You can’t walk down this famous path in Atlantic City without the tune Under the Boardwalk rolling around in your brain. Discover what’s under, over, and around this iconic promenade.
Atlantic City, the New Jersey staycation hotspot, was the first U.S. city to have a boardwalk. It was built as a temporary summer attraction in 1870. The boardwalk runs right beside the city’s famous golden sand beaches. This is the beating heart of the city, a landmark that’s remained a constant while Prohibition, fame, and fortune have come and gone. Take a stroll and pick up world-famous salt taffy, stop and sit with fortune tellers, and try your luck at one of the many neon-clad casinos that loom over the rollers offshore.
You can’t come to Atlantic City without spending some time in the labyrinth of casinos. The first casino was built here in 1976. Now there are seven vast, multifaceted entertainment complexes. The Atlantic City experience is a touch cheaper and less extravagant than its Las Vegas sister, but there are still plenty of restaurants, bars, and shows to amuse you in between betting streaks.
As you stroll along you’ll be tempted by a variety of tasty treats, and it’s not just old-school steaks and burgers. Atlantic City has everything from fine dining Asian to traditional Italian pasta dishes. For a taste of Prohibition-era Atlantic City, try Dock’s Oyster House. It’s been here since 1897, serving up east coast oysters – you can even pick the spot yours come from.
The boardwalk isn’t just about casinos, shopping, and eating. Stop by Ripley’s Believe It or Not! for a tour of the improbable and strange, or visit the beautiful Absecon Lighthouse. It’s one of the oldest in the U.S. If you’re feeling fit, climb the 228 stairs to the top for a stunning vista taking in the whole coastline.