10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Atlantic City, New Jersey
If you’re looking for a classic East Coast beach escape with a little bit of everything—ocean views, casinos, arcades, outlet shopping, and great food—
Atlantic City, New Jersey is hard to beat.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a couples’ weekend, or a quick solo getaway, this guide walks you through
10 of the best things to do in and around Atlantic City in Atlantic County.
1. Stroll (or Bike) the Famous Atlantic City Boardwalk
The heart of Atlantic City is its legendary
boardwalk. Stretching about 5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, it’s one of the most iconic things to do in town.
- Walk, jog, or rent a bike early in the morning when it’s quiet.
- Grab a slice of pizza, some curly fries, or a bucket of fries while you walk.
- Pop into shops for souvenirs, T‑shirts, and saltwater taffy.
If you don’t feel like walking, you can ride in a classic
rolling chair. Locals have been pushing these wicker-like chairs up and down the boardwalk for over 100 years. It’s a fun, old-school way to see the sights—especially if your feet are tired from all that casino-hopping.
2. Hit the Beach – For Free
Unlike many New Jersey shore towns that charge for beach badges,
Atlantic City’s beaches are free. That alone makes them a great budget-friendly option.
Here’s what to know:
- The sand is wide and soft, perfect for laying out a towel or setting up a beach chair.
- In the summer, lifeguards are on duty during the day.
- You can surf at designated spots, especially near the Steel Pier and certain jetties.
On hot July afternoons, the water feels pretty refreshing. Pack a cooler, bring sunscreen, and you’re set for a full beach day without spending much at all.
3. Try Your Luck at Atlantic City’s Casinos
You can’t talk about
things to do in Atlantic City without mentioning the casinos. Even if you’re not a big gambler, the casino resorts are like mini-cities with restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment.
Some of the well-known spots include:
- Borgata – Popular for its poker room, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Rock‑themed décor, live music, and a fun vibe.
- Caesars – Classic Atlantic City feel with easy access to the boardwalk.
If you do gamble, set a limit before you go in and treat it like paying for a show or activity. I’ve personally walked in with a set amount of “fun money” in cash—when it’s gone, I’m done. That makes the experience exciting without stress.
4. Ride the Rides at Steel Pier
Right off the boardwalk, stretching out over the ocean, you’ll find
Steel Pier, a classic amusement pier with rides and games.
Highlights include:
- Spinning rides and coasters for thrill‑seekers.
- Family-friendly rides like carousels and bumper cars.
- Game booths where you can try to win a giant stuffed animal.
If you’re brave, check out the
Steel Pier Wheel. The giant Ferris wheel gives you amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean and the whole boardwalk. At sunset, it’s especially pretty—perfect for photos.
5. Visit the Historic Absecon Lighthouse
Just a few blocks off the north end of the boardwalk sits one of Atlantic City’s hidden gems: the
Absecon Lighthouse.
This is:
- New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse (about 171 feet).
- One of the oldest lighthouses in the United States.
You can climb the
228 steps to the top. It’s a bit of a workout, but the 360‑degree view of Atlantic City and the ocean is worth it. Inside, you’ll find a small museum and gift shop where you can learn about shipwrecks and maritime history.
If you like calm, quiet spots away from the buzz of the casinos, this is a great way to spend an hour or two.
6. Shop and Snack at Tanger Outlets – The Walk
If you enjoy a good deal, head over to
Tanger Outlets – The Walk, right off the main entrance to the city. It’s an open-air shopping area just a short walk from many casinos and hotels.
Expect to find:
- Brand-name clothing and shoe stores, often with outlet pricing.
- Casual chain restaurants and quick food spots.
- Plenty of parking garages nearby.
This is where a lot of locals and visitors go when they need a break from the beach or slots. You can easily spend an afternoon wandering from store to store, then grab dinner before heading back to the boardwalk.
7. Explore Atlantic City’s Food Scene
Atlantic City offers way more than just casino buffets. Over the last decade, the
Atlantic City restaurant scene has really grown, with everything from fine dining to cheap eats.
Some ideas to try:
- Seafood shacks for fried shrimp, fish sandwiches, and clam chowder.
- Italian restaurants both on and off the boardwalk, reflecting the area’s old-school roots.
- Casino restaurants run by celebrity chefs, with steak, sushi, and gourmet options.
One fun way to taste the city is to grab small bites from different places in the same night: a slice of boardwalk pizza, then funnel cake, then maybe a sit‑down dessert or drink inside a casino. It turns dinner into a little food adventure.
8. Take a Day Trip to Historic Smithville
If you have a car, it’s worth leaving the city for a few hours to explore more of
Atlantic County. A local favorite is
Historic Smithville, about 20–25 minutes northwest of Atlantic City.
This charming village features:
- Dozens of small shops in colonial-style buildings.
- Brick walkways, a scenic lake, and wooden footbridges.
- Casual restaurants and old-fashioned candy stores.
Kids love the old-timey carousel and train ride that circles the village. Adults appreciate the quieter, relaxed pace—especially after the noise of the casinos and boardwalk. It feels like stepping into a little storybook town for the afternoon.
9. Discover Nature at Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
Yes, Atlantic County has more than casinos and beaches. About 20–30 minutes from Atlantic City, near Galloway, you’ll find the
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, a peaceful spot perfect for nature lovers.
At this coastal refuge, you can:
- Drive the 8‑mile wildlife loop for easy bird‑watching.
- Walk short trails and boardwalks through marshes.
- Spot herons, egrets, ospreys, and other shorebirds, especially during migration seasons.
If you’re used to the bright lights of the casinos, the quiet here is striking. On a clear day, you can sometimes see Atlantic City’s skyline in the distance, which makes for cool photos—wild marshland in the front, casinos way in the back.
10. Catch a Show, Concert, or Sporting Event
Atlantic City is a year‑round entertainment spot. Depending on when you visit, you might find:
- Big-name concerts at casino venues like Hard Rock or Borgata.
- Comedy shows featuring well-known stand‑up comics.
- Boxing or MMA events at larger arenas.
- Seasonal festivals on the boardwalk or beach, including air shows and food festivals.
If you’re planning a trip, check the events calendar for the weekend you’ll be in town. Sometimes grabbing tickets to a concert or comedy night can be the highlight of an Atlantic City getaway.
Planning Your Atlantic City Getaway
To make the most of your trip to Atlantic City and Atlantic County, keep a few tips in mind:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for beach weather; off-season for cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds.
- Getting around: Walking, rideshares, jitneys (small local buses), and bikes work well in the main tourist areas.
- Mix it up: Combine boardwalk fun, a beach day, a little casino time, and at least one day trip beyond the city.
Think of Atlantic City as more than just a place to gamble. It’s a mix of
history, beach town charm, nightlife, and coastal nature—all packed into one easy-to-reach destination on the New Jersey shore.
What Would You Do First in Atlantic City?
Would you start with a walk on the boardwalk, a climb up the Absecon Lighthouse, or a lazy day on the beach?
If you’ve visited Atlantic City or anywhere else in Atlantic County:
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Do you have a hidden-gem restaurant or activity to recommend?
Share your thoughts in the comments—your tips can help other travelers plan a better trip.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s thinking about an Atlantic City getaway. The more ideas we trade, the better our beach trips get.
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