Things to Do in Atlantic City | Day Trips from the Cape May–Lewes Ferry

Things to Do in Atlantic City: Your Perfect Ferry-to-Fun Getaway

Atlantic City isn’t just the East Coast’s entertainment capital — it’s one of the most exciting, high-energy day trip destinations you can reach from the Cape May–Lewes Ferry. Whether you’re craving big-name casinos, world-class dining, outlet shopping, ocean views, or a boardwalk experience like no other, Atlantic City delivers a one-of-a-kind blend of glitz, excitement, and beach-town charm.

Scenic Views of Atlantic City Boardwalk Featuring Vibrant Lights and Beautiful Ocean Backgrounds

And now, getting there is easier (and more fun!) than ever. Our new Lucky 7 Excursions from the Lewes Ferry Terminal offer a full day of adventure: enjoy a round-trip Ferry cruise plus comfortable trolley transportation straight to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City — no driving, no traffic, no parking fees. Just step aboard, relax, and let your AC getaway begin the moment you set sail.

So pack your sense of adventure — here are the top must-do Atlantic City attractions worth building into your next Ferry-powered day trip.

Atlantic City Offers Include Family Fun

  1. Tanger Outlets Atlantic City – Discount Shopping at Its Best
    If you love the Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth, you’re in luck — Atlantic City’s version brings the same beloved brands to a walkable, open-air shopping district just minutes from the Boardwalk. Explore more than 50 stores including Nike, Coach, Under Armour, Old Navy, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Chico’s, and more.
    Pro Tip: Stop by the Tanger Shopper Services center for a free digital coupon book to stack extra discounts on your purchases.
    A photo of the fountain in front of Tanger Outlets in Atlantic City New Jersey


  2. The Quarter at Tropicana – Dining, Shopping & Nightlife
    No visit to AC is complete without exploring The Quarter at Tropicana, a beautifully styled indoor streetscape inspired by old Havana. With boutique shops, buzzing bars, lounges, and some of the city’s best restaurants, The Quarter is the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll or a lively night out. Whether you’re craving tapas, cocktails, chocolate, or a full, sit-down dinner, you’ll find it here.
    The inside of the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City

  3. Absecon Lighthouse – Climb a Jersey Icon
    Want unbeatable views? Climb the 228 steps of the Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and the third-tallest in the country. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the ocean, city skyline, and AC’s expansive beaches. The historic site still houses its original Fresnel lens from 1857 and is operated by passionate, knowledgeable staff who bring its maritime history to life.
    Absecon Lighthouse aerial view at the mouth of Absecon Inlet in the north end of Atlantic City, New Jersey NJ, USA. The light house was built in 1856 and is the tallest Lighthouse in New Jersey.

  4. Escape AC – A Thrilling Hour Indoors
    Gather your friends, family, or coworkers and test your wits at Escape AC, one of the highest-rated escape rooms on the East Coast. Choose from themed rooms, decipher clues, solve creative puzzles, and race against the 60-minute countdown to escape. It’s a perfect indoor activity for groups — and a great way to add some adrenaline to your AC itinerary.
    Escape room interior in Atlantic City NJ

  5. The Atlantic City Boardwalk – The Classic AC Experience
    Stretching over six miles, the Atlantic City Boardwalk is where beach-town relaxation meets casino excitement. From ocean views to carnival rides, beach bars, arcades, live music, restaurants, and easy access to the major casinos, the Boardwalk is the beating heart of AC.

    Families will love the amusement piers (Steel Pier is a must). Adults can walk from resort to resort, play table games, or catch live entertainment. And everyone will love the breezy seaside vibe that makes Atlantic City such a legendary destination.
    A group of three seats on the boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey, promoting the city for the attraction of tourists.

Plan Your Atlantic City Adventure Today

Whether you’re shopping for deals, tasting your way through top restaurants, climbing a lighthouse, hitting the casino floor, or strolling the Boardwalk, Atlantic City offers endless ways to play — and the Ferry gets you there in style.

Ready to roll the dice on a perfect day trip?
Book your Ferry crossing or reserve your Lucky 7 Excursion today and start your Atlantic City adventure the moment you board.

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