As summer approaches one of the places we all wish to be is the beach and everyone knows that New Jersey has some spectacular beaches. But one of the oldest and most historic of those is Atlantic City.
Spending a day in Atlantic City will give you peaks into the past mixed with the casino culture of today. It’s a different take on the Jersey Shore that so many know.
History
The Atlantic City is one of the most historic and, at one time, one of the most romantic places to go for a stroll. In the 20s, the Atlantic City boardwalk was the place to be and where the who’s who of the elite came to spend time. Including the mob.
By the 1970’s gambling came to Atlantic City, bringing a new pastime along this historic stretch of boardwalk. With it’s cartoon style buildings and elaborate hotels people once again flocked to the area for their chance to win their fortune.
Nowadays, the beach and beachside hotels are still top choices for vacationers but don’t wander too far off the boardwalk. The surrounding area is much less safe, so stick to the main streets and don’t go walking the roads after dark.
Things to Do
Laze on the beach
It’s not all about the boardwalk and gambling. The beach itself is as spectacular as any stretch along the New Jersey shoreline. Wide swaths of gleaming sand makes it easy to just laze around for the day, without participating in the hoopla of the boardwalk.
Soak in a seaside pool
Several hotels have built seaside pools with bars where you can take a soak and enjoy a beverage while gazing out at the beach without getting salty. Some of these high end pools allow non-guests in and some don’t but most will let anyone in to lounge in the couches and chairs with a drink.
Hit the casinos
Though I am not much of a gambler, those casinos are pretty unbelievable. It’s fun just to walk through places like the Tropicana and the Wild West and see just how elaborate the décor is. It’s mind blowing really.
And if you know where to look, between and around those casinos are historic buildings that have been around since the 20s. So, once you are done wandering the isles of the casinos head to Dock’s Oyster House and step back in time.
Places to Eat
Anthony Bourdain has a food trail in his honor in his home state of New Jersey and Atlantic City makes 4 appearances. So, if you are looking for the best of the best (and Anthony would know) follow the food trail.
There are restaurants for everyone here, from surf style to high end steakhouses. Even the restaurants in the casinos are delicious. Head to the mall and you will find a multitude of choices there as well, and they are surprisingly pretty darn good.
Concluding Thoughts
Atlantic City is not on everyone’s radar like it was in the 20s and later when people like Marilyn Monroe graced the boardwalk. But it’s a fun way to let loose and just enjoy the beach, some good food and follow the historic trail.
If you are interested in exploring more of New Jersey’s beaches head to Wildwoods next for a different type of adventure.
