Atlantic City draws people to its iconic boardwalk, golden beaches, and a world of entertainment. The “Las Vegas of the East Coast” has earned a reputation as an electrifying getaway. However, the glitzy casinos, famous restaurants, and oceanfront hotels suggest to many people that holidaying in Atlantic City comes with a hefty price tag.
What if you could experience everything Atlantic City has to offer, but without breaking the bank? It turns out you can. By choosing when to travel, learning how to get around, finding free activities, and knowing where and how to eat. Here’s a deeper dive.
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Pick Your Travel Dates
If you’ve got the luxury of being able to travel whenever you want, you’ll save a bundle on accommodation in AC. Low season runs from September through February, and except for a quick spike during the Christmas and New Year holiday period, the boardwalk is mostly people-free. The bonus? Hotel prices drop—sometimes to half the high season rates. The only drawbacks of the low season are that some attractions on the boardwalk are closed, and you’ll need your winter woolies—it gets frosty.
If chilly weather isn’t your thing or low season isn’t an option, don’t worry. During high season, you can still find bargain hotel rates mid-week. Try to book them in advance, though, to avoid missing out. Also, consider staying in a budget hotel or at an Airbnb (over 1,000 available in the area) rather than at a casino hotel. The extra money you save on accommodation will pay for sightseeing and meals.
Travel Around Atlantic City Like a Local
Forget taxis and airport transfers. Atlantic City has aneat local mini bus known as a jitney. In the 1900s, “jitney” was the slang term for a nickel, and soon the local bus (for only a nickel per trip) got renamed the Jitney. Available in Atlantic City since 1915, these buses take you anywhere in the city for just a few dollars. All you need is the Jitney Surfer app from the App Store. Think of it like Uber, but on a budget. Speaking of, Uber and Lyft are the most popular ride-share options, and cost less than taxis.
If you want some exercise, consider renting a bicycle to get around the city. There are bike rental stores everywhere, and a 24-hour rental is usually around $25.
The Outdoors Is Free
Nobody’s going to charge you for getting some sunlight. Wandering Atlantic City’s beaches and boardwalk won’t cost you a cent. You may even come across a lively public art installation or a pop-up performance by locals—and there’s no ticket price!
Beyond the beach and boardwalk, two sites worth visiting are:
- Absecon Lighthouse: New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse is an Atlantic City icon. It’s free to visit, but if you’re game enough to climb the 228 steps to get unbeatable views of the city and the shoreline, it’ll only cost you $10.
- Gardner’s Basin: If the boardwalk has too many people for your liking, Gardner’s Basin is for you. It’s a serene bayfront area where you walk around, visit the Aquarium, watch boats, and spot dolphins (June–September).
If you’re in town on a Friday in summer, head to the C.R.O.P.S. farmer’s market at Fisherman’s Park. Throughout summer and into the off-season, you can catch live music, comedy nights, and outdoor movie screenings—most of which are free. Street parades happen for St. Patrick’s Day and Easter, also at no cost.
There are several “free things to do in Atlantic City” websites. Check them out before you arrive for seasonal happenings. You could enjoy yoga on the beach or find that perfect item for your home at a local craft fair. You can enjoy your time in Atlantic City without getting bored—or spending much at all.
You Don’t Have to Gamble
Yes, Atlantic City has some amazing casinos, and they’re worth visiting. Just because you’re walking through one doesn’t mean you’re obligated to sit at a table or a machine. You’re welcome to wander around, take in the atmosphere, and leave without having gambled a quarter.
Be sure to visit these famous casinos:
- Resorts Casino: The first casino hotel in Atlantic City still retains its original Art Deco theme.
- Hard Rock Casino: A must-visit for rock fans, check out the original memorabilia.
- Caesar’s Palace: This Ancient Rome-inspired venue will wow you.
- Tropicana: This Cuban-inspired complex is a city within a city.
- The Borgata: Takes luxury and elegance to a whole new level
If the city’s casinos inspire you and you’d like to gamble without using real money, here’s a tip. Once you’re back in your hotel room, check out a site like Casinos.com. It’ll show you how you can get started on online casinos with no-deposit bonuses and free spins. Also, consider staying in a budget hotel or at an Airbnb (over 1,000 available in the area) rather than at a casino hotel.
Skip the Fancy Restaurants
Unless it’s a special occasion like a birthday or wedding anniversary, is a seafood buffet by the ocean absolutely necessary? What you spend on that one meal could pay for every other meal of the trip, combined.
For example, White House Sub Shop is a legendary, wallet-friendly spot in Atlantic City. Some tourists and locals head to the city just to get a sub from here. The classic restaurant has counter service, and be sure to check out the walls lined with memorabilia from famous visitors. Huge subs start from $7 and are big enough to feed two.
In New Jersey, many restaurants are adding a service charge of around 15% to all table service customers. If you choose takeout instead, there’s no surcharge and no obligation to tip. So, grab takeout and picnic on the beach. Beachside cafes and pop-up shops also offer snack food at affordable prices.
Come to Atlantic City
You’ve just learned how to visit Atlantic City and return home with money in your pocket. If you can, travel during the low season, take the jitney bus around town, and picnic on the beach. Wandering through the casinos without gambling and around the outdoor areas costs you nothing, but lets you experience everything the city has to offer.
