Atlantic City is often described as the “Vegas of the East Coast” as it is well known for its over-the-top casinos and decadent nightlife. But with its quieter atmosphere and beachfront setting, it is certainly a more family-friendly setting than Las Vegas.
Centered around coastal boardwalks rather than big highways, Atlantic is a walking city with games for adults and entertainment for the kids. Atlantic City also celebrates its historic landmarks, giving the whole area a bit of a nostalgic vibe.
If you are thinking of making your way to Atlantic City for a break, here are a few things that should definitely be on your to-do list.
Hit Up the Casinos
Many people head to Atlantic City for gambling, as it has casinos that rival some of the biggest and best in Las Vegas. Caesar’s Atlantic City and The Borgata are the most popular and iconic casinos in the city and a great place to start. Whether you like slot machines, blackjack, poker or roulette, you will find a place to lay down your hard-earned dollars in these establishments. The casinos are generally pretty easy going and will let in the casually dressed, but why not pack your best duds and treat yourself to a James Bond-style night out. Shaken, not stirred.
Relax on the Beach
Recuperate from a night of partying by spending the day on one of Atlantic City’s sandy beaches. Wide beaches of camel sand, despite their popularity these beaches never feel crowded. Lie back with a good book or get in the water, which has nice small waves perfect for bodyboarding or beginner surfers. You can also jump on an Atlantic City Cruise boat, which offers commentary from marine biologists and an opportunity to see some dolphins!
Take in the Boardwalk
In the evening head to the city Boardwalk, which extends for four miles along the shoreline. It is lined with bars, restaurants, and other entertainment, and it is thrumming with activity pretty much all night.
If you are visiting with kids, or you are just a big kid at heart, make sure to stop at Steel Pier and Central Pier amusement parks and jump on some of the nostalgic theme rides, which will probably still make your heart drop just a little!
Go Shopping
Whether you are looking to spend your hard-earned winnings, or you are looking for a bargain, there are loads of great places to shop in Atlantic City. Bargain hunters should head to Tangers Outlets, where you will find labels such as J. Crew, Michael Kors, Nike and Calvin Klein selling at discount prices. If you are up for a more high-end shopping experience, then make Playground Pier your destination. This pier front complex is home to the likes of Burberry, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co. Worth it just for the window shopping and the ambiance.
See a Show at Boardwalk Hall
Vegas is not the only city that can pull in the big-name acts. Stars including Beyoncé and the Rolling Stones have all performed in Atlantic City, at the famous Boardwalk Hall. A major city attraction since 1929, make sure to check out who is playing on the dates you are in the city. Celine Dion and Michael Bublé are already scheduled to perform in 2020.
Explore Storybook Land
Take kids to Storybook Land, a 20-acre amusement park entirely inspired by children’s literature classics. Aimed at younger children for whom the pier theme parks may be a little too mature, hop in bed with the three bears, or see if you can figure out what is wrong with grandma alongside little red riding hood.
Don’t Forget Nearby Ventnor City
While in the vicinity of Atlantic City it is worth taking a small detour to nearby Ventnor City, which is just a ten-minute drive away but has an entirely different vibe. Ventnor is a quaint coastal town that mixes idyllic stretches of windy beach with century-old B&Bs. Ventnor feels more like an old English seaside resort town than anything you will usually find in this part of the United States.
Take a relaxing walk on the beach or along the boardwalk, and then join anglers waiting for a catch on Ventnor Pier. In the summer months, head into the water for surfing or parasailing, and then take the kids to nearby C Sure Park as you wind down. This small city of about 10,000 people feels very safe, and it is full of quaint and quiet cafes where you can relax, away from the hustle and bustle of Atlantic City.
Ventnor city is close enough that you can grab a taxi, or the 505 bus runs between the two cities regularly. Up for some exercise? Walk along the waterfront from Atlantic City to Ventnor, it will only take a little over an hour.
How to Get to Atlantic City
Getting to Atlantic City is very easy as it has its own international airport just nine miles from the city center, with an excellent bus service to ferry you into the city center. Plus, most hotels also offer a shuttle service.
If you want to take a weekend trip from New York or Philadelphia, getting into Atlantic City is both easy and affordable. From Philadelphia, you can get a NJ Transit AMTRAK train from 30th Street Station direct into the center of Atlantic City. It takes around an hour and a half and costs just $10 one way per person. From New York, you can get a Greyhound bus that will deliver you to the city in under three hours between $15-25.
Alternatively, you can get a train direct to Philadelphia, for example from Penn Street Station in Manhattan, which takes about an hour. Once in Philly, you can jump on the same NJ Transit express train to Atlantic City.
Where to Stay
Holiday in Atlantic City is always an exceptional experience. With a wide range of top-notch accommodation options including our range of spacious self-catering apartments, you can be assured that you will be entertained while feeling at home and creating beautiful memories. Viagem apartments are located in superb locations in Ventnor city, close to the beach. You can spend your holiday on the beach, dipping your toes in the sand or indulge in a wide range of water activities.
Atlantic City is one of the North East’s most popular holiday destinations for a reason. It mixes glamorous casinos and a vibrant nightlife with relaxing beaches and fun amusements for every member of the family. Atlantic City is open to everyone. Take a look at our range of beautiful apartments in Ventnor City and book your choice.
