Fourth of July Weekend: Ten Things to do in Atlantic City
Summer in Atlantic City is full of fun, no matter when you go. But on Fourth of July weekend, there are lots of extra-special things to do while you’re visiting the gaming capital of the mid-Atlantic U.S. Here are our top 10 favorites!
1. Wine and Dine – A designated New Jersey Historical Site, the Renault Winery Resort and Golf Club in neighboring Egg Harbor offers fun and interesting “wine and dine” tours that depart from A.C. each day through the end of the summer. Packages include dinner, wine tasting, tour of Prohibition Alley and museum, and a visit to the gift shop. Or head to Renault Winery on your own for a tour and some wine tasting during your Fourth of July visit.
2. Laugh a Lot – The Tropicana’s Comedy Stop Café is the perfect place to let loose and laugh the night away. This comedy club offers nightly shows by some of the country’s funniest men and women. At 9 pm, be entertained by three headliners or, if you prefer, take in the 6 pm show, which features a comedy magician. This comfortable state-of-the-art theater is an ideal place to chill after a hot 4th of July celebration.
3. Check out the Art – Atlantic City has been working to amp up its cultural offerings and is proud to now offer ARTLANTIC: Wonder – a collection of modern art parks that features public murals, sculptures and more. There’s even a cool pirate ship installation the kids will love. Check it out!
4. Visit N.J.’s Tallest Lighthouse – Before the fireworks begin, make a 4th of July visit to the Absecon Lighthouse, completely restored in 1999. An easy walk from Showboat Casino, this lighthouse was first lit in 1857 and functioned for 150 years. Today, guests can climb to the top and enjoy the spectacular view of Atlantic City from the pinnacle. (Note: the lighthouse is closed on July 4th but open on the days surrounding the holiday.)
5. Watch the Fish – If you’d rather watch fish swim than catch them with a hook, head to the Atlantic City Aquarium, home to more than 100 species of fish and other related creatures. This modest aquarium is just the right size for kids and includes 11 tanks featuring a variety of sealife. There’s a touch tank, too, as well as other interactive exhibits, and it’s the ideal place to learn more about the marine life of coastal New Jersey.
6. Go Shopping – There are two terrific spots where you can catch some Fourth of July weekend bargains while in A.C. The Pier Shops at Caesars includes 75 upscale shops and a number of notable restaurants for a pampered shopping experience. Or if you prefer, head to the Tanger Outlets for a massive selection of stores (and plenty of eateries) spread out over several city blocks.
7. Enjoy a Concert – The casinos in Atlantic City attract some of the biggest names in show business, past and present. If you plan ahead for your 4th of July stay, you’ll be able to secure tickets for one of your favorites. You’ll find a huge variety of stars appearing at these magnificent Boardwalk theaters, from those of days-gone-by to some of today’s most popular musical artists.
8. Light Show Mania – During the summer, Atlantic City will present “Boardwalk Beat”, a family-friendly 3-D light show that will take place at famous Boardwalk Hall. Touted as a “feast for the eyes and ears”, this show takes place every evening on the half-hour from 8 to 11 pm. Very cool!
9. Pamper Yourself – The casino hotels in Atlantic City boast some of the most spectacular spas on the East Coast, including Bask by Exhale at the Revel and Spa Toccare at the Borgata. Take advantage of the wide menu of spa treatments available, ranging from soothing massages to invigorating body treatments. How about a couple’s experience where you can enjoy a spa day with your significant other before you head out on the town to explore the Fourth of July festivities?
10.Ooh, Aah!! – When it’s time for the 4th of July fireworks, you won’t be disappointed. Atlantic City’s display is always awesome and is generally the largest in New Jersey! Grab your spot early so you can enjoy this incredible fireworks extravaganza from the Boardwalk or beach, choreographed to music and sure to excite all ages. Don’t miss it!