Atlantic City

Atlantic City was officially incorporated on May 1, 1854, born from the vision of Dr. Jonathan Pitney, who recognized the potential of Absecon Island as a seaside resort destination. A railroad connection from Philadelphia in the mid-19th century accelerated the city's growth, drawing visitors from across the region. In 1870, the Atlantic City Boardwalk opened — recognized as the first boardwalk in the United States — and it quickly became the backbone of the city's resort identity. Stretching approximately 5.5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, it remains one of the most iconic boardwalks in the world.

Atlantic City's cultural legacy extends far beyond the boardwalk. The Miss America pageant originated here in 1921, created to extend the tourist season past Labor Day, with the first winner being Margaret Gorman of Washington, D.C. The legendary Steel Pier, opened in 1898 and known as the "Show Place of the Nation," hosted big bands, amusements, and the famous diving horse. Today, the restored Steel Pier continues to draw families and visitors with rides and oceanfront entertainment. The Absecon Lighthouse, built between 1855 and 1857, stands at 171 feet tall — making it the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and one of the oldest.

Casino gambling was legalized in 1976, transforming Atlantic City into the "Las Vegas of the East Coast." The casinos along the Boardwalk and in the Marina District reshaped the city's economy and skyline, attracting major resort brands and conventions. The Atlantic City Convention Center and Stockton University's Atlantic City campus have further anchored the city as a year-round destination for business, education, and entertainment. While the city has faced economic challenges over the decades, significant revitalization efforts are ongoing — including new developments, infrastructure improvements, and investments in the arts, culture, and waterfront.

With a population of approximately 38,500, Atlantic City is the cultural and entertainment hub of the Jersey Shore. Its beaches, dining scene, live events, and proximity to other shore communities make it a dynamic place to live and invest. Whether you're drawn to the energy of the Boardwalk, the residential neighborhoods of the island, or the opportunity that comes with a city in transformation, Atlantic City offers a unique mix of history, opportunity, and coastal living.

Atlantic City beaches are entirely free to access — no beach tags are required. They are open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Chair and umbrella rentals are available for approximately $13. Swim only in designated areas when lifeguards from the Atlantic City Beach Patrol are on duty (10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.).