Vacationers looking for affordable New Jersey vacation spots need look no further than the man things to do in Atlantic City. In fact, there are plenty of events and attractions to enjoy for free. We have the perfect activities in mind for cost-conscious visitors, who want to have fun at a great value.
From free events to attractions such as the Absecon Lighthouse, to events that cost less than the price of a movie ticket, friends & families can find a plenty of affordable things to do in Atlantic City. Here’s a list of free and almost free things to do and see in Atlantic City just waiting for visitors to explore.
Free Things to do in Atlantic City:
- Atlantic City Beaches – no beach fees (a rarity in NJ)
- Atlantic City Historical Museum and the AC Arts Center, located on Garden Pier at the Boardwalk and New Jersey Avenue, both open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission and parking.
- Club Worship nightclub at House of Blues in the Showboat Casino has free admission for "Reggae Night" every Thursday at 8 p.m. and every Saturday for "Seductive Saturdays" at 10 p.m.
- Strolling the Boardwalk, morning bicycle riding from 6-10 a.m. on the Boardwalk
- “The Water Show” at the end of The Pier Shops, with dazzling illuminated water effects every hour on the hour, Boardwalk level at the ocean end of the building. No charge.
- Absecon Lighthouse is free to enter the museum and gift shop… a small fee applies to climb to the top
- Strolling the docks and Crafters Village at Gardner’s Basin – there is a small fee to visit the Aquarium
- Watching annual surfing competitions on the beach
- Korean War Memorial and Civil Rights Garden
- Free shows daily at Steel Pier during the summer season, and buy one ride ticket book get one free online offer
Affordable Atlantic City Activities - $10 OR LESS:
- Ripley’s Believe it Or Not! Museum - See a lock of George Washington’s hair and other oddities from around the world
- Noyes Museum of Art - Fine art, crafts and folk art exhibits with a focus on New Jersey/Mid-Atlantic region
- Historic Cold Spring Village - Open-air living history museum of 19th century life with hands-on activities for families
- Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center - Glass, ceramic, flamework, woodcarving studios of artists at work
- Tuckerton Seaport Museum - Multifaceted working maritime museum with folk artisans and entertainment
- Absecon Lighthouse - Tallest lighthouse in New Jersey - Open for climbing; 228 steps to the top
- Lucy the Elephant - Restored giant historic landmark first built in 1884. Open for tours
- Atlantic City Aquarium - Ocean oddities, sharks, sea anemones and more with restaurants and shops nearby
- Miniature Golf - Play 18 holes of world-class golf at Atlantic City's premier miniature golf course on the Boardwalk at Mississippi. Visit website for discount coupon.
- Bicycle rentals - Permitted on the Boardwalk between 6:30 am and 10am daily
- Rolling chair ride - A great way to see the Boardwalk. Pushed by an attendant with hourly fees
- Forsythe Wildlife Refuge - 43,000 acres of protected coastal habitat; nature trails, programs, auditorium
- Wetlands Institute - Guided beach walks, kayaking, back bay boat rides, live animal shows and more
- Marine Mammal Stranding Center - Rescues and rehabilitates stranded mammals and sea turtles. Tours available
