Located in the southeast corner of New Jersey, Atlantic City has long been one of America’s top destinations. Whether you’re looking for excitement, entertainment or just a day at the beach, there’s always something to experience in a city that’s ‘always on’.
The world-famous Boardwalk is home to a range of deluxe casino resorts that offer visitors the best of everything. Atlantic City is also a top destination for nightlife, with restaurants and clubs that cater for visitors of all ages. And of course, Atlantic City has long been a showcase of A-list headlining entertainment, with many of the world’s top acts performing nightly.
The iconic Boardwalk, originally built in 1870, was the result of a petition from a railroad conductor and hotel owner, as a solution to keep the sand out of the ritzy beachfront hotels and the Camden and Atlantic’s railroad passenger cars! Today it stretches for four miles, with shopping, dining, resorts and attractions along its length. Enjoy a piece of Boardwalk heritage on a rolling chair ride – introduced in the 1880s, these were the only vehicles permitted on the Boardwalk at the time. It was a sign of luxury for vacationers to ride in a rolling chair, and today is a great Boardwalk experience, as well as a way to get to a particular destination while relaxing and taking in the views.
There are plenty of other coastal attractions and activities to enjoy here in Atlantic City, including the aquarium, Absecon Lighthouse, sightseeing and dolphin-watching cruises, fishing, surfing the Atlantic waves, kayaking, kite boarding and of course, just relaxing on the beach. Traditional beachside entertainment can be found on the Steel Pier and at Central Pier Arcade and Speedway.
Check-out Lucy the Elephant, a popular Atlantic City landmark to the south of Atlantic City. Originally built by a real estate developer in the 1880s as a gimmick to attract potential buyers to his land holdings, presidents and royalty came from around the world to stay at the neighbouring Elephant Hotel and climb the stairs to Lucy's howdah. During her history, Lucy has survived hurricanes, ocean floods, and even a fire. Today, fully restored Lucy is a National Historic Landmark, the oldest surviving example of a unique form of "zoomorphic" architecture, and the oldest "roadside" attraction in America.
The dining scene in Atlantic City is not to be missed, from family friendly buffets to five star, celebrity chef fine-dining, you can try food from around the world as well as locally sourced and inspired menus. You will find casual beachside spots, roof top options with stunning views, dinner cruises and walking foodie tours, so whatever your taste Atlantic City is sure to have it.
Shopping is tax free in Atlantic City and there are several shopping malls, outlets and plazas to choose from, from high-end to discounted brand-name fashions and accessories and everything in between. And you’ll find Atlantic City staples like salt-water taffy or delicious fudge in the souvenir stores and specialty shops along the Boardwalk.
And when all of that is done, you can relax and indulge at one of the many luxurious spas!