Ocean City Vs Atlantic City (2024)

Casinos and boardwalks in Atlantic City are famous for their nightlife and tend to draw an adult-oriented crowd. The city is home to many luxury dining establishments, shops, and entertainment options such as shows and concerts. In addition, the city is famous for its famous Boardwalk and Steel Pier, an amusem*nt park. Steel Pier amusem*nt park

Ocean City is a family-oriented coastal town famous for its stunning beaches and boardwalks dotted with eateries, shops, and amusem*nt parks. Ocean City is a dry town, which means alcohol isn’t sold within the city limits and contributes to the familial atmosphere.

What Is The Main Difference? What Is The Difference Between Atlantic City And Ocean City?Ocean City Vs Atlantic City (2)

Atlantic City, New Jersey, is located on Absecon Island and is more significant than Ocean City. It is famous for its casinos. However, most people go to the promenade along the Boardwalk or lounge on the beaches and dip in the waves. Atlantic City is closer to large urban cities than Ocean City, just south of New York.

Atmosphere

Atlantic City is widely known for its lively nightlife and gambling scene. It has a youthful vibe, with a myriad of nightclubs, hotels with high-rises, gourmet restaurants, and shopping malls. The well-known Atlantic City Boardwalk is home to numerous of these sites, as well as The Steel Pier amusem*nt park. It’s a destination for people who love the bustle of Atlantic City and would like to mix their time at the beach with other activities.

Ocean City offers a quieter and more family-oriented environment. Ocean City is known as a family-friendly resort town with the slogan “America’s Greatest Family Resort.” The city is arid, which means there aren’t bars or liquor stores, and alcohol is not available in restaurants. The city’s attractions primarily center on family-friendly activities like mini-golf, a water park, and a boardwalk with arcades and rides.

Beaches and Boardwalks

The Atlantic City beach is free and accessible to all, and lifeguards are on site in the summer. The famous Atlantic City Boardwalk offers a vibrant atmosphere with hotels, casinos, restaurants, shops, and amusem*nt parks.

Ocean City also has a secured beach; however, like Atlantic City, it requires beach tags to access the beach in the summer. Its Ocean City Boardwalk is an important feature that offers an array of family-friendly events, including food, shopping, and entertainment.

Accommodation and Dining

Atlantic City: Atlantic City provides a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotel suites to budget-friendly rooms often located within the city’s famed casinos. For eating out, Atlantic City is more than just a place to eat, offering gourmet restaurants that serve international cuisine, fast food, and informal dining.

Ocean City offers a range of accommodation options that are generally more peaceful and family-friendly. The options include vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, and hotels. Dining out in Ocean City is usually casual and focuses on food options along the Boardwalk, such as Pizza, Ice Cream, and seafood.

What Is It That Makes Atlantic City So Famous?

The city is located in South Jersey on Absecon Island. The city is famous for its nightlife, casinos, Boardwalk, and attractions on Atlantic Ocean beaches and coastline. Atlantic City inspired the U.S. version of the board game Monopoly, which uses a variety of attractions in Atlantic City.

Historical Significance

Atlantic City, located in New Jersey, USA, has a rich and long-standing history dating back to the early 1800s. The city’s initial design as a health resort primarily for wealthy people laid the groundwork for its eventual growth as an increasingly popular tourist attraction. Through the years, the city has accommodated the demands of the general public and eventually became a significant vacation spot. Its unique mix of historic charm and modern facilities makes it a popular destination for visitors.

Boardwalk

The Atlantic City Boardwalk is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Built in 1870, it was designed to assist hotel owners in keeping Sand out of their lobbies. The Boardwalk has since become a popular destination. It is lined with shops, eateries, and attractions that make it a popular spot for people to walk around and take in ocean views. The Boardwalk is also the site of Miss America’s “Show Us Your Shoes” parade every year.

Casinos and Entertainment

Atlantic City is well known for its thriving gambling scene. 1976 was the first time New Jersey voters approved an initiative to legalize Atlantic City casinos, which led to a significant economic expansion. Numerous casinos popped up, with many offering more than just gambling but excellent dining, entertainment, and other facilities. The city is often described as the “Las Vegas of the East.”

Euro Birthplace of Monopoly

The most popular board game, Monopoly, available across over 100 countries, includes street names derived from Atlantic City. The connection to one of the world’s most famous board games adds a new dimension to the city’s fame.

Music and Pop Culture

Atlantic City has been the theme of numerous songs, films, and television shows that have boosted its status in popular culture. Notably, the city was the backdrop for the HBO show “Boardwalk Empire,” a chronicle of the city’s early days of organized crime in the Prohibition period. Bruce Springsteen’s hit song “Atlantic City” also contributed to the city’s famed status.

What Is It That Makes Ocean City So Popular?

