live it up with a true original Atlantic City

It may seem like Atlantic City has always been a casino town, but gambling was only legalized here in 1978, with Resorts, the historic beach town’s first casino – and the first one to open outside of Las Vegas – making its debut 45 years ago this summer.

Since that time, gaming has been one of Atlantic City’s major attractions, but along with world-class hotels, restaurants, nightlife, entertainment, and the world-famous Boardwalk and beach, the destination offers a range of classic AC experiences that can only be found within its 12 square seashore miles.

A True Hot Spot for Travelers

While Atlantic City has recently been dubbed a “luxurious hot spot for travelers” (Robb Report), along with its spectacular casino properties and new attractions – such as Showboat’s $100 million Island Waterpark, the world’s largest seaside indoor waterpark, which debuted in July, and Spiegelworld’s “The Hook,” AC’s brand-new permanent entertainment residency – the resort also embraces its nostalgic charm, providing visitors with the chance to explore a variety of authentic Atlantic City experiences.

Really Cool Attractions, Restaurants, and More

The birthplace of boardwalks, saltwater taffy, rolling chairs, and waterfront amusement piers, Atlantic City boasts an array of iconic attractions (such as the 125-yearold Steel Pier, Historic Gardner’s Basin, and the Absecon Lighthouse, the third tallest lighthouse in the country) and legendary restaurants (like Dock’s Oyster House, Tony’s Baltimore Grill, and Knife & Fork) that capture the essence of Atlantic City.

In addition, Atlantic City boasts dozens of authentic dining experiences from around the world, including the newly opened Nobu at Caesars.

Atlantic City has also seen an arts and culture revival in recent years, with an impressive mural arts program, homegrown festivals and events, and venues like the Noyes Arts Garage rekindling the resort’s creative spirit.

Meanwhile, Atlantic City’s Orange Loop, an emerging neighborhood of unique restaurants, bars, live music venues, shops, and even a yoga studio, offers the chance to enjoy local flavors and thrills, just off the Boardwalk.

Summer Rules

During the summer months, Atlantic City boasts a variety of exciting events, from multi-day music festivals and beach concerts (the outdoor countrymusic Tidal Wave Festival returns Aug. 11-13) to familyfriendly happenings like the Atlantic City Airshow, which returns for its 20th year on Aug. 16.

A true Atlantic City adventure wouldn’t be complete without exploring the arcades, shops, and restaurants along the worldfamous Boardwalk, and other outdoor experiences, from parasailing and sunset cruises to dolphin watching and bayside dining.

The Real Deal, All Year Round

With so many luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and year-round entertainment options, Atlantic City is the ideal spot to visit in the fall and winter months as well as during the spring and summer.

This October, the annual Atlantic City Restaurant Week returns with six days of specially priced menus at an array of casino restaurants and local establishments (Oct. 1-6), the perfect reason to stay, dine, play, and savor it all in AC. During the month of December, Atlantic City’s Tinseltown Holiday Experience lights up the entire city with holiday cheer, extravagant decorations, pop-up experiences, and not-to-bemissed festive events.

Options Galore

To discover authentic Atlantic City experiences, check out hotel options, view a calendar of events, purchase Atlantic City Restaurant Week gift cards, and more, visit atlanticcitynj.com.