Atlantic City, NJ

Travel Guide

A bustling boardwalk with people walking, a souvenir shop, and a large hotel with 'TRUMP' signage.
An old wooden building with a sign reading "Atlantic City Aquarium."
A boardwalk at night with a Ferris wheel, a roller coaster, and a building with neon signs.
A large billboard with the text "Greetings from" and a cityscape illustration.
A busy boardwalk with various shops and restaurants.

Come for gambling, the Boardwalk, saltwater taffy, activities on the water and concerts in this very popular New Jersey tourist destination.

From the beaches and boardwalk to casinos and concerts, Atlantic City offers fantastic daytime and nighttime activities for an active and exciting vacation. Select from varied choices for a wild weekend, a gaming holiday, a romantic getaway or a family vacation.

Built in 1870, long before gambling came to Atlantic City, the Boardwalk was an attraction powerful enough to draw visitors. Meander for more than 4 miles (8 kilometers) along the wide wooden walkway and step onto the sandy beach. Find a spot to relax under an umbrella or swim, surf, kayak, fish or windsurf on the ocean. Come early to watch the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean or stay late for a sunset stroll.

On the other side of the Boardwalk, enjoy dining, shopping and nightlife. Stop at one of the many souvenir shops and have some saltwater taffy, invented here in 1883. Go just beyond the southwestern end of the Boardwalk to see Lucy the Elephant, a six-story historical landmark.

At the northeastern end of the Boardwalk, visit the Atlantic City Aquarium and the very tall restored Absecon Lighthouse. Walk out onto Steel Pier for amusement park rides, dining and carnival games.

Different types of games were introduced in 1978 with the first casino in Atlantic City. Today, choose from several very large casinos, offering not only gambling, but also hotel accommodations and celebrity entertainment.

The renowned Atlantic City Ballet performance venue is along the Boardwalk. Visit the Atlantic City Free Public Library to view its heritage collection and listen to the International Night Concert Series. Check the schedule of events at Boardwalk Hall, which hosts music, comedy, films and even the Miss America Pageant.

Head inland for golf, outlet mall shopping and more cultural attractions. Shop and meet artists at the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University. Travel to nearby Newtonville for the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey.

Whatever your interests, find plenty to do in Atlantic City.

Where to stay in Atlantic City

Find the best Atlantic City areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Atlantic City
Learn more about Atlantic City
An old wooden building with a sign reading "Atlantic City Aquarium."

Marina District

While visiting Marina District, you might make a stop by sights like Harrah's Atlantic City Casino and Golden Nugget Atlantic City Casino.

A Ferris wheel with illuminated 'STEEL CITY' letters.

Ducktown

If you're spending some time in Ducktown, Atlantic City Boardwalk and Boardwalk Hall are top sights worth seeing.

A building with a green sign reading "Irish Pub" and a mural of a woman holding a bowl.
Photo by Geo M
Open Photo by Geo M

The Orange Loop

If you're spending some time in The Orange Loop, Atlantic City Boardwalk and Anchor Rock Club are top sights worth seeing.

A beach with wooden structures, a Ferris wheel, and a building with a red roof.
Photo by Dan Rose
Open Photo by Dan Rose

Downtown Ocean City

If you're spending some time in Downtown Ocean City, Ocean City Boardwalk and Pirate Island Golf are top sights worth seeing.

A boardwalk with a castle-like building, American flags, and a beach in the background.

North End

If you're spending some time in North End, Ocean City Boardwalk and Ocean City Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City Hotel & Casino – A Caesars Rewards Destination

Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City Hotel & Casino – A Caesars Rewards Destination

4 out of 5
777 Harrah's Blvd. Atlantic City NJ
$75 nightly
The price is $93 total per night from Nov 1 to Nov 2
$93 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa resort in Atlantic City. Enjoy a full-service spa, 9 restaurants, and a casino. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City Hotel & Casino – A Caesars Rewards Destination
Ocean Casino Resort

Ocean Casino Resort

4 out of 5
500 Boardwalk Atlantic City NJ
$120 nightly
The price is $144 total per night from Oct 14 to Oct 15
$144 total
Oct 14 - Oct 15
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Atlantic City. Enjoy an outdoor pool, a full-service spa, and 18 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
Ocean Casino Resort
Tropicana Atlantic City – A Caesars Rewards Destination

Tropicana Atlantic City – A Caesars Rewards Destination

3.5 out of 5
2831 Boardwalk Atlantic City NJ
$63 nightly
The price is $79 total per night from Oct 18 to Oct 19
$79 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach resort in Atlantic City. Enjoy an outdoor pool, 20 restaurants, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the restaurant and the clean ...
7.6/10 Good! (17,345 reviews)
"Awesome place to be"

Reviewed on Oct 1, 2026

Tropicana Atlantic City – A Caesars Rewards Destination
See all 3,129 properties in Atlantic City
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Boardwalk Resorts - Flagship

Boardwalk Resorts - Flagship

3.5 out of 5
60 N Maine Avenue Atlantic City NJ
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Atlantic City. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise ...
Boardwalk Resorts - Flagship
Ocean's Edge

Ocean's Edge

3 out of 5
1125 Ocean Ave Ocean City NJ
Stay at this apartment in Ocean City. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Ocean City Boardwalk and Jilly's Arcade are located ...
Ocean's Edge
Marriott's Fairway Villas

