Atlantic City, NJ
- About the city
- Geography
- Climate and weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions and Services
Atlantic City is a coastal resort city in New Jersey, famous for its iconic Boardwalk, casinos, and as the inspiration for the U.S. version of the Monopoly board game.
About the city
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
The full official name of the city is Atlantic City. It is not a state capital but is the largest city and a major economic hub within Atlantic County, New Jersey, United States. The state of New Jersey is part of the mid-Atlantic region, known for its dense population, diverse economy, and extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean .
Historical Names and Nicknames
Atlantic City is known by several notable nicknames:
- "The World's Playground" : This famous nickname dates back to the early 20th century, reflecting the city's heyday as a premier destination for entertainment, amusements, and leisure .
- "Do AC" : The city's modern official slogan, used in marketing and promotional campaigns .
Date of Foundation and Age
Atlantic City was officially incorporated as a city by an act of the New Jersey Legislature on May 1, 1854. The city was carved out of portions of Egg Harbor Township and Galloway Township . The same year, train service began, linking the remote parcel of land with Philadelphia and establishing it as a resort destination. As of 2026, the city is 172 years old .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 39°22′39″N 74°27′04″W (approximately 39.3775, -74.4511) .
- Location: Atlantic City is located on Absecon Island, a barrier island on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean in South Jersey . It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and back-bay waters and marshlands to the west.
- Elevation: The elevation of the city is at or near sea level (0 meters / 0 feet) , making it highly characteristic of a coastal barrier island .
- Settlement Type: It is a coastal resort city and a major tourist destination.
Type of City and Economic Specialization
Atlantic City is a city with a specialized economic focus :
- Tourism and Entertainment Center: Its primary identity is as a major tourist destination, drawing visitors for its beaches, boardwalk, and nightlife.
- Gambling and Casino Resort Hub: It is the largest gambling destination on the U.S. East Coast. Casino gambling was legalized in 1976, and the first casino, Resorts International, opened in 1978, transforming the city's economy .
- Convention Center: It has a long history as a convention host, notably for the 1964 Democratic National Convention, with Boardwalk Hall serving as a major venue .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the most recent data, the city proper has a population of about 38,497 people (2020) . In 2008, the population was estimated at 35,770, with the Atlantic City–Hammonton metropolitan statistical area home to around 266,268 people .
- Class: Atlantic City is a small city in terms of permanent population, but its visitor numbers swell the population significantly on any given day.
"Визитная карточка" города (коротко)
Atlantic City is the East Coast's iconic beachfront playground, where the world's first and longest boardwalk lines miles of free, sandy beaches. It is a destination famed for its bustling casino resorts, historic amusement piers like the Steel Pier, and its enduring legacy as the inspiration for the classic Monopoly board game .
Geography
Islands and Barrier Islands
- Absecon Island: The city is entirely situated on Absecon Island, a barrier island along the New Jersey coast. This geographic feature defines the city's relationship with the Atlantic Ocean and the back-bay ecosystems. Other municipalities on the island include Ventnor City, Margate City, and Longport .
Climate and weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Atlantic City has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) , transitioning to a hot-summer humid continental climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cool to cold winters. It has a temperate climate with significant rainfall spread throughout the year .
Average Temperatures by Month
Data based on long-term averages for the Atlantic City area .
- Hottest Month: July and August are the hottest, with average daytime maximum temperatures reaching 27°C (81°F) .
- Coldest Month: January is the coldest, with average daytime maximum temperatures of 5°C (41°F) and night-time minimums dropping to -4°C (25°F) .
- Extreme Record Temperature: The record high temperature is 41°C (106°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Rainfall: The region receives a significant amount of rainfall, averaging around 1,167 mm (45.96 inches) per year .
- Wettest Month: August is typically the wettest month, with average rainfall around 105 mm (4.13 inches) .
- Humidity: Relative humidity is consistently high year-round, averaging between 69% and 76%, contributing to the sticky, "soupy" feel of summer days .
Sunshine and UV Index
- Sunshine Hours: The city enjoys a good amount of sunshine, especially in the summer. July, August, and June all average 9 hours of sunshine per day . The area receives about 56% of possible sunshine annually .
- UV Index: The UV Index peaks during the summer months, reaching a maximum of 8 or 9 from June through August, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure .
