Mesmerizing museums
Spend an afternoon ambling around Atlantic City’s top museums, where history fans will be in their element. Providing serene respite from the casinos, these showcase an array of dazzling finds, from faded sepia photographs to shiny military memorabilia.
Get to grips with Atlantic City’s culturally diverse heritage at this beachfront museum. See the old fashioned costumes and nostalgic photographs of Atlantic City during its turn-of-the-century heyday, as well as sand sculptures and vintage documentaries about the boardwalk and its world.
New Jersey Avenue & The Boardwalk, Atlantic City NJ 08401.
African American Heritage Museum of Southern NJ
The AAHM is an illuminating museum that provides a visual display of African American culture. It showcases a huge variety of engrossing artifacts - from vibrant paintings and sketches to retro 50s furniture and household items. Set back from the main boardwalk, the museum also offers a slice of calm and tranquility.
2200 Fairmount Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401.
Inspiring artworks
Throughout Atlantic City you’ll discover a strong undercurrent of local creative talent with a passion for compelling contemporary and fine art - whether it be abstract sculptures, quirky documentary photographs, or dramatic landscape paintings. Atlantic City Arts Center
Occupying pride of place on a pier over the ocean, you’ll discover the Atlantic City Arts Center. This is an airy, welcoming space which provides room for local and international artists to present their work. The center has strong ties with the schools, colleges, and arts organizations, meaning that there’s a regular turn-around of diverse and riveting work. The center also hosts live events like comedy and music - so be sure to check its calendar.
S New Jersey Ave, Atlantic City NJ 08401.
Performing arts
Another reminder that there's more to Atlantic City than the decadence of the games rooms, the region has its share of bold and daring performing arts venues where you'll laugh, cry and think in equal measure.
Dante Hall Theater is a cozy, intimate performing arts venue ideal for the urban explorer who craves some bohemian live entertainment. From spine-tingling spoken word poetry to edge-of-your-seat theater, there’s always an unforgettable show at this off-beat venue.
14 N Mississippi Avenue, Atlantic City NJ 08401.
After an elegant and refined evening of entertainment? With a starry international troupe, and seamlessly smooth, meticulously choreographed performances, this company is sure to wow ballet buffs and newbies alike. Check their website for seasonal performances and venue details.
713 W Moss Mill Road, Egg Harbor City NJ 08215.
Historic landmarks
For a city so saturated in the glossy casino lights, Atlantic City hides a surprising number of historic landmarks - many right under your nose. Even when walking along the bustling boardwalk, you’re visiting a historic landmark: it was the first ever built in the USA. Absecon Lighthouse
Standing proud in the northern part of the city, Absecon Lighthouse was first lit back in 1857. Today it stands as a magnificent, black-and-white monument where you can ascend the steps and explore the carefully re-created keeper’s quarters. Not to mention taking in the picturesque scenery from it’s 170-foot high viewing deck.
31 S Rhode Island Avenue, Atlantic City NJ 08401.
