Why Go to Atlantic City
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Atlantic City is a classic Jersey Shore getaway with a dash of Las Vegas thrown in. There's the famous boardwalk, the souvenir shops and saltwater taffy, and there are the casinos, which have been the big attraction since gambling was legalized here in the late 1970s.
Today, AC has more to offer than slot machines. Luxury hotels, nightclubs, live shows, spas and upscale shopping have given the city a fresh polish, and the wide Atlantic beaches are right outside the door. Spend the day on the sand, stroll the boardwalk, then try your luck at the tables and catch a show at night. It's not quite the Vegas Strip, and the beaches aren't Florida, but Atlantic City offers a fun mix of both within easy driving distance of Philadelphia and New York.
It's an easy choice for a quick getaway or a group weekend. I'll find a resort that fits your style and budget and line up shows, dinners and spa time.
BEST FOR
Beachgoers, entertainment seekers, couples and weekend travelers
BEST MONTHS
May–September
EXPLORE
The Boardwalk links casino resorts and beachfront attractions; the Marina District has waterfront resorts; nearby Ventnor offers a quieter beach-town atmosphere.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Atlantic City
North America › Northeast › USA › New Jersey
Boardwalk classics and Atlantic coast excitement
Urban & Culture
Gambling
Boardwalk
Nightlife
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Combine a daytime boardwalk walk with the Absecon Lighthouse and save a ticketed show or casino entertainment for the evening. The lighthouse climb has many stairs and limited hours.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Choose a comfortable section rather than trying to cover the whole length at once.
Atlantic City Boardwalk
Walk the famous oceanfront promenade for beach views, resort facades, shops and a lively slice of New Jersey history.
The tower has 228 steps; confirm current climbing hours before visiting.
Absecon Lighthouse
Climb the state’s tallest lighthouse for elevated views and maritime history, including its historic Fresnel lens.
Check lifeguard locations and water conditions.
Atlantic City Beach
Enjoy the oceanfront sands alongside the boardwalk, with seasonal swimming and beach activities.
Ride operation is seasonal and weather-dependent; verify dates.
Steel Pier
Explore a landmark amusement pier offering rides and ocean views near the resort district.
Allow time for walking between storefronts.
Tanger Outlets The Walk
Browse an open-air outlet shopping district near the convention center and downtown hotels.
A large upscale casino hotel in Atlantic City’s Marina District, suited to guests seeking restaurants and entertainment within a resort setting. The Boardwalk is a separate taxi or car trip; confirm parking and resort fees.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Marina District
City
An oceanfront resort at the northern end of Atlantic City’s Boardwalk, convenient for beach access and on-property entertainment. Check the room outlook and any additional resort charges.
Ocean Casino Resort
North Boardwalk / Oceanfront
Beach
A Boardwalk hotel and entertainment resort near Steel Pier, appealing to guests interested in music-themed surroundings and beachfront walks. Verify event schedules and parking before arrival.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
Boardwalk / Steel Pier Area
Beach
A longstanding Boardwalk resort near central shopping and beachfront attractions. Useful for visitors who want an established casino property with walkable Boardwalk access; confirm room tower and fees.
Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino
Central Boardwalk
Beach
A large resort near the southern Boardwalk featuring multiple dining and entertainment options. Compare room sections and allow time for navigating the larger property.
Tropicana Atlantic City
South Boardwalk / Chelsea
Beach · Value
A non-gaming, family-friendly boardwalk hotel with a huge arcade and indoor water park nearby.
Showboat Hotel Atlantic City
Boardwalk
Family · Beach
A large casino resort with a famous indoor pool club.
Harrah's Resort Atlantic City
Marina District
City
A casino resort on the marina, away from the boardwalk crowds.
Golden Nugget Atlantic City
Marina District
City
A central boardwalk casino hotel with good value.
Bally's Atlantic City
Boardwalk
Value · Beach
A historic 1930 boardwalk hotel with good value.
The Claridge Hotel
Boardwalk
Value · Beach
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Atlantic City
High 56°F · Low 38°F · Rain 3.3 in
Cooler weather reduces some seaside services. Explore Boardwalk strolling, coastal nature and entertainment venues. Seasonal highlight: summer concerts and beachfront celebrations vary each year. Planning note: coastal storms and seasonal boardwalk crowds.
Late spring through early fall is best for boardwalk and beach weather. Summer weekends are busiest, while spring and fall can suit sightseeing with fewer crowds. Indoor entertainment continues year-round; check storm and beach conditions seasonally.
Best Times to Visit Atlantic City
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
The boardwalk and casino resorts offer everything from quick bites to destination restaurants; nearby neighborhoods add local seafood and casual options. Reservations help on concert and holiday weekends.
06
Parking and Day Trips
Hotels may charge separate parking fees. A car is useful for nearby wildlife refuges or historic villages outside the resort core.
05
Taxis and Rideshares
Use designated resort pickup areas where available and confirm the pickup location before requesting a ride.
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Boardwalk Walking
Many casinos and seaside attractions are connected by the Boardwalk. Distance between the far ends can be substantial.
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Local Buses
NJ Transit and local jitney services cover selected resort corridors. Verify the current route and fare before boarding.
02
Rail Connections
NJ Transit operates rail links to Atlantic City from the Philadelphia area. Check current trains and station transfer options.
01
Atlantic City International Airport
ACY is a regional gateway with a limited route network; Philadelphia International is another option farther away. Confirm ground transfer time.
Atlantic City has rail and bus connections and can be reached by road from regional airports. The boardwalk is walkable, while taxis and rideshares help with farther sights. Confirm parking rates and use well-traveled routes at night.
Getting Around Atlantic City
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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