The Best Free Things to do in Atlantic City

Our Local Expert Says:

If you want to explore the entire Boardwalk put on your running shoes. It stretches all the way from from Absecon Channel on the northern edge of town into Ventnor to the south.

Description:

The Boardwalk in Atlantic City is the granddaddy of all boardwalks! Dating from 1870, ForbesTraveler.com rates it among the top of the "Top 10 American Boardwalks." Lined with dining, gambling, nightlife and a wealth of fun family attractions (and some not-so-family friendly), this miles-long deck boasts some of the poshest hotel casinos in the world, including Caesar's and the Trump Taj Mahal, as well as some kitschy tourist draws such as the famed Boardwalk Rolling Chairs.

Our Local Expert Says:

Be sure to catch the entertaining historical video "Boardwalk Ballyhoo: The Magic of Atlantic City", shown continuously throughout the day.

Description:

Learn about the history of this one-of-a-kind resort in a museum that is free to the public. On display you'll find photographs, postcards, costumes and artifacts that evoke Atlantic City's heyday. Discover things you never knew in the museum's permanent exhibit, "Atlantic City, Playground of the Nation", and learn all about that timeless of American institutions, the Miss America Pageant. The museum's newest exhibit, Shore Deco: Atlantic City Design Between the Wars,1919-1939 is in the Al Gold Photography Gallery.

Description:

Atlantic City's Art Center features galleries and exhibitions that display the artistic creations of New Jersey's homegrown artists, and of those around the world. Located at the radiant Garden Pier, the center is also home to a gift shop and to a good many events, including concerts, lectures, readings and more. Be sure to check the website to catch a glimpse of what exciting, new, up-and-coming artist will be or is currently being exhibited. Admission is free.

Our Local Expert Says:

The museum, located in a replicated 1925 Keeper's House, contains interesting exhibits and shipwreck information.

Description:

Walking distance from Showboat Casino, Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and the third tallest in the United States, towers 171 feet over the north end of Absecon Island. Built in 1857, it's the oldest lighthouse in the country. Visitors can explore the museum and gift shop or brave its 228 knee-trembling steps to the top for some truly fabulous views of the Atlantic City skyline.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you miss the show, you should still check out the "intelligent" fountains that entertain guests between presentations.

Description:

Located at the Pier Shops at Caesars on Atlantic City's historic Boardwalk, the Water Show is an enchanting, seven million dollar water, light and sound show -- one of Atlantic City's newest attractions. This six-minute, 360 degree fountain show runs every hour on the hour. The presentation, located on the Boardwalk level at the ocean end of the building, can be viewed from all three levels.

Description:

This memorial, located in Brighton Park, was dedicated in July of 2000, partially funded by the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA). The prominent feature is a 12-foot-high statue of "The Mourning Soldier." The names of the 822 New Jerseyans who were killed in action or are missing in action are engraved on the back wall.

Our Local Expert Says:

Stroll through the grounds at Gardner's Basin to see early underwater exploration vehicles and the "Diving Bell", once a ride on the famed Steel Pier.

Description:

One of Atlantic City's "off-the-Boardwalk" treasures, historic Gardner's Basin, once an active haven for rumrunners, is nestled on a protected channel in Atlantic City's back bays. Today the Basin is home to deep-sea and back bay fishing charters and sightseeing cruises, restaurants that dish up seafood and serve ale house brews, and the family-oriented, interactive Atlantic City Aquarium. The Basin teems with more than marine life; visitors of all ages come to enjoy this enclave tucked behind neighborhoods of elegant bayfront homes. Each June, the Basin hosts the New Jersey Fresh Seafood Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors.

Description:

Club Worship, a three-level nightclub at Showboat's House of Blues, has a fabulous dance floor and exclusive VIP seating and bottle service. You'll also find a cozy fireside lounge, sacred prayer rooms, great dining and live entertainment. It's a fun, eclectic place to connect with others.