Changes Coming to Atlantic City’s Historic Garden Pier
Hey Folks,
If you’ve walked the north end of the Atlantic City Boardwalk recently, you’ve probably noticed some activity at Garden Pier.
The historic property is once again in the spotlight as Showboat Resort owner Bart Blatstein moves forward with plans to transform the pier into an elevated beach club overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Construction crews have already removed a vacant non-historic structure on the rear portion of the pier, making room for the next phase of redevelopment.
According to published reports, the concept includes lounge seating, cabanas, food and beverage service, and oceanfront gathering space built above the water.
The project comes as the north end of Atlantic City’s beachfront continues to face ongoing erosion challenges, making traditional beach expansion difficult in that area.
Another part of the project that caught my attention is the widening of the Boardwalk directly in front of the pier. Reports indicate the Boardwalk was expanded by approximately 16 feet, creating additional space for future vendors, games, and pedestrian activity.
For longtime Atlantic City fans, Garden Pier remains one of the city’s most recognizable historic landmarks.
Originally opened in 1913, the pier hosted the first Miss America Pageant in 1921 and later became home to the Atlantic City Historical Museum and Atlantic City Art Center.
After years of limited use, the property is now being repositioned as part of ongoing development efforts along the north end of the Boardwalk.
As the project continues to take shape, it will be interesting to see how the redevelopment fits into the broader evolution of Atlantic City’s Inlet district and Boardwalk experience.
🏖️ What I’m Watching
- How the final beach club design comes together.
- The timeline for construction and opening.
- How the project integrates with the surrounding Boardwalk area.
- Additional development and activation planned for the north end of Atlantic City.
One thing is certain: there’s plenty of activity happening at the north end of the Boardwalk, and Garden Pier is once again part of the conversation.
Everybody in Atlantic City seems to have an opinion about Garden Pier, and that’s not changing anytime soon.
Now I want to hear yours.
What do you think about the project? Is this a good fit for the north end of the Boardwalk, or would you have gone in a different direction?
Leave me a comment below and let me know. I’ll be reading every response.
🎟️ Looking for Something Fun to Do in Atlantic City?
If you’re visiting Atlantic City this summer, come take a ride with me on the AC Mike Boardwalk Tram Tour.
We’ll cruise the world-famous Boardwalk while I share the stories, history, landmarks, and little-known facts that helped shape America’s Favorite Playground.
- Thursday: 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM
Reserve your seat at acmikenj.com/boardwalktours.
Live-Work-Play-AC!
See you on the 48
AC Mike
Thanks for reading AC Mike's Newsletter.
The transformation that’s taking place on the north end of the boardwalk is an exciting venture.
I can’t wait to see the finished product!