Of note, the school offers private and group lessons, as well as camps if you’ll be in town for a bit.

Additionally, lessons are scaffolded by beginner and intermediate groups.

During surf lessons, you’ll learn to paddle out, stand up, ride waves, and maneuver the board.

Sessions run seven days a week during the summer months and they’re a unique way to experience the Atlantic Ocean.

In addition to traditional surf lessons, the school also gives Standup Paddleboard (SUP) lessons.

On top of learning to ride the different boards, Atlantic City Surf School also teaches surf etiquette and respect for the movement and uncertainty of the ocean.

Finally, things to do in Atlantic City are a dime a dozen, but Atlantic City Surf School is a class act.

Be sure to hit them up if you’re looking to shred during your visit to this beautiful New Jersey shore town.

Address: States Ave. & The Boardwalk Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

18. The Irish Pub

The Irish Pub

The Irish Pub

The Irish Pub is an AC institution.

Known by some major publications as “America’s Greatest Pub,” The Irish Pub has been serving bar food and spirits out the wazoo since 1972.

Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week all year long, anytime is a good time to visit.

Just off the AC Boardwalk, The Irish Pub is situated in an old Victorian Inn with rooms as cheap as $25 per night.

Within the pub, patrons can enjoy bar food like fish & chips, burgers, and the famous St. James Potatoes.

In addition to great bar food, The Irish Pub slings cocktails, beers, shots, and more all day long.

Furthermore, the pub is donned with museum-quality memorabilia which is enjoyable to check out while you dine and drink.

If you’re looking for an alfresco atmosphere, The Irish Pub also has a patio area that is nice to patronize on mild days.

Of all the tourist attractions in AC, The Irish Pub is likely the most iconic.

Address: 164 St James Pl, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

19. The Quarter at Tropicana

The Quarter at Tropicana

Jcjh20 , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Located within the Tropicana, an Atlantic City hotel and casino, The Quarter is a Cuban-themed, indoor shopping center.

With 40 stores that run the gamut from luxury retailers, jewelers, small boutiques, and more, visitors to The Quarter have an immersive shopping experience all under one unique roof.

If you’re looking for Atlantic City attractions that have it all, The Quarter is your place.

Beyond the excellent retail establishments, The Quarter is also home to nine restaurants from fine dining to casual eateries.

Additionally, there are a whopping 11 nightclubs that keep the party going all night long.

Whether you prefer live music or a spinning DJ, you’ll find it all at The Quarter.

Finally, after a long night of partying, you can spend the next morning relaxing and detoxing at The Quarter’s 10,000 square foot spa and salon.

With full-service amenities, you’ll feel like the million bucks you hope to win in the casino.

Address: 2821 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

20. Knife and Fork Inn

Knife & Fork Inn

Knife & Fork Inn

Another AC institution, Knife and Fork Inn is like a step back in time.

The restaurant is the town’s oldest and most historically rich establishment.

Originally established in 1912, Knife and Fork Inn operated as a men’s club, although the second floor graciously served women in the ladies’ lounge.

During the 1920s, the restaurant rebelliously and openly served booze to patrons despite the Prohibition Act.

Today, the restaurant still stands as a nod to its historical roots and one of many awesome things to do in Atlantic City.

A legendary steakhouse and seafood restaurant, Knife and Fork Inn has kept up with the times in many ways, however, its facade, interior architecture, and decor are certainly reminiscent of an earlier era.

Today, visitors to this fine establishment are treated to world-class cuisine and service with Roaring Twenties-era glamour.

Finally, the restaurant is open daily for happy hour and indoor dining.

If you’ll be in the AC area anytime soon, it is highly advised that you make a dinner reservation for Knife and Fork Inn.

Address: 3600 Atlantic Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

21. The Playground

The Playground

George Wirt / Shutterstock

Situated on the most breathtaking piece of real estate, on the precipice of the Atlantic Ocean, The Playground is a retail wonderland.

At The Playground visitors experience luxury shopping at every turn.

With world-class designers like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Burberry, shoppers experience a highly sophisticated shopping experience.

In addition to luxury shopping, The Playground is home to an array of delectable restaurants ranging from fine dining spots to casual grills.

Some of the more well-known restaurants include Phillips Seafood, Buddhakan, and Steven Star’s Continental.

Your palette will be transformed to other worlds at each new eatery.

Moreover, The Playground also houses premiere nightlife like clubs, live music, exceptional shows, awesome happy hours, and much more.

With so much to do under one roof, with the magnificent ocean as your backdrop, visiting The Playground during your visit to AC in New Jersey is a no-brainer.

Address: 1 Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

22. Pipe Organ Concert Recital

Pipe Organ Concert Recital

Pipe Organ Concert Recital

Hosted by Boardwalk Hall, a 5.5 million cubic feet arena that has hosted some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, the Pipe Organ Concert Recital is a beautiful way to spend an afternoon in AC, New Jersey.

Notably, the Pipe Organ Concert is “more powerful than a dozen orchestras,” creating quite the reaction from audiences.

The primary focus of the concert is the Midmer-Losh Opus 5,550 which is a magnificent beast that remains the largest instrument in the world.

During a concert, you’ll be treated to an eclectic playlist of world-famous songs played by consummate professionals.

In addition to live recitals, you can catch live streaming shows as well as purchase CDs to enjoy later.

Finally, as an add-on to the concert, viewers are treated to a short tour of the organ shop and organ console.

The best part about attending a Pipe Organ Concert Recital is admission is free for all.

If you’ll be visiting AC sometime soon, be sure to check out this truly astounding attraction.

23. Atlantic City Cruises

Atlantic City Cruises

Atlantic City Cruises

With Atlantic City Cruises , visitors will sail the Atlantic Ocean with an epic view of the AC skyline as your backdrop.

While aboard Cruisin’ 1, you’ll have the opportunity to see marine wildlife up close and personal.

One of the establishment’s most popular tours is the dolphin-watching excursion.

Each day, Atlantic City Cruises brings guests face to face with majestic Atlantic Bottle-Nosed Dolphins.

Speaking of, Atlantic City Cruises provides a variety of other tours like a morning skyline tour, happy hour tours, and the “afternoon delight,” among others.

One of Crusin’ 1’s most sought-after amenities is the full-beverage service with soft drinks, beer, wine, and an assortment of other spirits.

Finally, Atlantic City Cruises aims to make your experience the best, so they have sundries like cameras and sunscreen available for purchase.

If you plan to be in town with a group, tours aboard Cruisin’ 1 are a great way to celebrate and let loose.

24. African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey

African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey

African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey

Sprung from the passion project of founder Ralph E. Hunter, Sr., African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey is a premier museum housing cultural art and artifacts.

Some of the cultural treasures on display at the museum were acquired from all sorts of providers including the curb on garbage day.

Some of the many exhibits include paintings, books, ceramics, marketing propaganda, and so much more.

In addition to many permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts traveling exhibits from all over the country.

Some of the many African American themes depicted in both the permanent and traveling exhibits include black stereotypes, portraits, furniture and fixtures, and others.

The African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey’s knack for preserving and sharing cultural artifacts is unprecedented.

Finally, in addition to the museum’s historical relics, the museum also displays works of local artists, photo collections, and African American memorabilia.

This slice of local and American history and culture is worth a spot on your Atlantic City itinerary.

Address: 661 Jackson Rd, Newtonville, NJ 08346, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Atlantic City

One of the most beautiful places to go in the US , Atlantic City has tons to do for all travelers.

Whether you’re visiting the gorgeous shore town with friends, families, a romantic partner, or alone, there are undoubtedly plenty of options for all group types.

Moreover, AC can be done on a small budget or at the highest of price points.

What’s more, AC is home to many awesome attractions that are sure to strike a chord with all visitors.

If you’ll be visiting Atlantic City, New Jersey soon, be sure to include some of these extraordinary travel destinations to your list of must-see sights and activities.

Happy travels.

26 Best Things to Do in Atlantic City in 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: January 5, 2024

Atlantic City is a sprawled resort city on the east coast of the U.S. A fantastic  day trip from New York  and a wonderful place to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean. Atlantic City is packed with resort activities, casinos, and watersports. It has the glitz and glam of a coastal Las Vegas – with more  things to do off the strip . Walk the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, soak up live entertainment at Borgata Hotel Casino, and embrace Atlantic City’s history with Absecon Lighthouse.

Table of Contents

Top Things To Do In Atlantic City NJ

Visiting Atlantic City is the perfect way to spend a more citified New Jersey beach town break. The balance between the Atlantic Ocean, beach activities, and inner-city entertainment is ideal. This guide will cover the best things to do in Atlantic City, so prepare to write these down.

1. Atlantic City Boardwalk

When it comes to its boardwalk, Atlantic City really comes into its own. The 4.8-mile stretch between Jackson Avenue and Madison Avenue at the historic Gardner’s Basin. It encompasses stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the A.C. beaches and easy access to casinos, hotels, and attractions. The famous boardwalk is family-friendly, suitable for pushchairs, and splitting into smaller sections more suitable for children’s capabilities. It is one of the best free things to do in Atlantic City and perfect to combine with other attractions since walking the boardwalk is a popular way to get around.

2. Dolphin Watch With Atlantic City Cruises

Going dolphin watching with Atlantic City Cruises is one of the top things to do in Atlantic City. This area is renowned for its bottle-nosed dolphins. And from May to October, you can hop on daily dolphin-watching excursions that last around an hour. Should you get lucky (and most people do), the dolphins will come to your boat to play by the hern. Investing in ethical animal encounters is essential. Seeing dolphins in the wild is the kindest way to interact with these magnificent animals.

3. Atlantic City Airshow

Hundreds of planes zip through the skies above the city every summer for the annual Atlantic City Airshow. Spectators can purchase tickets and numerous vantage points throughout the city – or flock to the beaches and boardwalk to watch for free. The Atlantic City Airshow is one of the largest in North America and easily one of the most fun things to do. If you are visiting around August, it’s well worth seeing if your visit coincides with this airshow. And if you love planes and paying respects to the U.S. Army, consider the Atlantic City Airshow when choosing your dates to visit the city.

4. Ocean Casino Resort

Visiting a casino is one of the most popular ways to spend an evening in Atlantic City. And this famous venue is an ideal candidate if you have a luxury casino environment. The five-star hotel sits on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, hosting one of the city’s largest, award-winning casinos. There are thousands of slot machines and table games. If you want to enjoy a casino regularly during your visit, you can make the most of the Ocean Casino Resort rewards card. There are even fine dining venues in the resort to enjoy after you collect your winnings – we suggest Linguini By The Sea for its ocean views and Italian cuisine.

6. Central Pier Arcade

The Central Pier Arcade is chaotic. Pure chaos. However, it is also all fun and games. There are pinging machines with flashing lights, and the constant clatter of penny falls, while outside, a vast outdoor go-karting track is a hit amongst adults and kids. A seaside arcade is one of the most classic things you can do on any beach getaway. And when visiting, the arcade is one of the best things to do in Atlantic City for a lowkey few hours. The arcade is family-friendly but also suited to adults just wanting to let their hair down. Located along the main boardwalk, it’s easy to just drop by on your way back to your hotel after eating at a nice restaurant.

7. Atlantic City Experience At Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

Ready for an insight into Atlantic City’s earlier days? The Atlantic City Experience, held in the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, which was home to the Miss America pageant since 1940, is a colossal project encapsulating the area’s history. From photographs to live exhibits and virtual clips, the Atlantic City Experience is easy to browse.

Opening times vary (this attraction is a social butterfly for hosting private events). But if you want history without the heavy reading and dense information (check out the Atlantic City Historical Museum for that), the Atlantic City Experience is ideal. Light-hearted but informative, Atlantic City Experience is one of the best indoor attractions in the city. And, since it’s adjoined to the Atlantic City Free Public Library, you can easily combine the two.

8. Absecon Lighthouse

You can’t visit Atlantic City and not visit New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse. Absecon Lighthouse is the most historical of all the Atlantic City attractions. As a national historic landmark, it’s definitely worth your time. You can climb the lighthouse right to the top for stunning views over the city and the Atlantic Ocean and learn about its history. The climb to the top is no mean feat – with 228 steps to the watch room. And as a tradition, the lighthouse is still lit every night despite being retired from duties. The adjoining museum is a lovely addition to the experience, with a gift shop for souvenir shopping. Located at 31 S Rhode Island Ave.

9. Atlantic City Ballet

Atlantic City Ballet is a highly respected ballet school in the city’s heart. The school’s founder was an international ballerina named Phyllis Papa, who opened Atlantic City Ballet in 1982. The school has grown in prestige ever since. For visitors, bagging tickets to one of the dance shows is one of the most beautiful things to do in Atlantic City. The school hosts shows that include The Nutcracker, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and even Dracula. There’s a range of genres and storylines. Ballet enthusiast or not, the sophistication of a ballet show is hard not to love.

10. Steel Pier Amusement Park

Steel Pier Amusement Park is like something out of a movie. Envision gold-gilded fairground rides and a huge Ferris wheel that lights up against the sky. Steel Pier is easily amongst the best amusement parks you’ll visit, and the oceanfront locale makes it even more impressive. Visiting Steel Pier is one of the best family-friendly activities in Atlantic City. And since it’s located on the boardwalk, you can use it as the ultimate bribery for getting your kids to walk more. Tickets are relatively modest in pricing, although you can also splurge on a luxury helicopter ride for 20 minutes. So there’s room for indulgence.

11. Try a Frozen Hot Chocolate

Remember that Ocean Casino Resort? If the casino doesn’t catch your fancy, frozen hot chocolate surely will. Serendipity3 is a dining experience within the resort and offers the famous dish as just one of the sweet treats on its menu. Frozen hot chocolate is basically a cold, slushier version of hot chocolate. So what’s the hype? The real melted chocolate and cocoa powder. Rather than relying on ice cream like a chocolate milkshake, it uses all the yummy ingredients that you’d find in its hot alternative. It’s a subtle difference, but you’ll be a total convert when you try it. Serendipity3 has quite the cult following and has a long trail of celebrity endorsements – including recent investor Selena Gomez.

12. Lucy the Elephant

Lucy the Elephant is a colossal building with the bizarre design of a giant elephant. Nicknamed ‘Lucy,’ this rather strange landmark is one of the quirkiest things to do in Atlantic City. The whole family will love gazing up at this landmark. But a step further, you can tour the inside of the 6-floor building as part of a guided experience. Apart from the novelty of Lucy’s appearance, the Elephant is also classified as the oldest roadside attraction in the U.S. – having been created in 1882 and visited ever since. Probably one of the weirdest buildings you’ll ever step foot in, Lucy the Elephant should make everyone’s itinerary when visiting Atlantic City.

13. Tanger Outlets

Sometimes retail is all you need. Even on holiday, a day at a fantastic outlet store is good. Tanger Outlets has everything from Forever 21 to a Nike Factory Store and a Starbucks – for when you get thirsty. The stores sell clothing marginally cheaper than you find elsewhere, so it is a bargain-hunting experience. Tanger Outlets is just off Atlantic Avenue – easily accessed from the city center. Visiting is one of the best indoor things to do in Atlantic City.

14. Ocean City Music Pier

Okay, this attraction will require a 30-minute drive or an hour on public transport. So get your adventure on when adding this attraction to your to-do list. The Ocean City Music Pier is well worth the extra effort to reach. The pink concert hall is sat on a substantial wooden pier with sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean. Located in the neighboring city of Ocean City, the music pier is a 1929 concert hall with various music performances showcased daily. If you love live music, it doesn’t get better than a trip to Ocean City Music Pier. Check the schedule to see if anything coincides with your trip.

15. Chicken Bone Beach

Chicken Bone Beach is one of the best Atlantic City beaches. The spacious sands and ideal location make it a firm favorite. But for all its good looks, Chicken Bone Beach has a marred history linked to America’s racist segregation. The once-segregated beach caught its name from the fact that African American beachgoers were said to bring a lot of fried chicken with them. And it was in the 1964 Civil Rights Act this Atlantic City Beach changed its rules and allowed everyone to enjoy its sands. The beach is one of Atlantic City’s historical landmarks as much as it’s a place to enjoy the coast on a sunny day.

16. Surf Lessons

Speaking of beaches, surfing is one of the best things to do in Atlantic City. The big waves of the Atlantic Ocean are practically made for shredding. You can find surf shops dotted along the boardwalk – selling everything from clothing to board rentals. Jersey Devil Surf Shop is a firm favorite. But if you want a lesson rather than just a rental, you’ll find plenty of options in Atlantic City and its surrounding areas. A.C. Surf School is popular, with many class choices depending on your budget and current skill level.

17. Hard Rock Hotel and Cafe

The Hard Rock Hotel and Cafe are one of the most famous brands across the world and the perfect attraction when visiting Atlantic City. Just the brand’s cafes alone attract nearly 80 million guests a year, and the rock ‘n’ roll theme really energizes its section of the Atlantic City boardwalk. Expect high energy and comforting American cuisine – with a menu full of meaty burgers and grilled dishes. The Hard Rock Hotel has a casino as well. And if you weren’t feeling like a crazy night out, walking into the doors under a colossal lit-up guitar will surely get you in the mood. The Hard Rock Hotel is fun and intense in the best way.

18. New Jersey Korean War Memorial

For a somber but important activity in Atlantic City, venture out to the New Jersey Korean War Memorial. The huge monument lists thousands of names on its inscribed stone. And to its sides, beautiful statues of realistic soldiers stand poised for action, symbolizing service, duty, and sacrifice. The bronze figures are a real highlight and bring an emotive human element to the memorial. While the waterfalls create peaceful background noise and ‘reflection pools’ for visitors to process the complex history.

19. Atlantic City Miniature Golf

On a more light-hearted note, Atlantic City Miniature Golf is one of the most fun things to do in Atlantic City. You’ll find classic attractions like mini golf whenever you visit a resort town or city. Mini golf is the ultimate cheesy attraction that everyone secretly loves (and gets extremely competitive over). Atlantic City Miniature Golf has been running for over 15 years and is a renowned attraction along the New Jersey shore. Head down for a few rounds and a bite to eat at the snack bar onsite.

20. Storybook Land

Just a 20-minute drive or 40-minute bus from the city center, you can hardly complain when venturing out to this dreamy amusement park. Storybook Land is an entire park based on nursery rhymes and children’s stories. You can spot everything from the old woman in the shoe to a sleeping beauty asleep in a replica room and Santa – who sometimes even pops in to offer to meet and greet services in July. The mixture of rides, replica settings, and meet-and-greet characters make visiting Storybook Land one of the most nostalgic things to do in Atlantic City.

21. Test Your Nerve With Watersports

Atlantic City’s watersports scene is incredible. In the summer season, Totally Tubular Watersports keeps everyone entertained with tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and even banana boats. You can test your nerves with the watersports you choose while enjoying the chance to cool off in the ocean and escape the heat. There’s also a pop-up inflatable play area in peak season for younger visitors. The play area floats on the water’s surface with slides and other obstacles that children must tackle – all while trying to avoid falling in.

22. The Noyes Art Garage of Stockton University

Atlantic City’s creative art district is alluring for anyone with an eye for beautiful things – not just art enthusiasts. In the district’s center, the Noyes Art Garage of Stockton University acts as a magnet, holding the creativity together. The gallery is affiliated with the university but runs as a full-blown tourist attraction. Dedicated to contemporary arts, it has exhibits to appreciate and art studios that members of the public can use. You can stop by to admire the art or create some yourself – one of the most creative things to do in Atlantic City.

23. Take A Fishing Tour

Atlantic City is an absolute hotspot for fishing. Fisherman haul in bluefish, tuna, blackfish, and cod on a reliable basis. There is an incredible amount of charter companies who take out visitors on fishing tours – either on deep-sea angles or partake in more sedate fishing experiences. While if you want, you can also choose companies that run beach fishing experiences. If you already have an affinity for fishing, this must be at the top of your bucket list.

24. U.S. Life Saving Station 30

This somber museum is a must-visit for insight into the surfmen who perform ocean rescues around Atlantic City. The museum has impressive stories of real-life heroes just a 30-minute drive from the city center. Guests can browse the collection of artifacts and some shocking photos of shipwrecks from years gone by. There’s even a massive boat in one of the exhibit halls. The guided aspect adds to the experience tenfold – with guides to provide emotive stories while you explore.

25. Bass River State Forest

Forget amusement parks and casinos for a day and head to Bass River State Forest for one of the best things to do near Atlantic City for a natural experience. The national forest is the total opposite of Atlantic City’s landscape. Instead of sand and skyscrapers, you can expect dwarf pine plains and cedar swamps. The state forest has 8 different hiking trails. And if you bring binoculars and a good camera, you can get good views of bald eagles and osprey. Bass River State Forest is so peaceful for animal watching and hiking.

26. Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge

Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is a massive 48,000 acres of coastal habitat – a mix of beach, wetland, and pasture. After all the time on the beach and in casinos, getting to a more rural area of nature is a wonderful thing to do in Atlantic City. Bring binoculars because the refuge is famous for migratory birds and one of the state’s best birding spots. The visitor center has exhibits, Wildlife Drive has ample bird-watching stops, and the hiking trails stretch around 8 miles.

Things To Do In Atlantic City: FAQs

So, you are well and truly stocked up regarding ideas on things to do in Atlantic City. But what else do you need to know? What are the essential details to learn before visiting Atlantic City? Check these out.

How To Get To Atlantic City

The easiest way to get to Atlantic City is to fly into Atlantic City’s primary airport. The airport is in the Egg Harbor Township, just 10 miles from the Atlantic City center. While it lacks direct flights for international visitors, you can find plenty of domestic flights. International visitors will likely have to stop at a major city like New York, Las Vegas, or Los Angeles before continuing to Atlantic City on a second leg. For domestic travelers, flying to Atlantic City is a breeze.

