The Atlantic City Boardwalk
The Atlantic City Boardwalk is one of the most famous seaside promenades in the world and the first boardwalk ever built in the United States. Stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, the Boardwalk has been the heart of Atlantic City for more than 150 years, connecting casinos, restaurants, entertainment, and historic attractions along the Jersey Shore.
The Atlantic City Boardwalk stretches along the coastline, connecting beaches, casinos, and iconic attractions.
🚋 Experience the Boardwalk with AC Mike’s Tram Tour
If you really want to understand the Atlantic City Boardwalk, there’s no better way than seeing it with a local expert.
AC Mike’s Boardwalk Tram Tours take you through the heart of the city while sharing the real stories, history, and hidden details that most visitors completely miss.
Led by longtime Atlantic City personality Anthony “AC Mike” Lopez, this guided experience brings the Boardwalk to life — from its origins to its modern-day revival.
👉 Book Your Boardwalk Tram Tour Now →Atlantic City Boardwalk Quick Facts
- 📍 Location: Atlantic City, New Jersey
- 📅 Built: 1870 (first boardwalk in the United States)
- 📏 Length: Approximately 5 miles
- 🏖️ Runs along: Atlantic Ocean beachfront
- 🎡 Famous for: Casinos, Steel Pier, rolling chairs, salt water taffy
The History of the Atlantic City Boardwalk
The Atlantic City Boardwalk is widely recognized as the first boardwalk ever built in the United States, opening on June 26, 1870. The idea was conceived by railroad conductor Alexander Boardman as a simple solution to a growing problem — beachgoers were tracking sand into nearby hotels and train cars.
The original structure was modest, stretching just one mile and only eight feet wide. It was designed to be temporary, with the wooden planks actually removed and stored each winter to protect them from harsh coastal weather.
As Atlantic City quickly grew into a premier seaside destination, the Boardwalk expanded alongside it. By the late 1800s and early 1900s, it had evolved into a permanent structure and became the centerpiece of what was known as “America’s Playground.”
During its peak years, the Boardwalk stretched more than seven miles and was surrounded by grand hotels, theaters, and attractions. Iconic destinations like Steel Pier in Atlantic City, which opened in 1898, helped transform the Boardwalk into a world-famous entertainment hub.
The Boardwalk also became a cultural landmark, hosting major events like the first Miss America Pageant in 1921 and the opening of Boardwalk Hall in 1929 — one of the largest indoor venues of its time.
Over the decades, storms, redevelopment, and modernization have reshaped the Boardwalk, but its legacy remains intact. Today, while shorter than its historic peak, it continues to serve as the heart of Atlantic City, connecting visitors to its casinos, beaches, and iconic attractions.
Walking the Boardwalk Today
Today the Atlantic City Boardwalk stretches for miles along the oceanfront and remains the center of activity in the city. Visitors can walk along the boards, enjoy ocean views, explore shops and restaurants, and experience the energy of one of the most iconic coastal destinations in the United States.
Street performers, rolling chair rides, amusement attractions, and live entertainment help keep the Boardwalk lively throughout the year.
Steel Pier and Boardwalk Attractions
One of the most recognizable attractions along the Boardwalk is Steel Pier in Atlantic City, which opened in 1898 and helped establish the Boardwalk as a major entertainment destination.
Today the pier features amusement rides, games, and the 227-foot observation wheel offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and city skyline.
Explore the complete Steel Pier guide →Casinos Along the Boardwalk
Several of the most popular Atlantic City casinos are located directly on the Boardwalk, including Caesars, Hard Rock, and Ocean Casino Resort. These destinations offer gaming, restaurants, concerts, nightlife, and entertainment just steps from the beach.
See the complete Atlantic City casino guide →Atlantic City Beaches Along the Boardwalk
Running alongside the entire Boardwalk are the city’s famous Atlantic City beaches, offering free public access, ocean views, and a perfect complement to the Boardwalk experience.
Visitors can easily step off the boards and onto the sand, making it one of the most unique oceanfront destinations in the country.
Explore the Atlantic City beaches →