Marriott's Fairway Villas

3 out of 5
500 East Fairway Lane Absecon NJ
Book a stay at this golf aparthotel in Absecon. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and 3 hot tubs. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
Marriott's Fairway Villas
See all properties in Atlantic City
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Getting around Atlantic City

Driving is by far the most convenient way to see Atlantic City. Rent a vehicle of your own, or rely on the huge fleet of taxis that serve the city. Sections of the boardwalk can be explored on foot, but at 4 miles (6 miles) long, you won’t often feel like walking the whole thing. Rent a rolling chair, a shaded seat on wheels pushed by an operator. Or, take the Jitney (minibus) to headline sights. Visit the New Jersey Department of TransportationOpens in a new window website.Browse Atlantic City rental cars.

Stay near popular Atlantic City attractions

A coastal cityscape with a beach, ocean waves, and various buildings including a tall hotel and a stadium.

Atlantic City Boardwalk

8.2/10 (16,673 reviews)
The oldest boardwalk in the United States is the iconic center of Atlantic City and is a hub for entertainment, shopping and relaxing on the Jersey Shore.
See properties

Things to do

Atlantic City: Absecon Lighthouse Admission Ticket

Atlantic City: Absecon Lighthouse Admission Ticket

$10
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Atlantic City: Absecon Lighthouse Admission Ticket
North Beach Mini Golf Experience in Atlantic City

North Beach Mini Golf Experience in Atlantic City

$15
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
North Beach Mini Golf Experience in Atlantic City
See all activities in Atlantic City

Frequently asked questions

Is Atlantic City worth visiting?
Atlantic City is worth visiting for its iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk and Atlantic City Beach. Travelers can also enjoy delicious Italian and North American dining, with options like pasta and classic American fare, and explore distinct neighborhoods such as Central and Midtown South.
When is the best time to visit Atlantic City?
The best time to visit Atlantic City is from May through July, when the weather is warm and the city is at its most popular. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of October through December offer a different experience, with cooler temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Atlantic City?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Atlantic City depend on what travelers want to see:

  • Central offers family fun with Pirate Island Golf, Playland's Castaway Cove, and OC Waterpark.
  • Midtown South features iconic spots like the Monopoly Monument, Steel Pier, and the Atlantic City Boardwalk.
  • Chelsea provides entertainment and dining at Tropicana Atlantic City, with its Showroom and Bungalow Restaurant.
  • Southend offers beach access and resort experiences at Brigantine Beach and Brigantine Island Beach Resort.
  • Midtown North is known for Harrah's Waterfront Conference Center, Harrah's Pool, and Senator Frank S. Farley State Marina.

What is Atlantic City known for?
Atlantic City is known for its iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk, offering travelers access to the Atlantic City Beach. Nearby, travelers can also explore the Ocean City Boardwalk. The area also features a strong Italian food culture, providing diverse dining options.
What is a good itinerary length for Atlantic City?
A good itinerary length for Atlantic City is two to three days to enjoy the Atlantic City Boardwalk, Atlantic City Beach, and activities like a DJ Dance Happy Hour Cruise. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can visit the Absecon Lighthouse, explore neighborhoods like Central, and take a trip to the Ocean City Boardwalk. See Atlantic City Activities.
How do you get around Atlantic City?
Atlantic City is well-served by public transportation. Travelers can arrive by train at the Atlantic City Rail Terminal or by bus at the Atlantic City Bus Terminal. Local buses offer convenient transportation within the city, and trains also connect to nearby stations like Absecon. Rideshare services are also available for getting around.
What are the top things to do in and around Atlantic City?
In Atlantic City, travelers can enjoy iconic boardwalks, sandy beaches, and unique local experiences. You can:

  • Stroll the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk.
  • Relax on the sandy shores of Atlantic City Beach.
  • Visit the historic Absecon Lighthouse.
  • Embark on a Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise.
  • Explore the city with an Epic Scavenger Hunt.

How do I plan a trip to Atlantic City?
To plan your trip to Atlantic City, search Expedia for hotels in areas like Central, Midtown South, or Chelsea. Book flights and activities such as the Absecon Lighthouse Admission Ticket in advance. Getting around is easy with bus and train options, or consider a rental car for day trips. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Atlantic City?
In Atlantic City you can find Caribbean cuisine, with dishes like jerk chicken, rice and peas, and plantains. Travelers also have options for Italian fare, North American specialties such as Southern Soul Food, and diverse Asian flavors including Chinese and Japanese. Mexican and Mediterranean dishes are also available.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Atlantic City?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Atlantic City by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Atlantic City with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Atlantic City trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Atlantic City?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Atlantic City can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Atlantic City trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Atlantic City trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Atlantic City trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Atlantic City trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Atlantic City?
If it's your first trip to Atlantic City, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Atlantic City hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Atlantic City hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Atlantic City

A sandy beach with wooden fences and a pier in the background.

Absecon

A beach with a pier extending into the water, a Ferris wheel in the background, and a sunset sky.

Somers Point

A vast forested landscape with a cloudy sky.

Buena

A river winding through a dense forest with a clear sky above.

Egg Harbor City

Other places like Atlantic City

Explore a world of travel with Expedia