Lights, Glamor, Action: Discovering Atlantic City's Vibrant Seaside Excitement

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Advisor - Gillian Spatz
Curated By

Gillian Spatz

  • New Jersey

  • Beaches

  • Couples Travel

  • Road Trip Travel

  • Entertainment

  • Nightlife

A view of the Hard Rock Café neon guitar sign outside.
Curator’s statement

Step into the dazzling world of Atlantic City, New Jersey, where excitement and entertainment await around every corner. Renowned for its iconic boardwalk, towering casinos and vibrant nightlife, Atlantic City embodies the epitome of seaside glamor. Whether you're seeking your luck at the gaming tables, catching a live performance or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, this dynamic coastal destination promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Join us as we dive into the pulse-pounding energy and endless possibilities of Atlantic City's bustling shoreline.

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Where to stay in Atlantic City

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Things to do in Atlantic City

A view of a vibrant neon amusement park at nighttime with rollercoasters and a ferris wheel.

Visit the Atlantic City Boardwalk: Take a stroll along the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk, which stretches for four miles along the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy panoramic views of the beach, shops, restaurants and entertainment venues along the way.

Try Your Luck at the Casinos: Test your luck at one of Atlantic City's world-class casinos, including resorts like Borgata, Caesars, Harrah's and Tropicana. Enjoy a variety of gaming options, including slots, table games, poker and more.

Catch a Show: Attend a live performance or concert at one of Atlantic City's entertainment venues. From headlining acts at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to comedy shows at the Borgata, there's always something happening in Atlantic City.

Visit Steel Pier: Experience classic boardwalk entertainment at Steel Pier, home to amusement rides, games and attractions for all ages. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, enjoy thrilling roller coasters or play arcade games with the family.

Explore the Absecon Lighthouse: Climb to the top of the Absecon Lighthouse, New Jersey's tallest lighthouse, for stunning views of the Atlantic City skyline and the surrounding area. Learn about the lighthouse's history and maritime heritage in the museum below.

Relax on the Beach: Spend a day relaxing on the beaches of Atlantic City, known for their soft sand and gentle waves. Whether you're swimming, sunbathing or building sandcastles, the beach is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Take a Helicopter Tour: Get a bird's eye view of Atlantic City with a helicopter tour of the area. Fly over the beach, boardwalk and famous landmarks like the Absecon Lighthouse and Steel Pier for a unique perspective on the city.

Play a Round of Golf: Tee off at one of Atlantic City's championship golf courses, which offer scenic views, challenging holes and well-manicured fairways. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, you'll find courses to suit every skill level.

Day trips

Cape May, New Jersey: Located about an hour and a half drive south of Atlantic City, Cape May is known for its charming Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches and rich history. Visitors can explore the quaint streets lined with colorful homes, visit historic sites like the Cape May Lighthouse and the Emlen Physick Estate, or enjoy a relaxing day at the beach. Cape May also offers excellent dining options, including fresh seafood restaurants and quaint cafés.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Approximately an hour's drive northwest of Atlantic City, Philadelphia offers a wealth of historic and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Additionally, Philadelphia boasts a vibrant food scene, with diverse dining options ranging from traditional cheesesteaks to upscale restaurants. Visitors can also enjoy shopping, art galleries and live entertainment throughout the city.

Places to eat & drink in Atlantic City

A plate of oysters and lemon wedges.

Chef Vola's: Chef Vola's is a hidden gem known for its classic Italian-American cuisine and intimate, old-school atmosphere. Reservations are a must for this popular spot.

Dock's Oyster House: Dock's Oyster House is a historic seafood restaurant serving up fresh oysters, clams and other seafood specialties in a casual yet elegant setting.

The Knife and Fork Inn: The Knife and Fork Inn is a historic steakhouse housed in a beautifully restored building dating back to 1912. Enjoy prime steaks, seafood and classic cocktails in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.

Kelsey's: Kelsey's is a local favorite known for its hearty comfort food and lively atmosphere. Enjoy dishes like fried chicken, ribs and burgers while listening to live music on the weekends.

Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar: Step into Old Havana at Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar, where you can enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine, tropical cocktails and live music in a vibrant, colorful atmosphere.

Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse: Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse offers a refined dining experience with prime steaks, fresh seafood and an extensive wine list. The elegant atmosphere and attentive service make it a top choice for special occasions.

Tony's Baltimore Grill: Tony's Baltimore Grill is a beloved Atlantic City institution known for its no-frills atmosphere and delicious Italian-American fare. Enjoy pizza, pasta and other comfort food classics in this casual, family-friendly restaurant.

Advisor - Gillian Spatz

Travel Advisor

Gillian Spatz

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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Culinary Gems of Tulum: A Gastronomic Journey from Budget Bites to Luxurious Feasts. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Jersey.