Atlantic City has long been an adults’ playground, but you’ll be surprised to know there are many activities for kids, making it a cool day trip or weekend away for the family. From a waterpark that feels like you’re on a tropical vacay, to taking a pedi cab on the boards, to getting your game on the biggest arcade in the Northeast and spending the day on the fantastic (and free!) beach, Atlantic City is filled with lots of hidden gems for a plenty of family fun. Read on for eight things to do with kids in AC for the day or, if you’re lucky, an overnight. (feature photo credit: istock/AUDREY SCRIPP)
7 Things To Do In Atlantic City With Kids
Enjoy some thrills at Steel Pier
Founded in 1898, Steel Pier is where top entertainers and the world-famous high-diving horses entertained families on the renowned Atlantic City Boardwalk (the world’s first and longest boardwalk). Today, kids will be thrilled to take on this iconic amusement park with the views and thrills to match. Littles will love the Beach Buggies, Balloon Wheel, Dodgem (Kiddie Bumper Cars), and the Silly Steamer—a kiddie boat ride the whole family can ride together. The Carousel is a classic ride for any age, while older kids will gravitate to the Tropical Storm (a carousel that spins and swings) or the Rock and Roll, a roller coaster that not only plays music but spins forward and backward on a circular track. For the truly daring, spin the 227-foot Observation Wheel, giving you 360-degree views of the Atlantic City skyline and the Atlantic Ocean during a 10-minute ride in the temperature-controlled gondola. After hopping on the rides, stop by one of the many food spots dotting the Pier, including Steel Pier Pub, Crab House & Bar, Ocean Reef Bar, or typical boardwalk specialties.
Have a free beach day
So here’s something you don’t see every day at the Jersey Shore during the summer—FREE beaches. Yup, you don’t have to buy a badge to get on these beaches, with access from almost any of the avenues heading to the beach. Once you hit the sand, you will find clean and soft beaches with surfable waves most days of the year. Kids can build sandcastles, play in the surf, and enjoy the beachside amenities just steps away from the sand. The older ones in your crew can surf, kayak, windsurf, or fish at the beach.
Stroll along the Atlantic City Boardwalk
One of the best things to do in Atlantic City? Walk along the historic boards that put Atlantic City on the map as the first boardwalk in the United States. Back in 1870, AC constructed a wooden boardwalk to keep sand out of hotels and trains, and it quickly became the centerpiece of the city. Take the kids on a walk to soak up the scene, and for more history, stop by the Atlantic City Experience located off the boardwalk inside the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. This immersive exhibit showcases a collection of historical artifacts, highlighting key moments in Atlantic City’s past, from its early days to its rise as a resort destination.
Grab a sweet treat
Fun fact: Saltwater taffy was invented in Atlantic City in 1884 by James Fralinger, who crafted his own recipe for taffy and sold them in souvenir tins, making it the must-have token to bring back from AC. Today, you can find the original recipe of Fralinger’s Salt Water Taffy in decorative vintage-style boxes at James Candy, a boardwalk staple with a colorful storefront and tempting candy displays. Step inside for a nostalgia trip, where you’ll be instantly transported back to another era with retro wood cabinetry and a tin ceiling. The company’s taffy is made using a secret recipe passed down through the generations, ensuring that every piece is as delicious as the last and sold just like it was at the turn of the century, in boxes decorated with seaside charm to bring home. Taffy not your thing? Check out their other homemade confections, including fudge, chocolates, and caramel corn.
Play all day
Step off the boardwalk and take a quick trip to the tropics at the Island Waterpark at Showboat Resort, where the weather is always a balmy 80 degrees, the lush tropics look like an island paradise, and there is plenty of unlimited fun for kids and adults. The indoor waterpark boasts 11 waterslides and pools under a retractable roof, adventure courses, and an exclusive adults-only section with bars. Once everyone has soaked up the thrills, step off into the indoor boardwalk featuring classic food and the world’s largest arcade, Lucky Snake, with interactive video games, a Pinball Galerie, bowling, indoor mini golf, whack-a-mole, and a 7-lap speedway with state-of-the-art go-karts. Known as the fastest go-karts on the boardwalk—speeds up to 25 mph—you can race seriously or cruise around. Need a break? There are 5 bars and restaurants located within Lucky Snake, so you’re never too far from the games.
Spend time with NJ landmarks
A bit outside the city center gives you a chance to explore Atlantic City’s most famous landmarks—The Absecon Lighthouse and Lucy The Elephant. Both require a climb, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Atlantic City skyline and the surrounding area. Alongside the lighthouse is a beautiful replica of where the Lightkeeper lived, a museum where kids can learn all about the history of the structure, a charming gift shop, and gorgeous grounds. In nearby Margate, Lucy The Elephant stands six stories tall. Known as the oldest roadside attraction in the US, kids will get a thrill climbing inside Lucy and learning about her fascinating history.
Pack your bags for a getaway
What makes AC a totally different experience? Staying over with the fam so you can enjoy everything AC offers at your own pace. At the end of the boardwalk, the sleek and stylish Ocean Casino Resort stands alone for its spacious rooms, indoor/outdoor pool heated for an all-year swim overlooking the beach and ocean, and gourmet dining for all taste buds. Or for all-day and night fun, book a package at the Showboat Resort, with reimagined contemporary rooms with ocean views and unlimited access to the waterpark.
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