Atlantic City travel news: The Boardwalk empire, casinos, food and nightlife
Atlantic City may be the poor man’s version of Vegas - but it still has plenty to offer, especially as it’s a short road trip down the coast from New York City.
It doesn’t have the glitz and glimmer of Sin City, in fact it feels closer to Blackpool on the other side of the pond.
But there’s plenty to love about this East-Coast destination, which got a massive shot in the tourist arm after the excellent Boardwalk Empire hit our screens.
Here, Travel News Blitz takes a look at what makes this iconic (and slightly salty) city tick.
The Famous Boardwalk: Where Fun Meets Fryers
The Atlantic City Boardwalk is a four-mile stretch of seaside entertainment, snack shacks, and enough souvenir shops to single-handedly keep fridge magnet factories in business.
Stroll along, grab some saltwater taffy (a local classic), and dodge the occasional over-enthusiastic seagull eyeing your funnel cake.
Casinos: Where Dreams and Dollars Collide
Atlantic City is home to glitzy casinos like Borgata, Caesars, and Hard Rock, where you can test your luck at blackjack, poker, or the ever-reliable penny slots.
Pro tip: If you’re not winning at the tables, the free drinks can help soften the blow.
Beaches: Sun, Sand, and Slot Machines
The beach here is free (a rarity in New Jersey), and it’s just steps away from the action of the boardwalk.
You can lounge, swim, or people-watch - it’s like reality TV, but with sand between your toes.
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Steel Pier: Nostalgia with a View
This historic amusement pier has everything from classic carnival games to a towering Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and your fear of heights.
Feeling adventurous? Try one of the thrill rides, or play it safe with a cotton candy coma.
The Food: Deep-Fried and Delicious
Atlantic City doesn’t do “light bites.” Here, it’s all about deep-fried Oreos, pizza slices the size of your head, and seafood so fresh it might still be negotiating its release.
Be sure to try some local favorites, like a giant sub sandwich from the legendary White House Sub Shop.
Nightlife: From Clubs to Comedy
After dark, Atlantic City lights up with nightclubs, bars, and live shows.
Catch a comedy act, dance until dawn, or sip cocktails in a casino lounge while pretending you’re a high roller.
READ MORE: Seven things to see and do in Las Vegas, aka Sin City
Historic and Quirky Attractions
Check out Lucy the Elephant, a six-story wooden elephant built in 1881, just a short drive away in Margate. Because why not?
Or visit the Absecon Lighthouse, New Jersey’s tallest, where you can climb 228 steps for views as breathtaking as the climb itself.
Pro Tip: Bring Your Walking Shoes
Atlantic City is a town where you’ll do a lot of strolling - on the boardwalk, in casinos, and to the beach.
Just be prepared for a mix of salty air, neon lights, and the faint sound of slot machines in the background.
Summary
Atlantic City is part beach town, part gambling haven, and 100% unforgettable.
Whether you’re here to soak up the sun, try your luck, or just eat your weight in fried dough, Atlantic City has something for everyone. 🌊🎰
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