Atlantic City isn't the first shore town to come to mind when you think kid-friendly, but beyond the casino lights, this Jersey Shore town packs plenty of family-friendly fun, including an action-packed boardwalk with a legendary amusement park and a sandy shoreline.
Read on for our favorite things to do in Atlantic City with kids, and find lots more entertaining options in our Jersey Shore Family Guide.
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Best Things to Do in Atlantic City, NJ, with Kids
1. Play Mini-Golf
Atlantic City Miniature Golf is fairly small and not too flashy, making it the perfect spot to wind down after an exciting day, especially with younger kids. The grass-lined course is located on the boardwalk and features 18 holes and some pretty fixtures like waterfalls. In the evenings, the whole course glows under colorful tree lights.
2. Visit the Amusement Park
Steel Pier is the boardwalk's outdoor amusement park, and it's packed with rides, carnival-type prize games, boardwalk food, vendors, and the famous Ferris wheel that looks out over the entire city. There are over 25 rides for every member of the family, including kid-friendly picks and more extreme options like the Slingshot for thrill-seekers. For a splurge, climb aboard a helicopter at the end for an unforgettable ride along the shoreline.
3. Visit a Retro Arcade
Sadly, the classic old arcade Central Pier Arcade had to permanently shut its doors following a fire in June 2024. But don't worry, if you're a fan of the retro arcade, the smaller but no-less-charming Playcade Arcade is still serving up old-school games. The space is cozy, but it's full of pinball machines, video games, and prize games.
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From classic amusements to helicopter tours, Atlantic City's Steel Pier has it all.
4. Try an Escape Room
Escape AC is a hidden gem tucked away in the Tropicana Casino and Resort. There are several rooms to choose from, each promising to provide a challenge and take about 60 minutes. The rooms are said to be extremely challenging—you might not manage to escape, but Escape AC promises that you'll have fun trying. The recommended age for these escape rooms is 13 and up, so save this one for the older kids.
5. Explore a Lighthouse
Absecon Lighthouse is New Jersey's tallest lighthouse, located at the corner of Pacific and Rhode Island Avenues. Steel yourself for the 228 step ascension to its pinnacle. It's open daily in July and August and closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from September to June. There's an on-site museum in the Keeper's House, plus a gift shop on the grounds. Anyone can check it out from outside, of course, but you can also go inside for a fee.
6. Splash Around at the Water Park
The newly opened Island Water Park is the best place to hang out on a hot summer day. Located inside the Showboat Hotel, this large park has attractions for the whole family, including high- and low-thrill slides, a giant splash pad, a lazy river that spans the entire park, and more. There are food vendors with kid-friendly options, bars for the adults, and plenty of space to sit down, relax, and get your splash on.
7. Over-Indulge in Seafood
Every Wednesday and Thursday in July and August, the Steel Pier hosts the family-friendly All-You-Can-Eat Seafood Extravaganza. For just $30 per person, you can get your fill of as much lobster, crab, shrimp, fish, and other seafood delicacies as you can fit in your stomach. Other dishes are available, like pasta and rice side dishes, but let's be honest—you're here for the seafood! This is a must if you and your kids are seafood enthusiasts.
8. Visit a Modern Arcade
The Lucky Snake Arcade in Showboat is the newest arcade on the boardwalk, and it's absolutely huge. It proclaims itself to be the largest arcade in the world and, having explored it thoroughly, this isn't hard to believe. The arcade has hundreds of games, both the prize-ticket printing kind and the just-for-fun kind. There's also a go-kart race track, a roller-skating rink, mini-golf, a whole room dedicated to pinball machines, Virtual Reality experiences, and oh so much more. For a slightly smaller but no-less-awesome option, check out Harrah's simply named ARCADE. This space is also fairly new and has over 60 games for all ages to play and enjoy.
9. Cruise the Boards on a Tram or Rolling Chair
If you need to give everyone's legs a rest from touring the boards, consider traveling via the town's famous "rolling chairs." Dating to the 1880s, these people-powered rides charge by the block, and a tip for your driver isn't included, so be prepared to fork over a little extra cash. For a 21st-century upgrade, hop aboard the Boardwalk Tram Service, which offers all-day passes so you can hop on and off to your heart's desire.
10. Visit the Aquarium
The Atlantic City Aquarium has been closed since March 2020, and its reopening has been announced several times. The aquarium is a cute small space with two main exhibit floors and a third-floor observation deck. While it was closed, it received an interior facelift, including new flooring, windows, a bathroom renovation, lighting, electrical, plumbing, and many other repairs. This time, it seems the aquarium is finally reopening in September 2024—for real, this time. Stay tuned for this little aquarium's triumphant comeback!
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Atlantic City's shoreline is as scenic as you'll find elsewhere on the Jersey Shore, and it's completely FREE.
