Travel Guides > Atlantic City, NJ

Atlantic City Travel

Long-time visitors to Atlantic City, New Jersey, recall the town as an old-fashioned seaside resort, boasting a beautiful beach, fun Boardwalk activities, top-name entertainment, and activities and amusements that thrilled guests of all ages.

Though the overall focus of the city changed when the casino industry came to town in the late 1970s, today's Atlantic City, despite the presence of mega-resorts, isn't really all that different.

Atlantic City's famed Boardwalk is still alive with the sounds of happy visitors, the smells of traditional Boardwalk food like French Fries, Italian sausage sandwiches and saltwater taffy, and familiar sights such as amusement piers, mini golf, arcades, and souvenir shops. You'll even find that Atlantic City's signature rolling chairs still make their way down the Boardwalk, and a ride on one is a must for any first-time visitor. Even if you've traveled to Atlantic City to enjoy the casinos, a stroll down the 3-mile Boardwalk is a must, with stops to purchase all the food that's native to this wonderful South Jersey town.

When the Resorts Casino opened here nearly three decades ago, locals worried about the impact the gaming industry might have on the city. The fact remains, however, that the town is much better off for having allowed Atlantic City an attempt to become the next Las Vegas.

While this really didn't happen, Atlantic City has, nevertheless, become a favorite destination for those who don't wish to travel west to enjoy the slots, tables, games, and other pursuits offered by the casinos.

Today, a dozen casinos line the Boardwalk and the Marina, offering not only great gaming but also excellent accommodations, fine food, fun nightlife, and the best in entertainment, from concerts to theater to sporting events. On any given evening, you'll find a wide variety of activities from which to choose.

Atlantic City's Boardwalk Hall, originally known as Convention Hall, was the long-time venue for the Miss America Pageant. Today, after a $90 million renovation, it hosts concerts, ice shows, circuses, boxing events, and much more.

Though the long, wide beach and the many attractions, stores, and games on the Boardwalk will keep the kids pretty busy, there are a few other options for sightseeing. For an interesting look at the past of this seaside town, visit the Atlantic County Historical Museum, brimming with more than 20,000 objects that reflect the rich history of the area.