Things to Do in Atlantic City, NJ

When I’m in the mood for seaside vibes, boardwalk energy, and a bit of nightlife, I make my way to Atlantic City. You’ll find everything here—from lazy beach days to thrilling casino nights and live music that keeps going well after sunset. Whether you’re coming to unwind or turn up, there’s something for everyone, and I always leave with great stories (and maybe a few too many photos from the boardwalk).

Best Time to Visit

I personally love visiting between May and September. That’s when the weather’s warm, the beach is buzzing, and the boardwalk is packed with energy. If you prefer a quieter vibe, spring and fall are perfect—you’ll still get beautiful coastal views but with fewer crowds and better hotel deals. In the winter, I like to cozy up indoors at the spa or catch a live show. It’s a totally different side of AC, and honestly, just as fun.

How to Get There

• By Car: I usually drive down via the Atlantic City Expressway—it’s about 2 hours from NYC and just an hour from Philly. Easy access and the scenery along the way gets me in the beach-town mood.
• By Train: When I’m coming from Philadelphia, NJ Transit’s service from 30th Street Station drops me off right at the Atlantic City Rail Terminal. It’s super convenient and saves me parking hassles.
• By Air: I’ve flown into Atlantic City International (ACY) before—it’s small and quick, great if you’re flying regional. Otherwise, Philly’s airport (PHL) works well too, and it’s just about 1.5 hours away with plenty of rental car and shuttle options.
• By Bus: Honestly, I’ve taken the bus a few times with friends—it drops you right at the casino resorts and is super budget-friendly. Greyhound and NJ Transit both do the trick when you want a no-fuss ride in.

Where to Stay

• Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa – This is where I go when I’m feeling fancy. The rooms are gorgeous, the spa is pure heaven, and the dining options are top-notch. It’s my splurge spot for a luxe weekend.
• Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City – I love the vibe here—cool music everywhere, beachfront views, and live shows that always feel like a party. If you're into that stylish, high-energy atmosphere, this one's for you.
• Ocean Casino Resort – I stayed here once for the views alone and was totally blown away. Floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop pool, and the sleek, modern feel made it one of my favorite stays yet.

Best Things to Do in Atlantic City, NJ