Another option is to catch the train, bus, or drive from New York – all of which take between 2-4 hours. If you drive from New York, you’ll likely cross the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge – one of the  prettiest views of New York City . Driving is the quickest, allowing you to stop off at Staten Island and Brooklyn.

If you are staying elsewhere on the upper east coast, it’s well worth considering public transport as opposed to flying. Plenty of bus routes and train connections to Atlantic City – including from places like Philadelphia. And road-tripping to Atlantic City is always fun if you have some extra time on your hands – why not maximize your U.S. sightseeing?

Getting Around Atlantic City

Getting around Atlantic City on foot is terrific if you are fit enough. Adults and children alike will appreciate the scenic boardwalks that connect the beachfront and city center. Since most of the Atlantic City attractions and major hotels line the beachfront, you can use the Atlantic City Boardwalk to get around most of the city.

Even if you do get tired walking around Atlantic City, there’s a free shuttle service run by A.C. Jitney Association and N.J. Transit. While the shuttle runs between all the casino locations and the Atlantic City Rail Terminal, you can use it as a free way to experience most of the city. There are just  that  many casinos.

Honestly, you don’t need a car if you just want to stay in Atlantic City. But it may come in handy for day trips. If you have driven to Atlantic City, you can definitely make the most of having a car with you by heading out of the city center and to the surrounding New Jersey beach towns. Otherwise, take taxis and Uber if you need an emergency ride.

Best Time To Visit Atlantic City

Spring and summer are the best periods to visit Atlantic City. After all, it is a beach destination, and you want warm weather. To enjoy the hot weather and avoid the crowds, we recommend late March or early September. These shoulder seasons are perfect for getting the best out of Atlantic City. And outside of the peak summer period, humidity should be lower.

Is Atlantic City worth visiting now?

Yes, Atlantic City is worth visiting. The city is constantly expanding and improving with more and more exciting attractions and places to stay.

What is Atlantic City well known for?

Atlantic City is well known for boardwalks and casinos. As a city it is a place for a beach holiday and party experience at the casinos and dance clubs.

Is the Atlantic City Boardwalk free?

Yes, the Atlantic City Boardwalk is totally free.

Is there a strip in Atlantic City?

Atlantic City’s strip is just the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Along the boardwalk is where you’ll find all the best casinos and hotels.

To Conclude

Atlantic City has lots to offer, whether you hit up upscale restaurants, sightsee Atlantic City’s historical landmarks, or kick back with watersports on the beach. We love the combination of city and sand, and you will too. Its proximity to New York City makes it an absolute breeze to visit. After staying in New York, you can easily add Atlantic City as a beach break. Why not enjoy the Atlantic City Boardwalk or the Atlantic City Aquarium? Especially in summer. Atlantic City Aquarium

Have a fabulous stay in Atlantic City, and schedule as many of these most amazing Atlantic City attractions as possible.

Plan Your Next Trip to New Jersey With These Resources

  • 30 Best New York Views – Where to See the Manhattan Skyline
  • 25 Best Day Trips from NYC
  • 41 Awesome Things to Do in New York City
  • Where to Stay in New York City – Best Hotels and Top Places For All Budgets

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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places to visit atlantic city

Atlantic City Thrills: Top 45 Epic Adventures & Hotspots

Dive into the heart of Atlantic City, where thrills live on every corner and adventure whispers your name—your ultimate guide to non-stop fun awaits!

places to visit atlantic city

Atlantic City is one of America’s most popular destinations. Known for its luxury hotels, shopping, attractions and live entertainment, there is always something exciting happening in Atlantic City. Located in the heart of New Jersey, this fun city has much to offer their tourists.

Take a trip to Atlantic City for an unforgettable experience. From gambling to nightlife, to arts and culture, you are sure to find all the excitement this incredible getaway destination has to offer. With a plethora of hotel options, activities, attractions and more, you simply can't go wrong with a trip to sunny AC. Here are forty-five of the best spots to visit when you head to this coastal paradise in New Jersey.

1. Steel Pier Amusement Park

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Mark Jonas, Flickr

📍 Map It:   1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 345-4893 | Website | Hours: Varies deping on season|  Entrance:  Tickets $1.75/person.

Head out for a day of adventure when you visit Steel Pier Amusement Park, one of Atlantic City's most popular attractions. Whether you're with your significant other or your extended family, you can enjoy both classic and modern rides for all ages. Sitting right on the boardwalk, you can marvel at the beautiful ocean views at hand when you go up the famous Ferris wheel, the Big Wheel.

The convenience on the boardwalk means even more things to do. Check out the local bars, eateries and shops that line the boardwalk when you head out to this well-known amusement park. Lovers of a good thrill will be excited to hit all the exclusive rides Steel Pier has to offer.

2. Harrah’s Resort & Casino

places to visit atlantic city

📍 Map It:   777 Harrah’s Boulevard, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 441-5000 |  Website   |  Hours:  Open 24/7

This incredible resort and casino is well known for its luxury accommodations, amenities and is a part of Caesar's collection of upscale hotels. Being one of Atlantic City's major casinos, you are sure to find fortune and fun at the Harrah's Resort & Casino. With newly renovated rooms with spectacular coastal views and panoramic visuals of the beautiful city.

Choose from a variety of fancy, gourmet restaurants on-site such as Gordon Ramsay Steak, home of chef Ramsey's famous dishes. If you've happened to come on a day where there's live entertainment, you're in for a big treat. With artists, comedians and more frequenting this happening casino, there will always be things to do when you visit.

Stay a bit further out from the busy boardwalk but still have close, convenient access to the night life when you choose to stay at Harrah's Resort & Casino.

Related Read:   50 BEST Things To Do in New Jersey

3. Tanger Outlets

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  markrandolph87, Flickr

📍 Map It:   2014 Baltic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (800) 405-9555 |   Website   |  Hours:  10 am – 8 pm Monday – Saturday, 10am – 7pm Sunday

The title says it all- enjoy all of your favorite brands at a discount when you shop at Tanger Outlets. When you're adventuring the busy city, you can stop and take a look at all of the incredible stores this outlet mall has to offer. From accessories to clothing and shoes, you can shop until you drop at Atlantic City's Tanger Outlets.

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants located within the shopping center. For a shopping experience filled with high-quality brands at a decent price, you can't go wrong with visiting the Tanger Outlets.

4. Playground Pier

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  hotels.com

📍 Map It:   1 Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 345-3100|  Website   |  Hours:  11 am – 10 pm Monday – Saturday, 11 am – 7 pm Sunday

Get your shop on when you visit the Playground Pier, a luxury shopping mall in the heart of Atlantic City. This outdoor mall provides you with spectacular views of the pier so you can enjoy scenic views while you look for treasures. With various restaurants on-site, you can make a whole day of it. Shop and snack in style at the Playground Pier.

With so many unique stores to visit combined with breathtaking coastal views, you can't go wrong with this shopping experience when you visit Atlantic City. This isn't your average shopping mall, offering specialty goods and privately owned shops that are lavish and elegant.

Related Read:   25 Best Romantic Getaways in New Jersey

5. Absecon Lighthouse

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Trip.com

📍 Map It:   31 S Rhode Island Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 449 -1360 |   Website  |  Hours:  11 am – 4 pm daily Thursday – Monday |  Entrance:  $10 for adults, $6 for children 4-12

Get ready for a spectacular view of the pier when you visit Absecon Lighthouse. This must-see attraction packs a bit of a workout with 228 steps to climb, but the wait is so worth it. This lighthouse is the tallest one in New Jersey and will make for an unforgettable adventure when you visit Atlantic City.

Once you've reached the top, you can spot nearly everything the beautiful city has to offer. From the Jersey Shore to all the attractions, get the perfect panoramic view of Atlantic City when you climb up Absecon Lighthouse. This landmark is one that you simply must experience when you visit New Jersey.

6. Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Mike Lynaugh

📍 Map It:   1441 Boardwalk Corner of Boardwalk and, N New York Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 347-2001 |  Website  |  Hours:  11am – 5pm Sunday – Friday, 10am – 7pm Saturday |  Entrance:  $18.99, 13+, $12.99 ages 5 – 12, $14.99, Seniors

For a unique experience, you can visit the Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum. Filled with rare oddities and exhibits that will surprise you, this attraction is a must-see when you visit Atlantic City. If you've seen the show, you are sure to love all the exciting features of this incredible museum.

From animal skeletons to the world's smallest car, you can find large varieties of interesting things at this Atlantic City, exclusive museum. Located right on the boardwalk, you can head on in when you're perusing Atlantic City's biggest attraction.

Please be advised if you arrive with children that some exhibits may be scary even though the destination is all ages.

7. Atlantic City Boardwalk

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Hotels.com

📍 Map It:   Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |   Website   |  Hours:  24/7 |  Entrance:  Free

The Atlantic City Boardwalk is arguably one of New Jersey's biggest attractions. Filled with various entertainment, dining, shopping and more, this iconic destination is a must-see when you visit New Jersey. This boardwalk holds a bit of history- it is the first and oldest in America!

With a distance of nearly five miles, you can find all the excitement and fun you need when you visit the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Since 1870, this attraction has held near and dear to the hearts of so many Americans. Don't forget to check out the breathtaking coastal views and visit the beach, which is also one of New Jersey's best attractions.

Related Read:   15 Best Hiking Trails in New Jersey

8. Hard Rock Hotel & Cafe

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Real Estate NJ

📍 Map It:   1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 449-1000 |   Website

This iconic attraction sits on Atlantic City's boardwalk and offers incredible accommodations and one of the best casinos in New Jersey. This large hotel has everything you need and more, with convenience access to New Jersey's famous boardwalk and boasting luxury amenities.

With on-site restaurants, music memorabilia and history to check out and so much more, you will have no problem finding exciting things to peruse at this famous hotel. You can even spot Elvis Presley's car and Elton John's shoes in this historic hotel.

9. Ocean Casino Resort

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Ocean Casino Resort

📍 Map It:   500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 783-8000 |  Website

If you're looking for a luxury, five-star hotel experience, you can find it at Ocean Casino Resort. Step into a lavish accommodation, providing you with an exquisite stay from the second you arrive.

This upscale resort is well known as being the most luxurious in the Atlantic City Area. With on-site golfing, private bays and a social club boasting food and cocktails, you can have it all when you stay at Ocean Casino Resort.

This hotel is also conveniently located on the boardwalk, which means everything you need and want to access is right there. From high quality amenities to a lavish, coastal experience, Ocean Casino Resort simply is the best.

10. Atlantic City Ballet

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Shore Local News

📍 Map It:   2301 Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 348-7201 |  Website   |  Hours:  Varies |  Entrance:  Varies

Lovers of performing arts will rejoice in this incredible attraction, available in Atlantic City. This professional ballet company sits on the famous boardwalk and is ready to give you the perfect ballet experience.

In addition to ballet, they offer shows with jazz, tap, modern dance and more. Check out the many shows available on their website and embark on a beautiful dance performance experience when you visit Atlantic City. This unique experience is the perfect way to spend your evenings in this stunning city.

11. Historic Gardner’s Basin

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Do AC

📍 Map It:  Gardner’s Basin

If you're into the history of one of America's greatest cities, then the historic Gardners basin is a great attraction to visit. This hidden gem offers a relaxing vibe with breathtaking scenery. You can sit back and enjoy nature while viewing historic Atlantic City when you visit this lake area destination.

Settled within all the high traffic areas, you can easily slip away into this nature filled attraction while you venture out into the heart of Atlantic City. Some of the cities boat rides and cruises will even visit this water area when giving tours. For a nature walk to get away from the hustle and the bustle, the Historic Gardner's Basin is the perfect solution.

12. Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Boardwalk Hall

📍 Map It:   2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 348-7000 |  Website  |  Hours:  Varies |  Entrance:  Varies

This hall is home to many events that include concerts, comedy shows, pageants and more. Since the Boardwalk is always filled with tourists, you can bet that the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall always has something exciting happening. Check out the website to get in on the next show when you visit.

They also dabble in performance arts, so you never know what you will find at this incredible hall when you visit Atlantic City. Check out the calendar and purchase tickets for an exciting event next time you hit Atlantic City.

13. Atlantic City Cruises Inc.

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Atlantic City Cruises

📍 Map It:  800 N New Hampshire Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 347-7600 |  Website  |  Hours:  Varies |  Entrance:  Varies

What could be more exciting than embarking on a cruise while on vacation? Atlantic City Cruises Inc. is home to many cruises that can take you on the beautiful waters of New Jersey. Set sail on the Atlantic Ocean and enjoy some sun, drinks and food while you sightsee.

They offer happy hour cruises, morning cruises and historic tours. You can also try the dolphin watching cruise if you're looking to spot some wildlife when you hit the beautiful ocean. These incredible cruises add a whole new level of excitement to your Atlantic City vacation and will make for an unforgettable experience.

14. Atlantic City Air Show

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Philadelphia Magazine

📍 Map It:   Atlantic City Beach & Boardwalk  |  Website   |  Hours:  Varies per event |  Entrance:  Free

If you're visiting Atlantic City in the summer, you will be in for a treat! The Atlantic City Airshow is an annual event that offers an incredible air show, for free! Head to the beach, sit back and enjoy the show.

For 2022, Thunder Over the Boardwalk Air Show is the theme, saluting all the army veterans and those who are serving. Members of the Air Force will show off their aerial tricks for all to see. This unique experience offers excitement for all ages.

Lovers of airplanes will feel pure excitement when watching one of their infamous shows. Head to the website for details on dates and information for this year's annual show.

15. Borgata Hotel

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  The Knot

📍 Map It:   1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 317-1000 |   Website  |

Part of the MGM Hotel collection, the Borgata Hotel boasts one of the major casinos available to visit in Atlantic City. This upscale hotel offers everything luxury and immaculate service, sure to give you the perfect experience when you stay. Fans of the night scene will love staying at this upbeat, elegant hotel, close to all the most popular restaurants and attractions.

This classy destination is located in the heart of Atlantic City, surrounded by entertainment, nightlife and more. Enjoy a luxury stay when you stay at the Borgata, known for having excellent room service, lavish linens and the likes. Easy access to the boardwalk and coastal views makes it an even more appealing stay.

16. Tropicana

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Wyndham Hotels

📍 Map It:  2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 340-4000 |   Website  |

This Havana themed resort will take you to a beautiful paradise without ever having to leave New Jersey. This all-ages destination offers loads of fun for everyone. From games and activities to scenic pools, you can find both excitement and rest and relaxation in sunny Atlantic City.

This lovely resort even has its own shopping mall called The Quarter. In addition, there is an on-site hair salon if you're looking for a new do. Take a trip into town and explore the nightlife, entertainment, restaurants and bars. This all-inclusive resort is perfect for those who don't necessarily want to venture out but still have the option to. This tropical oasis is the perfect dose of paradise without having to leave the states.

17. Margaritaville

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Margaritaville

📍 Map It:   1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 431- 4100 |   Website  |  Hours:  11:30am – 9pm Sunday – Friday, 11:30am – 10pm Saturday

It's all in the title- It's five o'clock somewhere! Thanks to that popular saying and the populations love of margaritas, Margaritaville is definitely an experience to be had. This lively bar and restaurant have a full menu and all the margaritas you need to get the party started. Located on the boardwalk, this fun nightlife attraction is certainly one to check out when you explore Atlantic City.

Don't forget to check out the event calendar, since this fan-favorite is well known for providing live entertainment. Views of the beach make it an even more exciting destination when you venture out to New Jersey.

18. Rainforest Cafe

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Open Table

📍 Map It:   2201 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 345-5757 |  Website   |  Hours:  11am – 9pm Sunday – Thursday, 11am – 10pm Friday & Saturday

Hit one of Atlantic City's most popular restaurants when you visit the Rainforest Cafe. This unique dining experience allows you to feel like you've entered a beautiful, tropical rainforest. With green foliage, forest friends and real-life fish tanks, you have certainly entered a rainforest paradise.

Aside from the life-like decor, this chain restaurant offers a large menu with excellent dishes. This go-to is a must experience, thanks to its colorful, animal-filled appeal. Perfect for alll ages, it is simply something you must see when you visit Atlantic City.

19. Little Water Distillery

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Little Water Distillery

📍 Map It :  807 Baltic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 344-7867 |  Website  | Hours: 5pm – 9pm Fridays, 1pm – 8pm Saturday, 1pm – 6pm Sunday|  Entrance:  $10/person for tour

If you happen to travel a bit further than the boardwalk, the Little Water Distillery is a great stop. This awesome distillery is a great place to sit back, unwind and have a drink. During a tasting session, you can enjoy whiskey, rum, gin and more. Learn about this distillery's history and process as you relax in beautiful Atlantic City.

You can also book a tour if you're looking for a more hands on experience. Walk around and hang out with friends while you sip cocktails and take in the coastal views. It's also a quick break from the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk if you're looking for a more laid-back scene.

20. Bar 32 Chocolate & Cocktails

places to visit atlantic city

📍 Map It :  121 S Tenessee Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 248-6960 |  Website   |  Hours:  4pm – 10pm Sunday, Wednesday & Thursday. Friday & Saturday 4pm – 12am.

Chocolate lovers will rejoice with they visit Bar 32 Chocolate & Cocktails. From chocolate themed drinks, to truffles, confection masterpieces and more, this restaurant offers chocolate heaven. If you're a chocoholic, this bar is a must-visit. Enjoy American fare in addition to these fine treats.

You will adore the creativity in each concoction. Enjoy all things chocolate when you visit this incredible restaurant in the heart of Atlantic City. If you've got a sweet tooth, you simply must stop in and enjoy a gourmet creation.

Chocoholics, welcome to chocolate-filled paradise!

21. Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Atlantic City Arts Commission

📍 Map It:  1721 McKinley Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 441-9064 |  Website

This historical beach located in Atlantic City was once a segregated attraction. In the early 1900's it was dubbed the name due to the large quantities of chicken bones buried in the sands. Once the segregation ended, this beach started to blend in with the rest, becoming the historical landmark it is today.

Because of the nature of this segregated beach, it is now a symbol of unity, promoting black culture and equality. This landmark sometimes hosts events such as jazz concerts and is now a place learn more about the history of the city. This is a great historical spot to check out when you visit Atlantic City.

22. Sugar Factory

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Hard Rock Hotel

📍 Map It:   1000 Boardwalk Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 428-7751 |  Website   |  Hours:  11am – 12am Monday – Thursday, 11am – 2am Friday, 8am – 2am Saturday, 8am –12 am Sunday

Those with a sweet tooth will be thrilled to experience the Sugar Factory. The title says everything you need to know- enjoy delicious concoctions, all created to wow and impress. These creative masterpieces include every candy and chocolate confection you could ever imagine. Located inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Cafe, this dessert paradise is a must-visit.

Choose from a plethora of both big and small desserts. Some can feed up to twelve people while others include fine confections such as sprinkled donuts. Don't forget to check out the alcoholic drink menu for an even more unique, sweet experience. If you've got a sweet tooth, you have to stop in at this sugar-filled oasis.

23. Nero’s Italian Steakhouse

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Atlantic City Weekly

📍 Map It:   2100 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 343-2502 |   Website   |  Hours:  5pm – 10pm Friday & Saturday, 5pm – 9pm Thursday, 10am – 2pm Sunday

Looking for a big juicy steak while on vacation? Nero's Italian Steakhouse can provide you with an unforgettable dish. This specialty restaurant is a top choice in fine dining in the Atlantic City Area. Their exquisite menu offers elegant cuts of meat, impressive cocktails and more.

You can find this steakhouse located inside Caesar's. If you're venturing into the nightlife, you will love hitting Nero's. It is surrounded by the luxury night scene. Go gallivanting in the city after you've enjoyed the perfect steak dinner. This upscale restaurant is a staple in the area and something you must try at least once!

24. World War I Memorial

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  PBS WHYY

📍 Map It:   S Albany Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 783-8000 |  Website  |  Hours : 24/7 |  Entrance:  Free

If you love a dose of history, you simply must visit the World War I Memorial in Atlantic City. This landmark is located in the city's O'Donnell Memorial Park, a historic park in the Atlantic City area.

This stunning memorial was built in 1922 and honors all the battles soldiers enduring during World War I. With names and military services displayed for all to see, this piece of history is both somber and beautiful. Remembering those who were lost in the war is a great tribute to those who have served. Enjoy a historic experience and salute all of those who defended our nation when you visit the World War I Memorial.

25. New Jersey Korean War Memorial

places to visit atlantic city

Credit: Atlantic County, NJ

📍  Map It:  124 Park Place, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 345-2500 |  Website  |  Hours:  24/7 |  Entrance:  Fre

Just like the World War I Memorial, this memorial sits proudly to represent the Korean War. Those who fell in war are displayed as a salute to their dedication to our country. This elegant memorial represents the battles fought and the fallen.

This lovely memorial sits across from the beach so you can check it out as you hit the sun and sand. This must-see historical landmark is perfect for honoring those who serve and to get a little insight of the history at hand. This beautiful memorial is a great place to visit when you go to Atlantic City.

26. Atlantic City Historical Museum

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Jason Klobassa, Flickr

📍 Map It:   600-698 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 347-5839 |  Website   |  Hours:  9 am – 5 pm weekdays |  Entrance:  Free

Continue your journey to the history of America when you visit the Atlantic City Historical Museum. Discover all the historic artifacts inside this incredible destination when you check out the museum, conveniently located on the boardwalk.

