Your First Time 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:

The Quarter's atmospheric restaurants serve everything from P.F. Chang's Chinese food to Red Square's Russian cuisine.

Description:

Tropicana Hotel and Casino's Cuban-style shopping, dining and entertainment area features a multitude of fun activities for everyone. You'll feel like you're walking through the streets of Old Havana as you stroll the indoor "streets" beneath a domed ceiling painted to look like a cloud-filled sky. Here you'll find an IMAX theater, numerous restaurants as well as shops such as The Old Farmer's Almanac General Store, Chico's and Erwin Pearl.

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:

Visiting this secluded colonial shopping village feels like you're taking a step back in time.

Description:

This little Jersey colonial village is open every day except Christmas. With its variety of eclectic shops selling early American crafts such as Cook's Corner, Crafting Cellar, Gabby's For The Birds and Gryst Mill Gifts, you'll be sure to find that one-of-a-kind gift. The village also offers restaurants, cafés, and lodging at the Colonial Inn Bed and Breakfast and The Barn at Smithville. Popular yearly events include a Children's Festival, Antique Show Day, Corvette Day and Olde Fife and Drum Corp.

Our Local Expert Says:

Lucy's original name was "Elephant Bazaar"; she was dubbed "Lucy the Elephant" in 1900.

Description:

This beloved six-story architectural landmark in the shape of an elephant has been delighting visitors to the Jersey Shore since its conception in 1881. Originally built as a way to attract visitors to South Altantic City landowner James V. Lafferty, Jr.'s properties, Lucy stands 65 feet high and contains many rooms as well as a spiral staircase which climbs to the top of the edifice. Check out the website for an in-depth account of Lucy's long history.

Our Local Expert Says:

Why not see Atlantic City from the water? AC Cruises offers a wide variety of marine adventures for those who love the sea.

Description:

Adventure out to sea with the capable seafarers at Atlantic City Cruises, where fun is just the beginning. AC has a variety of offerings to choose from, including the Morning Skyline cruise, the Dolphin Watching cruise, the Happy Hour cruise, the Sightseeing cruise, as well as a smörgåsbord of special occasion cruises. The Dolphin Watching cruise in particular is quite the crowd pleaser, providing marine adventurers plenty of opportunities to capture the graceful water mammals on film.

Our Local Expert Says:

Do you want to know a hummingbird's wingspan? What about how far birds fly each season? Stop in at the headquarters and auditorium (weekdays between 10 am and 3 pm) to learn more about birds.

Description:

The Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge consists of about 40,000 acres of coastal wetlands that have been set aside as a refuge that acts as a resting place for migratory birds. Anyone who enjoys birdwatching will love it here. There is a wildlife drive and trails open seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset. To get here, take the White Horse Pike to Route 9 North; you'll find the main vehicular entrance on Route 9 just north of Atlantic City.

Our Local Expert Says:

Don't miss The Water Show, a spectacular water, sound and light show held every hour on the hour at the ocean end of the pier.

Description:

Attached to Caesars by a skybridge, The Pier Shops at Caesars, a shopping pier with more than 78 specialty stores, can also be reached from the Boardwalk. Open Monday through Friday at 11:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, the first two levels consist of retail shops and the third level, called the Promenade, restaurants. A fourth level will be opening soon. Gucci, Armani, and Swarovski are just a few of the classy shops you'll find here.

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.

Our Local Expert Says:

When the need to eat overcomes the need to shop, drop in at the Cavo Crepe Café for crepes or a panini sandwich.

Description:

If you prefer shopping to poker, this is the place for you! You'll definitely score big at these outlets that include such well-known names as Adidas, Aeropostale, Banana Republic, Calvin Klein and DKNY, among others. Stop at the Cavo Crepe Cafe mouth-watering crepes or a panini sandwich when you get hungry.

Description:

Where else can you get loaded for under 50 bucks other than in Caesars Atlantic City at Caesars Sunday Brunch. Featuring an all-you-can-eat buffet, chock full of every kind of food you could ever ask for, the brunch also features Champagne and Bloody Mary's for those who just can't make it 'til 5p. This place does get popular, however, so be prepared to stand in line as there might be a wait. Afterward, hit up the casino and try your luck!

Description:

Since World War II, this sub shop has been a favorite sandwich joint for locals. It may be just a little place, but it is filled with character and history. A whole sandwich is 3 feet long and the rolls are baked fresh everyday, from Formica Brothers Bakery (just across the street). These sandwich artists really know what they are doing-just order the White House Special and you'll see what all the rave is about.

Description:

Walking into this festive restaurant is like walking into a hip Havana nightclub circa 1940. The large dining room filled with ornamented archways and palm trees plus the fabulous food will get you into the Cuban spirit. The dishes are authentic and no-frills-- just great flavors. Fill your belly and warm your spirit with the Guava BBQ Ribs or the Traditional Cubano. After dinner try the Coco-Cream Xocolati, a dessert drink made from rum and powdered chocolate. Come eat and stay late for events like the Late Night Latin Floorshow.

