Michael Callahan

Owned by (and connected via a shopping corridor) to the Borgata, the gorgeous Water Club offers a quieter atmosphere than that of other casino hotels in Atlantic City, and most rooms overlook the bucolic marina. In chilly temps, its gorgeous Immersion Spa offers every indulgent treatment you could ask for, including an entire slate tailored just for men. Its facials rank up with anything offered by fancy spas in New York and Philadelphia, and will leave you with a shimmering glow even if you do end up losing your shirt at the tables.

Atlantic City, located within about an hour’s drive from Philadelphia via the Atlantic City Expressway, is one of the more-accessible Jersey Shore towns for locals looking to get away for a day or long weekend for some sun, sand and all the cheesy fun on the Boardwalk. But an influx of folks inevitably means crowded beaches, higher prices and screaming kids. Could it be that the way to get the most out of Atlantic City is to go during the offseason—roughly October through May? Here, we’ve put together a guide for how to tackle this flashy casino city by the sea, laying out the best spots for sleeping, eating and partying in and outside the casino fray. Where to stay in Atlantic City Photograph: Courtesy Borgata When looking for a place to stay in Atlantic City, everyone automatically thinks of casino hotels, but the best spot is the Water Club at the Borgata. It offers a quieter atmosphere than that of its gambling counterparts, and most rooms overlook the idyllic marina. For an extra splurge, its gorgeous Immersion Spa offers every indulgent treatment you could ask for, including an entire slate tailored just for men. (Bonus: super-fluffy robes.) Its facials rank up there with anything offered by fancy spas in New York and Philly, and will leave you with a shimmering glow even if you do end up losing your shirt at the Borgata’s casino tables next door. Where to eat in Atlantic City Anny S." data-width-class="" /> Photograph: Yelp/Anny S. The casinos all offer suitably fi