Atlantic City: Visiting an American original
Atlantic City: Visiting an American original
(ARA) - If you're a dedicated explorer of the United States, there are certain places that you need to have on your list of classic destinations. Near the top of that list is Atlantic City, the original American seaside playground. In fact, not only was it the first in the United States, Atlantic City's amusement piers were the first of their kind in the world.
In its pre-World War II heyday, visitors would come to Atlantic City on trains and stay, taking in the beaches and the other diversions, for a couple of weeks. The city's popularity fell into decline after the war, but in recent years, a new, revitalized and more glamorous city is once again drawing visitors. With a new attitude exemplified by Atlantic City hotels like the Borgata, the city is once again taking up its position as a beloved destination for travelers who want to have a lot of fun without breaking the bank.
What to do
Atlantic City has plenty of activities to keep everyone in your travel group happy. For outdoors and sports enthusiasts, there are a number of golf courses, fishing charters and a motorsports park.
Atlantic City also has the resources that will let you shop 'til you drop. Whether you're shopping for antiques or designer clothing, it's all easily within reach. Check out the Atlantic City Outlets for some great deals, but don't count out the stores that are located inside some of the luxurious Atlantic City hotels. You'll find everything from Bottega Veneta to Banana Republic, along with an Apple Store, art galleries and more.
For a combination of history and theme-park fun, head to Steel Pier, which was built in 1898. Though you won't find high-diving horses here anymore, you can enjoy going on rides, driving go-karts, playing family-friendly games of chance and threatening your dental work with sweets and treats galore. The Absecon Lighthouse is another historic destination that makes for a fun and interesting excursion, and it simply isn't a trip to Atlantic City if you miss walking up and down the famous Boardwalk.
There is entertainment galore in Atlantic City, and you'd be well advised to get your tickets early for some of the shows. The Borgata sets the stage for major names like Robin Williams, Jay-Z, Stevie Wonder and Lady GaGa, so be sure to check their schedule in advance. The Comedy Stop and the House of Blues should also be on your list when planning the shows you want to see.
Where to stay
Bigger just might be better, if you take your cues from the deluxe Atlantic City hotels. If you want deluxe accommodation that also includes the city's famous casinos and poker playing opportunities, you're in luck.
The Borgata has become a destination in itself, with bragging rights that include a bounty of fine dining options (Bobby Flay Steak and Wolfgang Puck American Grill and Michael Mina's SeaBlue); rooms and suites styled with chic, modern decor and an award-winning spa - plus great gaming, too.
If you're not living under a rock, you know that entrepreneur Donald Trump does nothing by half measures. That dedication to opulence is fully on display at the Trump Taj Mahal. Well-appointed rooms, a variety of fine-dining options and the glitziest casino around are all part of the package. A more literal taste of Las Vegas is Caesar's Atlantic City, an outpost of the famous original in Sin City.
The attractions of the Las Vegas hotel and casino are just as much in effect here, from the excellent rooms to the slots and tables, and, of course, the shopping. The Pier Shops at Caesar is as deluxe as it gets, and is built out into the Atlantic on a 900 foot long pier.
To learn more about all there is to do and see in Atlantic City, visit www.atlanticcitynj.com, and to book flights and hotels visit travel sites like Travelocity.com, where you can often find the best deals available.
Courtesy of ARAcontent