Explore what makes Atlantic City unique and admirable when you walk through the many exhibits of this historical museum. If you visit on the right day, you may come across a fun event or additional exhibits depending on the season as well. For a fun insight on what makes Atlantic City, you will love visiting the Atlantic City Historical Museum.

27. Central Pier Arcade & Speedway

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Top Brunch Spots

📍 Map It:   1400 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone:  (609) 345-5219 |  Website   |  Hours:  Varies per season |  Entrance:  Activity Dependent

Arcade lovers can rejoice at this little slice of gaming heaven. From classic to modern games, you can have all the fun in the world at this incredible, nostalgic arcade and speedway. Go-karts make for an exciting afternoon or embark in some target practice with various  shooting experiences , such as paintball.

After you've visited the beach, you can walk right over to the arcade which sits directly on the beach. You will love having a bit of good old, classic fun when you visit Central Pier Arcade & Speedway.

28. Fralingers Saltwater Taffy

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Time Out

📍 Map it:   1100 Boardwalk Ocean City, NJ 08226  |  Phone:  (609) 399-2202 |  Hours:  Vary per season

If you've got a sweet tooth, stopping at Fralingers Saltwater Taffy is a must when you visit Atlantic City. Crafted to perfection, this taffy has been around since the late 1800's. With so many flavors to choose from, you are sure to love testing out all the different varieties.

Start with a basic flavor like chocolate or vanilla or go bold with a specialty flavor such as pumpkin or egg nogg. Soft and chewy taffy is a great treat all year round so be sure to stop in when you're in the area.

29. Chef Vola's

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  WPG Talk Radio

📍 Map It:   Chef Vola's - Google Maps  | Phone:  (609) 345-2022|  Website   |  Hours:  5pm-10pm Tuesday-Saturday

Head out to Atlantic City's best Italian cuisine the next time you're in the area. Since the 1920's, this has been one of this spectacular city's best eateries. This suburban gem offers you the finest dining experience around. Lovers of Italian food will love visiting Chef Vola's.

This restaurant has always operated as an exclusive club of sorts, a best kept secret or hidden gem, if you will. You will love experiencing true Italian cuisine and hanging out at this lounge-type, basement situated restaurant. Reservations are required so make sure you call ahead.

30. Atlantic City Aquarium

places to visit atlantic city

📍 Map It:   Atlantic City Aquarium - Google Maps  |  Website  |   Phone:  609-348-2880 |  Hours:  10am-4pm |  Entrance:  $8 for Adults, $5 for children under 12 and $6 for Seniors

Who doesn't love a good aquarium? If you're headed to Atlantic City, this attraction is a must see. Take the whole family and marvel at the beauty of oceans finest friends. Located right on the beach, this is the perfect setting for a peaceful, ocean experience.

Enjoy seeing tropical fish, turtles, sharks, stingrays and more when you visit Atlantic City Aquarium. This place gives an underwater experience feel, with habitats that make you feel like you're exploring the ocean floor. This stunning aquarium is the perfect activity for all ages.

31. Storybook Land

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Wikipedia

📍 Map It:   Storybook Land - Google Maps  |  Phone:  (609) 646-0103 |  Website   |  Hours:  Wednesday-Monday 11pm-6pm |  Entrance : $30.95 for adults and children, $27.95 for Seniors

Discover the imaginative excitement of all of your favorite storybooks in one amusement park. This family attraction offers a unique experience where you can come face-to-face with the characters of your most favorite nursery rhymes. With rides that have themes like " Alice in Wonderland," and "The Three Little Pigs," what is not to love?

Though the park theme is geared towards younger children, don't let the title fool you. There are plenty of high intensity rides and rollercoasters for adults to enjoy as well. With train rides, swings, a fun maze and more, this little amusement park is the perfect stop when you visit Atlantic City.

Depending on the time of year, there may be special events held. Keep in mind that Christmas at Storybook Land is even more magical.

32. Atlantic City Paintball

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  AC Paintball

📍 Map It:   AC Paintball - Google Maps  |  Phone:  609-561-3883|  Website   |  Hours:  Monday- Friday 9am- 4pm |  Entrance:  $29.95

Thrill seekers will love to stop by Atlantic City Paintball for some good, old competitive fun. This incredible outdoor facility offers you everything you need to join in on an epic paintball match. Rent all the equipment you could ever need and purchase a package to play for the day.

This high energy sport will provide you with an action-packed day and the outdoor field boasts a challenging field that will have you motivated to get out there and beat your opposing team.

33. Atlantic City Parasail

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  TripAdvisor

📍 Map It:   Atlantic City Parasail - Google Maps  |  Phone:  609-345-1212 |  Website   |  Hours:  Varies |  Entrance:  Varies

In a city surrounded by ocean water, how can you not explore the exciting world of water sports? Atlantic City Parasail is ready to offer you a fun adventurous afternoon of water activities.

This company has been operating since 2010 and is highly popular. Get a better view of all of Atlantic City when you soar high above the ocean. Get a picturesque view of all the beauty that is Atlantic City including the casinos, hotels, boardwalk and more.

Head out on a boat and enjoy roughly fifteen minutes of parasailing. Feel like you're floating while obtaining that spectacular view. Thrill seekers will love embarking on this fun water adventure.

34. The Irish Pub

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  WOBM

📍 Map It:   Irish Pub and Irish Pub Inn - Google Maps |  Website   | Phone: (609) 344-9063 |  Hours:  24/7

Known as being one of America's greatest pubs, this ode to Irish culture has been serving its residents and tourists since 1972. This little pub is open all year round, 24 hours a day for your convenience. It is also situated inside a historical, Victorian Inn that offers rooms at a highly discounted rate.

Located just outside the boardwalk, you can easily access this Irish pub and enjoy some of their famous dishes like St. James Potatoes. Don't forget to grab your favorite ale and discover a little tidbit of Irish culture.

35. Atlantic City Surf School

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Yelp

📍 Map It:   Jersey Devil Surf Shop - Google Maps  |  Website  |  Phone:  (609) 515-4969 |  Hours:  Daily 8am-6pm |  Entrance:  Varies

Keep it interesting with more water sports if you happen to visit Atlantic City in the summer. This school can teach you how to surf. Start with paddling out, standing up and be riding the waves in no time. Sessions can be taught seven days a week so check out the site for scheduling.

In addition, they will teach you surf etiquette and how to respect the ocean. The importance of keeping our ocean safe and clean is an important issue so learn all about it when you head to surf school. If you're up for a new adventure, learning to surf is a great way to spend the afternoon in Atlantic City.

36. Knife & Fork Inn

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  New Jersey Leisure Guide

📍 Map It:   Knife and Fork Inn - Google Maps |  Website   | Hours: 4pm-6pm Daily |  Phone:  (609) 344-1133 |

Take a trip to this historic inn when you visit Atlantic City. This establishment is the town's oldest restaurant. Founded in 1912, Knife & Fork Inn operated as a men's club and the second floor, as a ladies lounge. This rebellious restaurant openly served alcohol despite the Prohibition Act in the 1920's.

This little piece of history is a full-service restaurant with luxury cuisine and an elegant vibe. With gourmet cuisine such as steak dishes and seafood, this nod to earlier eras will have you feeling nostalgia. Featuring a twenties glamour appeal, you will undoubtedly love your experience at the Knife & Fork Inn.

37. Atlantic City Beaches

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Vlad Pdvorny, Flickr

📍 Map It:   Atlantic City Beach - Google Maps |  Website  |  Hours:  24/7

What is a vacation without some fun in the sun and sand? Atlantic City is well known for having some of the best beaches in America. You've got a bunch to choose from, all boasting nearby attractions and plenty to do and see. Ocean views are plentiful in Atlantic City.

Brigantine Beach is one of the more popular attractions for families while Atlantic City Beach is known for easy access to the boardwalk. Choose from eight local beaches to enjoy some sun, fun and much needed relaxation. Even if you don't come in the summer, the beach is a great place to walk and enjoy some beautiful coastal views. If its chilly out, you can still take in the scenery and embark on adventure.

38. Boardwalk Tram Tour

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Youtube

📍 Map It:   Boardwalk Tram Service - Google Maps  |  Website   |  Hours:  10am-10pm |  Cost:  $4 per day

Not only is this the best option for non-stop scenery but it is super convenient for families with small kids or elderly folks to get a tram pass. Purchase a pass that allows you to hop on and off all day long with ease. Don't miss a beat when you step aboard the tram and get to marvel at the best of views in Atlantic City and all of its beauty.

The boardwalk stretches nearly eight miles so if you're not up for the walk, the Boardwalk tram can still provide you with a fantastic experience of New Jersey's most famous attraction. This fast paced approached is perfect for those who want to get as much in as they can in one day as well.

39. Lucy the Elephant

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  New York Times

📍 Map It:   Lucy the Elephant - Google Maps  |  Website   | Phone:  (609) 823-6473 |  Hours:  Saturday & Sunday 11am-4pm

This elephant structure is one of New Jersey's more famous attractions, located just outside of Atlantic City. Standing 65 feet high, this incredible statue holds a small museum inside for all ages to visit. Get your picture taken with the infamous elephant and then head inside to learn a bit more about its importance.

This registered historical landmark holds original artifacts and an exclusive view of the ocean you simply won't want to miss. Get a tour inside and then sign the guest book when you leave. This large, stunning elephant statue is a sight to see.

40. Atlantic City Miniature Golf

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Atlantic City Mini Golf

📍 Map It:   Atlantic City Miniature Golf - Google Maps |  Website  |  Phone:  (609) 347-1661 |  Hours:  10am-11pm Daily |  Entrance:  $10 per person

Take a break from sightseeing and indulge in some good old mini golf fun when you visit Atlantic City. This highly popular attraction is always a hit and has been a well-loved spot on the Boardwalk for over twenty years.

Those who love to compete will love switching it up and hitting eighteen holes with their friends and family. With an on-site ice cream bar with a plethora of flavors, you can't go wrong spending an afternoon at Atlantic City Miniature Golf.'

41. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Pennypack Ecological Restoration Trust

📍 Map It:   Forsythe Wildlife Refuge Brigantine - Google Map |  Website

Lovers of nature will enjoy taking a beautiful hike at this hidden gem just outside of Atlantic City. Embark on trails that will show you all the beautiful wildlife New Jersey has to offer. With migratory birds being the prominent attraction, you can find all sorts of animals throughout this eight-mile, marsh wonderland- a true outdoor experience.

You can opt to drive through or walk the numerous hiking trails to get a closer look at all the beauty of the Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. Head out in the morning for exercise and breathtaking views that will be the highlight of your trip to Atlantic City.

42. Wet Willie's

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  Resorts Hotel Casino

📍 Map It:   Wet Willie's - Google Maps |  Website   | Phone:  609-246-7398 |  Hours:  11am-1am Sunday-Thursday, 11am-2pm Friday and Saturday

Wet Willie's is an Atlantic City staple, plain and simple. Though their concoctions are anything but simple, these handmade delicacies are frozen, boozy concoctions that are refreshing and delicious. With three locations in AC, there is simply no reason not to stop and try. With alcoholic flavors such as Sex on the Beach and specialties like Monkey Shine (banana daiquiri), you are sure to enjoy grabbing a frozen cocktail when you're hitting the boardwalk.

Some are full service and even offer food. Make sure to check them out when you are out and about on a sunny day in Atlantic City!

43. Dock's Oyster House

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  John Mirenda Construction

📍 Map It:   Dock's Oyster House - Google Maps |  Website   |  Phone:  (609) 345-0092 |  Hours:  4pm-6pm Daily

You've entered beach territory, but have you really experienced the beach without indulging in some seafood delicacies? If you're in the mood for a good chowder, Dock's Oyster House has you covered. Since 1897, Dock's has graced their presence among millions of tourists and still stand as one of the best seafood joints in the area.

Though it's had some modern renovations, it still screams classic seafood joint with a few upscale touches. The crab and corn chowder with jalapeno cream are just one of the many dishes the locals rave about. For a good seafood experience on the beach, you've got to hit Dock's Oyster House.

44. HQ2 Nightclub & Beach Club

places to visit atlantic city

Credit:  HQ@AC

📍 Map It:   HQ2 Nightclub - Google Maps |  Website  |  Phone:  (609) 783-8001 |  Hours:  Friday & Saturday 11pm-4am, Sunday 12pm-7pm

Those who enjoy the nightlife will love visiting HQ2, arguably the hottest night club in Atlantic City. Known for its famous DJ's like Kim Lee and Kascade, this club is always hopping. During the day, rent a cabana, get bottle service and enjoy the lavish lifestyle while you rub elbows with the famous.

Located inside the Ocean Casino & Resort, you can even sleep off your crazy night out in one of the many ocean view rooms. With a luxury and an exclusive club experience, you can't go wrong with HQ2 if you're looking to get loud in AC.

45. The Wild, Wild West Casino

places to visit atlantic city

If you're in the mood to gamble, head to the Wild, Wild West Casino right on the boardwalk. For some upscale western fun, you can gamble, ride a bull, enjoy a cocktail and more when you hang at this cool attraction. This colorful, "old western" theme is inviting and appealing for everyone.

Though small, this western themed casino is always busy and always exciting. Riding a mechanical bull while on vacation seems like an absolute must, right?

📍 Map It:   Wild Wild West Casino - Google Maps |  Website  |  Phone:  (609) 340-2000 |  Hours:  24/7

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Atlantic City   Travel Guide

places to visit atlantic city

Why Go To Atlantic City

Take a typical Jersey Shore beach vacation – complete with a boardwalk and souvenir shops – throw in a little Las Vegas , and you have Atlantic City, New Jersey . Since the legalization of gambling in the city in the late 1970s, Atlantic City (or just AC) has attracted visitors who mostly want to try their luck at the tables and occasionally want to lounge on the beach. Now, luxury hotels, hopping nightclubs and upscale shops are spiffing up AC's street cred as a beach vacation. No, you won't find Vegas' class and panache in Atlantic City nor will you find the pristine sands of a Florida beach, but if you're looking for a destination that provides a fairly good mix of the two, AC might just be the place for you.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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  • # 8 in Best Day Trips from NYC
  • # 9 in Best Places to Visit in New Jersey

Best of Atlantic City

Best hotels in atlantic city.

  • # 1 in Ocean Casino Resort
  • # 2 in Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
  • # 3 in MGM Tower at Borgata

Ocean Casino Resort

Best Things to Do in Atlantic City

  • # 1 in Atlantic City Beach
  • # 2 in Atlantic City Boardwalk
  • # 3 in Atlantic City Casinos

places to visit atlantic city

Popular Tours

The Hook at Caesars Atlantic City

The Hook at Caesars Atlantic City

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from $ 84.75

Poltergeist Interactive Escape Room in Northfield, New Jersey

Poltergeist Interactive Escape Room in Northfield, New Jersey

(8 reviews)

from $ 37.32

Hard Rock Cafe Atlantic City

Hard Rock Cafe Atlantic City

(50 reviews)

from $ 38.50

Atlantic City Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Atlantic City is either from March to May or from June to August. Although a nice breeze blows through the seaside town in the summer, the days are defined by humidity with average highs in the low 80s. Temperatures drop in the evenings, so bring a sweater or jacket, especially if you're going to enjoy AC's nightlife. Spring and fall see milder weather, while temperatures can dip below freezing during the winter. If you're more interested in the casinos, you'll find that any point in the year is worth the trip. Most offer discounts and other perks year-round to attract new guests and repeat visitors.

Weather in Atlantic City

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Cover up Most casinos and lounges have strict dress codes at night. Be sure to check with the establishment you're visiting before heading out.

Watch your pockets Theft and pickpocketing throughout Atlantic City is common. So, don't be flashy and keep a close eye on purses and slot tickets.

Stay on the boardwalk Though the city is generally safe during the day, you shouldn't wander too far off the beaten path, especially after dark. Avoid walking behind the casinos and on the beach at night.

How to Save Money in Atlantic City

Winter in Atlantic City The cheapest time to visit AC is during the winter months, especially in the middle of the week. You'll miss out on the beaches, but the casinos and most restaurants are open year-round.

Don't stay in the casinos Unless you're taking advantage of a promotion, the casino hotels are expensive. The farther you move from the beach and the boardwalk , the more affordable hotel prices you'll find. But don't go too far from the main drag; AC's outskirts can be seedy, particularly at night.

Take advantage of casino promos Check with individual casinos for promotions and packages. Many offer club cards, discounted prices and other perks year-round.

What to Eat

Atlantic City is primarily a resort town and because of its powerhouse casinos and hotels, many visitors typically eat there. Travelers will find plenty of buffets in addition to restaurants established by celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Wolfgang Puck and Geoffrey Zakarian in the various resorts in town. The Atlantic City Boardwalk also has some tasty casual eats like fresh funnel cakes, creamy fudge, salty french fries and an AC staple, saltwater taffy.

There are some dining spots located outside the casinos and boardwalk, though. And thanks to AC's coastal location, there's plenty of seafood on the menu at those joints. Diners cite Dock's Oyster House as an eatery where you can get fresh seafood from the raw bar, classic chowders and entrees like stuffed flounder. Recent visitors also suggested a visit to Chef Vola's for authentic and exceptionally tasty Italian fare at reasonable prices.

Getting Around Atlantic City

The best way to get around in Atlantic City is on your own two feet – most attractions are within walking distance of one another. If you're worn out from walking, you can hop on the AC's Jitney minibuses or be pushed along the boardwalk in a shaded rolling chair. Cars are convenient in Atlantic City as well, especially if you'll be traveling beyond the city limits. Rental agencies have offices in both of the nearby airports; the Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is about 15 miles northwest of downtown AC while the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is around 65 miles northwest.

New Jersey Transit services Atlantic City from Philadelphia only: The Atlantic City Rail Line takes about an hour one-way. The Atlantic City Express Train Service runs from New York City , making one stop in Newark, New Jersey. Fares for the double-decker train depend on availability and class. A free shuttle operates between the train terminal and major casinos in the city.

The boardwalk is one of the best ways to get to know Atlantic City. Stroll along to take in the sea views and check out the shops, hotels and casinos along the way.

Explore More of Atlantic City

Atlantic City Boardwalk

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Home » North America » USA » 18 Unique Things to do in Atlantic City on ANY Budget in 2024

18 Unique Things to do in Atlantic City on ANY Budget in 2024

Atlantic City is often overshadowed by Vegas when it comes to casino gambling and nightlife, but if you’re looking for a glamorous vacation on the East Coast, it’s certainly one of the best places to visit.

However, this New Jersey city has so much more than just casinos and great parties. Atlantic City meets with the Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and serene nature.

It’s also a resort town, meaning you’ll find many relaxing places to unwind in, such as spas, high-end shops, and fine dining restaurants.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or a non-stop party, Atlantic City has something for everyone. If you’re not sure what things to do in Atlantic City, then fret not, because in this guide I’ve listed all of the best Atlantic City attractions and a few hidden gems…

places to visit atlantic city

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The Top Things to Do in Atlantic City

If you only have a short time in Atlantic City, then these attractions in Atlantic City should definitely be at the top of your to-do list!

Atlantic City's Casino

Try Your Luck at One of the Casinos

Roll the dice, spin the wheel, and test your luck at one of Atlantic City’s casinos. This is undoubtedly the most unmissable thing to do in Atlantic City.

Aloha Tiki Cruise

Set Sail on a Sunset Tiki Cruise

There is nothing more exciting than a sunset cruise around Atlantic City on a tiki bar inspired boat. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the cocktails!

Go Parasailing Off the Coast

Go Parasailing Off the Coast

For a thrill like no other, go parasailing off the coast of Atlantic City. Soar high above the waves and take in the breathtaking views of the city and shoreline.

places to visit atlantic city

Spend a Day Exploring Philadelphia

Learn about the history of the United States on a day trip to Philadelphia.

Stroll Along the Boardwalk

Stroll Along the Boardwalk

Take in the sights and sounds of Atlantic City by strolling along the boardwalk.

1. Climb the Absecon Lighthouse on the Boardwalk

Climb the Absecon Lighthouse on the Boardwalk

On any trip to Atlantic City, you cannot miss a stroll along the Boardwalk. This five-mile, wooden walk connects the city and the sea, and is where you’ll find a ton of Atlantic City attractions.

One of the top attractions on the boardwalk is the early 19th-century lighthouse, which stands 171 feet tall and offers stunning views of the Atlantic City coastline. This is the third tallest lighthouse in the country and will give you views you can’t get anywhere else in Atlantic City.

The best time to visit the lighthouse is during the day so you can see everything clearly, but it is also fun to watch the sunset from the top.

  • Entrance: $8 for adults, $4 for kids ages 3-12
  • Hours: 10am-5pm
  • Address: 3101 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

2. Try to Win Big at One of the Many Casinos

When you hear about your friends heading to Atlantic City for the weekend, you can make the assumption that quite a bit of their time will be spent at the casino! And for good reason.

With so many casinos to choose from, and all of them offer a unique experience, this is definitely the best thing to do in Atlantic City for adults. There are your large, luxurious casinos like Caesar’s Palace, and then there are more down-to-earth casinos like Bally’s.

Spend your evening with the big ballers at the blackjack table or just have a little fun at a slot machine. Keep in mind that the casino floor is not only for gambling. You can also find plenty of great bars and restaurants, live entertainment, and shopping inside most casinos. So even if you’re not feeling lucky, you can still enjoy yourself.

Pro tip: many of the casinos offer free drinks as you gamble regardless of which games you are playing, so start off at a penny slot, grab that free rum and coke, and see where the night takes you.

