1. Ride The Wheel – Take a thrilling 10-minute journey on the newest and grandest attraction on the famous AC Boardwalk, standing 227 feet tall with 360-degree views and temperature-controlled gondolas overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It also happens to be the third-largest Wheel in the United States! Love soaring on high-flyin’ rides? Take New Jersey’s 3-day amusement park itinerary for a spin this summer with the family.
2. Stroll the Nation’s First Boardwalk – Get your steps in on this wooden wonder - up four miles one way, from end-to-end with views of oceanfront casinos, one-of-a-kind stores, confection shops, renowned amusements and plenty of saltwater taffy. Built in 1870, this shore town icon was also home to the first Miss America Pageant in 1921. It’s a fact: Margaret Gormon from Washington, DC, was the winner and received a statue of a golden mermaid. Jersey’s other boardwalks are waves of fun too – check ‘em out!
3. Go Casino Hopping – Since New Jersey residents voted in favor of legalized gambling in AC in 1976, the city has grown into a seaside gambling, nightlife, dining and entertainment paradise. Most casinos are just a few steps away from the boardwalk, so it’s easy to pop into one and hop to the next. At the casinos, there’s always something new like Island Waterpark which opened at Showboat in the summer of 2023 and Nobu Hotel Atlantic City at Caesars which opened in early 2024. For more of what’s new in Jersey, take a peek here.
4. Enjoy Fabulously Free Beaches – Sink your toes in the sand, watch the sunset or take in stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean on the clean, wide shores of this amazing coastal city. Even better – no beach tags required. And did you know? Atlantic City is also one of the best places to catch a wave along the 130 miles of Jersey Shore. If you’re on board with surfing or want to learn more, dive in here.
5. Explore the Absecon Lighthouse – Visit the tallest lighthouse in NJ and the third tallest in the nation. Enjoy two marvelous acres, including the Keeper’s Museum and gift shop or climb 228 steps to the top for sweeping Jersey Shore views. First lit on January 15, 1857, this 171-foot maritime marvel is one of the oldest lighthouses in the country and one of Atlantic City’s most popular attractions. Coast to these other cool lighthouses in New Jersey this summer too.
6. Visit the African American Heritage Museum of Southern NJ – This amazing and ever-changing museum documents the 20th-century African American experience with more than 12,000 treasures, including a collection of Atlantic County soldiers’ memorabilia from World War I to the present. Learn about the accomplishments and impact of African Americans in South Jersey and throughout the nation. Journey to other distinctive destinations rich in history during NJ’s inspiring Black Heritage 3-day Itinerary.
7. Score Tanger Outlet Deals – Get ready to save, save and save some more on your favorite designer brands at more than 60 retailers, including Nike, J. Crew, Polo Ralph Lauren, Coach and Adidas. And if you’re in the mood for some unforgettable boutique shopping, we’ve got the perfect collection of downtowns and main streets for you. In every part of the state – North, Central and South.
8. Experience Steel Pier – Oceanfront excitement is yours at the thrill-a-minute Steel Pier. In addition to The Wheel, you’ll find 1,000 feet of fresh air and adventure here, lit with bright lights every night. From rides for every age and every adrenalin level to boardwalk games and seaside favorites ranging from funnel cakes to seafood. Did you know that properties on the original Monopoly board were inspired by actual streets in the oceanside gaming resort of Atlantic City? It’s true! Learn more interesting facts about the Jersey Shore too.
9. Make Memories at Nearby Storybook Land – Nursery rhymes come to life on 20 beautifully landscaped acres filled with storybook-themed rides and attractions that have been entertaining tiny tots since 1955. The little ones will love rides including Out On a Limb, Zip Zap Racers, Beanstalk Bounce and more. No matter how old or young you are, this Jersey day trip gem is sure to warm your heart. For more fascinating day trips in the Garden State look here.
10. Be Entertained at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall – The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, the Rolling Stones, Count Basie, Lady Gaga and Bruce Springsteen have been here. It’s time you see what’s happening at this premier entertainment hall built in 1929 too. Whether it’s a comedy show, a concert or a commencement, this is the place to enjoy it all. And if outdoor venues are what you’re looking for, Jersey’s got you. Check here.
Atlantic City is way more than a great place for gambling. This winning city has plenty of top to-dos for singles, couples and families of every age. Be sure to check with your destination’s website and social media pages before you go for the latest updates and information. Find more ways to enjoy New Jersey with your official travel guide. Sign up for our e-newsletter too.
