Atlantic City is a popular vacation destination and is home to various casinos, hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can enjoy the beach, Boardwalk, and Steel Pier or trying their luck at the tables. There are also lots of things to do indoors, including shopping at the outlet malls, visiting the Atlantic City Aquarium, or catching a show at one of the many theaters and nightclubs. Below, are a few of the more popular things to do in Atlantic City during your visit.
Atlantic City Boardwalk
The Atlantic City Boardwalk is perhaps the most popular tourist destination in New Jersey. The Boardwalk is an iconic part of American history, made famous by songs, movies, and television shows. The Boardwalk was first built in 1870 and quickly became a popular destination for locals and tourists. Over the years, the Boardwalk has undergone several renovations, but it has always retained its unique charm.
Spanning for over four miles, the Boardwalk is lined with casinos, hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions. You can enjoy the beach, stroll down the Boardwalk, or ride on the historic boardwalk tramcar. The Boardwalk is also home to the Steel Pier, an amusement park with rides, games, and midway food. In addition to the Steel Pier, many other amusements and attractions are located along the Boardwalk, making it an excellent destination for families.
Steel Pier
Steel Pier is one of the more popular attractions on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. The pier offers various activities, including rides, games, and live entertainment. One of the most popular rides to go on is the Ferris wheel, which offers stunning views of the city and the ocean. For those who want an adrenaline-pumping experience, there are also rides like the Wave Swinger and the Drop Zone.
In addition to rides, Steel Pier also has a variety of games and other activities, such as carnival games, miniature golf, and a zip line. The Pier also has a wide variety of food options, making spending an entire day at the pier easy.
Playground Pier
The Playground Pier is a massive pier that has over 200 stores, restaurants, and attractions. And it’s not just a place to shop and eat – there’s also an amusement park, an aquarium, a water park, and much more. You can enjoy ocean views from the pier’s observation deck, ride on the roller coaster, or stroll along the Boardwalk.
Absecon Lighthouse
The Absecon Lighthouse is a popular thing to do while in Atlantic City. Standing tall at 171 feet, the lighthouse offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding coastline. You can also learn about the lighthouse’s history and how it played an essential role in guiding ships into safe harbor. Best of all, the Absecon Lighthouse is just a short walk from many of Atlantic City’s most popular casinos and hotels.
Lucy the Elephant
Lucy the Elephant is one of the most iconic landmarks to see in Atlantic City. The six-story structure was built in 1881 as a beach resort and was initially named Elephant Bazaar. It’s made of wood and coated in tin sheets, weighing 90 tons. You can tour Lucy, which takes about 45 minutes or rent her for special events like weddings. She even has an onsite gift shop! Lucy is located near other things to do in Atlantic City, making her a perfect addition to your Atlantic City adventure.
New Jersey Korean War Memorial
The New Jersey Korean War Memorial was dedicated on September 20, 1987, and is one of the few remaining memorials in the United States that honors the men and women who served in the Korean War. The memorial consists of two granite walls that flank a pathway leading to a giant granite statue of a soldier. The walls are inscribed with the names of the 537 New Jersey residents who lost their lives during the conflict. Every year, on Memorial Day, a ceremony is held at the site to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Atlantic City Aquarium
Are you looking for things to do in Atlantic City with your family? Pay a visit to the Atlantic City Aquarium! Home to more than 100 species of fish, the aquarium is a great place to learn about the underwater world. You can see everything from sharks to tropical fish, and there are even touch tanks where you can get close and personal with some of the resident sea creatures. The aquarium also hosts regular events and programs, so there’s always something new to see and do.
Storybook Land
Storybook Land is a must-see for families visiting Atlantic City. This unique theme park is based on classic children’s stories and features nearly 50 rides, shows, and attractions. The amusement park mimics a fairy tale book with winding paths and colorful displays.
You can step into classic stories like Alice in Wonderland and Hansel and Gretel or enter a land of pirates and dragons. There are also rides for children of all ages, from gentle carousels to thrilling roller coasters. And no visit to Storybook Land is complete without a stop at the park’s famous bakery, where you can purchase delicious treats like gingerbread houses and candy apples.
Ripley’s Believe it or Not
Ripley’s Believe it or Not is a world-renowned museum that features unique and unbelievable artifacts from all corners of the globe. Located in the heart of Atlantic City, the museum is just a short walk from the beach and Boardwalk.
You can see everything from a four-ton Egyptian mummy to a car made of bulletproof glass. With over 20,000 square feet of exhibit space, Ripley’s Believe it or Not has tons to see and do. The museum is also home to a selection of interactive games and puzzles, making it the perfect way to spend a day out with family or friends.
Atlantic City Historical Museum
There’s plenty to see and do in Atlantic City, and the Historical Museum is a great place to start. The museum showcases the city’s rich history, from its days as a coastal resort town to its recent role as a gaming and entertainment destination. You can view exhibits on the city’s famous Boardwalk, learn about the construction of the iconic casinos, and see artifacts from both world wars.