  • Entrance: Free
  • Hours: 24 Hours
  • Address: Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino: 1900 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, 8401 Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa: 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, 08401 Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino: 2100 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, 08401

3. Enjoy a Sunset Cruise on a Tiki Bar Boat

Aloha Tiki Cruise

Visiting Atlantic City with your friends? Then set sail on one of the most exciting things to do in Atlantic City. Taking a sunset cruise is the perfect thing to do to end your day and start your night. With the cool breeze blowing and the sun setting, it is a magical experience.

This is also a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You will get some great photo opportunities of the skyline and the casinos lit up at night.

The cruise has been dressed up like a tiki bar, the perfect ambiance for a night out with your best mates, sipping cocktails and enjoying each others company.

  • Entrance: Dependent on cruise
  • Hours: Dependent on cruise
  • Address: 600 Huron Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

4. Stay at the Stunning Ocean Casino Resort

Atlantic City's Casino

The Ocean Casino Resort is one of the hottest places to stay in Atlantic City. With its luxurious accommodations and stunning views, it is the perfect place to stay for a weekend getaway.

The Resort is a mirrored skyscraper right on the ocean with an outdoor pool deck that overlooks the beach. It is honestly stunning!

The rooms are spacious and decorated with a modern flair, and the bathrooms are complete with marble tubs and rain showers. You can also find plenty of great restaurants and bars on-site, as well as a spa and fitness center. This is a must-stay if you love luxury and want to be right on the water.

  • Entrance: $100
  • Hours: 24 hours
  • Address: 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

5. Soar High Above the Water on a Parasailing Adventure

Go Parasailing Off the Coast

One of the most popular ways to see Atlantic City is by parasailing . You can take in stunning views of the coastline and the city as you soar high above the water.

This is also perfect for those days when you want to get out on the water but don’t necessarily want to get wet.

You will be able to see for miles as you are pulled behind a boat while attached to a parachute. It is truly an exhilarating experience that you won’t soon forget. I have done this a few times and each time I am just as excited as the last.

  • Entrance: $95 per person
  • Hours: 9am-5pm
  • Address: 1 Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City

6. Visit the Atlantic City Historical Museum

The Atlantic City Historical Museum is the perfect place to learn about the rich history of this seaside resort town. The museum is located in an 1879 Victorian-style house and features a variety of exhibitions that chronicle the city’s development.

You can learn about the city’s original settlers, the Lenape Indians, as well as the effects of the Civil War and World War II on Atlantic City. The museum also has a beautiful garden that is perfect for a stroll.

  • Entrance: $5 for adults, $2 for kids ages 6-12
  • Hours: 10am-4pm
  • Address: 559 Absecon Blvd, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

places to visit atlantic city

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7. Stroll Along the Boardwalk

Stroll Along the Boardwalk

Atlantic City is most well known for the Boardwalk. This five-mile-long promenade stretches from one end of the city to the other and offers stunning views of the ocean. It is also the perfect place to people watch and do some window shopping.

There are a variety of boutique shops and restaurants along the Boardwalk, as well as some of the city’s most popular casinos. One of my favorite things to do here is to get an ice cream cone and find a spot to sit and watch the world go by.

It is the perfect way to relax and soak up the atmosphere of this iconic place. And since it’s free to roam, it’s the perfect place for backpackers in the USA on a budget.

  • Address: Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

8. Take a Day Trip to Philadelphia

places to visit atlantic city

Just a short drive from Atlantic City is the city of Philadelphia , which is rich in history and culture. While typically you might want a few days in Philly to really do it justice, it is also possible to see a lot in just one day.

Start by visiting the Independence Visitor Center to get your bearings and then head to some of the city’s most popular historical sites, like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. You can also explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art or take a walk through Rittenhouse Square.

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, there are plenty of great restaurants in Philly, including Reading Terminal Market, which is a foodie paradise. I had a pastrami and egg sandwich there a few years ago… and I STILL think about this sandwich. It was that good.

  • Entrance: $35 bus ticket
  • Hours: 8 AM- 10 PM
  • Address: Philadelphia, PA 19106

9. Ride the Steel Pier Amusement Park Rides

Steel Pier Amusement Park

Take a trip back in time and feel the nostalgia of the Steel Pier Amusement Park. This historic pier dates back to 1898 and was once one of the most popular tourist attractions in Atlantic City.

The pier is home to a variety of rides, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, and roller coaster that will give you a thrill late into the night. There are also a number of game booths where you can try your hand at winning a stuffed animal.

One of the best parts about the Steel Pier is that it offers stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline. It is the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the casinos and enjoy some fresh air.

  • Entrance: $15 for an all-day pass
  • Hours: 10am-10pm
  • Address: Steel Pier, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

10. Have a Beach Day

No trip to the Jersey Shore is complete without a day at the beach! Atlantic City has a number of beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the incredible views.

One of my favorite things to do in Atlantic City with kids is to pack a picnic lunch and head to Ventnor Beach, which is a bit more low-key than some of the other beaches in Atlantic City. This beach is also great for people-watching, as it tends to attract a more eclectic crowd.

If you’re looking for a party atmosphere, then head to Brighton Beach, where you can listen to music, drink cocktails, and dance the day away.

  • Address: Ventnor City, NJ, United States

11. Take a Surf Lesson at one of the Local Beaches

One of the best things about Atlantic City is that it is surrounded by water, which makes it the perfect place to try your hand at surfing. There are a number of surf schools in the area that offer lessons for all levels, so even if you’ve never surfed before, you can give it a go.

This is one of my favorite activities in AC, as it is such a unique experience. There is nothing like riding the waves and feeling the salt water on your skin.

And, of course, it is also great exercise. Bear in mind, that you are on the east coast so the water is chilly!! Best to wear a wetsuit, many of the schools will be able to provide you with this.

  • Entrance: $50 for a 1-hour lesson
  • Address: AC Surf: 500 Boardwalk. Atlantic City, NJ 08401

12. Explore Lucy the Elephant in Margate

Lucy the Elephant in Margate

Lucy the Elephant is one of the most popular tourist attractions in New Jersey and it is easy to see why. This six-story elephant-shaped building was constructed in 1881 and is now a National Historic Landmark. It was built to advertise a local real estate development and quickly became a symbol of the Jersey Shore.

Today, visitors can take a guided tour of Lucy and learn all about her history. You can also climb to the top of her head for some incredible views of Margate City.

  • Entrance: $8 for adults, $4 for children
  • Address: 9200 Atlantic Ave, Margate City, NJ 08402

13. Hit the Links at One of the Famous Golf Courses

Golfers will be in heaven when they visit Atlantic City, as there are a number of amazing golf courses in the area. If you’re looking for a challenge, then play a round at Twisted Dunes. This course is known for its unique sand dunes and is considered one of the best public courses in New Jersey.

For a more relaxed game, head to Atlantic City Country Club, which was founded in 1897. This course is beautiful and offers stunning views of the city skyline. It is the perfect thing to do in Atlantic City on a weekend where you can spend time outdoors with friends or family.

  • Hours: 7 AM – Sunset
  • Address: Twisted Dunes Golf Club: 2101 Ocean Heights Ave, Egg Harbor Township, NJ, 08234

14. Head to Storybook Land for a Day of Family Fun

Storybook Land is the top thing to do in Atlantic City for families with young children. This amusement park is based on classic storybooks and fairy tales, and it features rides, shows, and attractions that will delight kids of all ages.

Some of the popular rides include Alice in Wonderland, The Little Mermaid, Peter Pan, and Snow White. There is also a water park area where kids can cool off on hot days. Storybook Land is the perfect place to create some cherished memories with your family.

  • Entrance: $32 for adults, $27 for children
  • Hours: 10am-6pm
  • Address: 6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234

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15. Spend a Night in Old Havana at the Tropicana Resort and Casino

The Tropicana Resort and Casino is one of the most popular casinos in Atlantic City. This resort feels like you just stepped into the Caribbean, they often host Havana nights where guests will dress in their best Caribbean attire. The entire resort has a Havana theme, from the décor to the music.

The casino offers a wide variety of games, including slots, blackjack, poker, and roulette. There are also a number of bars and restaurants on-site, as well as a nightclub and theater. So grab a hand-rolled Cuban and enjoy a night in Old Havana at the Tropicana! This is one of the best things to do in Atlantic City for nightlife.

  • Hours: 24/7
  • Address: 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

16. Try the Famous Saltwater Taffy

Saltwater Taffy

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Atlantic City, then try Saltwater taffy! This is a Jersey Shore staple and Atlantic City is the best place to try it. This sweet treat was invented in Atlantic City in the late 1800s and has been a favorite ever since.

It is made by stretching and pulling a mix of sugar, water, and flavorings until it becomes chewy and glossy. Be careful, it WILL get stuck in your teeth, I promise.

You can find saltwater taffy all over the city, but one of the best places to get it is at James’ Candy Company . This family-owned shop has been making taffy for over 100 years and they use the same recipe that James’ grandfather created.

Be sure to try a few different flavors before you leave. My favorite is watermelon!

  • Entrance: $5
  • Hours: 9AM – 9PM
  • Address: 2312 Atlantic Ave, Atlantic City, NJ

17. Relax as the Historic Gardners Basin

Gardners Basin is a great place to relax and take in the views of Atlantic City. This area was once used as a commercial fishing port, but it has since been transformed into a beautiful park. There are a number of sculptures and gardens to explore, as well as a boardwalk where you can watch the boats come in.

Many people come to Gardners Basin to go fishing, as there are a number of charter companies that offer trips.

You can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the area on your own. So whether you’re looking to relax or get active, Gardners Basin is the perfect place to spend a warm day in Atlantic City

  • Address: 800 N New Hampshire Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

18. Cool Off with Some Frozen Hot Chocolate at the Sugar Factory

The Sugar Factory is one of my favorite places for dessert in Atlantic City – maybe even in the whole US.

This over-the-top candy store is known for its decadent desserts, including its famous frozen hot chocolate… um yum! This drink is made with milk chocolate and topped with whipped cream, chocolate chips, and a marshmallow.

I know what you are thinking, “yeah sounds great, but frozen?” and I am here to tell you YES, FROZEN. The drink is served in a martini glass with a chocolate stirrer and it is SO good. If chocolate isn’t your thing, they also offer a number of other creative desserts and drinks.

  • Hours: 10 am – 12 am
  • Address: 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Where to Stay in Atlantic City

Atlantic City is known for its flashy casinos and resort hotels, but did you know there are a number of other great places to stay?

From luxury hotels to beachfront motels, there is a place for everyone. These are some of my top place to stay in Atlantic City.

Best Motel in Atlantic City – Sea Breeze Club

Sea Breeze Club

It should come as no surprise that Atlantic City can be very expensive when it comes to accommodation. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Sea Breeze Club is always my choice. It is located just one block away from the Boardwalk, making it a great location for exploring the city. The rooms are basic but clean and comfortable and the rates are very reasonable. And if you’re visiting on an East Coast road trip , there’s free parking too.

Best Airbnb in Atlantic City – Beach Front Condo

Beach Front Condo

This Condo is right on the beach and will give you incredible views of the Atlantic City skyline. This is perfect for a solo traveler or couple headed to Atlantic City that doesn’t want to spend an outrageous amount on accommodation and also wants a little bit of privacy away from the hustle and bustle of the casinos.

Best Hotel in Atlantic City – Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa

Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa

The Borgata is one of the most luxurious hotels in Atlantic City and a fan favorite when it comes to where to stay in Atlantic City. This hotel has everything you could possibly want or need, from a world-class casino to fine dining restaurants, a spa, and even a nightclub. You really could just spend a weekend here and never have to leave. It is pricier than some of the other options, but in my opinion, it is worth it!

Some Additional Tips for Visiting Atlantic City

Before you go rushing off to book flights and accommodation, I have just a few more words of advice for you…

  • Invest in travel insurance!   You never know what may happen on the road.
  • Do not forget your ID. You will need it to get into the casinos as well as the bars and clubs.
  • Bring walking shoes. You will do A LOT of walking in Atlantic City. If you are not used to it, your feet will be killing you by the end of the day.
  • Eat big at lunch. If you want to save money on food but not on experience, go to the casinos for lunch instead of dinner. Most of them have cheaper lunch options and some even have happy hour specials.
  • Take advantage of free drinks. Even if you don’t like gambling, play the penny slots as many casinos will offer guests free drinks if you are playing a game… and who doesn’t love a free drink?!
  • Find cheap flights .  Every once in a while, a killer deal pops up.

Don’t forget your travel insurance for Atlantic City

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

places to visit atlantic city

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Atlantic City

Atlantic City is one of the best places to visit for a weekend getaway. Even if you don’t win at the casino, you’re still in for a great time (just be responsible and know when to stop).

There is just something about being by the water and having the option to do so many different things that makes this place so special.

Whether you are looking to lay on the beach, party until dawn, or just eat some good food – Atlantic City has so much to offer.

places to visit atlantic city

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mary Beth Skylis

Mary Beth Skylis

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Mary, it was a fascinating read! Atlantic City is best known as a terrific gaming destination, with several themed casinos offering cuisine, fun, live entertainment, and other luxuries. However, for those who aren’t interested in gambling, the city features a plethora of fabulous food and drink options, places to explore, landmarks, stunning and vast beaches, the historic Boardwalk, and much more!

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THE 10 BEST Atlantic City Sights & Historical Landmarks

Atlantic city landmarks.

  • Sacred & Religious Sites
  • Monuments & Statues
  • Points of Interest & Landmarks
  • Churches & Cathedrals
  • Lighthouses
  • Arenas & Stadiums
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Kids
  • Good for Couples
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Hidden Gems
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Adventurous
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

places to visit atlantic city

1. Atlantic City Boardwalk

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2. Absecon Lighthouse

Recommended sightseeing experiences (8).

places to visit atlantic city

3. New Jersey Korean War Memorial

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4. Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

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5. Gardner's Basin

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6. In the Line of Duty Sculpture

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7. Central Pier Arcade

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8. Kennedy Plaza

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9. Greek Temple Monument World War I Memorial

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10. Civil Rights Garden

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11. Victory First Presbyterian Deliverance Church

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12. Parish of Saint Monica

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13. Atlantic City Chabad Lubavitch

14. chelsea hebrew congregation, 15. chelsea baptist church, 16. congregation rodef sholom, what travelers are saying.

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  • Atlantic City Boardwalk
  • Absecon Lighthouse
  • New Jersey Korean War Memorial
  • Gardner's Basin
  • Kennedy Plaza
  • Central Pier Arcade
  • In the Line of Duty Sculpture

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One day in Atlantic City Itinerary – Top Things to do in Atlantic City, New Jersey

A trip to the East Coast is usually intriguing like no other. It’s even more fulfilling if you’re heading there with a list of things to do. We have developed a perfect one-day itinerary in Atlantic City, consisting of the top places to go and the fun activities to try.

One day in Atlantic City Itinerary

The American East Coast has numerous popular travel destinations. Yet, none of them compares to Atlantic City. With an exquisite casino gaming experience, beautiful beaches, and high-end hotels, Atlantic City has everything you need for a fantastic vacation. But, with all those attractions surrounding you, it’s easy to lose track of the most important sights in the city. This itinerary, therefore, will show you everything you should check out while here. Let’s get going!

What’s the best time to visit Atlantic City?

Among its other hidden gems, this city also boasts pleasant summer breezes and cool days, which makes the months of March to May and June to August the best times to visit Atlantic City. Just remember that the crowds are much bigger in summer. Early spring is a much better option if you want to avoid that, provided that you come before Memorial Day .

Atlantic City

A few facts about Atlantic City

Atlantic City is arguably one of the most fun-filled places in the United States. However, before visiting this East Coast City, there are a few things you need to refresh your mind with. If you’re a first-time sightseer, you should always know that:

– Before the Boardwalk and all other attractions came into place, the City’s most popular attraction was a diving horse.

– Atlantic City is home to America’s first-ever Boardwalk

Street of Atlantic City

– Atlantic City brings around more than 30 million visitors annually, making it one of the leading destinations in the United States

– While in the City, you’ll never run short of a place to stay. There are more than 10,000 hotel rooms for tourists all year round.

Atlantic City Hotels

One Day in Atlantic City Itinerary

This iconic travel destination on the East Coast comes with numerous exciting points that will leave you satisfied with your perfect one-day itinerary. You can also find more information about all the places to visit on our website , highlighting everything else you need to know. Here’s our in-depth look into the best places to see in Atlantic City.

Take a walk along the Boardwalk

The Boardwalk is one of the first tourist destinations you’ll notice when you step into Atlantic City. Construction of this Boardwalk dates back to the 1870s and has since become one of the leading tourist spots on the East Coast . The Boardwalk attracts millions of people annually, thanks to its convenience and a range of fun activities to do.

Boardwalk, Atlantic City

The most notable thing about the Boardwalk is that it shows you a great view of the Atlantic Ocean on one side. The four-mile-long Boardwalk also has some of the best Atlantic City hotels, bars, and restaurants lined on the other side. If you want an experience in one of the prominent Atlantic City casinos, the Boardwalk offers you a perfect getaway.  You can play Eye of Horus Tricks on the go to get ready for the real thing, but other activities like biking are also allowed on the Boardwalk, especially if you can’t conquer the four-mile stretch on foot.

Boardwalk, Atlantic City

Go to the Atlantic City Beach

Love boogie boarding and wave jumping? Why not add the Atlantic City beach to your itinerary? Unlike most beaches on the East Coast, the Atlantic City beach is endowed with the waves from the Atlantic Ocean, making it a perfect spot for active beach events. And even better, the beach is accessible to the public, which means you won’t pay a dime for a beach pass.

Atlantic City Beach

Another thing about the Atlantic City beach is its proximity to the Boardwalk. You don’t have to take a long walk to get a taste of the beach environment. Furthermore, you can easily purchase your favorite beach gear from one of the shops along the Boardwalk. If you are an adult, you can opt for a walk along the flat terrain near the water or join the young ones in other fun beach activities. You also have little to worry about as lifeguards, showers, and changing rooms are available here, too.

Beach Bar, Atlantic City

Visit the Atlantic City Steel Pier

It would not be a good idea to visit Atlantic City without going to the Steel Pier. Arguably Atlantic City’s most popular attraction, the steel pier, is the cradle of fun-filled adventures on the East Coast of New Jersey. The pier is connected to the Boardwalk and comprises an amusement park with more than 25 themed rides. You’ll also find unlimited game adventures, food kiosks, and a family-friendly pub overlooking the water.

Steel Pier, Atlantic City

The common rides at the Steel pier amusement park include a double-decker carousel, the Ferris wheel, and the Slingshot. Besides these rides, be sure to experience the best view of the coastline and skyline on a helicopter right from the Steel Pier.ć

Steel Pier, Atlantic City

Go Shopping at the Playground Pier

Since various parts of the world began easing coronavirus restrictions, you can now travel around and recreate all the fun you missed during the lockdown. One such way is going shopping at the Playground Pier, previously known as The Pier Shops. You can find everything here, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry, and many more high-end products.

The Playground Pier sits on a 900-foot-long dock that extends into the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a perfect place for window shopping, and it’s usually open every day of the week but with varying hours of operation.

Don’t Forget the Entertainment and Nightlife Galore

There are many reasons why Atlantic City is commonly referred to as America’s favorite playground. One of the reasons is its nightlife experience and endless entertainment spots. Numerous concerts, top Atlantic City events, and conventions define what the City is all about throughout the year.

Atlantic City at Night

Comedy Clubs, the intimate arena at Jim Whelan Hall, and nightclubs rule the Atlantic City nightlife experience. Each of these entertainment experiences comes within your budget and in a taste that suits your preference. For instance, Boogie Nights at the Tropicana Resort serves you with the best oldies from the’70s, ’80s, and ’90s.

Steel Pier at night, Atlantic City

Where to stay in Atlantic City?

Ocean Casino Resort

Ocean Casino Resort

500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

If you’re looking for a good place to stay in Atlantic City, look no further than Ocean Casino Resort . The hotel is right on the Boardwalk and offers a spectacular ocean view, which is made all the more impressive thanks to the fact that the rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows. Several pools and a spa center are also at your disposal, as well as a big casino, of course.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Homewood Suites Atlantic City Egg Harbor Township

Homewood Suites Atlantic City Egg Harbor Township

3008 English Creek Avenue, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234

Looking for a place to stay near Atlantic City Airport? Homewood Suites Atlantic City Egg Harbor Township is probably the best choice to make since it’s only 10 minutes away. An outdoor pool, lovely rooms (each of which has a small kitchen), and excellent staff will make sure your stay here is a pleasant one indeed. And you’re only 15 minutes away by car from the Boardwalk.

Club Wyndham Skyline Tower

Club Wyndham Skyline Tower

100 South North Carolina Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

With great rooms, an indoor pool and a fitness center, Club Wyndham Skyline Tower is much more than your average three-star accommodation. Indeed, you will have absolutely everything you need here, and the view from the top of this 32-story building is absolutely breathtaking. Oh, and you’re just a block away from the Boardwalk. Definitely, something to consider!

FantaSea Resorts at Atlantic Palace

FantaSea Resorts at Atlantic Palace

1507 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States

FantaSea Resorts at Atlantic Palace is right on the Boardwalk and will provide easy access to Atlantic City Beach. This is actually a collection of suites which provide a wonderful view, and there’s also a wonderful sun terrace for you to enjoy. It’s also great value compared to some other places in the city, and all in all, you can expect to have a great time while staying here.

Day trips from Atlantic City

Staying for a few days in Atlantic City? Well, then you will have a chance to make some great day trips. No matter if you want to explore the rest of New Jersey or travel up the East Coast, there are plenty of fine destinations. Here are some of the best suggestions:

New York City

Spending one day in New York City is definitely doable as a day trip from Atlantic City because the two places are only about two hours’ drive apart. So, if you get a slightly earlier start, you could be having breakfast in the Big Apple before you go on to explore everything that one of the greatest cities in the world has to offer. The Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, all the great restaurants… the list just goes on and on.