11. Sate Your Sweet Tooth
For a sweet treat, step inside the local chain outpost of It'Sugar. This candy-filled wonderland is stocked with all your favorite sweet treats. For a sweet treat that's more authentic to the boardwalk, get some saltwater taffy at James Candy Company and an assortment of other homemade "nostalgic confections."
12. Watch a Movie
Make it a movie night at the IMAX Theater at Tropicana. Not only is this the only IMAX theater in Southern New Jersey, but it's also the only movie theater in Atlantic City, in general. Located on the third floor of Tropicana's shopping mall, The Quarter, you can catch all the latest flicks at this impressively large and immersive theater.
13. Get Your Game on at Dave and Buster's
Just off the boardwalk, on the border between the casinos and Tanger Outlet Mall, sits the new Dave and Busters of Atlantic City. The family-favorite spot opened in December 2023 and features a restaurant, sports bar, and arcade in one. It's a great place to spend a whole day and keep cool during the blistering summer months.
14. Shop the Outlets
If bargain hunting is your favorite sport, Tanger Outlets is home to more than 70 shops, from big-name designers, like Coach, to kid-friendly outposts like Old Navy. Stop by the information center and ask for the Tangers coupon book: There are often sales on top of the already discounted prices.
15. Join a Boat Tour
If you prefer to be out on the water instead of in or next to it, Atlantic City Cruises has you covered. Join a boat tour to see Atlantic City from a different perspective, or to go dolphin watching!
16. Visit Storybook Land
For a day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the Atlantic City boardwalk, take a trip out to Storybook Land. This charming children's theme park is located in Egg Harbor Township, just a 20-minute car ride from AC. This is a real treat for smaller kids, with no-frills and low-thrill rides like small roller coasters and rides themed around storybook characters like dragons. Note that most rides have a height minimum of 36-42" tall, though some allow shorter children on with a parent.
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Stand outside Lucy the Elephant or go on a guided tour to see the 360-degree views from atop her back. Photo courtesy of the venue
Free Things to Do with Kids in Atlantic City, NJ
17. Go to the Beach
Perhaps it seems obvious for a shore town, but most visitors don't flock to Atlantic City for its sandy beaches. The best part is that, unlike many other Jersey Shore beaches, Atlantic City Beach is completely free.
18. Bike the Boardwalk
Whether you bring your own or decide to rent, a family bike ride on the boardwalk is a great way to start the day. Note that biking is only allowed during select hours which vary by season, so read up on biking in Atlantic City before you head out.
19. Relax in a Waterfront Park
If you need a place to get away from the masses and just relax with the family, consider visiting Oscar E. McClinton Waterfront Park, where you can relax at the central pavilion while taking in stunning views of the Absecon Inlet. Little kids can run wild at the large playground on-site.
20. Watch the Annual Airshow
The annual Atlantic City Airshow, which happens every year in mid-August, is the best place to see high-flying stunts from the likes of the U.S. Army's Golden Knights parachute team, the Air Force Thunderbirds, and more. The event is free but note that hotels hike up their prices and fill up quickly for the airshow dates, so make sure to book well in advance. Also be aware that several planes will be producing literal sonic booms, which are, needless to say, incredibly loud and potentially frightening for younger visitors. Insider tip: If you visit a day or two before the show, you can usually watch the planes practicing, which is just as exciting!
21. Go Fishing
Go fish in Atlantic City for a chance to catch everything from cod and flounder to tuna and even shark. Fishing is allowed during specific hours and there are official charters you can book to join a fishing expedition. Or, try to catch your dinner with Highroller Fishing, which sails twice a day in the summer and boasts some impressive hauls. Kids are welcome aboard!
22. Explore the Casinos
You might not think of casinos as either kid-friendly or free, but Atlantic City's famous casino spaces have more to offer than slots and Blackjack. Each casino has its own style and lavish decorations that are often a marvel to behold. You can gape at the beautiful hanging crystals and whimsical seasonal floral displays at Borgata, browse historic rock and roll mementos at the Hard Rock, or explore Tropicana's Havana-inspired indoor mall. Kids are allowed as long as they stick to the designated paths, and you don't have to pay a cent to look around!
23. Visit Gardner's Basin
If you're ready for some fun on the water, Gardner's Basin has several options, whether you want to boat watch from the ground or see the city from a unique viewpoint with Atlantic City Parasail. It's also home to the aquarium, where several fishing and sightseeing boats depart from, and has several bayside dining options.
24. Say Hello to Lucy the Elephant
Nearby Margate City is home to the larger-than-life Lucy the Elephant. This six-story novelty architecture piece is on the National Register of Historic Places. Kids love gazing up at the friendly pachyderm, and you can visit the grounds for free—or get a guided half-hour tour of the inside for a low fee.