Description:

For a casual and fun dining experience The Irish Pub does not disappoint. Thanks to a menu of reasonably priced and delicious pub food, the restaurant was once named "Best Cheap Eats" by the Atlantic City Magazine. Dishes like Fish and Chips combined with traditional Irish music and free flowing beer make for a jolly good time. After a night of eating and drinking, walk right up the stairs and settle into one of the rooms available for rent above the bar.

Our Local Expert Says:

Romantic atmosphere, steak and seafood prepared on a wood-fired grill, and a 10,000-bottle wine cellar. What more could you want?

Description:

Diners at the red roof-topped Knife & Fork agree that eating here is a treat, even more so than at many restaurants on the Boardwalk. Regardless, the elegant decor, the friendly, efficient service, and the romantic atmosphere indicate that a pleasurable experience is in store. For starters, whet your appetite on the pleasing Cornmeal Crusted Calamari drizzled in roasted pepper aioli. For the main course, reward yourself and order the delectable Crown Roast Rack of Lamb with butternut, walnut, purple potato, raisin stuffing and cayenne coconut crème fraîche. One caveat: sometimes the restaurant can get noisy, so request a more private dining table if necessary.

Our Local Expert Says:

This National Historic Landmark features a dazzling variety of renowned artists as well as circus shows and Disney on Ice.

Description:

Home of the 2003 Kelly Cup Champion Boardwalk Bullies and Atlantic City's signature event, Miss America, the Boardwalk Hall is listed as a National Historic Landmark. After its renovation, the hall received several architectural and engineering awards. As a result of the sparkling $90 million makeover, it has been graced with a dazzling line-up of concert artists such as Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Bette Midler, the Eagles and Cher. Magical performances by Disney on Ice and the Barnum and Bailey Circus provide a good dose of family fun. It is also an ideal source of tourist information. You can get updated on the latest happenings and get details about accommodation, eating-out, transportation and entertainment.

Our Local Expert Says:

A swank New York-style nightclub in Atlantic City.

Description:

Located in the Quarter at Tropicana, Providence brings all the swank and style of New York to Atlantic City. Brought to you by the people behind some of the Big Apple's hottest clubs, Providence features well known, high energy DJ's from around the world in two booths poised above a bumping dance floor as well as VIP lounges and bottle service. Experience the best of New York City's infamous club scene in the heart of Atlantic City.

Our Local Expert Says:

Small but exciting theater with big name performers from every genre.

Description:

Part of the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa, the Music Box has 1000 seats and is an intimate venue for concerts and comedy acts. A-list performers including Wayne Brady, Dennis Miller, Bill Cosby and Kevin James have performed at the Music Box. The center also plays host to up-and-coming performers looking for a platform to showcase their talents.

Our Local Expert Says:

Home to the Harlem Ballroom and Club Worship. Great place to go for late-night music and dining.

Description:

Make your way to the Showboat Casino near the Boardwalk entrance and you might just be welcomed with echoes of praise. Regular events that take place here are the Gospel Brunch and the Savage Men Cover Model Revue. One group praises God while the other serves the purposes of His opponent. Gospel bands from various areas come and perform in the Club Harlem Ballroom here. On the main floor, there is something known as the Devil's Playground and then there is an area known as the Purgatory where groups of people hang out, while on the third floor The Garden of Eden offers VIP treatment. Nationally touring bands and comedians perform here regularly as well. See the website for schedules and more.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of the best places in Atlantic City for stand-up comedy, located in Tropicana's hip dining and entertainment venues in The Quarter!

Description:

At its new location in The Quarter (Tropicana's new tower), The Comedy Stop Cafe & Cabaret serves up laughter with a side of food and drinks. Comics like Drew Carey, Lewis Black, Rosie O'Donnel, and Tim Allen have passed through the Comedy Stop. So expect fresh talent and try not to laugh too hard or you may lose your dinner and drink.

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:

This little gem is off-the-beaten-path but well worth a visit.

Description:

The Noyes certainly covers all aspects and mediums of art. Here, visitors can view the approximately 1313 pieces of 19th to 20th century American art, covering sculpture, photography and painting. Although most of the pieces are part of the private collection of museum founder, Fred W. Noyes, Jr., many other exhibitions grace the museum from up-and-coming painters to seasoned photographers and sculptors.

Our Local Expert Says:

This wacky museum is fun for the whole family!

Description:

An oddball museum housed in a bizarre building that looks like it's waiting for the wrecking ball, this Ripley's location has some wacky treasures: A lock of George Washington's hair, a 27-room miniature wood carved castle, the Fiji-Island Mermaid and Ripley's Mail Room with actual samples of Ripley's unusual mail.

Description:

Wheaton Arts & Cultural Center, a non-profit organization, celebrates the long history of New Jersey's glass industry. The site features a Museum of American Glass that has over 6,500 pieces. The center is also a place for today's glass makers to come practice their technique and use the provided equipment. The center aims to preserve the history of glass-making and further artistic endeavors. They also accommodate private events.