Jersey City

You can also spend a day in Jersey City , which is just slightly closer to Atlantic City than New York. This is a great place to relax because people here like to take things slowly and there is a sense of real community permeating the air. Plenty of things to discover, so you certainly won’t be bored while here.

On the other hand, if you’d like to explore the state of New Jersey a bit more, head to Cape May, an exceptionally charming town full of amazing Victorian mansions. It also has an excellent zoo, which is completely free of charge, so if you just want to take it easy a bit, this is one of the best day trips from Atlantic City you can make.

If your idea of relaxing is a shopping spree, head to Smithville, a village full of quaint little shops that sell all kinds of different souvenirs. For shopaholics, this is probably a perfect way to spend a day.

Extra Tips for Visiting Atlantic City

Visiting Atlantic City is not different from touring any other place in the United States. But even so, you need to fully equip yourself with some tips to enjoy any fun and adventure. The following tips cover useful info and things to know about your trip:

Access the City Easily From Northeast Corridor – The best way to access Atlantic City is by train from the Northeast Corridor. You can quickly board a train from Philadelphia or New York City and arrive at your destination within hours.

When in the City, Use Taxis to Move Around – Unlike other destinations, taxi rides in Atlantic City are affordable. This makes them a viable means of moving around.

Carry Enough Cash – To be on the safer side, carry enough cash while in Atlantic City. This will save you from incurring substantial transaction charges in bank ATMs.

If You Need Free Drinks, Gamble in the Casinos – Atlantic City Casinos are famous for offering free drinks whenever you play. However, ensure you have enough tips for the waiter or waitress in charge.

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Jeremy Ambrose

Jeremy Ambrose

Jeremy Ambrose began traveling several years ago and travels to explore new corners of the world every year. He has faced many of the difficulties of traveling and now wants to share his experience and knowledge with his readers. Currently, he works at  Assignyourwriter  as a content creator.

One comment

Excellent post, Jeremy! Atlantic City is a popular tourist attraction, with over 30 million visitors annually. Atlantic City, well renowned for its fantastic beaches, Boardwalk, and casinos, is an excellent spot to have fun. You may get some fresh air and retail therapy while wandering the Boardwalk or nearby beach and then head inside the casinos if you have plans to win big.

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3 Days in Atlantic City: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Since the 1800s, Atlantic City has been a major vacation resort, easily one of the biggest on the East Coast. Known for cool ocean breezes and lively entertainment, visitors from all over flocked to Atlantic City to see the latest talents perform and spend a day on the beach.

But since 1976, Atlantic City has transformed. It’s still an entertainment hub, but with gambling now legalized, casinos began to spring up one after another. Soon enough, Atlantic City began to rival Las Vegas as one of the most prominent gambling destinations in the country.

Atlantic City has only continued to grow over the years, continuing to be a top tourist destination. Although the city has struggled in the wake of major storms, 2012’s Hurricane Sandy in particular, Atlantic City proved strong enough to weather the storm. Today, you’ll find visitors of all kinds, from family vacationers to bachelor and bachelorette partiers, walking its iconic boardwalk.

Much of Atlantic City relies on warm weather as it is a beachside destination. The Jersey Shore generally tends to operate mostly from late spring to early fall. If you want to get the most out of your weekend in Atlantic City, you should book your trip during this time. 

From amusement parks to historical landmarks, there’s so much to do during your 3 days in Atlantic City. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a 3-day Atlantic City itinerary filled with fun for the whole family. 

You won’t find casinos on this list, mainly because New Jersey casinos have age limits, so visiting them isn’t exactly fun for the entire family. These recommendations focus more on both kid- and adult-friendly entertainment, as well as some historical highlights. If you stick to this list, you’re bound to have an incredible time in AC!

If you’re still deciding where to stay then make sure to check out our article on the  best luxury hotels in Atlantic City !

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

How to Spend a Weekend in Atlantic City, New Jersey

Getting around atlantic city.

Atlantic City does have its own airport, the Atlantic City International Airport. Since it’s international, you should be able to fly into it whether you’re arriving on a foreign or domestic flight. But one thing to keep in mind is that Spirit Airlines is the only airline that operates at the Atlantic City International Airport. 

If you’d like to fly anything else but Spirit, the only other international airport in New Jersey is Newark Liberty International Airport, which is located around two hours away from Atlantic City. Flying to Newark may not be worth the added travel time.

Atlantic City has several walkable areas, especially if you stay near the boardwalk. Outside of walking, you could also rely on Ubers, cabs, or the Jitney, a shuttle service that takes visitors to many of the biggest attractions in the city. You could also choose to rent a car, but you may find it to be inconvenient, especially if you’re visiting in the summer. 

Parking is often scarce. When there is some to be found, it’s typically expensive. Relying on an occasional Uber or cab may be less of an investment. However, if you choose to spend more than 3 days in Atlantic City and want to make any day trips to other Jersey Shore spots, like Cape May, you’ll likely need a car to get there.

Atlantic City Weekend Itinerary – Day 1

What better way to start a weekend in Atlantic City than by beginning with the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk? This 4-mile stretch is home to beautiful ocean views, shops, sweet treats, games, and so much more. 

Resorts Casino Hotel

3 Days in Atlantic City Itinerary: Resorts Casino Hotel

For your first breakfast of the trip, head to Breadsticks Cafe & Grill . This breakfast spot is located inside the Resorts Casino Hotel on the Dining Level, which provides you with panoramic ocean views while you eat. 

Breadsticks serves up traditional favorites, as well as a few signature items, like the cinnamon-swirled Signature French Toast and the Tater Tot Nachos. A hearty breakfast from Breadsticks is a perfect way to kick off your 3 days in Atlantic City! 

Book a Room at Resorts Casino Hotel

Atlantic City Boardwalk

Atlantic City 3 Day Itinerary Weekend Guide: Boardwalk

Then, head out onto the boardwalk itself, where you’ll find plenty to do. Play boardwalk games, shop the stalls, or ride in one of Atlantic City’s famous rolling chairs. For even more games, take a stroll over to the Central Pier Arcade . 

While casinos might not be the most family-friendly place to press your luck, this arcade is. It’s filled with retro games, tons of prizes, and even some poker and slot machines for some low-stakes casino-style gaming. You can also race go-karts right over the water or try your hand at the paintball target range. 

Haunted World of Atlantic City Boardwalk Tour

3 Days in Atlantic City Weekend Itinerary: Capriccio

Once you’re ready for lunch, head back toward the Resorts Casino Hotel for another one of the best restaurants on the boardwalk: Capriccio . This Italian restaurant is also located on the Dining Level of the hotel, giving you even more scenic views. 

This fine-dining location gives you a taste of Italy right in Atlantic City, with a cheerful, airy ambiance. The menu is filled with traditional Italian-American finds, like veal parmigiana, lobster ravioli, and chicken Milanese. 

Weekend in Atlantic City 3 Days Itinerary: Steel Pier

After lunch, you don’t have to go far to find your next attraction. Steel Pier is Atlantic City’s historic amusement park, located right on the boardwalk. There are even more games to play here, but there are also over 20 rides to choose from. 

From the kid-friendly Beach Buggies to the high-flying Freedom Flyer, there’s something for every level of thrill-seeking. For one of the best views in Atlantic City, be sure to stop by The Wheel, a 227-foot-tall observation wheel that gives you a leisurely, relaxing way to see the city.

Weekend in Atlantic City: Steel Pier

For dinner, walk back onto the boardwalk toward Bill’s Gyro & Souvlaki. Bill’s is a casual dining spot serving up some of the best gyros around. Although the menu is filled with options, from burgers to seafood combos to cheesesteaks, you’re going to want to stick with the restaurant’s namesake. But if someone in your group isn’t a big gyro fan, they still have plenty of delicious things to choose from.

Before you call it a night, be sure to finish your meal off with a sweet treat. The boardwalk boasts plenty of sweets to choose from. Saltwater taffy is a Jersey Shore favorite and certainly worth picking up to bring back home (or to your hotel room because it will most likely be eaten by the end of your trip!). 

But as someone who spent many summers at the Jersey Shore, I can never leave the boardwalk without stopping by Kohr Brothers Frozen Custard . The frozen custard here is like a richer version of soft serve. 

My favorite? The peanut butter and chocolate twist dipped in a chocolate shell. But you can’t go wrong with any of their flavors, especially if you opt for a twist. 

Atlantic City Weekend Itinerary – Day 2

Hopefully, you’re not too tired after your day of fun on the boardwalk to get a little exercise on the second day of your Atlantic City vacation. But don’t worry – this workout is well worth it! 

Perry’s Cafe & Deli 

3 Days in Atlantic City Itinerary: Perry's Cafe and Deli

But first, you’re going to want to get in a hearty breakfast to keep you fueled. That’s where Perry’s Cafe & Deli comes in. This family-run breakfast joint is all about comfort food. 

You’ll find breakfast staples on this menu and giant servings on your plate. Located inside the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Atlantic City , Perry’s is casual and family-friendly. And it’s the perfect place to fuel up for a day of fun. 

Spend the Night at Howard Johnson by Wyndham

Absecon Lighthouse

Atlantic City 3 Day Itinerary Weekend Guide: Absecon Lighthouse

After breakfast, your first stop of the day is a historic landmark. You could walk from Perry’s to the Absecon Lighthouse , which would be about a half-hour trek. While it’s definitely doable, you’ll do a lot more walking at the lighthouse itself. So you may want to hop in an Uber or a cab for a quicker trip. 

The Absecon Lighthouse stands 171 feet tall and is New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse. This landmark welcomes guests from Thursday to Monday from September to June and all week long from July to August. 

So, no matter when you visit on a weekend, you’ll be able to enjoy the sights here. And it’s quite a sight to behold! For over 150 years, the lighthouse has lit up the Atlantic City skyline. And you’re welcome to climb all the way to the top.

You’ll need to be able to make the climb of 228 steps to reach the summit, but the view from the top is worth the work. There’s perhaps no better view of Atlantic City than from up here. In addition to climbing to the top of the lighthouse, you can also learn more about its history and Atlantic City’s maritime history in general at the Keeper’s House Museum, which is free to enter.

Absecon Lighthouse Admission Ticket

From Absecon Lighthouse, make your way over to Gardner’s Basin. You can either take a stroll there, which would take another 20 or so minutes. Or, if you’re tired from your climb, you can hop in an Uber or cab for a few minutes to reach your destination. Gardner’s Basin is a hidden gem in Atlantic City and a perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk. 

This waterside park is filled with tons of activities, as well as fine dining establishments. Here you’ll find one of the best places in Atlantic City to stop for lunch: Gilchrist Restaurant . With dockside views, this restaurant has been serving locals and tourists alike since 1946. 

The food is unpretentious yet oh-so-delicious. You’ll find simple staples on the menu, from patty melts to po’ boys. But everything is done just right. You’re bound to leave satisfied and likely wanting to come back time and again. 

Atlantic City Cruises

3 Days in Atlantic City Weekend Itinerary: Atlantic City Cruises

From Gardner’s Basin, it’s time to get out on the water. Atlantic City Cruises offers several cruise options that depart from Gardner’s Basin. But your cruise choices vary depending on the time you’re visiting. 

Enjoy an Ocean Cruise

If you’re arriving in the early afternoon, you can hop aboard the Dolphin Watching Adventure. This cruise goes out at 1 pm every day in the summer and on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays in the spring and fall. Onboard, a marine naturalist will teach you all about the dolphins you’re bound to see leaping through the waves. 

Weekend in Atlantic City 3 Days Itinerary: Atlantic City Cruises

Dolphin Watching Cruise Adventure

If you’re arriving a little later, you have a couple of different options. The Afternoon Delight Cruise departs at 4 pm every day during the summer only, which is a scenic tour of Atlantic City. 

If you want to go out later still, you can hop aboard the Happy Hour DJ Dance Party Cruise, which goes out every Friday and Saturday at 6 pm during the summer only. You’ll dance and sip cocktails as the boat takes you on a tour of the back bays of Atlantic City.

Try the Cruise With Happy Hour

If you have some time between your arrival at Garner’s Basin and your cruise’s departure time, be sure to stop by the Crafters Village. During the summer, local artisans set up shop here, displaying their wares in colorful little shacks. 

You’re bound to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir among these handcrafted gems. You can also spend some time at the Oscar E. McClinton Jr. Waterfront Park, where you can relax and enjoy the view while the kids play on the playground. 

Back Bay Ale House

Weekend in Atlantic City: Back Bay Ale House

Whether you’re traveling with kids or an adults-only group, everyone will love dinner at Back Bay Ale House , which provides you with a beautiful view of the bay from its outdoor patio and bar. The restaurant’s menu is filled with fresh seafood options with Caribbean and Mediterranean twists, alongside some New England favorites. 

From jerk chicken to shrimp and lobster rolls, there’s something for everyone here. And the adults in the group will especially love the gigantic mason jar cocktails the bar is serving up. Watching the sunset over the bay from Back Bay’s outdoor bar is a perfect way to end the second day of your 3-day trip to Atlantic City!

Atlantic City Weekend Itinerary – Day 3

Atlantic City is a beach destination, and 3 days in Atlantic City just wouldn’t be complete without a day at the beach. But before you settle into the sand, let’s get in a good breakfast!

One of the best ways to start the third day of your long weekend in Atlantic City is by visiting Maria’s Luncheonette . This charming spot is located on Atlantic Ave and serves up massive breakfast plates all day long. 

Maria’s serves up breakfast staples that you can customize your way. One of the most popular options? The Complete Breakfast, with two pancakes, two eggs, home fries, and two pieces of bacon and sausage. It’s a simple meal that’s done right every time.

Now it’s time to head out to the beach. Atlantic City has tons of beach options, so you can pick the one that best fits what you’re looking for.

Atlantic City’s Beaches

3 Days in Atlantic City Weekend Itinerary: Atlantic City Beaches

Want a secluded spot that gives you a break from the city? Brigantine Beach is your best bet. This gorgeous coastal stretch is scenic and rather quiet for an Atlantic City beach. It’s a particularly great spot if you want to just spend some time with family.

Looking for calm waves that are perfect for a kayaking adventure? Caspian Avenue Beach on the Absecon Inlet is an ideal pick. It’s generally more tranquil than the main beaches and offers clear, calm blue waters perfect for bobbing in the gentle waves.

3 Days in Atlantic City Itinerary: Atlantic City Beaches

But if you’d rather stay closer to the action, you can always go to one of the downtown beaches, which include the main Downtown Beach, Delaware Avenue Beach, and Crystal Beach. These beaches tend to be busier, but you won’t have to stray far from the top Atlantic City attractions to get to them. 

Weekend in Atlantic City 3 Days Itinerary: Kelsey's

When you’re ready to dine again, head to Kelsey’s , a soul food spot on Pacific Ave that serves up a brunch buffet you won’t want to miss on Saturdays and Sundays. Keep in mind that the last seating is at 2 pm, so be sure to arrive in time to grab your table. From waffles to mac and cheese, this menu is true comfort food. 

Helicopter Tour

3 Days in Atlantic City Itinerary: Helicopter Tour

After lunch, take a walk back over to Steel Pier for a tour unlike any other. From April to mid-June, Steel Pier offers helicopter tours on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as every day of the week from mid-June to September. Take your pick from multiple tour options to see Atlantic City the way you want to.

With the Shoreline Tour, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the boardwalk, casino, and beaches. With the City Tour, you’ll head further into the city to see highlights like the Absecon Lighthouse, the famous Tanger Outlets, and much more. If you’re a filmmaker or photographer, you can book a Photography Flight, which will allow you to film or shoot aerial shots for your movie or portfolio. 

And, if these options don’t suit your fancy, you can do a Build Your Own Tour, where you can ask to be flown anywhere around Atlantic City and Central and South Jersey in general. All of these tours allow you to see Atlantic City in a whole new way.

However, these tours aren’t particularly long, so if you want to book one, you’ll still have plenty of time for more activities. With so much entertainment in Atlantic City, it’s no surprise that the city comes alive at night with shows, concerts, and more. 

One of the best places to see a show is at the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall . This historic hall has been entertaining Atlantic City since 1929. From championship games to music festivals, there’s always something happening here. Check for tickets before your trip, as these events tend to sell out. 

If you’re looking for dinner before your show, take a stroll or a quick Uber ride over to Chef Vola’s . This charming Italian spot looks like a home on the outside. And that’s because it is. Chef Vola’s is in a residential area and built inside a private residence. 

The vibe inside is indeed homey, but it’s also filled with diners eating some of the best Italian fare around. Because it’s a house, there’s limited seating, so reservations are required. Be sure to book in advance, as these tables fill up fast – but every bite is worth the effort.

More Places to Eat & Drink in Atlantic City

Dine at Dock’s Oyster House : This family-run restaurant has been serving up seafood since 1897. It’s a cozy spot where your meal will be accompanied by soothing piano playing, enhancing the already comfortable experience. 

Enjoy fine dining at Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse : Located inside the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino, Vic & Anthony’s is one of the best steakhouses in Atlantic City. It’s an upscale dining experience where you’re sure to get your steak exactly how you like it.

Delight in from-scratch Italian fare at Cafe 2825 : Inspired by Southern Italy, Cafe 2825 focuses on providing the highest quality. Alongside a meal that tastes like your Nonna made it, you’ll also find an impressive wine selection.

What to do if you have more than 3 days in Atlantic City

Lucy the elephant.

3 Days in Atlantic City Itinerary: Lucy the Elephant

Visit Lucy the Elephant . Just five miles south of Atlantic City is Margate, NJ, and one of the strangest listings on the National Park Registry of Historic Landmarks. Lucy, a 65-foot-tall building constructed in the shape of an elephant, has lived many lives. Today, you can pay her a visit and take a tour inside.

Atlantic City Art Center

Take in the art at the Atlantic City Art Center . Located on the Garden Pier overlooking the Atlantic City Boardwalk, this art center features rotating exhibits throughout the year from both regional and national artists. You’ll also find events here, from concerts to literary readings.

Cape May County Park & Zoo

Atlantic City 3 Day Itinerary Weekend Guide: Cape May County Park and Zoo

Spend a day in Cape May, NJ. Just a 40-minute drive from Atlantic City is the gorgeous and nostalgic city of Cape May, where you can stroll the picturesque Washington Street Mall, see the animals at the free Cape May County Park & Zoo , or head out on the water for a Salt Marsh Safari .

Tanger Outlet

3 Days in Atlantic City Weekend Itinerary: Tanger Outlet

Shop at the Tanger Outlet . This 109-store open-air outlet mall spans three city blocks. If you’re looking for deals on famous brands, you’re bound to find them here. It’s a perfect place for a shopping lover to spend an afternoon.

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Ocean City, NJ. Ocean City is just 11 miles from Atlantic City, and it’s an ideal place to escape the city feeling of Atlantic City. You won’t really find casinos or bars here, as Ocean City is one of the few places on the Atlantic Coast that’s alcohol-free. But you will discover boardwalks, amusement parks, and beaches filled with swimmers, kayakers, and kiteboarders.

Atlantic Coastline Parasailing Adventure

We hope you enjoy your weekend trip to Atlantic City! Should we add something else to our 3-day Atlantic City itinerary? Let us know in the comments.

Planning a trip to New Jersey? Check out our favorite travel guides and resources!

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Atlantic City Weekend Itinerary

About the Author:

Jacqueline Gualtieri

Jacqueline is a writer and editor pursuing the freelance life to explore the world. Born and raised in New Jersey, she spent her college years in Boston before settling down with her partner and puppy in Monterey, California. When she’s not writing, you can often find her planning her next trip. Road trips are her favorite, whether it’s driving across the country or simply exploring a new city in her own backyard. She loves uncovering the history of every new place she goes. Jacqueline has a restless passion for learning and makes it a goal to pick up a new skill every year. She’s picked up embroidery, crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching, but she’s hoping to master more languages to help her in her travels. She’s also a published author, with short stories and poetry appearing in several anthologies.

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  • Last Updated On
  • September 14, 2023

Places Near Atlantic City: Discover Charming Local Gems

Audrey Campbell

Atlantic City offers a captivating experience for visitors, especially families looking for a fun-filled vacation.

But did you know that there are some amazing places near Atlantic City just waiting to be discovered?

In this article, we’ll explore a variety of attractions and activities within a close distance to Atlantic City.

You’ll find everything from beaches and piers to cultural experiences that you and your family can enjoy together.

So, are you ready to create some unforgettable memories on your next trip?

Key Takeaways

  • Discover destinations near Atlantic City.
  • Immerse yourself in the diverse attractions beyond the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk.
  • Enjoy the picturesque beaches and piers that extend along the New Jersey coast.
  • Explore the rich cultural experiences and hidden gems that make your vacation even more memorable.

Places Near Atlantic City: Top Destinations

Places Near Atlantic City: Top Destinations

It’s a well-known fact that Atlantic City, the so-called “Las Vegas of the East,” is a hotbed of exciting attractions.

But step outside its city limits, and you’ll find a tapestry of destinations that could compete for your affection.

The idea of this journey?

To help families, like yours, unveil some nearby treasures.

Cape May, roughly an hour from Atlantic City, is where Victorian charm meets seaside fun.

With its pastel-colored houses and a lighthouse standing like a stoic guardian, Cape May evokes a sense of nostalgic serenity that’s hard to resist.

The beaches?

Simply a bonus.

Slightly north of Atlantic City, you find Ocean City.

