Absecon Lighthouse in Atlantic City is New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse, standing at 171 feet tall, making it a perfect day trip for little climbers and history-lovers alike. Families are invited to ascend all 240 steps to take in the shoreline’s beautiful views from the watch room. Offering the perfect mix of physical activity, picturesque views, and special historical exhibits that will take your family back in time, Absecon Lighthouse continues to be one of Atlantic City’s most popular attractions for families.
Absecon Lighthouse: A Family Destination for Climbers + History Lovers
In addition to its spectacular views and rich history, there are plenty of reasons to add Absecon Lighthouse to your bucket list of must-visit New Jersey attractions. The Keeper’s House Museum & Exhibits offers tours and a glimpse into the rich history over the past 150 years. Visitors are able to see the original first-order Fresnal Lens – the 150-year-old device that makes the structure a lighthouse! Although Absecon Lighthouse was decommissioned in 1933, the light continues to shine every evening for New Jersey families to enjoy.
‘Keeper Sleeper Overnights’ under star-studded skies
While visiting Absecon Lighthouse during the day offers miles of shoreline views, a visit overnight can provide an entirely new experience that children will always remember. The Keeper Sleeper Overnight program offers a fun and educational collection of activities meant to offer a glimpse into the life and responsibilities of a real lighthouse keeper as they worked 150 years ago. Learn about Absecon Lighthouse’s history, participate in a nighttime climb to the top of the tower, watch an entertaining film about lighthouse illumination, and experience unparalleled nighttime views of Atlantic City. Brave visitors can even be spooked with optional ghost stories. Available Saturday nights all year long, this exciting sleepover includes snacks, breakfast, and is perfect for a group outing.
Smile – you’re on camera!
After climbing to the tippy top of Absecon Lighthouse, don’t forget to stop and say, “Cheese!” A live selfie cam is perched atop the outdoor watch room for visitors to wave, smile, and ham it up for the camera. Prior to your visit, let your family and friends know to look out for you from their computer or mobile devices, and give your loved ones a shout-out from the top of Absecon Lighthouse.
We’re ready to visit. What do we need to know?
Absecon Lighthouse is open all year round to enjoy the views in every season. Parking is plentiful and free, and admission to the Keepers House Museum is also free for all. Leashed dogs are welcome on the two-acre lawn that surrounds the lighthouse.
September – June: Open Thursdays through Mondays, 11:00AM – 4:00PM
July and August: Open seven days a week, 10:00AM – 5:00PM, Thursdays open until 8:00PM
Climbing Fees: Adults $7, Seniors $5, Children Ages 4-12 $4, Children Under 4 are free, Atlantic City Residents $3 with ID, Active Military are Free.
Lighthouses are magical and mysterious historical structures, and Absecon Lighthouse is no exception. From educational sleepovers to special events to the task of the climb itself, this family attraction in New Jersey remains a perfect place to be curious about our state’s history.
To learn more about Absecon Lighthouse, call (609) 449-1360, visit their website, and follow along on Facebook and Twitter.
31 S Rhode Island Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401
When visiting Absecon Lighthouse (& other NJ attractions), don’t forget to hashtag #NJMOM and tag @njmomhq and your little cuties could be featured in our next photo round-up.
Has your family visited Absecon Lighthouse? Leave a comment below to let us know your favorite part about this attraction!
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