Where to Eat, Drink, Stay and Play in Atlantic City

Recently, Andrew and I have been reveling in our weekend staycations in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Like a smaller Vegas, AC NJ is full of hidden gems where you can dance, drink, dine, swim (any time of year!) and play table games all evening long— and that’s even in the winter, without even stepping foot on the beach.

So, clueless when it comes to what to do (and how to actually have fun) in Atlantic City? Here’s what Andrew and I have been getting into recently in AC—

Stay: Harrah’s Resort

Initially attracted to the fact that we could bring Silver along with us at this pet-friendly resort, Andrew and I stayed at Harrah’s for the first time in November 2022 and likely wouldn’t stay anywhere else in AC from here on out. Though it’s not right on the boardwalk, Harrah’s is the type of resort you never need to leave— from the indoor pool that’s in a beautiful terrarium, to the great bars, steakhouses, coffee shops and other activities, Harrah’s is a cost-efficient resort where you get what you pay for, and then some.

I recommend eating at one of the two steakhouses while you’re there, and also paying the Pool at Harrah’s and the elevated Spa a special visit if you have the time. They’re both lovely, newly updated facilities and you won’t regret it!

Dine: Nobu

If you do want to venture out closer to the Boardwalk area for a meal, you truly cannot beat Nobu at Caesar’s. Yes, the Nobu— the one known from Malibu to Vegas and beyond, this elevated Japanese-cuisine staple is now in Atlantic City (and it’s worth every penny). Treat yourself to the Wagyu steak, a sake flight, and some of the most delicious hand rolls you’ve ever had, and you’ll walk away with a full belly and a happy palate, to be sure.

Play: Caesar’s Palace

After your dinner at Nobu, I recommend staying for a while at Caesar’s Palace to play some of the best and most exciting table games in the town. Spanish 21 minimums starting at $15 allow you to play for quite a while, and the dealers are some of the most fun, energetic and conversational I’ve met (even better than the ones I’ve met at Luxor and Hard Rock in Vegas).

Drink and dance: Gypsy Bar, The Pool After Dark

If you’re ready to head back to Harrah’s, it’s worth heading back to the pool after dark— as in, the pool at Harrah’s turns into a nightclub aptly named “The Pool After Dark” on weekends after hours, and it’s lit. From giant DJ booths and private cabanas to bottle service in the 82 degree year-round pool area, The Pool After Dark is a truly unique club experience that makes it feel like summer all year round.

If you’re looking for a more traditional dance bar vibe, I’d also recommend Gypsy Bar at Borgata. Live music happens every weekend evening, and Thursdays and Sundays are $8 house margarita nights at the bar, which adds an extra cost-saving element.

Atlantic City is just a stone’s throw away from Philadelphia and NYC, and is a city full of hidden gems that can elevate tour experience from a good to a great one.

Xoxo, MM.