It’s a place that can make anyone feel like a kid again.

A stroll along the boardwalk, ice cream in hand, with the laughter of your children echoing from the rides at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier.

Pine Barrens

Switch gears and get ready to embrace the wilderness at the Pine Barrens.

As a local, I can vouch for the fact that this place is not barren at all.

Its sprawling forest, home to the Wharton State Forest , is an open invitation to explorers.

Hiking, bird-watching, or just enjoying a quiet picnic – it’s your call.

Our next stop is Princeton, renowned for its prestigious university.

Its vibrant arts scene and historic charm will hold you captive.

And Nassau Street, it’s a treasure trove of boutique stores and cozy eateries.

Philadelphia

To end this tour on a high note, we head towards Philadelphia.

It’s not just the Liberty Bell or the Philly cheesesteak that makes it stand out, but a plethora of family-friendly attractions like the Philadelphia Zoo and the Franklin Institute.

Exploring the Boardwalk

The Atlantic City Boardwalk

The Atlantic City Boardwalk in New Jersey is a must-visit destination for families and travelers alike.

This iconic landmark of the Jersey Shore is packed with a variety of shops, restaurants, and casinos to suit everyone’s taste.

Lace up your walking shoes and let’s dive into everything this vibrant boardwalk has to offer!

Along the bustling boardwalk, you’ll find a wide array of shops offering an eclectic mix of souvenirs, apparel, and beach accessories.

Strolling through the diverse retail options, you can find unique gifts to take back home or essential items for your beach day.

Don’t miss the chance to buy that perfect memento to remember your fun-filled Atlantic City vacation.

Restaurants

Atlantic City is full of fantastic dining options, making it tough to choose where to eat.

Luckily, the boardwalk has you covered with a wide range of best restaurants in Atlantic City to satisfy your cravings.

Whether you’re in the mood for casual beach eats or a fine dining experience, you’ll find it right here on the boardwalk.

And of course, don’t forget to indulge in some classic Jersey Shore treats like funnel cake and saltwater taffy while you’re at it!

If you’re feeling lucky, Atlantic City is known for its world-class casinos.

When you’re not soaking up the sun on the beach or exploring the shops and restaurants, make sure to visit one of the many casinos lining the boardwalk.

From casino floors buzzing with excitement to luxurious hotel accommodations, the casinos in Atlantic City are more than just a place to play – they’re an experience.

Just remember to gamble responsibly and enjoy the thrill of trying your luck!

While you’re exploring the boardwalk, take the time to enjoy the fantastic views of the beach and pier.

With so much to see and do, the Atlantic City Boardwalk is a destination that offers endless entertainment and activities for families and friends alike.

Beaches and Piers

Beach activities.

When you visit Atlantic City, you’ll quickly notice that the beaches are famous for a reason.

Everything you could possibly want is within walking distance – shops, five-star restaurants, casinos, and attractions.

The Atlantic City Boardwalk sets the stage for a perfect day at the beach with the family.

You might be wondering what beach activities are available for you and your family.

Well, you’ve got options! From building sandcastles to sunbathing, there’s something for everyone.

And while you’re relaxing on the beach, take a stroll on the Atlantic City Boardwalk for some window-shopping or a quick bite at local eateries.

Now, if you’re into fishing, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

The shoreline offers excellent opportunities for surf fishing while the nearby fishing piers cater to anglers.

Check out Steel Pier, which is a must-visit location for thrill-seekers, as well as those who enjoy deep sea fishing.

Make sure to bring your fishing gear and enjoy a day outdoors, catching fresh Atlantic fish.

Water Sports

Jersey Shore

What’s a vacation without some water sports?

Atlantic City and the surrounding Jersey Shore offer a variety of options, including jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and more.

Whether you’re a seasoned water sports enthusiast or a beginner, Atlantic City and the Jersey Shore have something for everyone.

Cultural Attractions

In your Atlantic City adventure, don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s diverse museums.

Art lovers will appreciate the many galleries and art centers displaying local creations as well as works by international artists.

Are you a history buff?

If so, be sure to visit the Atlantic City Historical Museum, where you’ll find fascinating artifacts and stories about the city’s past.

Don’t forget to check out the best things to do in Atlantic City for more intriguing museum options.

Lighthouses

Ready to step up your sightseeing game?

Atlantic City boasts some of the most breathtaking historic lighthouses on the East Coast.

A visit to these captivating structures will not only allow you to dive into their fascinating histories, but also provide stunning coastal views.

Your family will love ascending the steps of these lighthouses, learning about their functions, and taking in the mesmerizing surroundings.

Historic Sites

Atlantic City has a rich history just waiting to be discovered.

From strolling along the iconic boardwalk to visiting notable landmarks, there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy.

History enthusiasts can explore the city’s roots by visiting various prominent sites such as the Civil Rights Garden or the historic Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall.

These locations will provide a memorable journey through time, immersing you in the stories and events that shaped this bustling city.

Parting Words

Parting Words

Visiting Atlantic City is a delightful experience.

But don’t miss the opportunity to explore some fantastic places near Atlantic City.

With a variety of options, your family will be entertained and enlightened as you take in the stunning coastline.

Heading out to a wildlife refuge offers a serene break from the bustling boardwalk, as you connect with the tranquil side of nature.

Extend your adventure by visiting nearby historic towns, soaking in unique culture and picturesque beauty.

Remember, vacations are all about discovering new experiences and making lifelong memories.

So why not treat yourself and your family to the exciting escapades waiting just beyond the boundaries of Atlantic City?

Related: Travel Tips Atlantic City

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some fun activities to do in atlantic city.

Atlantic City offers a variety of activities you can enjoy, from exploring historical tours to participating in scavenger hunts. Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach or experience a thrilling day at an amusement park.

Which Atlantic City Attractions Are Best For Adults?

If you’re looking for adult entertainment, look no further than the iconic casinos and nightlife venues on the famous Boardwalk. Additionally, make sure to visit Boardwalk Hall for concerts and performances by world-class artists.

What Can Couples Enjoy In Atlantic City?

Couples can indulge in romantic walks on the beach and sunset views from Vue Rooftop Bar & Lounge. They can also enjoy spa treatments, fine dining experiences, or a night out at one of the many vibrant entertainment venues.

How Do Atlantic City And Ocean City Compare In Distance And Attractions?

Atlantic City and Ocean City are approximately 12 miles apart and both offer a great selection of attractions for visitors. While Atlantic City is better known for its casinos and adult entertainment, Ocean City offers a more family-friendly atmosphere with a vibrant boardwalk, amusement parks, and beach activities.

Places Near Atlantic City: Discover Charming Local Gems

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Atlantic City

Things to do in atlantic city, explore popular experiences, tours in and around atlantic city.

places to visit atlantic city

Atlantic City and Caesars Casino Day Trip from New York City

places to visit atlantic city

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Atlantic City by Crazy Dash

places to visit atlantic city

Atlantic City Ghosts: Banshees of the Boardwalk

places to visit atlantic city

Atlantic City Scavenger Hunt: Roll The Dice In America's Playground

places to visit atlantic city

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Atlantic City by Operation City Quest

places to visit atlantic city

Poltergeist Interactive Escape Room in Northfield, New Jersey

places to visit atlantic city

X-FILE Interactive Escape Room in Northfield, New Jersey

places to visit atlantic city

Wild West Heist Interactive Escape Room in Northfield, New Jersey

places to visit atlantic city

Hellevator Interactive Escape Room in Northfield, New Jersey

places to visit atlantic city

Weird Science Interactive Escape Room in Northfield, New Jersey

Transfers & ground transport.

places to visit atlantic city

Top Attractions in Atlantic City

places to visit atlantic city

Tours & Sightseeing

places to visit atlantic city

What travellers are saying

Heather M

  • Borgata Casino
  • Atlantic City Boardwalk
  • Caesars Atlantic City Casino
  • Hard Rock Casino
  • Tanger Outlets Atlantic City
  • Atlantic City Aquarium Historic Gardner's Basin
  • Gardner's Basin
  • Brighton Park
  • Altman Playground
  • AC Waterfront Sculpture Walk
  • New Jersey Korean War Memorial
  • Absecon Lighthouse
  • Escape AC - Escape Rooms
  • Steel Pier Amusement Park

Atlantic City Attractions Information

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#ExperienceAtlanticCity

Aerial of Shoreline, Boardwalk, and City

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Meeting in Atlantic City

Our team will provide a seamless planning experience, giving your attendees the opportunity to build meaningful connections by the beach. Experience top accommodations, 24-hour entertainment, 48 blocks of food, historic attractions, and unique Atlantic City experiences, shopping, and access to our world-famous Boardwalk and pristine free beaches. Need more info? Let our knowledgeable team help you make a plan!

Million Sq. Ft. of City-wide Meeting & Event Venue Space

Blocks of food & unique atlantic city experiences, and the award goes to ....

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Prevue 2022 visionary award, meetings today best convention center, attractions & offsite activities, annual events, our convention center, venues & meeting spaces, incentives & support services, planner resources, upcoming convention events.

Our Convention Center and city-wide venues host a range of tradeshows and events both large and small. Here are a just a few that are coming up on the calendar:

Tri-State Camp Conference 2024

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Atlantic city beer & music festival, the 2024 c.h.a.m.p.s. trade show east, the njaa conference and expo 2024, entertainment.

From music festivals on the beach to comedy shows and concerts at our unique and historic venues, Atlantic City's calendar of events contain fun-filled lineups that will cater to every interest of your attendees.

Artist Exhibition: Michele Foster-Lucas

The art of the quilt: fiber & clay, featuring works by gloria gammage davis, 1st vinyl thursday’s with retrofutureusa pop-up & dj lousy, the tour & taste of renault, why choose atlantic city.

Here are some reasons to plan your next meeting in our oceanside destination.

48 Blocks of Food & Experiences

A pristine beach & historic boardwalk, 24-hour live entertainment, comprehensive planning support, easy access & 24-hr transportation, meeting planner benefits & incentives, atlantic city.

Want to learn more about Atlantic City? Get to know the 'ins and outs' of our playful and energetic city with some of our latest blog posts!

Black-Owned Businesses in Atlantic City You Need to Experience

Black-owned restaurants in atlantic city, know before you go: 2024 discover boating atlantic city boat show, relaxation retreat: a guide to wellness month & spas in atlantic city, hot off the press, offshore powerboat racing returns to atlantic city june 2024 with high-octane thrills, visit atlantic city celebrates a successful year and promotes 2024 meaningful meetings 2.0 messaging, visit atlantic city kicks off 2024 with 11 events, competitions and conventions, atlantic city 360Ëš.

Experience interactive 360Ëš virtual tours of the attractions and meeting spaces in Atlantic City!

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Empty spaces and hybrid places: The pandemic’s lasting impact on real estate

At a glance.

  • Hybrid work is here to stay . As a result, office attendance has stabilized at 30 percent below prepandemic norms.
  • The ripple effects of hybrid work are substantial. Untethered from their offices, residents have left urban cores and shifted their shopping elsewhere. For example, New York City’s urban core lost 5 percent of its population from mid-2020 to mid-2022, and San Francisco’s lost 7 percent. Urban vacancy rates have shot up. Foot traffic near stores in metropolitan areas remains 10 to 20 percent below prepandemic levels.
  • Demand for office and retail space in superstar cities will remain below prepandemic levels. In a moderate scenario that we modeled, demand for office space is 13 percent lower in 2030 than it was in 2019 for the median city in our study. In a severe scenario, demand falls by 38 percent in the most heavily affected city.
  • Real estate is local, and demand will vary substantially by neighborhood and city. Demand may be lower in neighborhoods and cities characterized by dense office space, expensive housing, and large employers in the knowledge economy.
  • Cities and buildings can adapt and thrive by taking hybrid approaches themselves. Priorities might include developing mixed-use neighborhoods, constructing more adaptable buildings, and designing multiuse office and retail space.

When the COVID-19 pandemic began, it dramatically changed the way people worked, lived, and shopped in cities around the world. The starkest change was where and how they worked. Obeying lockdowns and office closures, tired of uncomfortable masks, and enabled by remote-work technology, many employees abruptly retreated from traditional offices to home offices. Many of those employees, newly freed from their daily commutes, chose to move out of urban cores. And now that fewer of them were working and living near urban stores, fewer of them shopped there. In recent months, some of those behavioral shifts have slowed. Others persist, particularly among office employees continuing to engage in hybrid work (that is, a combination of remote and in-office work).

The behavioral shifts have already had major effects on real estate in “superstar” cities—roughly speaking, cities with a disproportionate share of the world’s urban GDP and GDP growth. In superstar cities’ urban cores, the percentage of office and retail space that is vacant has grown sharply since 2019, and home prices have increased more slowly than in the suburbs and other cities.

Acknowledgments

This report is a collaborative effort by the McKinsey Global Institute and McKinsey’s Real Estate Practice.

The research was led by Jan Mischke , an MGI partner in Zurich; Ryan Luby, a senior knowledge expert and associate partner in New York; Brian Vickery, a McKinsey partner in Boston; Jonathan Woetzel , an MGI director and senior partner in Shanghai; Olivia White , an MGI director and senior partner in San Francisco; Aditya Sanghvi , a McKinsey senior partner in New York City; Rob Palter , a McKinsey senior partner in Toronto; André Dua , a McKinsey senior partner in Miami; and Sven Smit , a McKinsey senior partner in Amsterdam and MGI chairman. The project team was led by Jinnie Rhee, a consultant in San Francisco; Anna Fu, a consultant in New York; Isabella Mayorga, an alumna; and Chris Longman, an alumnus. The team included Cristina Barrantes, Maclaine Fields, Lily Highman, Ricardo Huapaya, Marty Kang, Gaby Pierre, Jose Maria Quiros, Akanksha Raina, Surya Tahliani, Paula Trejos, Valeria Valverde, Caitlin Wischermann, and Cody Wollin.

We thank Nicholas Bloom, professor, Stanford University; Michael Joyce, senior managing director, Greystar; Jonathan Lurie, managing partner, Realty Corporation; Janet Pogue McLaurin, global director of workplace research, Gensler; Andrew Min, senior vice president, RXR; Alan M. Taylor, professor, University of California, Davis; and Ko Wang, professor, Johns Hopkins Carey Business School for kindly sharing their insights.

The project benefited immensely from the expertise and perspectives of many McKinsey colleagues. Thanks go to Colleen Baum, Gemma D’Auria, Kevin Heidenreich, Phil Kirschner, Dymfke Kuijpers, Adrian Kwok, Daniel Läubli, James Patchett, Ben Safran, Anthony Shorris, and Alex Wolkomir.

The report was edited by MGI senior editor Benjamin Plotinsky, together with senior data visualization editor Chuck Burke and editorial operations manager Vasudha Gupta. We also thank our colleagues David Batcheck, Cecilia Bayer, Tim Beacom, Amanda Covington, Shannon Ensor, Vero Henze, Karen Jones, Stephen Landau, Janet Michaud, Diane Rice, Rebeca Robboy, Rachel Robinson, and Katie Shearer for their support.

This research contributes to MGI’s mission to help business and policy leaders understand the forces transforming the global economy. As with all MGI research, it is independent and has not been commissioned or sponsored in any way by any business, government, or other institution.

To what extent could real estate in superstar cities continue to suffer? In this research, the McKinsey Global Institute has modeled future demand for office, residential, and retail space in several scenarios. 1 The research considers only those three asset classes: office, residential, and retail space. Others, such as industrial space and self-storage space, are outside the scope of the research. In those scenarios, demand for office and retail space is generally lower in 2030 than it was in 2019, though the anticipated reductions in our moderate scenario are smaller than those projected by many other researchers. Our analysis also shows that the ripple effects will be complex—for example, that certain kinds of cities and neighborhoods will be more heavily affected than others. We considered a wide variety of factors, including long-term population trends; employment trends, such as the ongoing effects of automation; office attendance patterns by industry; employee coordination, defined as the maximum share of workers in the office at a given time; workers’ ages and incomes; the share of a city’s population that commutes from elsewhere; housing price variation among neighborhoods; and shopping trends, such as the ongoing increase in online shopping. In addition to many secondary sources, our modeling includes information from a large global survey that we conducted to understand the behavioral shifts caused by the pandemic.

We performed this research during a time of exceptional macroeconomic uncertainty. Inflation and interest rates are high; fears of recession are mounting; stress in the financial system has been making headlines. Actual outcomes, of course, will depend on how those variables and others play out.

What is certain is that urban real estate in superstar cities around the world faces substantial challenges. And those challenges could imperil the fiscal health of cities, many of which are already straining to address homelessness, transit needs, and other pressing issues. But the challenges also provide an opportunity to spur a historic transformation of urban spaces. By becoming more flexible and adaptable in everything from the makeup of neighborhoods to the design of buildings—in essence, becoming more “hybrid” themselves—superstar cities can not only adapt but thrive.

How hybrid work has changed the way people work, live, and shop

During the pandemic, workers’ office attendance plummeted. Untethered from their daily commutes, urbanites moved away from urban cores in greater numbers than they had before the pandemic (and fewer people moved in), and people spent less in urban stores (see sidebar, “How we define cities”). The rate of out-migration has now returned to its prepandemic trend, but our research suggests that few of the people who left will return and that urban shopping will not fully recover.

How we define cities

This report is about real estate in superstar cities—roughly speaking, cities with a disproportionate share of the world’s urban GDP and GDP growth. We have borrowed the term and the concept from the 2018 MGI report Superstars: The dynamics of firms, sectors, and cities leading the global economy . The report does not examine real estate outside superstar cities.

By city , we usually mean a large metropolitan area. Our analysis often separates such a metropolitan area into two parts: the urban core , which refers to the densest part of the area, and the suburbs , which refers to everything outside the urban core. For example, when we discuss San Francisco’s urban core, we mean San Francisco County, Alameda County, and San Mateo County. And when we discuss San Francisco’s suburbs, we mean the rest of the San Francisco metropolitan area (that is, Marin County and Contra Costa County).

We focus most closely on nine superstar cities: Beijing, Houston, London, New York City, Paris, Munich, San Francisco, Shanghai, and Tokyo. However, in the survey that underlies much of this report, we collected data from a larger set of 17 superstar cities in six countries in order to better understand behavior. At one point in our research, we were able to extend our analysis to a still larger set of 24 superstar cities to help us identify patterns in suburbanization.

Hybrid work is here to stay, and office attendance is down by 30 percent

Employees still spend far less time working at the office than they did before the pandemic, according to our survey. In early 2020, as they adopted remote work and hybrid work in response to lockdowns and health concerns, office attendance in the metropolitan areas we studied dropped by up to 90 percent. It has since recovered substantially but remains down by about 30 percent, on average. As of October 2022, office workers were visiting the office about 3.5 days per week. That number varied among cities, from 3.1 days in London to 3.9 in Beijing. (For more information about the survey, see the technical appendix.)

Office attendance also varies by industry and neighborhood. In large firms in the knowledge economy—which we define as the professional services, information, and finance industries—employees tend to go to the office fewer days per week (Exhibit E1). Characteristics of areas with lower office attendance include expensive housing, a higher ratio of inbound commuters to residents, and a small share of retail, according to our research on US counties. Local culture also plays a role.

There are several reasons to believe that the current rate of office attendance could persist. First, the rate has remained fairly stable since mid-2022. Second, three key numbers—the number of days per week that survey respondents go to the office (3.5), the number of days they expect to go to the office after the pandemic ends (3.7), and their preferred number (3.2)—are not far apart. Third, 10 percent of the people we surveyed said that they were both likely to quit their jobs if required to work at the office every day and willing to take a substantial pay cut if doing so let them work from home when they wanted. That group contains many senior, high-income employees, suggesting that they may wield influence over companies’ decisions. Nevertheless, it is not certain that the current rate of office attendance will persist; it could change, for example, if labor market dynamics shift or if research conclusively indicates either a negative or a positive relationship between hybrid work and productivity.

Up to 7 percent of the people in urban cores left for good

During the pandemic, a wave of households left the urban cores of superstar cities, and fewer households moved in. For example, New York City’s urban core lost 5 percent of its population from mid-2020 to mid-2022, and San Francisco’s lost 7 percent. The main reason was out-migration. In the suburbs, by contrast, populations grew, or they shrank less dramatically than populations in the urban cores did. In the United States, suburbanization had already been happening before the pandemic, and the shock accelerated an existing trend; by contrast, in most of the European and Japanese cities we studied, urbanization gave way to suburbanization (Exhibit E2).

The urban cores where population growth was smallest in relation to their suburbs tended to be those with expensive homes, high office density, a high share of workers in the knowledge economy, and limited retail presence—some of the same characteristics that shaped office attendance. London, Dallas, New York, San Francisco, and Boston were the most affected. In general, US urban cores were more affected than European and Japanese ones, which tend to have more mixed-use development, in which office, residential, and retail space exist alongside one another. The migration trends in Beijing were primarily shaped by prepandemic efforts to control the population size in urban cores by encouraging out-migration, efforts that were paused during the pandemic.

Out-migration from urban cores of superstar cities seems to have slowed, but it is still above prepandemic levels.

Hybrid work seems to have contributed significantly to out-migration. In our survey, among respondents who moved after March 2020, 20 percent said that their move was possible only because they could now work from home more frequently. In the United Kingdom and the United States, people who had moved from urban cores to suburbs, and who said that their move was possible only because they could now work from home, said that they were drawn by housing conditions: better neighborhoods, the prospect of homeownership, and outdoor space. In Japan and China, wanting to own a home was far and away the strongest factor motivating people’s moves to the suburbs.

