Atlantic City

After decades of decline, America's former playground is regaining its groove. This oft-referred seaside Vegas — long known as the destination of choice for senior citizens bused in from NYC and Philadelphia — has come back into its own over the past several years, adding high-end shopping plazas, luxe spas, and exquisite restaurants to its offerings, as well as boutique lodgings and the ultra-stylish Borgata casino, the city's own, personal fountain of youth. Both a year-round destination and a 24-hour one, AC is New Jersey's top attraction. It's adored as much for its quirky history as its casino offerings, the bulk of which stretch along ...

After decades of decline, America's former playground is regaining its groove. This oft-referred seaside Vegas — long known as the destination of choice for senior citizens bused in from NYC and Philadelphia — has come back into its own over the past several years, adding high-end shopping plazas, luxe spas, and exquisite restaurants to its offerings, as well as boutique lodgings and the ultra-stylish Borgata casino, the city's own, personal fountain of youth. Both a year-round destination and a 24-hour one, AC is New Jersey's top attraction. It's adored as much for its quirky history as its casino offerings, the bulk of which stretch along AC's beachfront Boardwalk (the world’s original, and by far the city's kitschiest locale), though a few — including the Borgata — stand on the eastern bayside, across streets recognizable from any original Monopoly board. Every casino offers lodging and restaurants, still some of the city's best dining options are at the center of town off Michigan Avenue, between the train station and the Boardwalk. For pre-resort history, visit Absecon Lighthouse and Gardner's Basin, both located toward the city's northern tip.

About the Expert

Laura Kiniry is the author of Moon Handbooks New Jersey.