Get to know Atlantic City
This is a feature from Issue 19 of Charitable Traveller. Click to read more from this issue.
What's it all about?
In the mid-19th century, the sea breezes and wide beaches of New Jersey inspired local physician Jonathan Pitney to develop a health resort on the barrier island of Absecon, and Atlantic City was born. It became as famous for its lively boardwalk as its beach bathing and, during the summers, holidaymakers flocked here from New York, Philadelphia and Washington DC – particularly during the 1920s when ‘The World’s Playground’ flouted prohibition laws. In 1977 casinos were legalised, and it is now known as the East Coast’s premier gaming resort – though there’s plenty more to this town than tables and slots.
Boardwalk Empire
Often claimed to be the world’s first and longest boardwalk, the 5.8 mile-long oceanside promenade dating back to 1870 is the jewel in Atlantic City’s crown. Stroll or roll along it – you can hire a bike, or even be pushed in the stately splendour of one of AC’s iconic Rolling Chairs – to discover beaches and breakers to one side and attractions to the other. Drop in at the high-rise hotels, casinos, restaurants, bars, piers and amusement parks.
Shore Thing
While many other Jersey Shore beaches charge admission, the wide, soft sands and sparkling waters of Atlantic City’s beach come for free. The caster-sugar sand is perfect for building castles and creating a mattress-soft base for lounging, and the waves beckon you in for jumping, splashing, boogie boarding and even surfing. There are showers, changing rooms, and during the summer, lifeguards – plus, it couldn’t be easier to access, stretching alongside the famous boardwalk.
Show Time
All A-flutter
There are nine casinos in Atlantic City, offering a heady combination of slots, poker tables, baccarat pits and sportsbooks. But chasing Lady Luck isn’t the only thing to do at these glamorous addresses. At Hard Rock Hotel & Casino you can see Slash’s guitar and Elvis’ Rolls
Royce, alongside live events from bands to boxing. Tropicana has an IMAX movie theatre plus a nightly Sound and Light Show. Get a treatment at Caesars’ Roman Baths-themed spa, or lounge by Harrah’s pool – an oasis-like affair in a glass dome with tropical foliage and private cabanas.
In the original US version of Monopoly, which dates back to 1935, it's Atlantic City's street and station names that appear on the board.
Spending Time
There’s plenty to discover during the day, too. Climb the 288 steps of historic Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest in New Jersey, and learn about the town’s past at The Atlantic City Experience in Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. Take a dolphin-watching cruise from Gardner’s Basin, or delight in the city’s creative scene at the Noyes Arts Garage, home to galleries and the African American Heritage Museum. You’ll also find more than 70 murals dotted around the city streets. If shopping is your weakness, head for Tanger Outlets Atlantic City for designer goods at discount prices.
Tasting Notes
Atlantic City’s cuisine is something to write home about. You’ll find food from famous name chefs – there’s a Nobu at Caesars, and a Gordon Ramsay Steak at Harrah’s – plus a host of local restaurants. Make like the late, great Jersey boy, food writer Anthony Bourdain and have seafood at Dock’s Oyster House, steak at the Knife and Fork Inn, pizza from Tony’s Baltimore Grill and classic candy at James Original Salt Water Taffy.
And another thing...
Pick a pier to experience your favourite beachside entertainment.
CENTRAL PIER
From retro coin push and pinball to the latest video games, the arcade at Central Pier is family heaven. Speed demons will love the giant, over-and-under style go-kart track
STEEL PIER
With carousels, dodgems and coasters, Steel Pier is the one to choose for amusement park aficionados. You’ll get great views down the Boardwalk from the 227ft-tall Big Wheel.
Ready to visit Atlantic City?
Speak to our team of expert travel agents to plan your perfect break, and remember, you can donate 5% of your holiday price to the charity of your choice at no extra cost to you!
This is a feature from Issue 19 of Charitable Traveller.
by net effect