Atlantic City Is Back – Here’s What Everyone’s Doing This Summer

Atlantic City is experiencing an unprecedented revival this summer with record-breaking visitor numbers, fueled by $450 million in new attractions and renovations along America’s best boardwalk. Following Time Out magazine’s recent ranking of Atlantic City’s boardwalk as the #1 in the country, tourism officials report a 22% increase in weekend visitors compared to last year, signaling a potential turning point for the historic seaside destination.

The four-mile boardwalk, originally built in the 19th century to keep sand out of hotels and train cars, has undergone its most significant transformation in decades. New attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues are breathing fresh life into a city that has struggled to balance its casino-focused identity with broader family appeal.

Beyond the Casinos: New Family Attractions Making Waves

Leading the transformation is the Island Waterpark at Showboat, a $100 million indoor water recreation facility that opened earlier this year. “We’re seeing families who haven’t visited Atlantic City in generations returning specifically for the water park,” explains tourism director Maria Hernandez. “It’s creating an entirely new visitor demographic that complements our traditional casino guests,” according to Cat Country 107.3.

The Steel Pier, a 300-year-old attraction highlighted in Time Out’s ranking, has also completed a $20 million renovation featuring new thrill rides and a reimagined midway. The iconic observation wheel continues to draw crowds, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and city skyline from climate-controlled gondolas.

Additional family-friendly developments include a new mini-golf course designed by a renowned golf architect, expanded arcades, and daily free entertainment along key sections of the boardwalk. “We’re finally creating reasons for visitors to explore beyond the casino floors,” notes Atlantic City Mayor Michael Williams.

Culinary Renaissance Transforms Dining Scene

Atlantic City’s food scene is experiencing a parallel renaissance with several high-profile restaurant openings. New establishments include Park Place Prime, Angeloni’s Club Madrid, Dos Caminos, and the Byrdcage, offering everything from steakhouse classics to modern Mexican cuisine, as reported by WMMR.

These newcomers join beloved institutions that have defined Atlantic City’s food identity for generations. White House Subs continues to draw lines for its legendary Italian sandwiches, while Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern offers an authentic taste of “old Atlantic City.” Tony’s Baltimore Grill remains a pizza institution, serving thin-crust pies to loyal patrons for decades.

Perhaps most exciting is the emergence of the Tennessee Avenue district, where establishments like Tennessee Beer Hall are creating a craft beverage scene previously missing from Atlantic City’s offerings. “These businesses represent local entrepreneurs betting on Atlantic City’s future,” explains economic development coordinator Jason Richards. “They’re creating unique experiences you won’t find in the casinos.”

Beaches and Marine Life Become Unexpected Stars

Atlantic City’s beaches, often overlooked in the past, are receiving newfound appreciation. Beach attendance has increased 18% year-over-year, with significant investments in cleanliness, safety, and amenities.

Marine life encounters have become an unexpected tourism driver, with organized shark spotting tours gaining popularity. New Jersey’s waters host several shark nursery areas, including Sandbar Sharks, Smooth Dogfish Sharks, and even Great Whites, creating unique educational opportunities for visitors.

“The confirmed Great White Shark nursery discovered in 2018 has created tremendous scientific interest,” explains marine biologist Dr. Sarah Jenkins. “These aren’t the monsters portrayed in movies – they’re magnificent creatures that play crucial roles in our ecosystem,” she adds. Atlantic City Cruises now offers dedicated marine life observation tours, combining education with entertainment.

Challenges Remain Despite Progress

Despite the positive momentum, challenges remain for Atlantic City’s revitalization. Several boardwalk storefronts remain vacant, and competition from neighboring resort towns continues to intensify. While 973 ESPN reports that Atlantic City’s boardwalk topped Time Out’s rankings, some locals question whether it truly surpasses offerings in Ocean City or Wildwood, which feature more consistent attractions throughout their boardwalks.

“The ranking is well-deserved for our historical significance and recent improvements,” says Chamber of Commerce president Thomas Rodriguez, “but we’re still working to create a more cohesive boardwalk experience with fewer gaps between attractions.”

City officials acknowledge more work lies ahead, pointing to a five-year development plan that includes additional streetscape improvements, increased public art installations, and enhanced transportation options connecting the boardwalk with other city neighborhoods.

For now, Atlantic City is enjoying its moment in the spotlight as America’s premier boardwalk destination, with summer 2025 shaping up to be its strongest tourism season in over a decade. Whether this renaissance represents a temporary boost or sustainable revival remains to be seen, but for the first time in years, optimism outweighs skepticism about Atlantic City’s future.