Experience this popular destination's things to do, city-wide. Whether for an evening, the weekend or an extended stay, start planning your AC retreat ASAP with our insider perspective on what to do.
Headliners and Hotspots
Take advantage of live shows and events in venues ranging from intimate to arena-sized. Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena features everything from big-name bands to headlining comedians, while Boardwalk Hall is the spot to catch sporting events (from basketball to indoor auto racing) as well as family shows, megastar concerts and special events.
When the streetlights switch on, kick off a night bursting with possibilities. Hit the floor of pulsating and glitzy clubs and bars. Toast with mojitos at Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar as you enjoy Latin cuisine, DJs spinning Latin dance music, a light show and more. Groove to 70s and 80s tunes at retro Boogie Nights. Other not-to-be-missed nightclubs include The Pool After Dark and Gypsy Bar. Or travel way back to the town's Prohibition era, inside the infamous former speakeasy, the Irish Pub and Inn.
Double Down on Gaming Action
In this legendary, grownup playground, it's no wonder that casinos remain among Atlantic City's biggest draws. Feeling like a high roller? Head into Bally's, Borgata, Caesars, Golden Nugget, Hard Rock, Harrah's, Ocean, Resorts or Tropicana. Try your hand at poker, take roulette for a spin, or dominate at the slots. Whatever your game, you'll find it here!
Escape to Soothing Spas and Pools
Even when the temperature dives, you can still dip into AC's appealing aquatic environment. Swim and lounge at Harrah's glass-domed oasis, where you can soak up sunny island vibes. Pamper yourself at Exhale Spa + Bathhouse at Ocean Resort Casino, where you can relax in a jetted pool, jacuzzi, Himalayan Salt grotto and lounge area following your spa treatment. Or indulge in lavish ancient Roman "rituals" within three plunge pools of varying temperatures and sizes at Caesars' Qua Baths and Spa.
Splurge on a Shopping Spree
Shopping in Atlantic City offers an array of high-end designers, wallet-friendly outlets, specialty boutiques, nostalgic mom-and-pops and souvenir stops. Browse Tanger Outlets for more than 70 brand-name favorites. At The Quarter at Tropicana, cruise through on-trend fashion, coveted jewelry, desirable art and décor, delectable treats and just about everything in between. Drop into the Princeton Antiques & Bookshop on Atlantic Avenue, which has 250,000 titles in stock.
Pack Your Foodie Appetite
Hungry from all these activities? Atlantic City restaurants satisfy every craving. Savor award-winning, innovative, ethnic and fine fare. Go classic at neighborhood seafood, steak and Italian joints, cozy diners and belly-busting buffets.
Pull up a seat at the tables of celebrity chefs, such as Gordon Ramsay, Guy Fieri, Michael Symon, Jose Garces and Michael Schulson. Or head to one (or all!) of the four AC stops on the Anthony Bourdain Food Trail, including Dock’s Oyster House, Knife & Fork Inn, Tony’s Baltimore Grill and James Original Salt Water Taffy.
Taste New Jersey's fruitful – and luscious – wine industry around the area at Balic Winery (Mays Landing), Bellview Winery (Landisville), DiMatteo’s Vineyards (Hammonton), Plagido’s Winery (Hammonton), Renault Winery (Egg Harbor City) and Sharrott Winery (Hammonton).
Fresh Air Fun
Of course, a trip to Atlantic City wouldn’t be complete without a stroll along the iconic boardwalk, the country’s first and longest. Just as storied is the city’s Absecon Lighthouse, soaring 171 feet into the sky. Climb its 228 steps for the most stunning views of the city.
Fascinating History, Arts and Culture
Explore even more Atlantic City attractions, which span a variety of interests and eras. Discover the AC stops on our Southern New Jersey Black Heritage Itinerary, including the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey. Browse the local artists' studio/shop spaces and galleries, too, including the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University!
At the nearby beloved and beautiful Historic Smithville and the Village Greene, stroll cobblestone paths, enjoy over 40 distinctive “shoppes” and ten eateries (one dates back to 1787!), and settle into its quaint, on-site lodging. It’s a delightful way for people of all ages to spend a day – and night!
Ready to Make Your Break?
Atlantic City heats up all year long, so check out extraordinary deals and packages. Don’t forget to download a free NJ travel guide and sign up for e-news from New Jersey Travel & Tourism for even more vacation inspiration.
Before you explore AC, be sure to check the websites and social media channels of your destinations for the latest details.
