As you plan your trip to Atlantic City, the iconic beach and boardwalk town in New Jersey, there are a few must-see attractions you simply can’t miss. Whether you’re looking to gamble the night away, indulge in delicious food, experience thrilling entertainment, or just soak in the historic sights, Atlantic City has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the top highlights of Atlantic City that you absolutely must include in your itinerary to get the full experience of this seaside playground. From the glamor of the casinos to the salt air of the beach, Atlantic City encapsulates the vibrant spirit of an early 20th-century beach resort town with a modern twist. Get ready to discover the best that Atlantic City has to offer.

The Boardwalk: Atlantic City’s Famous Oceanfront Promenade

As one of the top attractions in Atlantic City, the historic boardwalk is a must-see during your visit. Spanning over 5 miles along the Atlantic coast, this massive wooden walkway provides stunning views of the ocean and beach.

• Originally built in 1870, the boardwalk is one of the oldest in the U.S. Today, it features shops, restaurants, amusement parks, and more along its length. Walk or rent a bike to explore it all.
• Stop by Steel Pier, Central Pier, or Garden Pier which jut out over the sea. Each offers rides, games, and dining options for families and kids of all ages.
• Catch a show at one of the piers. Options include live music, magic, comedy, and stunt shows. Some are free while others have an admission fee.
• Take a ride on the huge Atlantic City Ferris wheel for panoramic vistas of the city skyline and beach. At over 150 feet high, it provides an unparalleled view.
• Snap photos of historic landmarks like the Absecon Lighthouse and Lucy the Elephant. Both are nearby attractions easily accessed from the boardwalk.

With so much to see and do, the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk deserves a spot at the top of your itinerary. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to experience all it has to offer. A stroll down this historic promenade is the perfect way to spend a day soaking in the nostalgia and beachside vistas of New Jersey’s seaside gambling mecca.

Hit the Casinos: Gaming and Entertainment on the AC Strip

When in Atlantic City, you can’t skip the casinos. Home to nine world-class casinos along the historic boardwalk and marina district, AC offers nonstop gaming action 24 hours a day.

The Borgata

This upscale casino resort features 200 table games, over 3,000 slot machines, and Atlantic City’s largest poker room. Enjoy fine dining, lavish spas, and headline entertainment.

Tropicana Atlantic City

Boasting over 2,000 hotel rooms and home to The Quarter, an old-world-themed casino complex, Tropicana provides many diversions beyond gaming like IMAX theaters, nightclubs, and over 20 restaurants.

Caesars Atlantic City

A premier luxury casino hotel featuring lavish spas, celebrity chef restaurants, major entertainment venues, and of course, 100,000 square feet of gaming space including poker, slots, table games, and a stylish sportsbook.

Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City

One of the largest casino hotels in AC with five lavish pools, a luxury spa, over 2,500 slot machines and video poker games, poker rooms, table games, and the largest sportsbook in AC. Enjoy fine dining, shows, and nightlife.

The casinos in Atlantic City offer far more than just gambling. With world-class entertainment, dining, nightlife, spas, shopping, and recreation amid opulent surroundings, the AC casino scene is an experience not to be missed. Spend days exploring all the gaming and indulgence these casino resorts have to offer.

Beyond the Beach: Unique Attractions Off the Boardwalk

Beyond the beach and boardwalk, Atlantic City offers unique attractions that showcase its history and culture.

Absecon Lighthouse

At 228 feet high, the Absecon Lighthouse is New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse. Climb the 228 steps to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of Atlantic City and glimpses into its maritime past. The lighthouse complex includes the lighthouse keeper’s dwelling and museum, depicting the history of the Absecon Lighthouse and life in Atlantic City during the early 1900s.

Noyes Museum

The Noyes Museum of Art is southern New Jersey’s only fine art museum. Housed in a historic church, the museum’s collection includes American art, Native American artifacts, African art, and folk art. They frequently host traveling exhibits, educational programs, and events promoting cultural diversity.

Atlantic City Aquarium

The Atlantic City Aquarium is home to over 100 species of marine animals, including sharks, penguins, seals, and stingrays. It features interactive exhibits where visitors can touch sharks, crabs, and rays. An outdoor splash pad and playground also provide entertainment for little ones. The aquarium highlights the diversity of Atlantic Ocean life and efforts to protect marine habitats.

Absecon Wildlife Management Area

Just minutes from the bustle of Atlantic City is the serene Absecon Wildlife Management Area. Encompassing over 3,000 acres of protected coastal wetlands, it is an ecologically diverse habitat for birds, small mammals, and aquatic life. Hiking and bird watching are popular activities, with the chance to spot herons, egrets, ducks, foxes, and deer in their natural setting. The wetlands offer a peaceful escape into nature and a glimpse of Atlantic City’s natural surroundings.

Conclusion

As you can see, Atlantic City offers an array of world-class attractions to suit any taste. Whether you want to gamble the night away at one of the many casinos, catch a show on the boardwalk, explore historic landmarks, or simply stroll along the beach, this New Jersey destination has something for everyone. With thrilling options in entertainment, dining, nightlife, and recreation, Atlantic City continues to uphold its reputation as the ‘Entertainment Capital of the Jersey Shore.’ So next time you’re planning a fun getaway, look no further than AC for an unforgettable experience you won’t soon forget. The glitz, the glamor, the history, the beach – Atlantic City has it all.