On a clear night, the lights of Atlantic City shine from the towering casinos that dot the city, beckoning visitors into this coastal haven for gamblers, show-goers and those just looking for a good time.
Just over an hour and a half from Philadelphia, Atlantic City makes a great getaway destination for a day -- or more -- of debauchery.
Cardless Activities
For the under-21 crowd, there is still plenty to do.
Atlantic City boasts a wide array of shows and concerts at the casinos.
On Oct. 14, Blues Traveler is playing at the House of Blues in the Showboat Casino, and Rod Stewart will follow on Oct. 15 at the Borgata.
An outlet mall is a few minutes' walk from the boardwalk. The mall features stores such as Gap, Guess, American Eagle and Banana Republic.
Although they cannot compare to Six Flags, Steel Pier and Central Pier feature an array of small rides. Get a great view of the entire city and the ocean from the ferris wheel.
The Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum is located right on the boardwalk and features unusual and strange exhibits. There you can find a roulette wheel made entirely out of jelly beans and a lock of George Washington's hair. Admission is $10 for students.
The Absecon Lighthouse is a historical landmark for anyone looking to do some sightseeing. Admission is $5.
The Boardwalk
The famous four-mile boardwalk, constructed only yards away from the Atlantic Ocean, is central to most of the entertainment and action for tourists in the city.
For those over 21 years of age, the casinos on the boardwalk are obviously the main attraction. Since the first one opened in 1978, they have provided a 24-hour source of entertainment.
The casinos are equipped with blackjack tables, slots, craps, roulette and other games.
There are 12 total casino-hotels. Many of them are themed, such as Bally's Wild Wild West, the Trump Taj Mahal with its Indian design and the Showboat, which features a Mardi Gras theme. The Borgata, the newest and most elaborate casino, opened in the summer of 2003.
The casinos also feature bars inside as well as on the beach -- weather permitting.
If you're planning on gambling, just don't bet your tuition.
Boardwalk Eats
Dining options in the city range from boardwalk eats to fancy restaurants.
You could grab a pizza on the boardwalk for under $10, or if you're in the mood for five-star Italian dining, head over to Lefty's 1200 Club on Atlantic Avenue, a block off the boardwalk.
There are convenient dining options located in the casino's restaurants. Those over 21 who gamble might be lucky enough to win back the cost of meals -- or even the entire trip. Play enough, and you might even get a meal for free through the various casinos' frequent-players' programs.
