Through the years as Atlantic City rose to the iconic city that it is today, a number of diverse neighborhoods developed. Each has its own unique footprint and attitude. So, what neighborhoods make up Atlantic City? Below are a some of them.
CAUTION: As with almost all cities there are areas you want to avoid, especially at night. Stick to the brightly lit areas closer to the boardwalk and casino/hotels. Some of these neighborhoods further away from the beach and boardwalk need to be on your “avoid” list. Be safe!!
THE ORANGE LOOP
The name Orange Loop is a direct reference to the orange-colored properties on the Monopoly board, St. James, New York and Tennessee Avenues.
Beginning in the 1920’s an entrepreneur named Louisa Mack owned and operated bars and nightclubs where the LGBTQ community and culture were accepted. As a result, this area had become a hotspot for their social life. This neighborhood was very unique for its time. Over the years the Orange Loop has evolved into a close community.
Area businesses include the Civil Rights Garden, former Brass Rail locations, Snake Alley the former home of the Entertainer’s Club run by Louisa Mack. They also include the Professional Arts Building and the Lark Inn. The Orange Loop was home to Bourre, a cajun restaurant built from an old gentleman’s club. It was part of the rebirth of Atlantic City and the Orange Loop, however that restaurant has just closed.
There are plans to replace it with a new eatery with local roots. Cardinal will open in the spring of 2023, taking over the space on New York Avenue. Cardinal’s roots go back to Cardinal Bistro, a Ventnor restaurant that closed in 2019. When open, the new restaurant on New York Avenue will have an expanded menu and full bar. It will be a place to “dine”, not just eat. Cardinal can be reached at 609-246-6670 and is located at 201 S. New York Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ.
MARINA DISTRICT
A lot of the action in AC can be found on the Boardwalk but the Atlantic City Marina District is a hidden gem and should not be missed.
Located on the marina side of town are Harrah’s, Golden Nugget and the Borgata casino resorts as well as the Water Club hotel which is often hyped as one of the most luxurious hotels in town.
The Marina District’s dining is just as good as the lodging with many options to choose from. At Harrah’s you’ll have the option of Gordon Ramsay Steak, McCormick & Schmick’s, Guy Fieri’s ‘Chicken Guy’ and Bobby’s Burgers, to name a few. At the Borgata a few of the many options are the Old Homestead Steak House, Borgata Buffet, and Izakaya by Michael Schulson. Then to the Golden Nugget where you can choose Vic & Anthonys, the Chart House or head outside to The Deck Bayfront Bar & Restaurant. This is a seasonal venue. These are just a few of the many tantalizing options at Atlantic City’s Marina District casino hotels.
If you’re looking for a day out with the kids or a night on the town, the Marina District is perfect. It’s home to many attractions and entertainment options.
If family time is what you need, head to the Atlantic City Aquarium for a fun and interesting learning experience with the family.
The AC Sculpture Walk
The AC Waterfront Sculpture Walk, (article courtesy of Sandra Friend at Trails & Travel), runs between Harrah’s, Borgata and the Golden Nugget. The 1.1 mile walk is a perfect break from the bustle of the casinos for your family or for you and your special someone. Here you can meander, enjoy the arts and take in some fresh ocean air. It’s an interesting and relaxing stroll.
This walk will take you through manicured gardens and beautiful works of art created by local artists. Bonus – if your timing is right, you’ll enjoy spectacular sunset views!
Adults will find several of Atlantic City’s hottest nightclubs in the Marina District. There’s Haven at the Golden Nugget, the Premier Nightclub at Borgata and let’s not forget the Pool After Dark at Harrah’s.
So don’t miss the exciting Marina District the next time you’re in A.C. and see how the other half parties!
Below are a few more neighborhoods that make up Atlantic City!
LOWER CHELSEA
Lower Chelsea is a densely urban coastal suburban neighborhood that sits only about 2 miles from Atlantic City proper and borders the ocean. Residents of this area enjoy access to the nearby boardwalk, resorts, and world-famous casinos.
The Lower Chelsea neighborhood has historically been the home for many powerful local people such as fire marshals, mayors, police chiefs and councilmen.
The Jewish heritage of the neighborhood is apparent, and a visit might include a synagogue.
You’ll be impressed by the area’s beautiful architecture.
Popular neighborhoods in Lower Chelsea include Margate Park, Ventnor Heights, Venice Park, Ventnor on the Bay, and Chelsea.
DUCKTOWN
The Ducktown neighborhood used to be referred to a “Little Italy” by Atlantic City locals and visitors. It was once an Italian neighborhood and it earned its name because it was a favorite area for hunting ducks. Many of the ducks were sold to the local restaurants.
Ducktown of today is a Latino neighborhood and has become known for its art and great restaurants. Here you’ll find Tanger Outlets, The Walk shopping district as well as local markets and churches. Revitalization of this area between Missouri and Texas Avenues has given new life to the Ducktown neighborhood.
Other attractions are Stockton University’s Noyes Arts Garage, the historic 500 Club site and Dante Hall. Favorites of local and guest foodies you’ll find here are Dock’s Oyster House and the White House Sub Shop.
CHICKEN BONE BEACH
This section of the coast was once racially divided. African Americans who were segregated from the rest of Atlantic City frequented the area between the 1900’s and 1960’s. They were not privileged to dine in Atlantic City’s restaurants, so they brought their own food here, mostly fried chicken, hence the name Chicken Bone Beach.
Today this beach offers the same sand, waves and fun that the rest of the Atlantic City shore does. You’ll find a memorial plaque on the boardwalk with black and white photos. One of which shows the famous musician Sammy Davis Jr. enjoying himself on the beach.
Chicken Bone Beach is located on the beach between Missouri and Mississippi Avenues.
Here is a good book about Chicken Bone Beach!
BOARDWALK DISTRICT
The Boardwalk in Atlantic City runs between Maine and Jackson Avenues and is where most of the magic happens. Here the majority of the hotels, casinos, amusement piers, arcades, bars, restaurants and attractions can be found. The boardwalk was created in 1870 as a solution to visitors getting sand in their shoes and carrying it inside the hotels, restaurants and even the train taking them to and from Camden and Philadelphia.
NORTH BEACH DISTRICT
North Beach Atlantic City is a revitalized section of the boardwalk and was developed by the following businesses to revitalize and bring new energy to the north end of the boardwalk. These businesses include:
- Resorts Casino Hotel
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
- Ocean Casino Resort
- Tennessee Beer Hall
- Steel Pier
- Absecon Lighthouse
- Bar 32
- Cuzzie’s
- Rhythm & Spirits
Exploring the area you’ll find delicious dining options, several luxurious casino-hotels, live entertainment, fun rides beautiful ocean views and many other things.
Fun awaits all who visit North Beach Atlantic City with special events all year round. Come and enjoy the dining and nightlife! Visitors can tag their photos at each property by using the tag #NorthBeachAC.
For current events visit North Beach.
Now you know something about what neighborhoods make up Atlantic City, and if you read the below articles you’ll likely learn a little more about Atlantic City!
If you enjoyed this article, you might be interested in Atlantic City History or Welcome to Atlantic City! We’re glad you’re here!
If you’re a couple who like to get out and explore, you might want to check out Things To Do In Atlantic City for Couples.
