Gamble on These Fun Things to do in Atlantic City

Author: Casey Gale

Empanadas (above), avocado toast, and smoked fish options at Olón make for a breezy brunch and beginning of your day in Atlantic City.

If you find yourself in Atlantic City, New Jersey, with some time but little change to spare, don’t worry — hitting up casinos isn’t the only way to pass the hours in the resort town. Here’s how Convene suggests having a great day in Atlantic City.

Morning

To start your day off feeling, enjoy a leisurely brunch at Olón, chef Jose Garces’ oceanfront, seafood-focused restaurant located inside Tropicana Atlantic City’s South Tower. The restaurant’s airy, coastal feel, floor-to-ceiling windows, and fresh fare — including cheese empanadas, avocado toast, and smoked fish options — make for a breezy beginning to the day. Before ever stepping outside, you can kick off a fun day testing your critical thinking skills at Escape AC, an adult-only escape room venue where you rely on your wits and teammates to find a way out. It’s also located inside Tropicana Atlantic City.

The seafood-focused restaurant Olón is located inside Tropicana Atlantic City’s South Tower.

Afternoon

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City also houses the Hard Rock Cafe.

If you’re feeling a little claustrophobic after making your great escape, it’s time to head out to the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk to breathe in the salt air. Walking north, you’ll come across Atlantic City Convention and Visitors Authority (a destination you’re likely familiar with if you’re in town for a meeting). While taking in beach views from the Boardwalk, you’ll also hit Atlantic City staple Fralinger’s Original Salt Water Taffy, established in 1885; the New Jersey Korean War Memorial; and Steel Pier, an iconic setting with rides, traditional carnival games, and event space that sprawls 1,000 feet over the Atlantic Ocean. There, you can grab a beer — or a fried Oreo, if you’re in the mood for something sweet — and take a spin on the Wheel at Steel Pier, a 227-foot, temperature-controlled Ferris wheel.

At this point, you’ve probably worked up quite an appetite for lunch. Step inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, located directly across from Steel Pier, where you can chow down at tourist-favorite Hard Rock Café or try one of the hotel’s other food and beverage offerings, including seven quick-service venues that serve salads, pizza, burgers, and more.

Evening

Just an 11-minute walk from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City sits Ocean Resort Casino. Opened in June 2018, the oceanfront hotel features Exhale Spa for those looking to unwind after a busy day beachside, as well as the world’s largest Topgolf Swing Suite if you’re interested in upping your (virtual) golf game. Once you’re ready for dinner, Ocean Resort Casino has you covered with upscale, casual, and quick dining to fulfill any type of craving. Villain & Saint, “a cultural gathering spot that accommodates rockers of all stripes,” according to its website, is a hip, atmospheric eatery that serves up delicious cocktails, delectable flatbreads, and burgers to die for — all amid live music on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.