Atlantic City boardwalk hotels may be known for their high-rolling casinos. But there’s much more on the cards for those who hit up the resorts along this historic strip. Built in 1870 (we hear) to keep sandy feet out of the town’s swisher establishments, AC’s boardwalk is the neon-soaked center of Jersey beach life. Think we’re bluffing? Sip on equatorial slushies at The Quarter, a Havana-themed restaurant and bar strip. Savor the sweet smack of saltwater taffy at an old-timey store. Or be bungee-flung 225 feet into the air at the Steel Pier amusement park. The Atlantic City boardwalk will leave you feeling flushed.
With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve gathered up some of our favorite Atlantic City boardwalk hotels that rep the best on the East Coast. Whether you’re looking for a seaside escape with the family or a thrill-tapping 24 hours on the Jersey shore, pack your bucket and spade and head out to one of these oceanfront digs.
1. Tropicana Atlantic City
With 24 restaurants, 25 shops, 18 places to have a drink, 2 pools, a spa, IMAX theater, and an escape room, “The Trop” is one of Atlantic City’s must-see attractions. Most certainly, you’ll stop by at some point to check out The Quarter, its Cuban strip of eats and drinks. But if you don’t want the Caribbean experience to end, book a room on the new Havana wing. The dazzling views you’ll get above the 40th floor top out those of other Atlantic City boardwalk hotels. Or you can sneak off to the rooftop pool bar for a dip and a sip away from the crowds.
Best things to do nearby:
- Carmine’s Italian Restaurant (150 meters) — White linen Italian restaurant just steps from the beach
- James’s Taffy and Fudge (550 meters) — Nostalgic beachside confectioner
- Atlantic City Miniature Golf (1 kilometer) — Seafront games in front of AC’s iconic boardwalk
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 90 – USD 454
Guest Rating: 7.9
Address: 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
2. The Claridge – A Radisson Hotel
For a little Golden Age glamor, check out AC’s most historic establishment. Known affectionately as “the skyscraper by the sea,” The Claridge has remained at the pinnacle of boardwalk glitz since it opened in 1929. Previously, it’s hosted the likes of Frank Sinatra, Grace Kelly, and Maralyn Monroe, as well as the Miss America Pageant. As a result, you’ll find that a stay here is all about providing the full celebrity treatment. Expect elegant, traditionally appointed rooms in a gorgeous gold palette and refined leather-backed cocktail lounges. Naturally, upgrading to the Whirlpool Room gets you an iced bucked of welcome champagne to sip through while you soak.
Best things to do nearby:
- Wet Willie’s (300 meters) — Beachfront bar known for its colorful off-the-wall drinks
- Wild Wild West Casino (400 meters) — Frontier-inspired casino with regular live entertainment
- Ripley’s Believe it or Not! (650 meters) — Must see Atlantic City attraction
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 70 – USD 609
Guest Rating: 7.6
Address: 123 South Indiana Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
3. Showboat Hotel
One of the truly classic Atlantic City boardwalk hotels, Showboat’s Vegas-style interior is more than popular with Hollywood producers. Ocean’s Eleven, Twelve, Netflix’s Army of the Dead were all shot there.
The hotel has been making waves in 2020, too. Just recently, it announced an enormous indoor waterpark to be built right next to the property. Although you might have to wait a minute for the slides to be opened, there’s still plenty about the Showboat that makes this a great New Jersey vacation for families. A rooftop pool deck, varied onsite dining, and proximity to the Atlantic City aquarium and Steel Pier, to name a few. Furthermore, this is one of the few Atlantic City boardwalk hotels that you can bring your pets along to.
Best things to do nearby:
- Absecon Lighthouse (750 meters) — State’s tallest lighthouse, with sweeping views of Atlantic City
- Hard Rock Cafe (1 kilometer) — Iconic diner covered known for its celebrity paraphernalia
- Steel Pier (1 kilometer) — Seafront amusement park
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 62 – USD 812
Guest Rating: 6.6
Address: 801 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
4. Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel
If swish contemporary comforts are your kind of thing, you’ll be sold on this ritzy downtown hotel. Just steps from Atlantic City Train Station, great accessibility is a trade off for not being located right on the boardwalk. However, with the sea just a few minutes walk away, you’re not missing out on any of the action. What’s more, if you ask us, the incredible views you’ll get from this hotel’s upper floors are arguably the best in town. Don’t move on without checking out Tun Tavern, an undisputed local favorite, known for its craft beer and delicious americana.
Best things to do nearby:
- Atlantic City Convention Center (150 meters) — Renowned performance space
- Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern (600 meters) — Nostalgic Italian eatery opened in 1935
- Playground Pier (1.2 kilometers) — Beachfront mall with lovely ocean views
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 91 – USD 273
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: Two Convention Boulevard, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
5. Resorts Casino Hotel Atlantic City
A crowd favorite for its onsite casino, Resorts Casino Hotel Atlantic City is a grown-up playground right on the boardwalk. Look forward to plenty of live entertainment, five onsite restaurants, and more bars than you can crawl around. The accommodation is split between two towers: Ocean and Rendezvous. We suggest you book into the latter if what you’re looking for is a seriously oversized room. Best of all, there are some great discounts for weekday stays. Over 55? Take advantage of the Forever Young discount and enjoy USD 79 rates, Sunday to Thursday.
