Atlantic City may be known for a lot of things (gambling, anyone?!), but it’s also home to New Jersey’s most important landmarks–the Absecon Lighthouse. It’s one of the oldest lighthouses in the country and the tallest in New Jersey, and thanks to a multi-million dollar restoration, it can be a memorable visit. Climb the 228 steps to see the first-order Fresnel Lens first lit in 1857 (it’s the only NJ lighthouse with its original Fresnel lens still at the top) and then reap the rewards of the Atlantic City skyline and the Atlantic Ocean views when you reach the top. There’s also plenty to keep kids entertained, including a replica of the Lightkeeper’s dwelling, an educational museum, and a Fresnel Lens exhibit in the original Oil House. Read on for what to do during a visit to Absecon Lighthouse, and while you’re there, make a stop at the famous Steel Pier just down the road. (featured photo credit: istock/Aneese)

Absecon Lighthouse: A Family Destination 

Come for the views and stay for the history

Sure, a climb up the 238 steps for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Atlantic City is well worth the trip, but discovering the history of this unique landmark is also noteworthy. Step inside the free museum attached to the lighthouse, and you’ll find an interesting background. The lighthouse was first illuminated on January 15, 1857, using a nautical lens made in Paris that projected its light 19.5 nautical miles out into the Atlantic Ocean. Electricity was introduced to the lighthouse in 1925, and in 1970, it was added to New Jersey’s Registry of Historic Places. In 2007, the Absecon Lighthouse celebrated its 150th anniversary. Although the Absecon Lighthouse was decommissioned in 1933, its light continues to shine every evening. Once you make it to the top, a volunteer is on hand to talk about the details of the lighthouse and will point out all the aspects, including how the light helped guide sailors across the Atlantic. You can also see the original Fresnel Lens used in the lighthouse housed within the Oil House on the property.

Events at the lighthouse 

The best way to learn about the history of the lighthouse and see those stunning views? Sign up for a tour with the Family Field Trip, designed to educate kids using the STEAM framework while they learn all about historic coastal beacons. The Family Field Trip includes a climb to the top of the lighthouse and an outdoor scavenger hunt. These trips run from Monday to Thursday, with tickets priced at $12 for adults and $8 for children. Absecon Lighthouse also offers a variety of family activities throughout the year, including Wacky Wednesdays for kids in July and August, and the National Lighthouse Day Festival on August 7, 2025. Additionally, a Wine & Cheese Tasting will take place on August 9, 2025, and a Fiddle Concert is scheduled for August 27, 2025. Upcoming events include “Luscious Libations For The Lighthouse,” the Lighthouse Challenge of NJ in October, and the Pumpkin Patch Family Fun Festival on October 23. There will also be Haunted Tours with ghost investigations of paranormal evidence on October 25. For the holiday season, enjoy caroling, DJ tunes, personal luminaries, and a specialty wine and cheese tasting at the Luminary Light Festival on December 6.

What to know before you go

Absecon Lighthouse is open all year round. In July and August, it is open 7 days a week from 10 AM to 5 PM. From September to June, it is open Thursday through Monday from 11 AM to 4 PM. The last climb of the day is always a half hour before closing. Climbing fees are $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and college students, $6 for children (ages 4-12), and $5 for Atlantic City residents (with ID). Active-duty military personnel and children under 4 are admitted free of charge. Parking is free, and public restrooms are available. 

To learn more about Absecon Lighthouse visit their website, Instagram, and Facebook

Absecon Lighthouse
31 S Rhode Island Avenue
Atlantic City, NJ 08401

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