Atlantic City, known for its stunning beaches, bustling boardwalk, and vibrant casino scene, is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the best of the Jersey Shore. In this ultiimate guide, we’ll uncover the wonders of Atlantic City and plan your perfect getaway.
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Explore the Iconic Boardwalk
The Atlantic City Boardwalk, which was first built in 1870, stretches for nearly six miles along the coastline, providing picturesque views of the ocean and easy access to numerous attractions. Some must-visit spots along the boardwalk include:
- Steel Pier: This historic amusement park offers rides, games, and entertainment for all ages. Don’t miss their iconic Ferris wheel, offering breathtaking views of the city and shoreline.
- Boardwalk Hall: Home to various concerts, sporting events, and other live performances, this historic venue is a must-visit spot for entertainment enthusiasts.
- Absecon Lighthouse: Climb to the top of this 1857 lighthouse for panoramic views of Atlantic City and the surrounding area.
A Casino Experience Like No Other
Atlantic City is well-known for its thriving casino scene, with a wide variety of venues to suit every taste. Whether you’re an experienced gambler or new to the game, there’s no shortage of excitement to be found at the city’s top casinos:
- Nine casinos currently dot the city’s footprint, down from its all-time high of 12 or 13 at any one given point in time. Those bolded are currently open.
- Resorts Casino Atlantic City, formerly Merv Griffin’s Resorts and Resorts International. Opened May 26, 1978.
- Caesars Atlantic City, formerly Caesars Boardwalk Regency. Opened June 26, 1979.
- Bally’s Atlantic City, formerly Bally’s Park Place. Opened December 29, 1979.
- Sands Hotel & Casino, formerly The Brighton. Opened August 11, 1980. Closed November 11, 2006. Imploded October 18, 2007.
- Harrah’s Resort, formerly Harrah’s Casino Resort. Opened November 23, 1980.
- Atlantic Club Casino Hotel, formerly ACH, Atlantic City Hilton, The Grand, Bally’s Grand, Golden Nugget at Boston Avenue. Opened December 12, 1980. Closed January, 2014.
- Claridge Hotel, formerly Del Webb’s Claridge, Hi Ho Casino, Bally’s Park Place. Opened July 20, 1981. Merged into Bally’s December 30, 2002. No longer an operating casino.
- Trump’s World’s Fair, formerly Playboy Hotel & Casino, Atlantis, Trump Regency. Opened April 1981, Closed 1999. Building demolished 2001.
- Tropicana, formerly Tropicana Casino & Resort, TropWorld. Opened November 26, 1981.
- Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino, formerly Harrah’s Boardwalk Hotel Casino at Trump Plaza. Opened May 26, 1984. Closed September 16, 2014. Imploded February 17, 2021.
- Golden Nugget (in Marina District), formerly Trump Castle, Trump Marina Hotel & Casino. Opened June 19, 1985.
- Showboat Casino Hotel. Opened April 3, 1987. Closed August 31, 2014. Reopened July 8, 2016 as a hotel/entertainment complex only.
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, formerly Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort. Opened April 2, 1990. Closed October 10. 2016. Reopened as Hard Rock on June 27, 2018.
- Borgata Casino & Spa. Opened July 2, 2003.
- Ocean Casino Resort, formerly Revel Entertainment. Opened May 25, 2012. Closed September 2, 2014. Reopened as Ocean on June 27, 2018.
Whew!
Lessons, Tournaments, and More
For those looking to improve their skills or try their hand at a new game, several casinos offer free lessons led by experienced tutors. Additionally, many casinos host regular poker tournaments and other gaming events, providing opportunities for visitors to compete and win big prizes.
Indulge in Atlantic City’s Culinary Scene
The dining options in Atlantic City are as diverse as they are delicious, with everything from upscale gourmet restaurants to casual beachfront eateries. Here are some recommendations for must-try dining experiences:
- White House Sub Shop: A long-standing institution, this iconic sandwich shop has been serving up mouthwatering subs since 1946.
- Kelsey’s Soul Food: Indulge in traditional Southern comfort food at this popular soul food restaurant, known for its fried chicken and live jazz performances.
- Knife & Fork Inn: This historic restaurant, established in 1912, offers an upscale dining experience with a menu featuring steak and seafood dishes.
- Capriccio: Savor authentic Italian cuisine in an elegant atmosphere at this award-winning restaurant located within Resorts Casino Hotel.
Tasting Tours and Food Festivals
For those who love exploring new flavors, Atlantic City offers various guided tasting tours that showcase the diverse culinary offerings of different neighborhoods. Additionally, several annual food festivals celebrate local cuisine and bring together top chefs from around the region.
Choose the Perfect Accommodation
From luxury casino resorts to budget-friendly motels, there are accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs in Atlantic City. Some top-rated hotels include:
- Ocean Casino Resort features luxurious rooms, a full-service spa, and numerous on-site restaurants, all set against stunning ocean views.
- The Water Club at Borgata offers sophisticated accommodations with access to the adjacent Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa’s amenities.
- Showboat Hotel Atlantic City boasts spacious rooms and suites, as well as an on-site fitness center and close proximity to the beach and boardwalk. It is also home to Lucky Snake, the world’s largest arcade, and the new and exciting Island Waterpark.
- Clarion Inn Atlantic City provides affordable lodging options without sacrificing comfort or convenience, just steps from the famous boardwalk.
For some options, check out this article: “What is the Best Casino Hotel in Atlantic City?”
Score the Best Deals
To make your trip more affordable, keep an eye out for special promotions and package deals offered by hotels and casinos. Booking directly through a hotel’s website or contacting their customer service representative can often yield the best rates and additional perks.
Experience Arts and Culture
Atlantic City is rich in history and cultural attractions, offering visitors a chance to explore its storied past and vibrant contemporary arts scene. Some notable sites include:
- Atlantic City Historical Museum: Discover the city’s fascinating history through exhibits, photographs, and artifacts.
- Noyes Arts Garage: This unique space features local artists’ studios, galleries, and shops, providing an opportunity to engage with the creative community.
- African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey: Learn about the region’s African American history and culture through thought-provoking exhibitions and artworks.
- Atlantic City Ballet: Catch a captivating performance by this renowned professional ballet company at their home venue, the Celebrity Theatre.
With so much to see and do, your Atlantic City experience is bound to be unforgettable. Whether you’re drawn to the excitement of the casinos, the natural beauty of the beaches, or the vibrant arts scene, there truly is something for everyone in this iconic seaside destination.
Atlantic City has a very long and interesting history dating back to the 1600’s. Check out this article: “Unveiling the Past: A deep Dive into Atlantic City’s History”. Within this article is another one digging even deeper.