Water Temperature
- Sea Temperature: The Atlantic Ocean waters are cold in winter, dropping to 4°C (39°F) in February. They become comfortably warm for swimming by late summer, peaking at 23°C (73°F) in August .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June-August) : This is the peak tourist season, characterized by hot, humid weather, with average highs around 27°C (81°F). The sea is warm, and sunshine is abundant, making it ideal for swimming and boardwalk activities .
- Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) : These shoulder seasons offer the most pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor exploration. Temperatures are mild (from 10°C to 24°C) and comfortable .
- Winter (December-February) : Winters are cold, with average highs ranging from 5-7°C (41-45°F) and lows around -3 to -1°C (27-30°F). While too cold for swimming, it can be a good time for hotel deals and indoor attractions .
Specific Weather Phenomena
- Tropical Storms and Hurricanes: As a coastal city on the Atlantic, Atlantic City is within the hurricane belt. The months of August and September carry the highest risk of being affected by tropical storms, although direct hits are infrequent . The city's history includes a major hurricane in 1944 that significantly damaged the boardwalk .
Landmarks
[The Atlantic City Boardwalk]
- Full Name: The Atlantic City Boardwalk.
- Year Opened: 1870 .
- Description: The world's first boardwalk, originally built to help hotel owners keep sand out of their lobbies . It is now the longest boardwalk in the world, stretching 4 miles (6.4 km) along the Atlantic Ocean in Atlantic City, with an additional 1.5 miles into Ventnor City . It is reinforced with steel and concrete and is the city's most iconic landmark, lined with casinos, shops, and restaurants .
[Historic Steel Pier]
- Full Name: Steel Pier.
- Year Opened: 1898 .
- Description: A historic amusement pier extending from the boardwalk over the ocean. Once known as "The Showplace of the Nation," it features classic amusement rides, including The Wheel, the third-largest observation wheel in the United States, a swing carousel, and carnival games . It famously hosted diving horse acts in the 1920s .
[Absecon Lighthouse]
- Full Name: Absecon Lighthouse.
- Year Lit: 1857 .
- Description: New Jersey's tallest lighthouse, standing 171 feet (52 meters) high. It was conceived in 1854, the same year the city was incorporated, to warn ships away from the dangerous shoals. It is a historic beacon and a popular attraction where visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views .
[Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall]
- Full Name: Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall (formerly Atlantic City Convention Hall).
- Year Built: 1929 .
- Description: A National Historic Landmark and an architectural marvel, famous for its 137-foot-high barrel vault ceiling, which was the world's largest clear-span space when built . It has hosted the Miss America Pageant, the 1964 Democratic National Convention, and countless concerts. It is also home to the world's largest musical instrument, the Midmer-Losh Pipe Organ .
Transport
Main Airports
- Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) : Code IATA: ACY. Located in nearby Egg Harbor Township, it is the primary airport serving the region, offering domestic flights and some international services .
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) : Code IATA: PHL. Located about 60 miles (97 km) away in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this major international hub offers a far wider array of global connections and serves as a major alternative for travelers coming to Atlantic City.
Other Airports
- Bader Field: A historic former municipal airport, now defunct, located on the island itself. It was one of the first airports in the country and is now used for events and recreation .
Main Railway Stations
- Atlantic City Rail Terminal: Located in the city, it is the terminus of NJ TRANSIT's Atlantic City Line, which provides regular commuter rail service to Philadelphia's 30th Street Station, making it a convenient option for visitors from that metro area.
Major Highways and Roads
Several major routes connect Atlantic City to the mainland and the rest of the East Coast :
- Atlantic City Expressway: A major toll road that provides the most direct route from the Philadelphia area and points west to the city's doorstep.
- US Route 30 (White Horse Pike) : Connects the city to points south and west.
- US Route 40/322 (Black Horse Pike) : Another primary artery linking the city to southern New Jersey and beyond.
- Route 87: The primary bridge connecting Atlantic City to the neighboring island of Brigantine to the north.
Public Transport System
- NJ TRANSIT Buses: An extensive network of NJ TRANSIT buses connects Atlantic City with other communities throughout South Jersey, including a new express shuttle service from Vineland launched in 2025 . The main hub is the Atlantic City Bus Terminal .