Best things to do nearby:
- Ripley’s Believe it or Not! (400 meters) — Iconic family-friendly museum with eyebrow raising exhibits
- Central Boardwalk Arcade (400 meters) — Nostalgic beachside games center
- The Iron Room (800 meters) — Hip local hangout with light bites and an extensive whiskey collection
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 119 – USD 406
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: Two Convention Boulevard, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
6. Flagship All-Suites, A Fantasea Resort
Lord it over the city from atop this teetering 32-story hotel located right at the start of the AC boardwalk. Flagship offers stylish, contemporary suites with spectacular views of the ocean and cityscape. Choose between a studio, one bedroom, or two bedroom with space for six guests. Kick start the first evening of your stay with drinks at Sixty, a Miami-inspired rooftop bar.
Best things to do nearby:
- Kelsey & Kim’s Southern Cafe (450 meters) — Trendy soul food joint with great seafood
- Tony Boloney’s Atlantic City (750 meters) — Pizza by the slice at this fun-filled restaurant
- Atlantic City Aquarium (1.0 kilometers) — Aquarium featuring exotic animals and fascinating exhibits
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 91 – USD 171
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: 60 North Maine Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
7. Courtyard by Marriott Atlantic City Beach Block
If you’re searching for Atlantic City Boardwalk hotels that offer something other than gambling, Beach Block is a good place to start. True to its name, this hotel is located just up the street from the boardwalk. That gives you easy access to Steel Pier and the great bites and beverages at The Quarter. The first thing you’ll notice about the hotel itself though, its unashamedly fashionable central lobby and bistro. Make a pitstop for pleasing fare or a quick dinner drink before you ascend to your room. On that note, make sure to check yourself in on an upper floor. The ocean and city views are breathtaking.
Best things to do nearby:
- Perry’s Cafe & Deli (120 meters) — Local favorite for fantastic diner fare, served breakfast and lunch
- Margaritaville (450 meters) — Popular Tex-Mex joint inspired by the Jimmy Buffet song
- Steel Pier (750 meters) — Atlantic City’s go to for beachside rollercoasters and attractions
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 108 – USD 353
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 1212 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
8. Clarion Inn Atlantic City
With casinos, the boardwalk, and plenty of old-timey arcades just around the corner, there’s plenty to entertain those that check into this Clarion Inn. Featuring cozy mid-range accommodation, this is a budget friendly option for those that don’t want to step too far from the sea. Wake up to a free breakfast as well as freshly brewed coffee and select juices. The outdoor pool is a nice seasonal extra, especially when you need some you time away from the main strip.
Best things to do nearby:
- Chickie & Pete’s (120 meters) — Large sports bar best known for its crab fries
- El Patron Restaurant & Bar (500 meters) — Mexican restaurant with live music and dancing
- Knife and Fork Inn (900 meters) — 1912 landmark steakhouse
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 64 – USD 154
Guest Rating: 6.8
Address: 101 South Iowa Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
9. Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino
Home to Guy Fieri’s legendary chophouse, Bally’s serves pound-for-pound the best beef in Atlantic City. But the perks of this fun-loving locale don’t stop at a well seared steak. In addition to slots, roulette, and houseful of table games, the hotel’s happening nightlife hub, Wild Wild West, is a great place to untether your inner hedonist. Knock back a frozen margarita and enjoy live entertainment Friday through Sunday. If you’re looking to soak up the booze, the tacos at AC Snack Shack are incredibly gratifying.
Best things to do nearby:
- The VÜE (220 meters) — Romantic rooftop cocktail bar
- New Jersey Korean War Memorial (230 meters) — Somber memorial to the Cold War conflict
- Central Pier Arcade (800 meters) — Beachside entertainment with go-karting track
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 95 – USD 1,260
Guest Rating: 6.9
Address: 1900 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
10. Rodeway Inn Boardwalk
On a budget? The rooms at this functional motel set up are an absolute steal. Located a block from the beach, Rodeway Inn Boardwalk doesn’t compromise on location — or much else for that matter. Check into classically furnished rooms with free wifi and a flatscreen TV. Rodeway Inn Boardwalk starts each day right with free breakfast and coffee. Of course, if you’re eager to eat out, Perry’s Cafe & Deli serves some of the best morning fare in the city. Conveniently, it’s just around the corner.
Best things to do nearby:
- Mehfil Indian Restaurant (450 meters) — Popular South Asian buffet with an array for Pakistani and Indian dishes
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! (700 meters) — Boardwalk icon with exhibits surrounding mysteries and oddities
- Dolce Mare (1.2 kilometers) — White linen Italian restaurant
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 342 – USD 399
Guest Rating: 6/4
Address: 124 South North Carolina Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
11. Quality Inn Flamingo
Just a block from the boardwalk, Quality Inn Flamingo has immediate access to all of Atlantic City’s must-see attractions. The legendary Tropicana can be reached in minutes, as can the hair-raising fun of Steel Pier. Best of all, you won’t have to pay casino hotel prices to have it all right on your doorstep. Likewise, Quality Inn Flamingo provides cozy, wifi-enabled accommodation, with a free cooked breakfast to start each day.