Out-migration from urban cores of superstar cities seems to have slowed, but it is still above prepandemic levels. From 2019 to 2021, net out-migration from US superstar city cores doubled; then it fell in 2022, although it remained above 2019 rates. In other words, the people who moved out during the pandemic are not moving back, and others keep leaving.

Shopping remains depressed, especially in urban cores

As people stayed home during the pandemic, they radically shifted the way they shopped. Foot traffic plummeted near stores in the cities we studied, and online spending as a share of retail spending spiked.

More recently, foot traffic near stores in metropolitan areas has risen again, but it is still 10 to 20 percent lower than it was before the pandemic. A major reason for the decline is that online spending as a share of retail spending, which admittedly grew more slowly after the initial spike, nevertheless remains higher than it was in 2019.

Retailers in urban cores face particularly acute challenges in attracting customers. As of October 2022, foot traffic had recovered noticeably less near those stores than near suburban ones (Exhibit E3). In New York, for example, foot traffic near suburban stores was 16 percent lower than it had been in January 2020, but foot traffic near urban stores was 36 percent lower. And office-dense neighborhoods in urban cores are facing even more challenges. The reason seems to be that when people come to the office less often, they shop less often near the office. In our survey, respondents in the United States who worked at the office no more than one day per week reported doing much less of their total retail spending near the office than did those who worked in the office two to five days a week.

Empty and boarded-up storefronts with apartments above them.

The impact on real estate

The behavioral changes caused by the pandemic—lower office attendance, accelerated out-migration from cities, and less shopping in office-heavy neighborhoods—will push down demand for real estate in most superstar cities. By 2030, in the scenarios we modeled, demand for office and retail space is generally lower than it was in 2019 (Exhibit E4). Residential space is less affected, though the price differences between urban cores and suburbs are narrower than they used to be. (Note that our model does not consider price elasticity; that is, it does not account for the fact that when demand decreases, prices fall, pushing demand partway back up. For more information about the model, see the technical appendix.)

There will be 13 percent less demand for office space in the median city we studied

Demand for office space has already declined, partly because of the increase in remote work and partly because of a challenging macroeconomic environment. Vacancy rates have increased in all the cities we studied. In the US cities, transaction volume (the total dollar value of all sales) fell by 57 percent, average sale price per square foot fell by 20 percent, and asking rents fell by nearly 22 percent (all in real terms) from 2019 to 2022. In San Francisco, the most strongly affected city in the United States, the share of office space that was vacant was ten percentage points higher in 2022 than it was in 2019, transaction volume was 79 percent lower, sale prices per square foot were 24 percent lower, and asking rents were 28 percent lower (also in real terms). The decline in demand has prompted tenants—wary about current macroeconomic conditions, uncertain about how much their workers will come to the office, and therefore uncertain about how much space they will need—to negotiate shorter leases from owners. Shorter leases, in turn, may make it more difficult for owners to obtain financing or may cause banks to adjust valuation models, which rely in part on the duration of existing leases.

In the scenarios we modeled, the amount of office space demanded in most cities does not return to prepandemic levels for decades. By 2030, demand is as much as 20 percent lower than it was in 2019, depending on the city. 2 When we projected demand for office space in Beijing and Shanghai, we studied only the urban cores of those cities. When we projected demand for office space in the other superstar cities, we studied larger areas, usually but not always the entire metropolitan areas. That estimate is what our model yields in a moderate scenario—one in which, by 2025, office attendance is higher than it is now but still lower than it was before the pandemic, and that partial recovery continues indefinitely. 3 Our model considers peak weekly attendance rather than average weekly attendance. It also takes into account the continued trend toward more desks in less space as well as projections of population growth, shifts in urban migration, and the share of office workers as the knowledge economy grows but feels the impact of automation. In a more severe scenario, in which attendance for all office workers in 2030 falls to the rate already seen in large firms in the knowledge economy, demand is as much as 38 percent lower than it was in 2019, again depending on the city.

Falling demand will drive down value. In the nine cities we studied, a total of $800 billion (in real terms) in value is at stake by 2030 in the moderate scenario. On average, the total value of office space declines by 26 percent from 2019 to 2030 in the moderate scenario and by 42 percent in the severe one. The impact on value could be even stronger if rising interest rates compound it. Similarly, the impact could be stronger if troubled financial institutions decide to more quickly reduce the price of property they finance or own.

Falling demand will also result in a surplus of office space, particularly in the lower-quality and older buildings that the real estate industry calls Class B and Class C. From 2020 to 2022, rents, demand, and sometimes prices generally grew more quickly (or fell less sharply) for Class A buildings than for Class B buildings in US superstar cities. For example, in New York City during that period, the average sale price per square foot rose 3 percent for Class A buildings but fell by 8 percent for Class B buildings. 4 Data from CoStar. There are a number of reasons for this “flight to quality.” One is that many employers see high-quality space as a way to encourage office attendance among their employees. Another is that Class B and Class C office space is often not suited to hybrid work; for example, it may have less sophisticated audiovisual equipment. Also, now that hybrid work has reduced the total amount of space that employers need, they can spend their budgets on smaller amounts of higher-quality space rather than larger amounts of lower-quality space.

Demand growth for residences will be muted, especially in urban cores

During the pandemic, partly because of out-migration, demand for residences grew less quickly in superstar urban cores than it did in suburbs and other cities. Residential vacancy rates increased from 2019 to 2022 in every superstar urban core that we studied, from a 0.8-percentage-point increase in Tokyo to a 9.9-percentage-point increase in London; meanwhile, in the suburbs, vacancy rates grew much less or even declined. 5 Estimate excludes China because of data limitations. Prices followed suit, rising eight percentage points more slowly in US superstar urban cores than in their suburbs and 13 percentage points more slowly than in non-superstar urban cores. In San Francisco, nominal prices in some neighborhoods fell by 12 percent from the end of 2019 to 2022. Residences in San Francisco’s urban core are now worth $750 billion less than they would have been if prices there had risen at the national average rate. The effect seems to be a global phenomenon.

Before price adjustments are accounted for, the demand for residences in superstar urban cores that we modeled is up to 10 percent lower by 2030 than it would have been if not for the pandemic. It is nevertheless higher than it was in 2019 in every city we studied except San Francisco and Paris. That estimate rests on the assumption that the wave of residents who left urban cores will not return but that population growth in each city will return to its prepandemic rate by 2024. Should population growth remain depressed for longer, the impact on demand would be even bigger.

However, prices will probably adjust, and so will rents. Again, our model does not account for such price adjustments, so we could not create demand scenarios that incorporated them. But we can say that homes in urban cores are unlikely to stay empty. Residential space differs from office space in that regard: once prices and rents fall, any available floor space is usually taken up quickly. Indeed, vacancy rates in urban cores have already increased less sharply than urban out-migration would suggest. Unfortunately, the downward pressure on prices and rents is unlikely to make residences in superstar cities—many of which suffer from expensive housing and homelessness—much more affordable.

There will be 9 percent less demand for retail space in the median city we studied

Because of reduced foot traffic near urban stores during the pandemic, vacancy in retail space has increased and rents have declined, particularly in office-dense locations. As with office and residential space, vacancy rates increased from 2019 to 2022 in all the superstar urban cores we studied, ranging from a 1.8-percentage-point increase in San Francisco to a 6.2-percentage-point increase in London. From 2019 to 2022, asking retail rents declined an average of 5.4 percent (in real terms) in the cities we studied. The rents that were actually paid may have fallen even more.

Before price adjustments are accounted for, the demand for retail space in superstar urban cores that we modeled is lower in 2030 than it was in 2019, putting downward pressure on rents. 6 Our model accounts for population growth, shifts toward remote work, per capita spending growth, increasing online spending as a share of retail spending, shifts in migration patterns, and increased shopping in the suburbs. In San Francisco’s urban core, for example, demand will be 17 percent lower. That estimate is what our model yields in a scenario in which there is a partial return to office (and therefore a partial recovery of retail spending near the office), people’s adoption of online shopping returns to its prepandemic rate of growth by 2025, and people who moved during the pandemic do not move back. In a more severe scenario, the decline in demand in San Francisco’s urban core would be as high as 26 percent. In most superstar urban cores, demand would be projected to decline even if the pandemic had not happened; the reasons are population trends and the increasing move to online shopping. As with residential real estate, however, prices are likely to adjust.

What strongly affected neighborhoods and cities have in common

A review of various components of this research—regression analyses, survey responses, and literature reviews—suggests that cities where the pandemic has strongly affected real estate demand tend to have certain characteristics. (We were unable to determine which of those characteristics correlated most strongly with the impact on demand.)

Some of the characteristics are related to the business mix in a city. Specifically, cities with a larger share of workers in the knowledge economy, a higher number of large firms, a higher ratio of commuters to residents, and more cultural acceptance of remote work have tended to experience a greater impact on demand. Those factors lead to lower rates of office attendance, which reduce demand for office space directly, reduce demand for retail space by diminishing the number of office workers shopping at urban stores, and reduce demand for residential space by prompting people to move out of cities’ urban cores.

The larger the share of real estate in a neighborhood that was occupied by offices, the more out-migration from that neighborhood.

Other characteristics that correlate with the impact on demand are related to the urban structure of a city. Specifically, cities with office-dense real estate and little mixed-use development, as well as expensive housing and little green space, have tended to experience a greater impact on demand. Such characteristics make places less desirable for working, living, and shopping.

Two of those characteristics seem to correlate with the impact on demand at the neighborhood level as well. We examined neighborhoods defined by zip codes in Manhattan and San Francisco County (Exhibit E5). According to our analysis, the larger the share of real estate in a neighborhood that was occupied by offices, the more out-migration from that neighborhood. Similarly, home prices correlated with out-migration: pricier neighborhoods experienced more out-migration. (Data limitations prevented us from finding out whether the other characteristics also correlated with demand at the neighborhood level.)

Business mix and urban structure make a difference at the neighborhood level

Two very different Manhattan neighborhoods show that business mix and urban structure correlate with demand at the neighborhood level. The business mix of the first neighborhood, the Financial District, is heavily skewed toward the knowledge economy; 50 percent of all office space there is occupied by knowledge-economy tenants. The Financial District’s urban structure is office dense: 80 percent of real estate is dedicated to offices. And the average price of a home is roughly $1.5 million. Now consider the nearby Lower East Side, where just 22 percent of office space is dedicated to the knowledge economy, 7 percent of all space is dedicated to offices, and the average home price is about $1.0 million.

Those factors help us understand why the pandemic has driven such different outcomes in the two neighborhoods. The domestic out-migration rate from the start of 2020 to the start of 2022 was 2.2 times higher in the Financial District than in the Lower East Side, for example. It stands to reason that residents of the Financial District could easily work from home, as the prevalence of the knowledge economy there suggests, and were therefore likelier to move to bigger homes far from their offices; meanwhile, expensive housing may have given them another reason to leave.

At the city level too, business mix and urban structure drive differences

San Francisco’s business mix helps explain the pandemic’s heavy impact there. The city has long cultivated a technology-focused economy with a large population of office workers, especially knowledge-economy workers. It has many inbound commuters, as the employment-to-population ratio shows: that ratio, a proxy for the prevalence of commuters, is 0.87 in San Francisco, starkly higher than the national average of 0.48. And the city’s employers, many of which are in the technology industry, may have been more likely to be aware of and adopt remote work technology when the pandemic began. San Francisco’s urban structure also helps explain why the pandemic affected demand so strongly there. Home prices in San Francisco County are five times higher than the national average and almost twice as high as prices in the suburbs. Furthermore, San Francisco has limited mixed-use development: offices represent 30 percent or more of all real estate in nine of San Francisco’s 26 neighborhoods.

The pandemic has affected demand less strongly in Paris than in San Francisco. Paris’s business mix helps show why: unlike San Francisco, which is heavily dependent on tech firms and the knowledge economy, Paris is home to companies that are global leaders in a wide variety of industries, such as beauty, hospitality, and consumer retail. But the city’s urban structure has features that push residents away as well as those that pull them in. On the one hand, home prices are twice as high in Paris’s urban core as in its suburbs and four times higher than the national average. On the other hand, Paris has a great deal of mixed-use development.

Finally, consider Tokyo, where real estate demand has been affected less than in most cities we studied. Most of Tokyo’s workers are in wholesale and retail trade, in contrast with technology-dependent San Francisco. Like Paris, Japan has a culture that values being present in the office, in particular among employees of small and medium-size businesses; in our survey, respondents in Tokyo said that they expected to be required to be in the office 3.7 days per week, a response noticeably higher than Paris’s 3.3. Loyalty to employers is also common in Japan, as are lower rates of technology adoption than in San Francisco. Furthermore, online spending as a share of retail spending was lower in Japan than in any other country we studied; that may have contributed to higher office attendance and continued in-person retail shopping. And in Tokyo, home prices in the urban core are 2.1 times higher than the national average—a starkly smaller number than Paris’s 4.1 and San Francisco’s 5.0.

Thriving in hybrid places

Superstar cities are facing a new reality in which hybrid work worsens vacancy rates, threatens the vibrancy of neighborhoods, and thus makes urban cores less attractive to employers, employees, and residents. To adapt to that new reality, urban stakeholders could consider adopting more hybrid approaches themselves. At the neighborhood and building levels, and even in the design of the floors of buildings, choosing diversity, adaptability, and flexibility rather than homogeneity can help cities thrive.

At the neighborhood level, consider mixed-use development

One way cities could adapt is through mixed-use neighborhoods—that is, neighborhoods that are not dominated by a single type of real estate (especially offices) but instead incorporate a diverse mix of office, residential, and retail space. Such hybrid neighborhoods were becoming more popular even before the pandemic. And now that the pandemic has reduced demand for offices, cities have been left with vacant space that could be converted to other uses. Furthermore, our research shows that mixed-use neighborhoods have suffered less during the pandemic than office-dense neighborhoods have. That resilience gives investors, developers, and cities still more reason to engage in placemaking.

Redeveloping neighborhoods is an enormous undertaking, of course, so mobilizing the many stakeholders is important. Governments may be particularly helpful in reforming restrictive zoning policies. Investors would be needed to finance redevelopment. And developers would be the ones to turn mixed-use visions into realities.

Suburbs can benefit from hybridity as well. City dwellers, untethered from their daily commutes and thus less concerned about living far from urban cores, are increasingly seeking larger homes in greener areas. More housing and retail in the suburbs could help satisfy their preferences. More multifamily housing could be particularly beneficial because it would accommodate more people than single-family homes do. So long as the apartments are larger and more comfortable than apartments in urban cores, they could attract urbanites seeking space. Suburban policy makers could consider encouraging multifamily development by adjusting zoning, offering incentives to developers, and reexamining regulations that prevent housing from being built, such as those governing minimum dwelling sizes and window requirements.

Furthermore, multifamily housing is more energy-efficient than single-family homes, so it could help push down carbon emissions. And because it accommodates many people, it could help alleviate the shortage of housing that many metropolitan areas suffer from, making living in those areas more affordable.

At the building level, construct space that is adaptable and flexible

To adapt to declining demand for traditional office and retail space, developers could create hybrid buildings. The most ambitious vision is a universal, “neutral-use” building whose design, infrastructure, and technology could be easily modified to serve different uses. Imagine a medical building that could be easily converted into, say, a hotel or an apartment building if customers’ preferences changed. More modestly, buildings could be designed to accommodate different degrees of collaborative and individual work or different arrangements of open and closed offices. They could also include technology that promotes flexibility, such as sensors to track patterns of usage that could inform an employer’s approach to hybrid work.

Hybrid buildings would bring at least two advantages. One is that they would protect owners from shifts in preferences that are impossible to predict now. The second relates to a current trend toward shorter leases in the office sector. Because tenants will now be moving in and out more frequently, buildings might become more valuable if they grow more adaptable.

Developers could also try to convert offices into the kinds of space for which there is more demand, such as apartments, hotels, and schools. Conversions are very hard, however. Obstacles include rezoning, renegotiating existing lease commitments to allow for renovations, and dealing with physical limitations. Furthermore, in the cities we studied, even if all excess office space were converted into housing, the amount of residential space in each city would grow by less than 3 percent. 7 Excess office space means space projected to be vacant beyond what would result from the structural vacancy rate (defined as the average vacancy rate from 2014 to 2019). Still, for owners facing the prospect of lower occupancy and lower rents in their office buildings, the opportunity cost of conversion has fallen, and the number of successful conversions may grow.

Developers of retail space too could keep adaptability in mind. Of late, retail tenants have been evaluating their footprints with a stricter eye, shutting down stores or moving into smaller spaces. If developers built more adaptable spaces, they would be likelier to remain relevant to tenants’ shifting needs. Developers might also offer new store formats, such as spaces intended for delivery and fulfillment or for logistics rather than traditional retail. Or they might design buildings that are more integrated with their environments—for example, with dining spaces that extend onto sidewalks.

At the floor level, design space that is modular and multiuse

Tenants in urban cores—both the employers who rent office space and the merchants who rent retail space—may have to start “earning the commute” from office workers and shoppers who would otherwise visit less often. Here too, thinking flexibly and adaptably can help. For example, the office does not have to be just a place to work; it can also be a place where employees genuinely enjoy spending time or where they can take part in compelling events and activities. Office tenants might try to attract them by building magnetic, hospitality-oriented workplaces. Office tenants might also design more modular spaces that can adapt to changes in work patterns from week to week. And the most forward-thinking tenants will provide an efficient, digital way to organize hybrid work patterns and preferences.

Turning empty spaces into hybrid places could be a way to transform superstar cities and prepare them for a dynamic, prosperous future.

Retailers too may have to “earn the commute” by designing spaces that cater to many different uses. A prime example is stores that easily accommodate omnichannel retail—a single, seamless experience for customers, whether they shop online or in person. Similarly, stores can provide experiential retail. For example, one department store brand is launching smaller stores where customers can pick up products bought online, get clothes altered, find style advice, and patronize a beauty salon.

Indeed, it is not hard to imagine more “hybrid floors” in which offices, residences, and stores exist side by side. For floors—as for buildings and neighborhoods—turning empty spaces into hybrid places may not simply be a way to counter the damage wrought by the pandemic. It could be a way to transform superstar cities and prepare them for a dynamic, prosperous future.

Jan Mischke is a McKinsey Global Institute partner in Zurich; Ryan Luby is a senior knowledge expert and associate partner in New York; Brian Vickery is a partner in Boston; Jonathan Woetzel  is an MGI director and senior partner in Shanghai; Olivia White  is an MGI director and senior partner in San Francisco; Aditya Sanghvi  is a senior partner in New York; Jinnie Rhee is a consultant in San Francisco; Anna Fu is a consultant in New York; Rob Palter  is a senior partner in Toronto; André Dua  is a senior partner in Miami; and Sven Smit  is a senior partner in Amsterdam and MGI chairman.

This report was edited by Benjamin Plotinsky, an MGI senior editor in Washington, DC.

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Chapter 1: How hybrid work has changed the way people work, live, and shop

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Chapter 2: The impact on real estate

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The Best Things to Buy at Costco

Tommy Tindall

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Traditional grocery store advice is to stay out of the aisles and shop the perimeter to spend less and eat healthier. That’s harder to do at Costco, says Addie McHale, a Denver-based certified financial planner.

Each visit is a treasure hunt. You get there, take it in and want to walk the whole store to “hunt down those values,” says McHale.

Jenny Martin, the writer behind coupon website SouthernSavers.com, says Costco knows what it’s doing. Tall ceilings, big open aisles and tons of products create a sense of awe as soon as you walk in.

At a minimum, you have to buy a $60 annual Costco membership (the lower of two membership tiers offered) to enjoy the grandeur. Big fans of the warehouse chain will say good buys justify the cost. Let this list of the best things to buy at Costco help you decide.

Organic frozen berries

McHale appreciates Costco’s selection of organic foods.

The big bags of frozen berries are an essential purchase for smoothie lovers, she says. “They have a good selection of organic frozen berries, and they’re significantly cheaper than buying those little bags at other stores.”

Authentic Italian ingredients

McHale also says the Italian offerings at Costco are on point. You can find good olive oil from Italy, she says. The Costco brand Kirkland Signature EVOO is a product of Italy, and comes in a two-liter bottle for a relatively low price.

Some items are more elusive. McHale swears by the giant jar of organic Castelvetrano green olives she found. She bought two because the super low price made her think they wouldn’t be restocked. Treasures like it are what make you walk through every aisle, she says.

As for marinara sauce, the r/Costco subreddit makes it clear: Rao’s Homemade is a solid pick and priced well.

places to visit atlantic city

Baking supplies and real maple syrup

Martin finds treasure in the baking aisle. “Bulk flour, sugar, spices and baking chocolates — those are some of the best prices you will find in town,” she says.

Another item that’s better to buy in a bigger size at Costco is 100% organic maple syrup, which Martin says is good quality at a great price. We spotted a 33.8-ounce jug of the Kirkland brand for $14.99 online at Costco versus $25.99 for a similar-sized bottle (32 ounces) of Whole Foods’ version from Amazon at the time of this writing.

Pick up some pure vanilla extract in the same aisle.

Almonds, walnuts and mixed nuts are among the more expensive items at a grocery store . But you can probably get more nuts for less per pound at Costco, or any other warehouse club for that matter.

Take almonds, for example. At the time of this writing, we found a 1-pound bag online at grocery chain Safeway for $7.99 versus a 5-pound bag online at Costco for $17.99. That’s some serious per-pound savings, and you can freeze what you don't eat right away.

Discounted gift cards

Costco offers discounted gift cards for many retail brands, restaurants and even airlines at times, says Martin. Gift card deals are generally $79.99 for $100 of value.

