Best attractions and places to see around Atlantic City include a blend of coastal features, historical sites, and natural areas. The region is characterized by its extensive beaches and wetlands, offering diverse ecosystems for wildlife. Visitors can explore both man-made landmarks and protected natural reserves that highlight the area's unique geography and cultural history.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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Malibu Beach Wildlife Management Area is a protected natural reserve along Somers Point Longport Boulevard in New Jersey. This is a pretty spot to ride past on this stunning road and is a great place to keep an eye out for birds and other animals that call this unique coastal ecosystem their home. This 95.7-acre site is a mix of undeveloped beach and wetland, that provides valuable nesting habitat for several threatened and endangered birds, and hosts many migrant shorebirds all year round.
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Great place for surfing, kayaking, windsurfing or just chilling at the beach. You'll find everything from cafes to casinos within a short walk away. This is one of the most popular beach spots in New Jersey, and it's easy to see why.
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Typical small American houses can still be found in the hinterland of the city.
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A slice of the old place just off the Atlantic City Boardwalk.
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Great place for surfing, kayaking, windsurfing or just chilling at the beach. You'll find everything from cafes to casinos within a short walk away. This is one of the most popular beach spots in New Jersey and it's easy to see why.
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Margate City has a lovely golden stretch of sand which is perfect for beach days. You can surf, swim and kayak here (lifeguards are on duty). Don't miss Lucy the Elephant – a huge wooden sculpture – next to the beach.
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With lowland forests, open salt marsh, swamp and creeks, the Absecon Wildlife Management Area provides diverse habitats for animals and plant species. The best time to visit is late September when there are fewer people and huge number of birds. Don't forget your bug spray!
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Beyond the famous beaches, you can visit the Malibu Beach Wildlife Management Area, a protected reserve with undeveloped beach and wetlands, perfect for birdwatching. The Absecon Wildlife Management Area offers diverse habitats including lowland forests and salt marsh. The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is another excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife photography, especially birding. For a peaceful walk with views of marshes, explore the AC Waterfront Sculpture Walk.
Yes, there are various hiking options. For an easy walk, consider the Birch Grove Park Loop Trail. Moderate options include the Margate-Ventnor Boardwalk Path or a loop from Bally's Legend’s VIP Beach to Absecon Lighthouse. You can find more details and routes on the Hiking around Atlantic City guide.
Atlantic City boasts several significant historical sites. Climb the 228 steps of the 171-foot tall Absecon Lighthouse for panoramic views and explore its maritime museum. Visit St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church, located just off the Boardwalk. Don't miss Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, an architectural marvel from 1929, or the unique, six-story elephant-shaped building, Lucy the Elephant, in nearby Margate City.
The Atlantic City Historical Museum on Garden Pier offers permanent and rotating exhibits detailing the city's evolution. The African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey showcases the rich heritage of the area's African Americans. For a vibrant cultural experience, visit the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University in the Arts District, featuring artist studios and galleries. You can also reflect at the Civil Rights Garden or the New Jersey Korean War Memorial.
The Atlantic City Beach is a popular spot for surfing, kayaking, and windsurfing, with cafes and casinos nearby. Margate City Beach also offers a lovely golden stretch of sand for swimming, surfing, and kayaking, with lifeguards on duty.
Absolutely. The Atlantic City Beach and Margate City Beach are great for family beach days. The Malibu Beach Wildlife Management Area and Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge offer opportunities for wildlife viewing. Steel Pier provides classic boardwalk fun with rides and games for all ages, including an observation wheel. Gardner's Basin offers bayside dining, boat rides, and is home to the Atlantic City Aquarium.
The Malibu Beach Wildlife Management Area is a prime location for spotting various bird and animal species in its undeveloped beach and wetland habitats. The Absecon Wildlife Management Area also provides diverse habitats for animals and plant species, with late September being an excellent time to visit for birdwatching. The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is another top spot for birding and wildlife photography.
Yes, Atlantic City offers several cycling routes. You can enjoy an easy loop along the Atlantic City Beach or a moderate ride from Pleasantville to Ocean City. The Margate City Beach loop from Ventnor City is another easy option. More details on these and other routes can be found in the Cycling around Atlantic City guide.
The Atlantic City Boardwalk is iconic, stretching for miles along the ocean. It's famous for its vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, casinos, and entertainment venues. As the first boardwalk of its kind, built in 1870, it's perfect for strolling, biking, or enjoying ocean views. Rolling chairs offer a classic way to experience it.
Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting Lucy the Elephant in Margate City, a quirky six-story elephant-shaped building from 1881. Gardner's Basin, historically used for smuggling, now offers bayside dining and boat rides. The AC Waterfront Sculpture Walk provides a peaceful, scenic path along the Back Bay estuary, great for birding and a natural escape.
Runners can enjoy various trails, including moderate loops along the Atlantic City Boardwalk or the Atlantic City Beach. For a more challenging run, there are difficult loops from Atlantic City or Ventnor City. Explore more options in the Running Trails around Atlantic City guide.
Yes, the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University is a vibrant cultural hub in Atlantic City's Arts District, featuring artist studios, galleries, shops, and events. The Atlantic City Art Center, also on Garden Pier, boasts an exhibit gallery overlooking the ocean. Additionally, the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation promotes Black heritage through events and jazz concerts.


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