Unveiling the Best of Atlantic City’s Attractions
From the Atlantic City Experience in the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall to Smithville Village, the Atlantic City area boasts some of New Jersey’s most exceptional attractions.
In a bygone era, Atlantic City was known largely for its casinos and gambling, a sort of Las Vegas of the East Coast. Today, it might still be “America’s Playground,” but it is much more: a bastion for artistic expression; a haven of tiny stores ideal for casual shopping; a history-steeped town with incredible artifacts and a fascinating past. These are just some of the reasons modern Atlantic City is more than craps and roulettes, and why travel groups should consider adding a stop in Jersey to their trip itineraries.
Dive into Atlantic City’s Vibrant Culture Scene
The Atlantic City Mural Tour is the perfect way for groups to begin their New Jersey adventure. Atlantic City is home to over 70 murals, many of which were created through Atlantic City Arts Foundation’s flagship program, 48 Blocks AC. This endeavor, an instant success and a key reason why modern Atlantic City is more beautiful and family-friendly than ever before, emphasizes artistic freedom and expression, motivating participating artists to bring their personal visions to life. The result is a diverse variety of styles across the 48 blocks of Atlantic City, from a “Z is for Zebra” mural on Mediterranean Avenue to one depicting Sarah Spencer Washington on Martin Luther King Boulevard. Those who appreciate art will be in heaven as they traverse the city’s streets, but all visitors will be refreshed and impressed by this location’s all-encompassing commitment to local creativity.
Artistic Marvels Along the Boardwalk
Next, a can’t-miss attraction situated conveniently in Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall: the Atlantic City Experience. This exhibit opened in July 2019 and reveals the scintillating history of Atlantic City. There is a display showcasing the “Summer of Freedom,” when the Democratic National Convention descended on the town in 1964. There are the artifacts related to Miss America and Mr. Peanut. Then there is the centerpiece, the Boardwalk Hall organ. The largest instrument in the world, this pipe organ took three years to build and weighs over 150 tons. It has over 30,000 pipes and boasts the ability to thunder 5.5 million cubic feet of air space into the main arena. Whether you enjoy pipe organs or consider yourself a mere casual observer, you will not want to miss this record-setting musical instrument.
Hidden Gems in Atlantic City Await Travelers
Finally, those looking to expand their horizons should take a 25-minute drive north to the historic Smithville Village in Galloway, New Jersey. Visitors who travel to this South Jersey gem have the opportunity to stroll the cobblestone pathways and beautiful manicured grounds as they visit over 40 unique shops and boutiques. In fact, Smithville doesn’t just give guests the chance to buy nicknacks while enjoying a serene atmosphere—it also allows them to step back in time. Tourists invariably enjoy the essence of this tiny enclave: the warm embrace of small-town hospitality; the glowing charm of local businesses and mom-and-pop stores. In a world of all-powerful corporations and conglomerates, a trip to Historic Smithville is exactly what travelers need to complete their robust Atlantic City itinerary.
For more information about travel in Atlantic City, be sure to Submit the Form Below and Download the Full June Edition of Leisure Group Travel for more travel ideas and information.
Contact Atlantic City For More Info
By Emily Malchow