And just because they’re called gift cards doesn’t mean you have to give them away. If you know you’re going to buy from or eat at a participating place, you could save a few bucks upfront by buying yourself a reduced-price gift card.

Over-the-counter medicine

Martin buys the generic version of Zyrtec allergy medicine at Costco.

It just makes sense to buy the bottle of 365 tablets at Costco for less than $20 instead of a bottle of 30 tablets in a drug store for around the same price, she says.

Use Ibuprofen regularly? We saw two 500-tablet bottles of the generic version of Advil at Costco for less than the price of one 500-tablet bottle of another generic version at a popular drug store chain at the time of this writing.

Tires and gasoline

McHale says the savings at Costco’s Tire Center are worth it. She recently compared the price of four new name-brand tires at Costco with the price offered by a retail tire chain. Costco had the same set for a few hundred dollars less, she says.

Martin says to top off your gas tank each time you hit Costco to maximize membership perks, if your local store sells gas. The per-gallon price can be better than the local competition.

Keep your next Costco visit cost-effective

With so many treasures under one giant roof, it’s easy to go over budget on a visit to Costco.

A great deal on a TV doesn’t mean you should impulsively add a several-hundred-dollar purchase during a Saturday supply run. Take the time to ponder, research and compare prices on big-ticket items first, says Martin.

You can also plan meals in advance and set a limit for groceries to avoid a $400 receipt for pantry items. Use your phone’s calculator to tally up the total as you pick items. Or zero in on the fresh food section and leave after.

McHale likes to shop after dinner, about an hour before closing. “You’re not hungry, you’re not lingering,” she says. “You can just go to get your stuff and get out.”

But if you are hungry, you can still count on the $1.50 hot dog and soda after all these years.

Prescott is a city in Yavapai County, Arizona, United States.

  • 8 Best Places to Live in Arizona in 2024

Considering the state of Arizona as a potential relocation destination in 2024 is entirely sensible. Arizona, known as the Grand Canyon State, boasts a population of 7.276 million people. The state offers a variety of attractions, including beautiful cities with stunning views, friendly locals who make newcomers feel welcome, and a wealth of outdoor adventures and social activities. Before settling down, it's important to consider factors such as the crime rate and tax laws. Here’s an overview of three of the best places to live in Arizona in 2024.

Lake Havasu City

Hot Air Balloons over London Bridge in Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Located in western Arizona, Lake Havasu City is renowned for water sports on Lake Havasu and its rich Native American cultural history. It is safer than 29% of U.S. neighborhoods. The local sales tax rate is notably low, but it's important to verify the current rates as they can fluctuate. Outdoor activities abound, including boating, fishing, and more. Attractions such as London Bridge and the Desert Wildflower Hiking Trail offer diverse entertainment options. Noteworthy 2024 events include the Mick Adams and the Stones Tribute Concert and the Havasu 95 Speedway Race.

Aerial view of the capital city of Arizona, Pheonix.

Phoenix, the state capital, is a must-mention for Arizona's top living spots. With a crime rate of 37 incidents per 1,000 residents, it's crucial to consider safety. The city has a flat 2.5% individual income tax rate. Outdoor and indoor activities are plentiful, ranging from hiking at Camelback Mountain to exploring the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. A highlight event in 2024 is the NCAA men’s Final Four basketball tournament.

A residential neighborhood in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Often associated with vibrant nightlife, including bachelor and bachelorette parties, Scottsdale offers more than just entertainment. It is safer than 19% of U.S. neighborhoods, with a combined sales tax rate of 8.05% in 2024. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Sonoran Desert's beauty and various trails, while dining options like Barnaby’s Café enrich the local culinary scene. Upcoming events include the Persian New Year Festival and the 66th Annual Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market.

A highway passing through Flagstaff, Arizona.

Overlooking Flagstaff when considering relocation options in Arizona would be a mistake. Flagstaff is considered to be safer than 92% of U.S. cities, contrary to being "8% safer," which inaccurately implies it is less safe than most. As of 2024, the sales tax rate in Flagstaff is 9.18%. Outdoor enthusiasts will find Flagstaff appealing, with attractions like Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and the Campbell Mesa Trails, which offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and leisurely walks. Wildlife observation is a highlight at locations such as Picture Canyon and Mount Elden trails. The city also boasts a vibrant dining and nightlife scene with establishments like Flagstaff Brewing Company, Charly’s Pub and Grill, and Beaver Street Brewery. Notable events in 2024 include the Leap Year Celebration, the Canyon Translations Art Exhibit, and the Coconino Quilters' Guild Library Quilt Show.

Downtown Sedona, Arizona.

Sedona is widely regarded as one of Arizona's most breathtaking locales. Crime analytics indicate there are 21 incidents per 1,000 residents, positioning Sedona as a relatively safe community. The sales tax rate for Sedona residents stands at 9.85% in 2024. Sedona offers a plethora of adventures for the outdoor enthusiast. Horseback riding excursions can be arranged through Wild Western Horseback Adventures, kayaking trips with Verde Adventures, and fishing expeditions coordinated by the US Forest Service Red Rock Ranger District. For those preferring indoor activities, options include the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock, the Sedona Performing Arts Center, and the Blazin’ M Ranch Western Dinner Theater. Upcoming events in 2024 that locals can anticipate include Sedona Sound Healing, Satya Yoga Immersion, and the Annual Spring Art Show.

Tucson, Arizona, at dusk.

Tucson offers a wide array of exploratory opportunities for those considering relocation to Arizona. The city's crime rate is noted at 42 incidents per 1,000 residents. As of 2024, Tucson's sales tax rate is 8.7%. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in the natural beauty of Saguaro National Park, hike through Coronado National Forest, and engage in bird watching at the Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory. Among Tucson’s premier attractions are the ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center & Mine Tours, the Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium, and Amity's Dragonfly Gallery. Upcoming events in 2024 include the Tucson Rodeo Parade, the Cologuard Classic PGA Tour Championship, and the Tucson International Mariachi Conference.

Aerial view of Mesa, Arizona

Mesa is a city that offers a quality living environment within Arizona. The crime rate here is 23 incidents per 1,000 residents. In 2024, the sales tax rate is set at 8.3%. Mesa offers a range of outdoor activities, such as family outings at Eastmark Great Park and scenic walks around Mesa Riverview Park. Additional attractions include cruising on the Dolly Steamboat for picturesque views. Indoor pursuits can be enjoyed at Hale Centre Theatre, Boyce Thompson Arboretum, and TopGolf Gilbert. Notable events for Mesa residents include the Rydables Scavenger Hunt and the Phoenix Symphony Performance.

A fall day in Prescott, Arizona.

Prescott is an attractive city for those looking to move to Arizona, with a crime rate of only 17 incidents per 1,000 residents. The sales tax rate as of 2024 is 8.35%. Prescott National Forest provides ample outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hunting, picnicking, birdwatching, hiking, and biking. Wine tasting is a popular pastime, with Verde Valley Vineyards nearby. The city’s 2024 event calendar includes the Harlem Globetrotters 2024 World Tour, the Prescott Regional SciTech Fest, and the Dream Merchant Art Exhibit.

The Takeaway

With their low crime rates and reasonable sales taxes, these cities in Arizona are appealing options for relocation. Each city offers unique attractions: from the water sports in Lake Havasu City and the stunning hiking trails in Phoenix to the aesthetic delights in Scottsdale and vibrant nightlife in Flagstaff. For those considering a move to a new state, these cities in Arizona are certainly worth considering in 2024.

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Tulsa to New Orleans faces risk of hail, damaging winds, flooding rain as storms threaten millions this week

On tuesday, the severe weather risk will be confined to areas of the south, including little rock, jackson in mississippi and new orleans and shreveport in louisiana..

An active weather pattern is setting up for parts of the South, bringing the chance of severe weather and flooding rains to areas along the Gulf Coast. 

Flooding rain, possible severe weather to drench South

An active weather pattern is setting up for parts of the South, bringing the chance of severe weather and flooding rains to areas along the Gulf Coast. 

HOUSTON – A busy start to the new workweek is underway for millions of people in the central U.S. as a series of storms will bring the risk of severe weather and flash flooding to cities along the Gulf Coast before heavy precipitation slams the mid-Atlantic to the Northeast later this week.

On Tuesday, the severe weather risk will be confined to areas of the South, including Little Rock, Jackson in Mississippi and New Orleans and Shreveport in Louisiana .

By midweek, the threat of severe weather will push to central and southern Florida , including cities from Orlando to Tampa , Melbourne , West Palm Beach and Miami .

places to visit atlantic city

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Southern Plains, Deep South face increased severe weather threat Thursday and Friday

This graphic shows the severe weather threat on Thursday, March 7, 2024.

This graphic shows the severe weather threat on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (FOX Weather)

This graphic shows the severe weather threat on Friday, March 8, 2024.

This graphic shows the severe weather threat on Friday, March 8, 2024. (FOX Weather)

The end of the week could see a higher risk of severe weather from areas of the southern Plains to the Deep South.

As of Monday, the SPC has highlighted nearly 13 million people from Texas to Louisiana and Mississippi in its severe thunderstorm outlook, including Dallas, Waco , Austin and Lufkin in Texas, as well as Shreveport and Alexandria in Louisiana.

On Friday, that severe weather threat expands farther to the east, with areas of East Texas through southern Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama facing the greatest risk. The Florida Panhandle, too, will see an increased severe weather threat.

WATCH VS. WARNING: HERE ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THESE WEATHER TERMS THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

Heavy rain could lead to flash flooding in the South

places to visit atlantic city

NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center (WPC) has highlighted areas of the South and Southeast for the risk of flash flooding due to heavy rain that’s expected to sweep across the region early this week.

The greatest risk on Tuesday is centered over southeastern Louisiana, including New Orleans.

places to visit atlantic city

Tuesday’s threat includes cities such as Tupelo in Mississippi, as well as Mobile and Montgomery in Alabama and Atlanta .

Tallahassee , Florida, could also see some flash flooding due to the storms and heavy rain pushing through the region.

EXPLAINING FLOOD ALERTS ISSUED BY NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

Mid-Atlantic, Northeast brace for heavy rain, possible flooding

places to visit atlantic city

The storm systems responsible for the severe weather and flooding threats in the central part of the country at the start of the week will push into the Northeast by the middle of the week and will combine with an area of low pressure moving up the East Coast off the coast of the Carolinas.

"The next three days, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, are kind of sloppy because we’re tracking the energy again coming from the Midwest," FOX Weather Meteorologist Britta Merwin said. "But then this lifts up to the north as well."

As the low-pressure system spins up the coast and eventually combines with the energy from the cold front pushing in from the Midwest, millions of people along and east of the Interstate 95 corridor from New England to the mid-Atlantic are at risk of picking up a few inches of rain, which could lead to flash flooding.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE REVAMPS FLOOD ALERTS

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Between 2 and 3 inches of rain could fall by Thursday along the East Coast from Norfolk in Virginia northward to the Jersey Shore, New York City and southern New England.

There could be as much as 3-5 inches of rain in extreme southern New England, including New London in Connecticut , Providence in Rhode Island and the South Shore of Massachusetts .

HOW HEAVY IS IT REALLY GOING TO RAIN?

Because of the amount of rain expected, there is a risk of flash flooding across the same areas.

That risk extends from the mid-Atlantic to New England and includes cities such as Dover in Delaware , Philadelphia , New York City, Hartford in Connecticut, Nantucket in Massachusetts and Boston .

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Carpenters Legacy 2024 (Atlantic City)

Carpenters Legacy 2024 (Atlantic City)

Carpenters Legacy, a tribute concert to the iconic music of The Carpenters, is set to grace the stage at Ovation Hall in Ocean Casino Resort on April 12, 2024. Located at 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ, 08401, this musical journey will transport the audience back in time with timeless classics and unforgettable melodies. The event promises a night filled with nostalgia and heartwarming tunes that will resonate with music lovers of all ages. Featuring hits such as [Song 1], [Song 2], and more, Carpenters Legacy is a must-see for anyone seeking to experience the magic of The Carpenters live on stage. Mark your calendars as tickets for this unforgettable evening go on sale starting from February 2, 2024, at 3:00 PM until April 13, 2024, at 3:00 AM. Don't miss your chance to be part of this special musical celebration honoring one of the greatest musical duos of all time.

Provided by Sony | Published Mar 6, 2024

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IMAGES

  1. A Guide To Visiting Atlantic City With Kids (Including Lodging

    places to visit atlantic city

  2. 8 Best Beaches in Atlantic City

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  3. 13 Best Family Things to Do in Atlantic City

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  4. Vacation in Atlantic City, New Jersey

    places to visit atlantic city

  5. Atlantic City: Top rated 7 Best Historical Places to visit in Atlantic

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  6. 10 Best Things to Do in Atlantic City

    places to visit atlantic city

COMMENTS

  1. 12 Best Things to Do in Atlantic City

    Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023. Ranking of the top 12 things to do in Atlantic City. Travelers favorites include #1 Atlantic City Beach, #2 Atlantic City Boardwalk and more.

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Atlantic City

    Popular casino offers the "Turf Club," which features thoroughbred and standard-bred horse racing from major racetracks around the country. 4. Absecon Lighthouse. New Jersey's tallest lighthouse awaits you at Pacific and Rhode Island Avenues in Atlantic City (walking distance from Showboat Casino).

  3. 12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Atlantic City, NJ

    Address: 3109 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey. 2. Enjoy the Rides at the Famous Steel Pier. The Steel Pier. The Steel Pier is Atlantic City's answer to Coney Island in New York. Built in 1898, this wonderful old amusement pier was once even ranked one of the nation's most visited tourist attractions.

  4. 24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Atlantic City (New Jersey)

    One of many fun activities in Atlantic City, New Jersey, a visit to Absecon Lighthouse is sure to wow your group. Address: 31 S Rhode Island Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States. 13. Storybook Land. Storybook Land. Storybook Land is a must-see destination near Atlantic City, New Jersey.

  5. The 30 things everyone in Atlantic City should do at least once ...

    Stacker compiled a list of the highest rated things to do in Atlantic City on Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor rankings factor in the average rating and number of reviews. - Rating: 4.0 / 5 (2,533) - Type ...

  6. Tourist Attractions in New Jersey

    Find wonderful fun things to do and fascinating places to visit in Atlantic City, the entertainment capital of the Jersey Shore. A variety of tourist attractions in New Jersey beckon your presence. Peruse the list of places to visit and start planning your Atlantic City getaway itinerary. Choose from relaxing at one of Atlantic City's luxurious ...

  7. Atlantic City Visitor Guide

    Atlantic City Visitor's Guide. Start planning your Atlantic City getaway now. Browse our online visitors guide or order your free copy of the Atlantic City Visitors Guide and find out all you need to know to plan a successful vacation along the Jersey Shore. Browse through the Atlantic City Visitor Guide to learn all the attractions ...

  8. Things to Do in NJ

    The Atlantic City region truly has it all. Discover golf, recreational boating, motor sports, sightseeing, fishing, parks and then some. Find true relaxation in Atlantic City's day spas and resorts. Our seaside resorts and spas rejuvenate and invigorate with therapeutic bath and body treatments in tranquil environments.

  9. 26 Best Things to Do in Atlantic City in 2024

    26. Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is a massive 48,000 acres of coastal habitat - a mix of beach, wetland, and pasture. After all the time on the beach and in casinos, getting to a more rural area of nature is a wonderful thing to do in Atlantic City.

  10. The 15 Best Things to Do in Atlantic City

    Stroll Along the Atlantic City Boardwalk. 2. Sample Craft Brews at The Seed: A Living Beer Project. 3. Go Kayaking, Windsurfing & Surfing at the Beach. 4. Marvel at Sea Creatures at the Atlantic City Aquarium. 5.

  11. Atlantic City Thrills: Top 45 Epic Adventures & Hotspots

    Here are forty-five of the best spots to visit when you head to this coastal paradise in New Jersey. 1. Steel Pier Amusement Park. Credit: Mark Jonas, Flickr. đź“Ť Map It: 1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 | Phone: (609) 345-4893 | Website | Hours: Varies deping on season| Entrance: Tickets $1.75/person.

  12. Atlantic City Travel Guide

    The best time to visit Atlantic City is either from March to May or from June to August. Although a nice breeze blows through the seaside town in the summer, the days are defined by humidity with ...

  13. 24 Best Things to Do in Atlantic City, New Jersey: Boardwalk, Casinos

    Best Things to Do in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Below are our top picks for activities and destinations in Atlantic City including the casinos, boardwalk area, and other unique spots — perfect for planning your next vacation. Caesars Palace. Caesar's Palace (2100 Pacific Avenue) is famously designed with the theme of Ancient Roman decadence.

  14. Places to Visit in Atlantic City

    4. Absecon Lighthouse. 532. Lighthouses. New Jersey's tallest lighthouse awaits you at Pacific and Rhode Island Avenues in Atlantic City (walking distance from Showboat Casino). Take an amazing journey into time and above it all as you ascend the 228 steps of the Absecon Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the country.

  15. 18 Unique Things to do in Atlantic City on ANY Budget in 2024

    Address: 1 Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City; 6. Visit the Atlantic City Historical Museum. The Atlantic City Historical Museum is the perfect place to learn about the rich history of this seaside resort town. The museum is located in an 1879 Victorian-style house and features a variety of exhibitions that chronicle the city's development.

  16. Atlantic City, NJ 2024: All You Need to Know Before You Go

    Atlantic City draws tourists by the car- and bus-load, topping more than 20 million visitors per year! Stroll along the famous Boardwalk with its numerous amusements and eateries or visit the historic Absecon Lighthouse and the new Wheel at Steel Pier. Several championship golf courses are within a 30 minute drive to attract golf enthusiasts.

  17. THE 10 BEST Atlantic City Sights & Historical Landmarks

    By mark15780. Any memorial to show our gratitude for war hero is awesome as is this one. Beautifuly made monument. 10. Civil Rights Garden. 8. Points of Interest & Landmarks. By Hfirther. Beautiful tiny green sobering oasis amidst the excesses of the casino/hotels and boardwalk.

  18. Atlantic City NJ

    Atlantic City Boardwalk. MAAC 2024 Basketball Championships. Tuesday, March 12 - Saturday, March 16, 2024 Times Vary. Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. Bert Kreischer. Saturday, March 16, 2024 Time, 7:00 PM. Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. VIEW ALL EVENTS. Come for our famous boardwalk and beaches, stay and play at our casino resorts or choose from world ...

  19. One day in Atlantic City, New Jersey (Guide)

    Visit the Atlantic City Steel Pier. It would not be a good idea to visit Atlantic City without going to the Steel Pier. Arguably Atlantic City's most popular attraction, the steel pier, is the cradle of fun-filled adventures on the East Coast of New Jersey. The pier is connected to the Boardwalk and comprises an amusement park with more than ...

  20. 3 Days in Atlantic City: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

    Visit Lucy the Elephant. Just five miles south of Atlantic City is Margate, NJ, and one of the strangest listings on the National Park Registry of Historic Landmarks. Lucy, a 65-foot-tall building constructed in the shape of an elephant, has lived many lives. Today, you can pay her a visit and take a tour inside.

  21. Places Near Atlantic City: Discover Charming Local Gems

    When you visit Atlantic City, you'll quickly notice that the beaches are famous for a reason. Everything you could possibly want is within walking distance - shops, five-star restaurants, casinos, and attractions. The Atlantic City Boardwalk sets the stage for a perfect day at the beach with the family.

  22. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Atlantic City

    4. Absecon Lighthouse. 532. Lighthouses. New Jersey's tallest lighthouse awaits you at Pacific and Rhode Island Avenues in Atlantic City (walking distance from Showboat Casino). Take an amazing journey into time and above it all as you ascend the 228 steps of the Absecon Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the country.

  23. Visit Atlantic City

    Our team will provide a seamless planning experience, giving your attendees the opportunity to build meaningful connections by the beach. Experience top accommodations, 24-hour entertainment, 48 blocks of food, historic attractions, and unique Atlantic City experiences, shopping, and access to our world-famous Boardwalk and pristine free beaches.

  24. Empty spaces and hybrid places

    McKinsey's "Empty spaces and hybrid places" study looks at how the pandemic has affected the global real estate market and what we can expect to see next. ... New York City's urban core lost 5 percent of its population from mid-2020 to mid-2022, and San Francisco's lost 7 percent. Urban vacancy rates have shot up. Foot traffic near stores ...

  25. The Best Things to Buy at Costco

    The best things to buy at Costco include quality cooking ingredients, over-the-counter medicines and even tires, experts say. ... Each visit is a treasure hunt. You get there, take it in and want ...

  26. 8 Best Places to Live in Arizona in 2024

    The city's crime rate is noted at 42 incidents per 1,000 residents. As of 2024, Tucson's sales tax rate is 8.7%. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in the natural beauty of Saguaro National Park, hike through Coronado National Forest, and engage in bird watching at the Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory.

  27. Houston to Chicago faces risk of hail, damaging winds as storms

    A busy start to the new workweek looms for millions of people from the Gulf Coast to the Midwest as a series of storms will bring the risk of severe weather to nearly 50 million people in cities such as Houston, St. Louis and Chicago on Monday, while places like New Orleans brace for possible flash flooding before heavy precipitation slams millions from the mid-Atlantic to the Northeast later ...

  28. Carpenters Legacy 2024 (Atlantic City)

    Searching for information and tickets regarding Carpenters Legacy 2024 (Atlantic City) taking place in Atlantic City on Apr 12, 2024 (UTC-5)? Trip.com has you covered. Check the dates, itineraries, and other information about Carpenters Legacy 2024 (Atlantic City) now! Trip.com has also prepared more similar exciting activities and discounted flight and hotel packages.