- Local Jitneys: The Atlantic City Jitney Association operates a fleet of minibuses that run frequently along the length of Pacific Avenue and the Boardwalk, providing an essential and historic local transport service. NJ TRANSIT connections are available at the Bus Terminal for service to the casinos .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
While Atlantic City is a famed destination, its culinary identity is less about unique local inventions and more about classic American seafood and boardwalk fare, often prepared with a focus on fresh, coastal ingredients. The city's dining scene ranges from casual beachfront bites to more refined experiences .
Classic American Seafood Dishes
Given its prime coastal location, Atlantic City's culinary offerings are centered on the ocean. Several classic American seafood dishes are staples at restaurants throughout the city and are a must-try for visitors.
- Crab Cake: A quintessential dish, the crab cake is a popular type of fishcake made from shellfish meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and flavorings like mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh herbs. While the concept dates back to early English settlers, crab cakes became widespread in the U.S. in the 20th century. In Atlantic City, they are often served on a hamburger bun with saltine crackers, lemon wedges, and coleslaw .
- Fried Oysters: This dish is traditionally associated with U.S. coastal areas. Shucked oysters are dipped in batter, often made with buttermilk for a lighter coating, and fried until crispy and golden. They are a popular snack or appetizer, frequently paired with hot sauce or a squeeze of citrus .
- New England Clam Chowder: This creamy stew is one of the earliest American dishes, originating with the Pilgrims. It is made with briny clams, chunks of salt pork, sweet onions, and potatoes in a milk or cream base. It's a comforting and sea-flavored classic found in many Atlantic City eateries .
- Surf and Turf: This classic entrée combines a portion of meat, usually a steak, with a portion of seafood, such as lobster, shrimp, or prawns. It became popular across the U.S. during the 1960s and remains a popular choice for a hearty meal .
Boardwalk Bites and Drinks
The Atlantic City Boardwalk is a destination in itself, offering a wide array of casual dining and drinking options with an ocean view .
- Boardwalk Food: Visitors can enjoy hand-tossed, wood-fired pizza at Forno Pizza, or bold, saucy chicken tenders and sandwiches from celebrity chef Guy Fieri's Chicken Guy!. For a taste of Germany, The Biergarten offers pretzels and craft beers in an open-air, family-friendly setting .
- Beachfront Dining: LandShark Bar & Grill at Resorts Casino provides casual dining with panoramic ocean views. Just south of the boardwalk, The Queen Bean Bistro in Ventnor City offers a different vibe with a focus on clean eating, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and farm-fresh fare .
- Refreshing Drinks: The boardwalk is also known for its drink scene. Boardwalk Billy's serves frozen daiquiris made with organic ingredients. MAYA, a Riviera-style cocktail lounge, offers coastal cocktails and stylish small plates. For a quick drink on the go, Cheval de Plongée is a walk-up window with seasonal cocktails, while Bungalow Beach Bar and Bally's Beach Bar offer lively, beachside lounging with cocktails and live entertainment .
Museums
Atlantic City's museums offer a deep dive into the region's rich cultural heritage, with a strong focus on African American history and art.
Historical and Cultural Museums
African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey: Founded by Ralph E. Hunter Sr., this powerful museum began as a personal collection and opened to the public in 2002 . It invites visitors to explore the art, history, and lived experiences of African Americans in South Jersey and beyond. The museum houses a collection of more than 33,000 pieces, though only about 5% is on display at any given time . A key permanent exhibit is Stereotypes, which explores the impact of imagery throughout history. Rotating exhibits highlight local Black artists. The museum has locations in both Atlantic City, inside the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University, and in Buena Vista Township .
Civil Rights Garden: Located on Pacific Avenue at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, this garden is a peaceful place for reflection . It features granite columns, sculptures, trees, and inscriptions that honor key moments and figures from the Civil Rights Movement, offering a quiet and thoughtful connection to history .
Chicken Bone Beach: This stretch of sand near Missouri Avenue is a historic landmark. Before Atlantic City was fully integrated, it was the only beach accessible to Black visitors and grew into a vibrant cultural summer gathering place filled with music and community. Today, its legacy is preserved by the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation, which celebrates unity through jazz, hosts concerts, and provides free youth jazz camps .