Ocean City is most famous for its Boardwalk, the salt-water Taffy, and its position as one of the White Marlin Capitals of the World. However, many do not know that Ocean City produced the first Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard, Charles Calhoun and that Ocean City has had 22 mayors in more than 126 years, with the first being William S.

Beaches and Boardwalk

Ocean City’s most famous attraction is, in fact, its beach. It stretches across 10 miles of the Atlantic Ocean, where you can take a dip and sunbathe, enjoy games at the beach, or admire the view. On the beach is a 3-mile boardwalk filled with shops, food stands, and entertainment, such as Ferris wheels, roller coasters, and a carousel. The Boardwalk is a lively environment that is an integral part of Ocean City’s charm.

Family-Friendly Entertainment

Ocean City is known for its welcoming environment for families. Beyond the Boardwalk and beach are numerous attractions, including Jolly Roger’s Amusem*nt Park’s mini-golf course, water parks, and arcades. Ocean City also has free, family-friendly activities like concerts, bonfires at the beach, and movie nights throughout the summer. These amenities help make Ocean City a popular destination for families.

Variety of Dining and Shopping Options

Ocean City offers a wide selection of shopping and dining options. There is everything from casual seafood restaurants to gourmet dining, surf stores to outlet stores, with a wide range of options; there’s something for any budget and taste. Ocean City is mainly known for its seafood, specifically Maryland Blue crabs and crab cakes.

Water Sports and Outdoor Activities

Ocean City’s position in its own Atlantic Ocean makes it a place for water sports such as paddle boarding, surfing, jet skiing, fishing, and boating. Several golf courses are also within and around Ocean City, including some championship courses.

Festivals and Events

Ocean City hosts several festivals and events annually that draw huge crowds. They include Sunfest, the fall festival featuring art and crafts, live music, and food; Springfest, which celebrates the beginning of spring with similar activities; and the White Marlin Open, one of the biggest tournaments for billfish around the globe.

What Went Wrong In Atlantic City?

Spirit operates scheduled flights across the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Spirit was the seventh-largest passenger airline in North America as of 2023 and the largest ultra-low-cost carrier within North America.

The competition from Other States

In the past, Atlantic City held an almost monopoly on Atlantic City’s East Coast casino market. However, legalized casinos within neighboring states such as Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New York provided stiff competition. Since these states opened their casinos, Atlantic City has lost a significant portion of its visitor base, increasing revenues.

Economic Recession and Casino Closures

The Great Recession of 2008 hit Atlantic City hard. With fewer people earning money to spend, Atlantic City saw fewer tourists. As a result, many of Atlantic City’s most popular casinos started to struggle financially and were forced to close. Between 2014 and 2016 alone, five casinos closed, resulting in the loss of around 11,000 jobs and affecting economic activity in the city.

Infrastructure and Urban Decay

The revenue drop impacted the city’s ability to promptly maintain its infrastructure and services. It has led to urban decline as time passes, with several once prosperous regions becoming shabby. This and a rise in crime have dissuaded tourists and prospective residents.

Arbor Casino Industry

The significant reliance on the casino industry caused Atlantic City to be particularly susceptible to the shifting market dynamics. While other cities may be able to survive the rigors of an economic slump or increased market competition, Atlantic City was particularly vulnerable because of the absence of diversification in the economy.

Mismanagement and Political Corruption

Many analysts suggest that mismanagement and corruption in the political arena have also contributed to the city’s demise. There have been allegations of sin and the misuse of city funds by officials that have been reported time and again, which has further exacerbated the city’s issues and eventually led to the city’s state-run takeover.

FAQ’s

What are the similarities between Ocean City and Atlantic City?

Both Ocean City and Atlantic City are beach towns located in the Mid-Atlantic region. They both have boardwalks, casinos, and plenty of restaurants and shops.

What are the differences between Ocean City and Atlantic City?

Ocean City is a family-friendly town with a more laid-back atmosphere. Atlantic City is a more adult-oriented town with a more vibrant nightlife.

Which is better for families?

Ocean City is generally considered to be a better destination for families. It has a wider variety of family-friendly activities, such as the beach, the boardwalk, and the Trimper’s Rides amusem*nt park.

Which is better for adults?

Atlantic City is generally considered to be a better destination for adults. It has a wider variety of adult-oriented attractions, such as casinos, nightclubs, and shopping.

Which is more expensive?

Ocean City is generally considered to be more affordable than Atlantic City. However, the prices can vary depending on the time of year and the type of accommodations you choose.

Which is closer to me?

Ocean City is located in New Jersey, while Atlantic City is located in New Jersey. The distance between the two towns is approximately 19 miles.

Ocean City Vs Atlantic City (2024)

FAQs

Ocean City Vs Atlantic City? ›

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlantic City than Ocean City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlantic City is better known for its nightlife and shopping, while Ocean City is more popular for its beaches.

