Atlantic City, like many cities in the rest of the world, are still grappling with the effects of the pandemic. However, despite the setbacks, Atlantic City has proven that it is one resilient city. From the beaches and boardwalks to the casinos, this playground is open for business and it offers fantastic daytime and nighttime activities for anyone that wants to travel this Fall.
As such, if you are looking to paint America’s playground red, here are 5 things you can do in AC this fall:
Gamble
If you are eager to hit the slots after more than a 100-day brick and mortar casino absence, you can now gamble in AC again. Please note that anyone wishing to gamble must show up in a face mask. Smoking and drinking have recently been reinstated but you should expect to maintain the recommended 6 feet social distance from other gamblers at all times.
Casinos are now limited to no more than 25% of its typical capacity but that shouldn’t be a problem. If what you are looking to do is gamble, you will be treated to an array of casinos and sportsbooks for sports betting purposes. The gambling spirit is still the same, the only different thing is the series of anti-virus measures instituted by New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
Go to the Atlantic City beach
Anyone living in the northeast can testify to just how beautiful the Atlantic City Beach is. As such, if you do find yourself in the city, a visit to the beach is a must. Going to the beach itself will not cost you and there are a few beach bars that are open where you can stop and order refreshments.
As the sun begins to set, the shoreline will come to life with the different casinos lighting up the night. Paint the town red by trying your hand at one of the many casinos. Or, simply stay at the hotels, which are now offering unbelievably affordable rates.
Experience the boardwalk
Anyone that visits Atlantic City must experience the boardwalk, at least once. The boardwalk stretches for miles and miles and it is lined with countless restaurants and casinos to occupy your time in the city. Expect almost everyone on the boardwalk to don masks.
The good news is that there is still lots of space that will allow you to maintain the recommended 6 feet distance from other people on the boardwalk. If you want to sit down and have a meal anywhere on the boardwalk, ensure that you reserve or call ahead.
Steel Pier
The Steel Pier is situated close to the boardwalk. If you still have time after your meal or break, simply walk down to the Steel Pier, which is a 1,000-foot-long amusement park where you can be a little kid again. Steel Pier is jam-packed with activities and rides to suit all ages and sizes.
You will be treated to a veritable selection of trains, cars, planes, and twenty-plus rides and attractions all designed to offer lots of fun.
See Lucy the Elephant
The next day, take a short drive south of the city where you will get to see and get inside the world’s largest elephant called Lucy. Lucy is a 6 story gigantic structure that was constructed back in the 1800s. she boasts lots of history, having survived through several decades.
There are guides on standby to teach you everything that you need to learn about Lucy, as well as everything that she’s been through the years. You can buy your tickets to tour big ol’ Lucy from the Margate elephant situated in the gift shop.
You’ll love that Lucy is spacious, which will keep you safe. Best of all, she’ll deliver impressive views of the ocean and the City’s surroundings. Just remember to carry your mask with you.
5 things to avoid in Atlantic City
Failing to call ahead
Almost all the restaurants and bars in Atlantic City are limited to take out and outdoor seating thanks to the pandemic. As such, if you decide to go out and eat, expect a delay before your food and drinks are sorted out. Many of the stores and excursions now also have a maximum occupancy capacity so if you should be prepared to wait unless you call ahead.
Not following the coronavirus guidelines
You are required to wear a cloth mask almost everywhere in the city apart from the beach. You will also have to keep the 6 foot recommended distance from other travelers to avoid catching the virus or spreading it.
Getting too drunk
Beverage service, as well as smoking, have both resumed on casino floors. However, drinks must be ordered from a server and consumed in one’s seat according to directives. But just because the casino floors now allow drinks doesn’t mean that you should lose control.
The last thing you want to do is ruin your trip by spending the night in jail on a drunk and disorderly charge. You don’t want to be that guy being forcefully removed by security from the blackjack table because you are too wasted. As such, drink responsibly.
Staying cooped up in your room
We know that we are still in the middle of a pandemic but that doesn’t mean that you should stay cooped up in your room all or most of the day in the name of staying safe. The City is waiting for you to explore it, you just have to keep in mind the safety regulations and you should be fine.
A view of the ocean from your room window just doesn’t compare to actually sinking your toes in the sand. So go outside and enjoy yourself to the fullest.
Don’t use the casino ATM
You will find very many ATMs situated on the casino floor but you don’t want to use these. These ATMs are known for being ridiculously expensive, charging fees as high as $10 for a single withdrawal. As such, stop by an ATM elsewhere to avoid blowing your budget.
