Founded in the 1850s, Atlantic City, New Jersey, quickly became the greatest middle-class resort town in the U.S., and when the Boardwalk was built a few decades later, well, its appeal grew even more. In addition to the Boardwalk, good old-fashioned seaside fun included carousels, miniature golf, boxes of saltwater taffy and live entertainment, all under the warm sun. Considered a wellness destination in its early days, as Atlantic City’s popularity grew it became one of the country’s first convention destinations, and is still popular with meeting and event planners today. When it comes to marrying business and pleasure, there’s no better place than America’s Playground.  

 

Why Atlantic City 

  • Within proximity of New York City, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.; flights arrive at the Atlantic City (ACY) and Philadelphia (PHL) international airports. 

  • The Atlantic City Convention Center is LEED Gold-certified, and the city is committed to eco-conscious efforts. 

  • The iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk is the first boardwalk built in the U.S. 

 

What’s New in Atlantic City 

  • A $25 million restoration project on parts of the Atlantic City Boardwalk was recently completed. 

  • Named the Top Destination Award Winner by Facilities & Destinations. 

  • The Atlantic City Convention Center was named Best Convention Center by Meetings Today. 

 

There are plenty of options when it comes to things to see and do in Atlantic City, as well as places to grab a bite to eat or host a power breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Here are a few spots to pique your interest and help ensure your clients will enjoy their time in America’s Playground. 

 

 

SEE 

 

Steel Pier 

Wow your guests with a classic Atlantic City experience with a visit to Steel Pier, which was first built in 1898. A lot has changed since its inception, but one thing remains constant—the pier is a terrific place to enjoy yourself on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. Take your visit to the next level with a private event at Ocean Reef Oasis, boasting 360-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean and city skyline. 

 

Absecon Lighthouse 

Absecon Lighthouse

The tallest lighthouse in New Jersey at 171 feet, and one of the oldest in the U.S., is right here in Atlantic City: Absecon Lighthouse. First lit in January 1857 and decommissioned in 1933, the original first-order Fresnel lens still lights the night sky to this day. Take a guided tour of the grounds and museum before climbing 228 steps to the watch room at the top for panoramic views of the city below. 

 

Atlantic City Murals 

The Atlantic City Arts Foundation recently celebrated the creation of the 100th artwork in the city’s vibrant 48 Blocks AC Mural Program. Artists from varying backgrounds, locations and levels of experiences have been invited to bring their visions to life by way of permanent public art across the 48 blocks that make up Atlantic City. A Mural Map highlights the murals throughout the city, including “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work” at Dolphin Field, “Aquarium” in Horace Bryant, Jr. Park, and “Oystercatchers” near the Boardwalk. 

 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services and Roberts Events Group, a Hosts Global Member. 

 

 

DO 

 

Lucy the Elephant 

 

Photo: Save Lucy Committee, Inc.

 

Built in 1881 to lure potential buyers to buy real estate along the coast of South Atlantic City, Lucy the Elephant is as iconic as the famed Boardwalk. Considered the oldest roadside attraction in the U.S. and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976, Lucy makes her home today on the beach in Josephine Harron Park. Guided tours are available, as are private events. Imagine the photo opps!   

 

Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 

Photo: Visit Atlantic City

 

For more than 90 years the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall has entertained Atlantic City with its dazzling performers and sporting events. The hall also houses the world’s largest musical instrument: two pipe organs that are more powerful than a dozen orchestras. Today, the hall hosts live concerts, musicals, dance performances, theatrical productions and sporting events (upcoming events here), and private events, too. 

 

Atlantic City Boardwalk 

Stretching four miles along the Atlantic Ocean, the Atlantic City Boardwalk is not only the world’s first boardwalk, built in 1870, but the longest, too. In addition to plenty of sandy beach to enjoy, the iconic landmark is filled with activities to keep your group entertained morning to night, including miniature golf, arcades, bicycling, or rides in a rolling chair, a nod to the luxury of the 1880s.  

 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services and Roberts Events Group, a Hosts Global Member. 

 

 

EAT 

 

Cardinal 

Photo: Cardinal Website

 

Steps from the Boardwalk in the Orange Loop neighborhood is Cardinal with its New American menu that pairs well with innovative cocktails. Open for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, dishes at Cardinal vary from Lamb Burgers and Cardinal Smash Burgers at lunch, to Ricotta Gnocchi, New York Strip Frites and vegetarian dishes like Cauliflower Steak for dinner. Private dining rooms and outdoor space can accommodate groups from 15 to 300 guests. 

 

Dock’s Oyster House 

Photo: Dock's Oyster House Website

 

An Atlantic City institution, Dock’s Oyster House has been owned and operated by the Dougherty family since 1897. In addition to an impressive raw bar, guests can expect fresh seafood, succulent steaks and guest favorite classic dishes like Crab Au Gratin, Pecan Crusted Salmon and Crispy Wasabi Tuna. Private and semi-private dining rooms are available for a more exclusive gathering. 

 

Setaara 

Photo: Sataar Instagram

 

Afghani and French cuisine blend for memorable meals at family-run Setaara. The restaurant’s ambience is nearly as exquisite as its food, meant to transport guests to 1960’s Afghanistan, complete with heated outdoor terrace, artwork created by local artists, and seating options ranging from traditional (floor) to booths and tables. The menu is equally tantalizing with dishes like lamb, steak, or kabobs; guest favorite Uzbeki Palau with Afghan rice and lamb shanks cooked with onions, shredded carrots and raisins; and plenty of vegetarian options. To try it all, opt for the tasting menu.  

 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services and Roberts Events Group, a Hosts Global Member. 

 

 

STAY 

 

ALHI Member Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City is ready to welcome you and your guests to America’s Playground.

 

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Spanning 17 acres with the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk serving as its backdrop is the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City with 2,000 guests rooms and suites, and 150,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space to suit any size of group, from intimate board meetings to all out bangers. For even more space, take advantage of Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, which can accommodate up to 7,000 guests. When it’s time to play, catch a show in the 400-seat Hard Rock Café, relax in the Rock Spa & Salon, or dine at Kuro, named the Best Hotel Restaurant in the Country by USA Today.

 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services and Roberts Events Group, a Hosts Global Member.