Is Ocean City NJ the same as Atlantic City? ›

Both are in Mid-Atlantic states. Atlantic City, New Jersey, is on Absecon Island and is somewhat bigger than Ocean City. It is known especially for its casinos, although many others go to promenade along the boardwalk or sit on the beaches and swim in the surf.

Is Ocean City NJ worth visiting? ›

A: Ocean City, NJ is known for its beautiful beaches, lively boardwalk, and family-friendly atmosphere. The pristine sandy shores and clear waters attract beach lovers from near and far. The Ocean City boardwalk is famous for its amusem*nt rides, shops, eateries, and entertainment options.

Is Atlantic City still worth going to? ›

Atlantic City, NJ is totally worth it — even with bad weather and no gambling. My wife and I spent a weekend in Atlantic City to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. Neither of us is a gambler, so we went for the hotel experience and the boardwalk.

Is Ocean City worth going to? ›

Ocean City is a seaside resort town in Maryland that lures in vacationers with its coastal beauty and fun, friendly vibe. The sandy Atlantic shoreline is fun to explore, and the many watersports are a must at Ocean City, with surfing, fishing, and kayaking among the top activities.

Why is Ocean City NJ so popular? ›

Known as a family-oriented seaside resort, Ocean City has not allowed the sale of alcoholic beverages within its limits since its founding in 1879, offering miles of guarded beaches, a boardwalk that stretches for 2.5 miles (4.0 km), and a downtown shopping and dining district.

Why is Atlantic City so cheap? ›

Atlantic City, New Jersey

The city struggled a bit when COVID-19 restrictions shut down casinos and other entertainment venues — and 10 years ago when Hurricane Sandy blasted the shore — all of which has contributed to its affordability.

What is the best month to visit Ocean City? ›

Late May to mid-September is the warmest time of the year in Ocean City. The weather lets you fully enjoy all seaside activities, although it's good to have an umbrella handy in July–August.

How many days do you need in Ocean City? ›

Ocean City is the ideal spot for a three-day vacation, whether you're taking a long weekend off work or visiting as part of a more extended road trip. While three days may seem like a short time for a vacation, you're bound to have a wonderful time in Ocean City.

Is the Atlantic City Boardwalk worth it? ›

The AC Boardwalk provides shoppers a unique experience with local finds such as salt water taffy and delicious fudge to Atlantic City-themed souvenirs and gifts. There are many shops, dining and entertainment along the Boardwalk.

What went wrong with Atlantic City? ›

Atlantic City's decline started way before gambling, and it was largely the result of two things - cars and airplanes. The reason why Atlantic City was so popular as a vacation resort, particularly in the summer, was that it was a break from crowded New York City.

Why is Atlantic City so rundown? ›

Like many older East Coast cities after World War II, Atlantic City became plagued with poverty, crime, corruption, and general economic decline in the mid-to-late 20th century. The neighborhood known as the "Inlet" became particularly impoverished. The reasons for the resort's decline were multi-layered.

Why is Atlantic City so popular? ›

Atlantic City has a rich and fascinating history that has seen it transformed since its inception in 1854. Now, renowned for its iconic boardwalk, beachfront, and lively gaming scene, this east coast resort hosts over 27 million visitors a year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Can I swim in Ocean City? ›

Ocean City Beach is 10 miles long. This popular attraction is ideal for swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, and sandcastle building. And during the summer months, concerts and movies are a common nighttime event on the beach.

What is special about Ocean City? ›

Everyone knows that Ocean City is a charming seaside resort town, known for its miles of sandy beaches, lively boardwalk, and exciting water sports. However, Ocean City has a rich history and many hidden gems visitors often overlook.

Why do people go to Ocean City? ›

Ocean City is a popular destination for those seeking a vibrant and lively coastal lifestyle. With its stunning beaches, lively boardwalk, and diverse range of amenities, it's no wonder why people choose to call this place home.

How far apart are Ocean City and Atlantic City? ›

The total driving distance from Atlantic City, NJ to Ocean City, NJ is 20 miles or 32 kilometers. Your trip begins in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

What is the nickname for Ocean City NJ? ›

Ocean City was founded as a beach resort in 1879 and quickly earned the nickname of "America's Greatest Family Resort." Since then, many things have changed down the shore, but Ocean City still lives up to its nickname. The town is still "dry," meaning there is no alcohol served or sold in town.

Is there a difference between Ocean City Maryland and Ocean City New Jersey? ›

The island is three times the size of Ocean City, New Jersey. It consists of over 150 blocks compared to New Jersey's 70 blocks or so. However, their boardwalks are almost identical in length, with Ocean City, Maryland's boardwalk being 2.6 miles compared to New Jersey's 2.5 miles.

What is the nickname of Atlantic City? ›

The city became known as "The World's Playground". With tourism peaking in the 1920s, the period is often considered by historians to be Atlantic City's golden age.

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