Atlantic City Trip Planner
Why Visit Atlantic City: Top Reasons & Highlights
Travelers love Atlantic City for its vibrant boardwalk experiences—it's a favorite highlight among reviews. Enjoy strolls along the lively pier, dive into the buzzing casinos, or relax on sandy beaches. Pilot simplifies organizing these memorable activities, letting you enjoy each moment seamlessly.
Atlantic City travel photos
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What to do in Atlantic City
With so much to do and so much to see, use Pilot to make your plan to make the most of your trip.
Explore top things to do
🍀 Visit the historic Atlantic City Boardwalk—perfect for strolling and people-watching. 🎰 Experience thrilling gaming at the city's iconic casinos. 🖼️ Explore New Jersey’s pop culture history at the artsy Absecon Lighthouse and the Atlantic City Historical Museum. 🍔 Dive into local flavors at eateries like White House Sub Shop. 💃 Enjoy vibrant nightlife, from intimate bars to lively clubs. 🏖️ Unwind at the scenic beach, ideal for relaxation. Use Pilot to easily build an itinerary incorporating all these spots and more.
Find the perfect neighborhood to stay in
- 🎰 White House Sub Shop: Savor iconic sandwiches. A must-visit for food lovers. - 🎡 The Tropicana Quarter: Vibrant shopping and dining. Ideal for night entertainment. - 🎭 Boardwalk: Historic sights and lively atmosphere. Perfect for family strolls. - 🌊 Atlantic City Beach: Relax on the sandy shoresand try local boardwalk snacks. - 🏙️ Ocean Resort Casino: Enjoy upscale amenities and breathtaking views. Pilot can help you choose the perfect accommodation and secure great deals.
Discover the best food and drink
🍔 Savor local favorites like saltwater taffy and cheesy pizza. 🌊 Try fresh seafood specialties like clam chowder or fried clams. 🍤 Dock's Oyster House is a classic spot for seafood lovers. 🦐 Gilchrist Restaurant is famous for their blueberry pancakes. Pilot can help you create a culinary itinerary to explore these tastes in Atlantic City.
In popular culture
- 🎲 Atlantic City appears in the TV series Boardwalk Empire, showcasing its 1920s heyday and organized crime scene. - 🎹 It's mentioned in Bruce Springsteen's song Atlantic City, capturing its gritty allure and struggles. - 🏄♂️ The Miss America Pageant, rooted in Atlantic City since 1921, is a pop culture staple. - 🕶️ The movie Rounders features the city, highlighting its casino culture. - 🌆 The film Atlantic City, starring Burt Lancaster and Susan Sarandon, is set in the city, providing a cinematic view of its landscape. - 📺 The Sopranos has episodes featuring Atlantic City as a backdrop for mob business. - 🎞️ In the film Army of the Dead, you can spot brief casino scenes alluding to its iconic gambling status.
Atlantic City at a glance
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What reviews say
- Lots of casinos, but atmosphere can feel a bit dated. - Boardwalk is a nice stroll; consider visiting during off-peak times. - Beach access is free, which is a plus. - Red Door Spa is a recommended pampering spot. - Dining is hit or miss; locals suggest Chef Vola’s for Italian. - Not many family-friendly activities. - Beware of areas that can feel unsafe at night.
What reddit says
- Boardwalk is a must; lots of energy and views. - Casinos are a hit or miss; some find them outdated. - Take a trip to Steel Pier for fun rides. - Atlantic City is great for quick beach trips. - Some recommend visiting during off-peak times. - Check out local restaurants for seafood. - Avoid certain areas at night for safety. - Historic sites are limited but worth a quick look.
Travel tips and safety
- Avoid taking photos in casinos; it’s not allowed. - Local bars may close as late as 5 AM, but ask first. - Budget $30-$60 for decent meals, higher for upscale dining. - Public transport is limited; driving or biking is best for exploring. - Dress casually, but smart for nicer restaurants. - Enjoy the boardwalk, but watch for off-season closures. Atlantic City is generally safe, but consult travel advisories for updated information as situations can change.
Getting around
- Atlantic City's public transit includes buses by NJ Transit. Affordable but time schedules may vary. - Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are widely available; often cheaper than taxis. - The Boardwalk is very walkable; explore classic casinos and beaches on foot. - Bike rentals are a great option with numerous stations nearby. - Pilot can help plan your transit and walking routes efficiently.