25. Take a Historical Day Trip
Atlantic City's location makes it a great jumping-off point for a historical day trip. Some of our favorite historic villages near Atlantic City are an easy drive away. Head north to visit Historic Smithville (20 minutes) or the Tuckerton Seaport (40 minutes), or south to see Cold Spring Village (1 hour).
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Atlantic City
26. Atlantic City Bar & Grill
Despite the bar in its name, the Atlantic City Bar & Grill has plenty of seating areas for families, and the food and service are fantastic. The family-owned restaurant is known by visitors and locals to have friendly service, delicious food, and excellent drinks. Plan to dine early in the evening as the crowd starts to fill in later.
27. The Irish Pub
The Irish Pub is located just off the boardwalk and is, despite the name, super kid-friendly. The space features gorgeous decor with historic art and sculptures on display, including signed photos and prints from the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio. The pub is family-owned and you feel like you're home as soon as you walk through the door, with some of the warmest and nicest waitstaff we've ever come across. The chicken tenders and steak fries are always a win. Plus, there are coloring books and crayons for the littles—just ask. Just one thing to note before you go: it's cash-only here! (And if you like it here, you can book a room at the next-door inn for surprisingly low rates!)
28. Rainforest Cafe
The Rainforest Cafe is a staple of the Atlantic City boardwalk. Adults will probably find it outdated and campy but it's always a favorite with the kids. Decorated exorbitantly with fake trees and foliage, kids will get a kick out of spotting all the animals hidden in the canopy. Some animals are animatronics that periodically move around and make noise. Every half an hour, there's a "thunderstorm" in the forest (be ready for this, as smaller visitors might get spooked!). Just be aware that this place isn't exactly known for amazing food—but it's a must-visit for the vibes.
29. The Yard at Bally's
Super new and very chic, The Yard at Bally's is a venue for families that prefer a more modern approach to dining. Located on the boardwalk, this restaurant is a cube house enclosed by glass on all sides. Umbrellas and string lights make it feel like you're dining out but without any of the heat of sand in your face. The menu is fairly limited but has excellent choices, with some options for the whole table, like the "bucket o' chicken" and classic entrees like citrus salmon or burgers. It's better known for its craft beers, and happy hours are popping. The space is technically a beer garden, and it becomes 21+ after 9 pm, so plan accordingly.
30. The Borgata Buffet
Once upon a time, every hotel and casino on the AC boardwalk had its own all-you-can-eat buffet. Today, Borgata is one of the last remaining buffets in the city, Borgata's buffet operates in three shifts, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner options all serving up a different selection of meals. No matter when you go, there's a huge variety, including American comfort food, seafood, Asian options like sushi and lo mein, carving stations (don't miss the beef brisket, it's delicious and melts in your mouth!), and tons of desserts (if you have any room left after your meal!). Note that Borgata isn't located on the boardwalk and, unless you're driving, you'll need to catch a Jitney shuttle to get there.
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The massive King Kong Sundae is only one of Sugar Factory's over-the-top confections. Photo by Matt Harbicht for The Food Network
31. Sugar Factory
If you didn't get enough sweet treats at It'Sugar, consider booking a reservation at the Sugar Factory. Whether you just step inside to visit the cafe or opt for a sit-down meal at this boardwalk eatery, its desserts are legendary. Don't miss out on the King Kong Sunday and the well-known "Insane Milkshakes."
Best Atlantic City Hotels for Families
32. Showboat Hotel
Showboat Hotel is one of the most family-friendly hotels on the Atlantic City boardwalk. It has no casino on-site, so you can access the hotel without having to see a single slot machine. The Showboat hotel is also home to Island Water Park and Lucky Snake Arcade—and you can get a discounted rate for the water park if you're a hotel guest. The hotel pool isn't very large but you can get on-site beach and bike rentals and play on the beach instead.
33. Ocean Casino Resort
Located right on the boardwalk and just steps from everything, the Ocean Casino Resort is the place to stay if you want to be entertained. The hotel has a packed events calendar, particularly in the more popular summer months. Stay here to be dazzled by spectacular drone shows, live performances, and shows at their large theater, a beautiful indoor and outdoor pool, a slew of indoor shops, and even helicopter rides.
34. Borgata
Borgata has some of the nicest rooms in Atlantic City, with spacious, clean rooms. The only catch? It's not located on the boardwalk. Still, if you have a car or don't mind catching the local shuttle, this is one of the best spots to stay in AC with kids. There's a heated indoor pool, plenty of dining options (including the buffet), and the art displays rotate seasonally. The adjoining MGM Tower has a high-end, quiet vibe and wonderful waterfall showerheads. (Note that the MGM Towers pool is 21+ only, but visitors of the Tower can freely use Borgata's indoor pool as well, which you can reach without leaving the properties.)
This post, originally published 2012, has been updated. Alyssa Wolford contributed additional reporting.
Unless noted, photos courtesy of Visit Atlantic City
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