Atlantic City itinerary scene

Weekend itinerary

Atlantic City in one good water day.

Atlantic City's casinos are built to make you forget the ocean is a hundred yards away; this weekend keeps walking back out to the Boardwalk, where the surf reminds you.

By Cal Mercer — a Second Star Guide itinerary

Morning surf, wooden boards, and the casino skyline establish Atlantic City before the indoor evening begins.

Best length

2 nights

Friday evening through Sunday morning covers the central Boardwalk, beach, one casino or show, and a landmark beyond the resort corridor.

Stay

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

A central Boardwalk resort near Steel Pier with beach access, concert venues, restaurants, and a busy casino…

Main activity

Boardwalk

The central Boardwalk, beach ramps, and Steel Pier belong in the longest daylight block.

Pace

Boardwalk and beach weekend

Expect several miles on flat boards, one substantial beach block, and a separate ride for the Marina or restaurants away from the oceanfront.

Atlantic City Boardwalk after a summer shower
The central Boardwalk connects Boardwalk Hall, beach ramps, casino fronts, and Steel Pier.
Atlantic City Marina District at blue hour
The Marina District is a separate resort area from the oceanfront Boardwalk.
Old-school Italian-American dinner in Atlantic City
Atlantic City's restaurant history reaches well beyond casino dining rooms.

Friday

Check in, eat pizza, and see the Boardwalk lights.

After check-in, use Tony's Baltimore Grill for pizza and red sauce, then take a short Boardwalk walk without trying to cover the entire promenade.

4:00 PM

Saturday

Beach, Boardwalk, Steel Pier, and a seafood dinner.

Start near the Marina with breakfast at Gilchrist, return to the oceanfront for the main walk and beach time, then finish at Dock's Oyster House or the evening venue on your ticket.

4:30 PM

Afternoon

Return to the hotel before the evening venue.

Shower off the sand, change clothes, and check the exact address for dinner, a concert, or the casino you plan to visit.

Sunday

Climb the lighthouse or take one last ocean walk.

Use the final morning for Absecon Lighthouse when it is open, a quieter north Boardwalk stretch, or breakfast before checkout.