Best things to do nearby:
- Celebrity Corner (280 meters) — Vibrant cocktails and pub grub right on the boardwalk
- Wet Willies (290 meters) — Lively bar known for its colorful frozen drinks
- James’s Taffy and Fudge (350 meters) — Nostalgic seaside candy store
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 69 – USD 115
Guest Rating: 7.2
Address: 3101 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
12. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Atlantic City
Don’t be put off by the boring beige exterior. Inside, this Wyndham-owned joint has just undergone a full facelift. Now decorated in a sophisticated palette of neutrals, its guest rooms offer all your standard amenities. Daily housekeeping, free coffee and wifi, and cribs on request are notable little extras. Not much of a sea swimmer? Not to worry — there’s an outdoor pool.
Best things to do nearby:
- Com Ga Ninh Kieu (450 meters) — Yellow-walled Vietnamese restaurant whipping up traditional dishes
- Resorts Casino Hotel (650 meters) — Renowned AC casino
- Absecon Lighthouse (1.1 kilometers) — Historic lighthouse offering spectacular sea views
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 74 – USD 291
Guest Rating: 7.9
Address: 1339 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401-7204, United States
13. Days Inn by Wyndham Atlantic City Oceanfront-Boardwalk
Enjoying the same dazzling location as many 5-star Atlantic City boardwalk hotels, Days Inn puts you right by the oceanfront. This hotel offers mid range, business-style accommodation with views of the water if you ask nicely at the check in. Free wifi, balconies, and valet parking are some pleasing features. Upgrade to a jacuzzi room though, and you’ll be able to soak in your own private whirlpool bath. Hey! It is your vacation after all.
Days Inn is also a great choice for anyone looking to experience Atlantic City’s reputation for seafood first hand. We recommend stopping by at Chef Vola’s or Cafe 2825. Both are just a short walk away.
Best things to do nearby:
- Tony’s Baltimore Grill (400 meters) — Trendy late night pizza joint and grill
- Chef Vola’s (450 meters) — Intimate BYOB favorite serving Italian specialities
- Maria’s Luncheonette (650 meters) — Distinctive American diner recognizable for its colorful exterior
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 87 – USD 257
Guest Rating: 7.7
Address: 3000 Boardwalk At Morris Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
14. Fantasea Resorts Atlantic Palace
Not having nearly enough camp as one would expect from a name like “Fantasea” is just about the only negative we can give this sophisticated, beachfront property. Then again, if you’re one for custom designed furniture, sublime sea views, and trendy decor, that single qualm shouldn’t bother you. Fantasea’s fully self-contained suites feature modern kitchens or kitchenettes and whirlpool baths. If that doesn’t win you over, there’s also an indoor hot tub, outdoor pool, and even a luxury spa.
Fantasea enjoys one of the best locations of Atlantic City boardwalk hotels. Ripley’s Believe it or Not! is right next door, and you won’t have to make 50 strides to reach the Central Pier Arcade. This also means that the beach is right at your doorstep.
Best things to do nearby:
- Steel Pier (600 meters) — AC’s biggest thrills are located just up the boardwalk
- Civil Rights Garden (600 meters) — Pretty park honoring the heroes of the Civil Rights Movement
- Sugar Factory Atlantic City (700 meters) — Sugary sweets and slot machines
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 91 – USD 228
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 1507 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, United States
15. Best Western Atlantic City Hotel
Guests say that this hotel is great for walkers. We chalk that down to its almost instant access to the boardwalk as well as the rest of Atlantic City’s must see attractions. The accommodation is spacious and traditional in style, some with views of the surf. Unlike many Atlantic City boardwalk hotels, the Best Western also offers a free breakfast and free wifi.
Best things to do nearby:
- Irish Pub and Irish Pub Inn (350 meters) — Former speakeasy with antique bar and beers on tap
- Central Pier Arcade (500 meters) — Endless arcade with classic and new games for prizes
- Hard Rock Cafe (1.2 kilometers) — Rock n’ Roll themed cafe and restaurant
Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 61 – USD 264
Guest Rating: 7.4
Address: 1416 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401-8011, United States
Hotel Location
Atlantic City Boardwalk Hotels: An Ace Up Your Sleeve
Whether you’re planning a road trip out of New York or planning your next fall getaway, have Atlantic City on your list. Pounding out some of the best nightlife, entertainment, and surf in The Garden State, the Las Vegas of the East Coast appeals to the hedonist in everyone. What’s more, few other beach towns allow you to stay right across from the sand without also throwing your budget out into the sea. In that sense, Atlantic City checks the books between promising great value, and more importantly, a great time.
Are you planning your next East Coast adventure? Let us know which of these Atlantic City Boardwalk Hotels you’ve set your eyes on in the comments below!