How much it costs to visit
- Budget travelers might spend around $70-100 per day in Vancouver. This includes staying in hostels ($30-50), eating at budget-friendly restaurants or street food ($20-30), and using public transportation ($10). - Mid-range visitors may spend $150-250 per day. This covers a nice hotel ($100-200), meals at mid-range restaurants ($30-50), plus entry fees to some attractions and local transit ($20). - Luxury travelers could spend $300 or more daily. This involves staying in top-tier hotels ($250+), dining at fine restaurants ($80+), and enjoying private tours or upscale activities ($50+). Prices vary at different times of year and during large events. Check Pilot to find current rates for hotels and activities.
What to do if you only have one day to visit
- 🏖️ Take a morning stroll on the Boardwalk. Enjoy the ocean views and stop by local shops. - 🎡 Visit Steel Pier for a quick thrill on the rides and games. - 🍽️ Lunch at White House Sub Shop for an authentic sub. - 🎲 Spend your afternoon at a casino; Borgata or Tropicana offer great gaming and entertainment. - 🎨 Explore the murals and public art installations around the city. - 🍷 Wrap up with dinner at Dock's Oyster House for fresh seafood. - 🎶 Catch live music or a show at Boardwalk Hall for evening entertainment. Use Pilot to easily generate and map an itinerary like this for you for free in just a few clicks.
What to do if it rains
- 🎰 Check out the casino floors. A rainy day gives you the perfect excuse to try your luck at the slots or tables. - 🎨 Visit the Atlantic City Art Center. It’s a cozy spot to enjoy some local and international art. - 🎭 Catch a live show at one of the casinos, like Harrah’s or Borgata. You'll find comedy, music, and more. - 🦈 Explore the Atlantic City Aquarium. It's smaller, but filled with interesting marine life. Perfect for families. - 📚 Spend some time at the Atlantic City Free Public Library. It's surprisingly relaxing and a nice break from the hustle. - 🍽️ Dine at one of the many indoor restaurants with ocean views. Enjoy watching the storm over a great meal. - 🎮 Have fun at The Quarter at Tropicana. It’s full of shops and entertainment options, all under one roof.
When to visit and how many days to spend
- Best time to visit: May to September - Spring is mild; highs 15-25°C (59-77°F) - Summer peaks at 30°C (86°F); perfect beach weather - Autumn has crisp nights, 10°C (50°F); warm days - Winter is cold, avoid if you dislike chill; 0-10°C (32-50°F) - Oceanic climate, humid summers - Coastal prairie biome enhances breezy weather
How to find events during your stay
- Visit Atlantic City Weekly : Find local event listings, concerts, and festivals. Their website provides detailed information on what's happening around town. acweekly.com - Check out The Press of Atlantic City : A reliable source for news and events, including cultural and local happenings. pressofatlanticcity.com - Follow Atlantic City on Social Media : Stay updated on cultural events and celebrations by following their official channels. Facebook: @AtlanticCityNJ Instagram: @visit_atlantic_city - Explore the Atlantic City Tourism Authority : Their website lists upcoming festivals, markets, and other public celebrations. atlanticcitynj.com - Local Influencers and Bloggers on Instagram : For an insider's view, follow local influencers who post about events and experiences in the city. @acblogger and @localacguide are good choices.
Before your trip, read the history
Atlantic City was founded in 1854 and became a popular vacation destination due to its proximity to the ocean. The Lenape tribe originally inhabited the area, taking advantage of its abundant resources. Its streets, famously named after London streets, became globally recognized through the game Monopoly. Starting as a health resort, it evolved into a bustling tourist hub known for its boardwalk—the world’s first when it opened in 1870. The city experienced a boom in the early 20th century, with a peak during the Prohibition era thanks to organized crime figures like Enoch 'Nucky' Johnson.
Politically, Atlantic City has seen shifts over time but traditionally leans Democratic. It gained a reputation as "America's Playground" because of its resort culture. Economic struggles hit hard in the 1960s, but casinos brought revivals in the 1970s. Visitors today can enjoy its storied past intertwined with modern attractions. Knowing Atlantic City’s journey from pristine shorelines to a symbol of leisure adds an enriching layer to any exploration of its sandy, bustling boardwalks.
