ACVC 2021: What to do in Atlantic City
From signature landmarks to nightlife destinations and beyond, explore these locations to visit near Atlantic City during your stay for ACVC.
The Atlantic Coast Veterinary Conference (ACVC) is starting tomorrow! It’s taking place in Atlantic City (AC), New Jersey, and this iconic Jersey Shore town nicknamed “America’s Playground” sure has a plethora of sights to see and activities to partake in. If you are headed to the convention, here are some places to check out before, after, or in between sessions. Whether you’re an adventure junkie, have an affinity for the nightlife, or consider yourself a history buff, there is something for you.
Atlantic City landmarks
Atlantic City Boardwalk
Atlantic City is home to the first boardwalk in the United States. Built in 1870 to help prevent sand from getting in resorts along the beach, today you can walk the renowned boardwalk for a breathtaking view of the ocean and to gain access to a host of hotels and casinos, exceptional restaurants, one-of-a-kind shops, and more.
Absecon Lighthouse
The Absecon Lighthouse is not only New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse, but it’s also the country’s third tallest lighthouse! It is 150 years old and includes 228 steps to the top where you can view the scenic AC skyline. It also features a replica of the Lightkeeper’s dwelling, an informational museum, and a marvelous gift shop.
Lucy the Elephant
Built in 1881, Lucy the Elephant is a must-see signature attraction just outside AC in Margate City consisting of a 6-story elephant made of wood and tin sheeting. Known as “The World’s Largest Elephant,” it showcases a unique form of zoomorphic architecture and is considered the oldest roadside attraction in the nation. It was also deemed a National Historic Landmark by the US government in 1976.
Arts and culture
Atlantic City murals
The city has over 50 striking murals that were created through the Atlantic City Arts Foundation 48 Blocks AC Program. The murals highlight artistic freedom and expression and present diverse styles and content in the permanent public art spanned across the 48 blocks of Atlantic City. For a map locating each of the murals, visit https://atlanticcityartsfoundation.org/map.
African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey (AAHMSNJ)
The AAHMSNJ museum showcases the African American experience of the 20th century with countless historical and cultural artifacts. It features a combination of permanent exhibits and rotating displays to bring to light the multifaceted image of African Americans in our nation’s history and inspire a larger conversation.
Atlantic City Aquarium
Photo courtesy of atlanticcitynj.com
For the animal lovers, get a firsthand glimpse of over 100 varieties of marine life at this aquarium. It provides magnificent views and 3 levels of exhibits with a total of approximately 30,000 gal of seawater. There are also several tropical rainforest and ocean oddities tanks to discover fascinating creatures and plants, and there are touch tanks for an interactive experience.
Outdoor adventures
Bellview Winery
Bellview Winery is a destination for the wine aficionados and casual drinkers alike. The fine estate wines are crafted from grapes derived from the 40 acres of vineyards, with a selection of white, red, fruit, and specialty wines. You can sip wine in the spacious tasting room or enjoy your drink outside at a picnic table on the premise.
Corson’s Inlet State Park
This park consists of 98 acres of undeveloped land at the southern tip of Ocean City and is an ideal place to venture for fishing, crabbing, hiking, boating, and beach-going. A trail system enables hikers to explore the dune system and remote beaches, and the natural habitats are rich in diversity where wildlife species live and breed.
Ballamor Golf Club
Named the 4th best public course in New Jersey by Golf Magazine, this course is located within the woods with serene surroundings of 350 acres, making it a golfer’s safe haven. It is open to the public year-round for daily fee play and group outings.
Casinos and nightlife
Casinos
Casinos are synonymous with Atlantic City. It has 9 in total: Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel and Casino; Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa; Caesars Atlantic City Hotel and Casino; Golden Nugget Atlantic City Hotel, Casino and Marina; Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City; Resorts Casino Hotel; Tropicana Casino Resort; Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City; and Ocean Casino Resort. Each has a range of slot machines and exciting table games including poker, blackjack, and roulette for your chance to get lucky.
Nightlife
Photo courtesy of atlanticcitynj.com
There are various entertainment venues in Atlantic City where well-known performers and acts take place, including The Music Box, The Bourbon Room, Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, Ovation Hall, and the Atlantic City Comedy Club, to name a few. Check out each venue’s website for details on who is performing during your trip to ACVC. For those interested in the bar scene, some lively spots in the area include Gypsy Bar, Wonder Bar, the Irish Pub, The VÜE Rooftop Bar and Lounge, and Premier Nightclub.