Mississippi Freedom Trail Marker: Located in Kennedy Plaza, this marker commemorates the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and their fight for equality during the 1964 Democratic National Convention at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. Atlantic City is home to the first and only Mississippi Freedom Trail marker outside of Mississippi, highlighting the city's pivotal role in this moment in American history .
Sport and Sports Legends
Atlantic City has a developing sports scene, anchored by historic venues, emerging tournaments, and a legacy of athletic firsts.
Historic Sports Venues
Pop Lloyd Stadium: This iconic stadium has been transformed into a multipurpose sports complex following extensive renovations completed in April 2025 . Named after the legendary Negro leagues baseball player Pop Lloyd, the $5.6 million renovation updated the facility with new artificial turf, dugouts, locker rooms, bleachers, lighting, and a state-of-the-art sound system. It is now a hub for youth and community sports, hosting baseball, softball, flag football, soccer, and lacrosse. The first game at the renovated stadium was held in 2025 between Atlantic City High School and Oakcrest High School .
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall: This historic venue, which will celebrate its centennial in 2029, is a major hub for sports in Atlantic City . It has a long history of hosting basketball, having been the site of the Atlantic 10 men's basketball tournament from 2007 to 2012 . More recently, it has become the home of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) men's and women's basketball tournament. After hosting the event since 2021, the MAAC extended its deal with Atlantic City through 2031, ensuring that the tournament will continue to bring college basketball action to the Boardwalk Hall .
Sports Teams and Events
- MAAC Basketball Championships: The premier recurring sporting event in the city is the MAAC Basketball Championships, held annually at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. The tournament features the top teams from the conference's 13 member institutions and culminates in the men's and women's title games, which are broadcast on ESPN networks during their Championship Week .
Famous Athletes Linked to the City
- Art Dorrington: A true pioneer, Art Dorrington made history in 1950 as the first African American to sign an NHL contract (with the New York Rangers). His connection to Atlantic City continued long after his playing days, as he founded the Art Dorrington Ice Hockey Foundation to introduce the sport to children from low-income families in the city, leaving a lasting legacy of advocacy and inclusion .
Universities and Academic Institutions
Atlantic City is home to a prominent public university that serves as an anchor institution for the region, offering a unique beachfront campus experience.
Major Universities
Stockton University: Established in 1969, Stockton University is a public university with around 9,000 students and a significant presence in Atlantic City . It offers over 160 undergraduate and graduate degree programs . The university is ranked among the top public universities in the Northeast and serves as the "Anchor Institution" for Atlantic County .
- Unique Campus: Stockton offers a distinctive living and learning environment with two main campuses connected by a free shuttle. The main campus in Galloway is a 1,600-acre site in the Pinelands National Reserve. In contrast, the Stockton University Atlantic City campus is located in the University District, offering beach-front living just steps from the ocean and directly on the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk .
- Academic Strengths: The university is known for a wide array of programs. Its School of Business is AACSB accredited . It also boasts a top 10 Hospitality, Tourism and Event Management program in the U.S., leveraging its access to the Atlantic City region . Other notable programs include Marine Science, with its own field station, and unique offerings like Esports Management and Hemp & Cannabis Business Management .
Healthcare Institutions and Services
Atlantic City is served by a major regional medical center recognized for excellence in several specialized fields of care.
Major Medical Centers
AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center, Atlantic City Campus: Located at 1925 Pacific Ave, this medical facility is a key healthcare provider in the region . The hospital has received numerous awards from Healthgrades for its high-quality clinical outcomes.
- Specialized Excellence: The medical center is particularly renowned for its cardiac care. It has been named among America's 100 Best Hospitals for Cardiac Care for multiple years (2024, 2025) and America's 100 Best Hospitals for Coronary Intervention (2023-2025) . It has also received awards for America's 50 Best Hospitals for Cardiac Surgery (2025) .
- Orthopedic and Surgical Excellence: Beyond cardiac care, the hospital has been recognized for its outpatient orthopedic services, including America's 50 Best Hospitals for Outpatient Joint Replacement and Outpatient Orthopedic Surgery (2024, 2025). It has also received awards for prostate surgery .
- Specialized Care Center: The UNITE HERE HEALTH—Health Center is also located in Atlantic City at 1801 Atlantic Avenue . It provides exclusive access to primary care, lab services, physical therapy, a pharmacy, and mental health services for its members .