African American Heritage Museum
Atlantic City is a historic seaside resort town with a rich African American heritage. One of the best ways to learn about this history is to visit the African American Heritage Museum. The museum is in the former home of civil rights leader Richard H. Cain. It contains a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tells the story of Atlantic City’s African American community. You can also take a self-guided tour of the Richard H. Cain House and learn more about the life of this important figure.
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall
Boardwalk Hall, located in Atlantic City, New Jersey, is a multipurpose arena home to various events throughout the year. Named after former Atlantic City Mayor Jim Whelan, the hall first opened its doors in 1929 and has since been renovated several times. Today, it is one of the more popular venues on the Jersey Shore, hosting everything from concerts and sporting events to comedy shows and conventions.
Boardwalk Hall is also home to the world-famous Miss America pageant, which takes place every September. With a capacity of more than 14,000 people, Boardwalk Hall is one of the largest arenas on the East Coast. So be sure to check out the venue’s schedule while you’re in town!
Casinos in Atlantic City
Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa
If you’re looking for a luxurious destination, look no further than Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa. This AAA Four-Diamond resort is Atlantic City’s only privately owned and operated casino hotel, and it shows in its attention to detail. Borgata offers two towers with over 2,000 guest rooms and suites, each with deluxe amenities. The property also boasts 16 restaurants ranging from casual cafes to upscale eateries and an award-winning spa. And, of course, there’s the casino floor with over 3,400 slots and 145 table games.
Caesars at Atlantic City
Caesars Atlantic City is a luxurious hotel and casino with all the amenities and entertainment options you would expect from a world-class resort. From the moment you enter, you are greeted with opulent marble floors, chandeliers, and various gaming options. Whether trying your luck at the slots or testing your skills at the tables, Caesars Atlantic City is the perfect casino destination. And when ready to take a break from all the action, you can enjoy a meal at one of the hotel’s many restaurants or relax in one of the spacious accommodations.
Hard Rock Atlantic City
Hard Rock Atlantic City is the first new casino to open in the city in nine years. Hard Rock Atlantic City features 2,000 hotel rooms, a 30,000-square-foot casino, 12 restaurants and bars, and a 3,500-seat theater. The hotel also has a spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool. In addition, Hard Rock Atlantic City is home to the world’s largest Hard Rock Cafe. The property is located on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City’s Marina District.
Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City
Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City offers everything you could want in a vacation destination. The rooms are comfortable and spacious, the restaurants are top-notch, and the casino floor is always buzzing with activity. But what really sets Harrah’s apart is its world-class spa. The spa offers various treatments, from massages to facials, and it’s a great place to relax after a long day of exploring Atlantic City. If you’re looking for a truly luxurious vacation experience, look no further than Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City.
Ocean Casino Resort
The Ocean Casino Resort is one of the most iconic casinos in Atlantic City, offering visitors a luxurious gaming experience. The casino floor is over 70,000 square feet and features over 2,200 slot machines and 100 table games. Visitors can also enjoy dining at one of the casino’s seven restaurants or take in a show at the onsite theater. The Ocean Casino Resort is the perfect place to enjoy Atlantic City’s legendary nightlife scene.
Tropicana Casino Resort
One of the most popular destinations in Atlantic City is the Tropicana Casino Resort. The resort offers all the things you would expect from a world-class casino: Luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, exciting nightlife, and of course, plenty of gaming options. But Tropicana Casino Resort also offers much more than that. The resort is home to a world-renowned spa, an outdoor pool complex, and a championship golf course. In addition, Tropicana Casino Resort regularly hosts headliner entertainment acts and special events.
Golden Nugget Atlantic City
Golden Nugget Atlantic City features a large casino floor with over 1,000 slots and table games and a luxury hotel with over 700 rooms and suites. The Golden Nugget also boasts several restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and a spa and fitness center. The casino resort is one of the most popular destinations in Atlantic City and regularly hosts world-famous performers and events.
Bally’s Atlantic City
Bally’s Atlantic City was formerly known as Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino. It was built by Donald Trump and opened in 1984. The property was renamed after Trump sold it to Bally Manufacturing in 1986. Bally’s Atlantic City has 2,196 hotel rooms and a 120,000-square-foot casino. The hotel is connected to Caesars Atlantic City via an enclosed walkway. Bally’s Atlantic City features several restaurants, bars, and nightlife venues. The property also has a spa and a fitness center. Bally’s Atlantic City is one of the Boardwalk’s most iconic casinos.
Final Thoughts
Atlantic City is a popular vacation destination for many reasons. The city offers a wide range of things to do, from soaking up the sun on the beach to gambling in the casinos. There are also many great restaurants and nightclubs, making it easy to find a place to have fun. Atlantic City is your destination if you’re looking for an East Coast vacation with casinos and beaches.
Photo Credit: [@mandritoiu/DepositPhotos]
Alexandrea Sumuel is a travel writer and the founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog, where she provides vacationers and travel enthusiasts with trip ideas, travel guides, news, and itineraries. She travels to experience, eat, and explore-- and, on occasion, escape! Alex’s mission is to help people travel a little easier.