The best things to do in Atlantic City

With its Havana nights-inspired theme, Tropicana is a dining and entertainment venue with global cuisine options. The Quarter guarantees a romantic, tropical evening, complete with a perpetual blue-sky view, a running fountain and cobblestone streets. Shop, drink, dance and delight in everything from a sports bar to the drunken slushie shop. There's even an IMAX movie theater to catch your favorite flick.

All along the East Coast are marvelous beach spots, but Atlantic City's is a highlight thanks to its fab nineteenth century boardwalk. A stroll along this family-friendly thoroughfare with shopping saves you from sand in your shoes. You also get a front row seat to the ocean.

New Jersey, lovingly knows as The Garden State, boasts hundreds of miles of coastline, and Atlantic City is no exception. The beaches are family-friendly, free to enjoy, and you can build sand castles, enjoy a picnic lunch, and take in water fun like surfing and kayaking. The Boardwalk also offers souvenir shops, arcades and dining spots.

This billion-dollar sprawling resort debuted in 2003 for vacationers, shoppers and gamblers alike. An anchor of the Atlantic City Marina District, the Borgata brings its A-game for those seeking a truly immersive experience. Floor-to-ceiling windows adorn every one of the hotel’s guest rooms and the casino offers enough machines and table games to keep every high-roller or penny-bettor happy.

The Steel Pier helps make Atlantic City a go-to family vacation destination. Revisit your favorite old-school rides and arcade games, or kick it with a burger and beer while enjoying the oceanfront view at the pier’s pubs.

Just like the song, this Jimmy Buffett-themed tiki bar is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late at night, so you can get your island-inspired fix for food, drinks and entertainment whenever the mood strikes.

Now owned by a different family, but still going by the Fralinger name, this sweet spot on the boardwalk has been here since 1885. It's no surprise why once you taste the two-inch candies. There are a number of flavors, from the bold (pumpkin and egg nog) to old favorites (candy apple and chocolate). If taffy's not your thing, then you'll also find fudge, macaroons, candied pecans and some other nostalgic treats in store.

The iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk offers so much to experience and the boardwalk tram is the best way to take in every bit of the view of the Atlantic Ocean along the way, from Ocean Casino Resort on the north side of the beach to Tropicana in the south.

Built in 1857, Abescon Lighthouse remains the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey (and third tallest in the country). Just a hop and skip away from the Boardwalk, it's a scenic attraction to add to any boozy trip itinerary. Climb 228 steps to get incredible town and ocean views, or you can admire the structure with your feet planted on the ground.

Take your slot machine winnings to the Tanger Outlets and stock up on basics, or maybe buy yourself a little something special. Standouts include Nike Factory Store and Adidas, and luxury clothing spots such as Coach and Polo Ralph Lauren. Tanger Outlets offer brands without high prices.

Caesars in an established name in Las Vegas and Atlantic City and the Caesars’ central location on the Boardwalk is hard to beat. The pool experience is situated on the Qua Baths & Spa rooftop. Order cocktails poolside at this Roman oasis and chill in a day bed, lounge chair, or splurge on your own private cabana with stunning beach and ocean views. 

Located in the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and accessible from the Boardwalk this dreamy 1,500-square-foot confectionary boasts a floor-to-ceiling candy wall with 500-plus types of confections. Beyond your sugar fix, you can plan a short break in the café for coffees, hot chocolate and frozen hot chocolate, or enjoy a decadent dining experience in the lovely dining room with full bar.

This collection of oddities and scratch-your-head exhibits are curated for a fun and awe-inspiring experience. You can see two unique attractions, including Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium, a collection of bizarre and extra-strange exhibits from around the globe, and The Vault Laser Maze Challenge, a mysterious room maze featuring laser beams.

An Atlantic City Tiki Boat Experience is available seven days a week in the mornings, afternoon and evenings. The Aloha Tiki Cruises offers a private, two-hour “back bay” party cruise, between Atlantic City and neighboring Brigantine for up to six guests. If interested in longer rentals, just inquire. You can even bring your own refreshments as you enjoy the views and a sea-faring experience from the city’s marina district.

The Carousel Bar is an elevated, 24-seat rotating bar where you can partake in hand-made cocktails with Atlantic City-inspired flavors such as saltwater taffy, cotton candy, funnel cake, and more. The 24/7 immersive experience offers 360-degree views of the bustling casino and hotel lobby. 

Explore culture beyond the restaurants and dining highlights of the city, and enjoy the permanent public art exhibits across the 48 blocks of Atlantic City. The 48 Blocks Mural Tour offers an easy way to take in these inspiring tributes to social expression.

A new location of the legendary New York City restaurant, Serendipity3 is your Atlantic City home for the world famous 'frozen hot chocolate.' The gigantic 8,000-square-foot restaurant has whimsical interior and a casual menu for everyone in your travel group.