The Atlantic City Boardwalk stretches 5.5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean shoreline in New Jersey and stands as one of the oldest and most iconic seaside promenades in the United States, built originally in 1870. The boardwalk runs from the Absecon Lighthouse district in the north through the heart of the casino resort strip, passing Caesars Atlantic City, Resorts Atlantic City, Hard Rock Hotel, Bally's, and the Borgata properties. Rolling chairs — wicker vehicles pushed by attendants — have operated on the boards since 1887 and remain a uniquely Atlantic City experience. The Steel Pier, a historic amusement pier jutting into the ocean near the Hard Rock, operates carnival rides and games seasonally. The boardwalk itself is lined with salt-water taffy shops, pizza counters, and seafood shacks operating year-round. Mornings between 6am and 9am offer the boardwalk at its quietest, when joggers and dog walkers outnumber tourists and the Atlantic light catches the ocean at a low angle. Evening hours bring the full entertainment spectacle — flashing casino signs, open bars, and live music spilling from venues. Atlantic City is easily reached by NJ Transit bus from Philadelphia (90 minutes) and New York City (2.5 hours). The boardwalk and boards themselves are free; costs accumulate at casinos and attractions.
Good to know
- Hours
- Open 24 hours
- Best time
- Morning for a quiet stroll; evening for full lights and entertainment
Location
Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401
39.3602, -74.4230 View on map
Highlights
- 5.5-mile oceanfront promenade, one of the oldest in the US (built 1870), open 24 hours
- Steel Pier amusement pier with rides and games suspended over the Atlantic Ocean
- Rolling chairs: iconic wicker carts pushed by attendants continuously since 1887
- Casino row (Hard Rock, Caesars, Bally's, Resorts) accessible directly from the boards
- Salt water taffy shops, pizza by the slice, and seafood stands the full length of the walk
Tips for visiting
- Arrive by 9am for a quiet morning walk; the boardwalk grows crowded by mid-morning in summer
- Parking garages on Pacific Avenue (one block inland) charge from $5/day — avoid the pricier casino garages
- Ride a rolling chair for the classic Atlantic City experience; rates are negotiated with the operator before boarding
- The Steel Pier charges per-ride; an unlimited wristband ($25–$35) is worthwhile if children want extended time
- Avoid driving on summer weekend afternoons — NJ Transit buses from Philadelphia are faster and cheaper
When to visit
Summer evenings from 7pm onward offer the full Atlantic City experience — lit casinos, live entertainment, and a packed boardwalk. For a quieter visit, weekday mornings from June through September or any visit in May or October provide pleasant weather with manageable crowds.
Accessibility
The boardwalk surface is flat planked wood or concrete, accessible to wheelchairs and mobility aids for its full length. Casino properties have accessible entrances from the boardwalk. The Steel Pier has some ride restrictions for mobility aid users; check with pier staff. Beach access ramps are available at designated points along the walk.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Atlantic City Boardwalk free?
The boardwalk itself is free to walk at any hour. Individual attractions — casinos, Steel Pier rides, and boardwalk shows — charge their own fees. Most board restaurants and food stands are pay-as-you-go.
Is Atlantic City Boardwalk safe for families?
The well-lit casino sections near the Hard Rock and Caesars are generally safe for families during daylight and early evening hours. The northernmost and southernmost ends are less busy and may feel more isolated after dark.
How long does a visit to the Atlantic City Boardwalk take?
A leisurely end-to-end walk of the main 2-mile casino section takes 45–60 minutes. With stops for food, the Steel Pier, and a casino visit, budget 3–5 hours for a full boardwalk experience.