· US

Atlantic City

Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States

Atlantic City, located in New Jersey, United States, is a vibrant and iconic destination known for its lively boardwalk, stunning beaches, and exciting entertainment options. Famous for being a popular resort town since …

#beachfront#casinos#boardwalk#entertainment#tourism

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Atlantic City.

Top Hotels in Atlantic City

Top Flights to Atlantic City

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Atlantic City.

Tours

Atlantic City Boardwalk Stroll

Take a leisurely walk along the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk, featuring beautiful ocean views and a variety of attractions.

Absecon Lighthouse Visit

Visit New Jersey's tallest lighthouse with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Atlantic City.

Shopping

Atlantic City Outlets Shopping

Shop for the latest fashion and trends at the well-known Tanger Outlets.

Outdoor

Kayaking in The Back Bay

Explore the wildlife and waters of Atlantic City Back Bay with a kayak.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Atlantic City.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
Not Available
Languages
English, Spanish, French
Average weather
Atlantic City
Jan
cold
5°-3°
Feb
cold
6°-2°
Mar
cloud
10°1°
Apr
cloud
16°6°
May
sun
21°11°
Jun
sun
26°16°
Jul
hot
29°20°
Aug
hot
28°20°
Sep
sun
25°16°
Oct
cloud
19°10°
Nov
cloud
13°4°
Dec
cold
8°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Atlantic City.

What people love

Traveling to Atlantic City, New Jersey, offers several pros that may appeal to different types of travelers:

  1. Entertainment: Atlantic City is known for its vibrant entertainment scene, with numerous casinos, live shows, concerts, and events happening year-round. Visitors can try their luck at the casinos, watch a Broadway-style show, or attend a music concert by popular artists.

  2. Beaches: Atlantic City has beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, offering opportunities for relaxation, swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Visitors can enjoy a day at the beach, take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, or participate in beach activities.

  3. Dining and Shopping: The city boasts a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of restaurants offering various cuisines to suit every taste. Additionally, visitors can explore shops, boutiques, and outlets for shopping, ranging from high-end designer stores to unique local shops.

  4. Attractions: Atlantic City has several attractions beyond the casinos, including the iconic Steel Pier amusement park, Absecon Lighthouse, Atlantic City Aquarium, and the historic Boardwalk Hall. Visitors can explore these attractions to learn about the city's history and culture.

  5. Nightlife: The city comes alive at night with its numerous bars, clubs, and lounges offering a vibrant nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy cocktails, live music, and dancing in various venues throughout the city.

  6. Accessibility: Atlantic City is easily accessible from major cities on the East Coast, with nearby airports and transportation options available for travelers. The city's compact layout makes it convenient to explore different attractions without the need for a car.

Overall, traveling to Atlantic City can provide a mix of entertainment, relaxation, and cultural experiences for visitors looking to enjoy a diverse range of activities in a coastal setting.

What to know

Traveling to Atlantic City, New Jersey, like any destination, has its drawbacks. Some cons of traveling to Atlantic City include:

  1. Crowds and Noise: Atlantic City can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. The bustling casinos, boardwalks, and entertainment venues can be noisy and overwhelming for some travelers looking for a more peaceful getaway.

  2. Limited Attractions: While Atlantic City is known for its casinos and nightlife, it may lack the variety of attractions compared to other destinations. If you are not interested in gambling or nightlife, you may find the options for activities and sightseeing limited.

  3. Weather: Depending on the time of year you visit, Atlantic City's weather can be unpredictable. Winters can be cold and windy, while summers can be hot and humid. The weather may not always be conducive to outdoor activities.

  4. Safety Concerns: Like any tourist destination, Atlantic City may have areas that are less safe, especially at night. It is important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, particularly in less touristy areas.

  5. Cost: Visiting Atlantic City can be expensive, especially if you plan to stay in one of the upscale hotels or frequent the high-end restaurants and entertainment venues. The cost of accommodations, dining, and activities can add up quickly.

  6. Limited Public Transportation: Atlantic City's public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. Depending on where you are staying and where you want to go, getting around may require a car or relying on taxis or ride-sharing services.

  7. Seasonal Variability: Atlantic City is a seasonal destination, with peak tourist times during the summer months. If you visit during the off-season, some attractions, restaurants, and shops may be closed or have limited hours.

Overall, while Atlantic City offers a unique blend of entertainment and seaside charm, it may not be the ideal destination for every traveler. It's essential to consider these cons when planning your trip to ensure it aligns with your preferences and expectations.

Atlantic City, New Jersey, is a resort city with a rich and varied history, known for its boardwalk, casinos, and beaches. Here is a detailed history of the city:

Early History and Development

  • Settlement and Incorporation: The area now known as Atlantic City was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans. European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century. Atlantic City itself was founded in 1854, following the construction of the Camden and Atlantic Railroad, which linked the city to Philadelphia.

  • Resort Destination: By the late 19th century, Atlantic City had become a popular resort destination. Its first hotel, the Belloe House, opened in 1853. The city's location on Absecon Island and its proximity to major urban centers contributed to its popularity.

The Boardwalk and the Early 20th Century

  • The Boardwalk: The Atlantic City Boardwalk, the first in the United States, was built in 1870. It was initially intended to keep sand out of hotel lobbies but soon became an iconic landmark, lined with shops, entertainment venues, and amusements.

  • Economic Growth: The early 20th century saw immense growth in Atlantic City. The city became a playground for the wealthy, with grand hotels like the Marlborough-Blenheim Hotel and convention centers drawing visitors from across the country.

The Prohibition Era and the 1920s

  • Prohibition: During the 1920s, Prohibition turned Atlantic City into a center of bootlegging and organized crime. The city was famously lenient in its enforcement of Prohibition laws, earning it the nickname "The World's Playground."

  • Nucky Johnson: One of the most significant figures during this time was Enoch "Nucky" Johnson, a political boss who controlled the city. He was known for his involvement in bootlegging and organized crime.

Mid-20th Century Decline

  • Post-War Decline: After World War II, Atlantic City faced economic decline. The rise of affordable air travel and changing vacation habits led to a decrease in visitors. Many of the grand hotels fell into disrepair.

Casino Era and Revitalization

  • Casino Gambling: In 1976, New Jersey voters approved casino gambling for Atlantic City, aiming to revitalize the city's economy. The first casino, Resorts International, opened in 1978. This marked the beginning of a new era for the city.

  • Economic Impact: The introduction of casinos brought jobs and investment, transforming Atlantic City into a major gambling destination. However, it also faced challenges such as competition from other gambling venues and economic cycles.

Recent Developments

  • Modern Challenges and Developments: In recent years, Atlantic City has faced economic challenges, including casino closures and competition from nearby states. Efforts to diversify the city's economy have included developments in entertainment, retail, and non-gaming tourism.

Landmarks

  • Boardwalk Hall: Built in 1929, this iconic venue has hosted events like the Miss America Pageant and concerts.
  • Steel Pier: Originally opened in 1898, the Steel Pier is a historic amusement pier located on the boardwalk.
  • Absecon Lighthouse: The tallest lighthouse in New Jersey, this historic structure was first lit in 1857.

Atlantic City's history is a tapestry of prosperity, decline, and reinvention, reflecting broader trends in American leisure and entertainment.