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Atlantic City

 doac

By Angela Ash

 

Atlantic City is pretty much a legend.  With its deep rooted history in gambling and politics, you've probably even seen it on "Boardwalk Empire", the HBO Series that dramatizes the life of Enoch "Nucky" Thompson (Johnson). You can visit Atlantic City and walk where Nucky walked... even eat where he dined.

But that's not even the tip of what Atlantic City has to offer its visitors.  With casinos lined across the beach and the bay, start with a memorable hotel for your adventure!

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Right on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, rising like a palace from the golden sand, is the Trump Taj Mahal. Always synonymous with even the mere mention of Atlantic City, the Trump Taj Mahal offers a myriad of restaurant options, amenities, a world-class casino, and guestrooms with sweeping views of the rippling Atlantic Ocean.

The hotel at the Taj is simply stunning.  The rooms are modern and lavishly appointed, overlooking the ocean and the boardwalk, the bay, and the city.  Decorated in warm neutrals, each space offers an inviting, pleasing atmosphere that will truly provide the comforts of home. 

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However, "home" sure doesn't have these amenities! The Fitness Center offers state-of-the-art equipment to help you work off that buffet,and the heated indoor swimming pool area is decorated with creative murals that actually make you feel as if you were taking a dip in the middle of a dessert... complete with a caravan of camels.  The Spa at the Taj offers Swedish and aromatherapy massages, hot stone therapy, and even reflexology treatment, and the full service Salon will completely pamper you with body treatments, manicures and pedicures, temporary and permanent makeup, and hair cuts, colors, styles, and even extensions. 

The Taj Mahal also offers a mouth-watering array of restaurants, ranging from quick bites to the Sultan's Feast, and from the casual meal to the elegance of authentic Indian delicacies at Royal Albert's Palace.  Also check out Spice Road, packed with plenty of dining options. 

The casino at the Taj Mahal will not be outdone.  With over 2,500 slots and 177 table games, the action is always available.  And if anyone has seen the poker movie "Rounders", then you will have noticed that the Poker Room at the Taj is most definitely the place to play. 

When visiting Atlantic City, the Trump Taj Mahal is your obvious choice for relaxation, excitement, and everything in between.

For more information, visit them online, or call (609) 449-1000

Now, if you are wondering what to do in Atlantic City, the options are endless. You can visit casino after casino, trying your luck at slots, table games, and other ventures.  In the warm months, the beach is the place to be, soaking up the warm sun on the Atlantic City's golden sand beaches. 

But if you really want to have some fun, visit the historic Steel Pier, which is right on the Boardwalk and extends 1,000 feet over the ocean, packed full of rides, games,  and entertainment.  It is also located conveniently near the Trump Taj Mahal.

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If you are ready to feel some speed, then make sure to visit the Central Pier Arcade and Speedway.  It features an indoor arcade, packed full of your favorite games.  But outside is where the excitement really begins.  Open all year around, the Nascar style go karts race over and under, with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.  You may also try your skill at the paintball challenge, which offers fun for the entire family!

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When you think that you have seen it all, then you are just daring Ripley's to prove you wrong! Located right on the Boardwalk, this Odditorium houses items and artifacts that you literally have to see to believe... and then some.  You can see a hand carved miniature chateau, a shrunken head, the life mask of Lincoln, and bizarre art and images that will have you completely amazed.  Many exhibits are interactive, so you never know when you will unkowingly become part of the entertainment at Ripley's!

And if you thought Atlantic City was all about casinos and Boardwalk attractions, then make sure you come hungry, because you will never forget Atlantic City's delicious, unique dining options.  

 

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Harry's Oyster Bar and Seafood Restaurant offers delicious food in a fun, festive environment. The smells that welcome you upon entering the restaurant give a delightful preview of what is in store.

Located right inside of Bally's Casino and overlooking the Boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean, the location can't be beat... except by the food.

Lightly having the feel of an upscale sports bar, the menu definitely confirms that it can offer giant pretzels, nachos, and a wide selection of beers to start off any sporting event in style. 

But if you are here for a beautiful, outdoor dinner, complemented by the smell of sea air and a sweet breeze from the ocean, then you have also come to the right place.  With specialties like Linguine and Clams, Mahi Mahi Soft Tacos, and the best Fish and Chips I have ever tasted in my entire life, your taste buds will love you! 

And the show doesn't stop there! With sandwiches, salads, chowders, and a bounty of fresh fish offerings, you really need to visit more than once to fully take in this plentiful menu.  And the Raw Bar offers a plethora of oysters, lobster, clams, shrimp, and other culinary delights to tempt you even further with a return visit. 

Whether you are interested in a romantic dinner near the Boardwalk or oysters and drinks before the big game, Harry's is the place to accommodate your every whim.

For more information, visit them online, or call (609) 431-0092.

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Now, for a completely different atmosphere for your seafood adventure, there is only one place that I have in mind!

Opened in 1897, Dock's Oyster House has been delivering seafood and steaks to the locals and visitors alike in Atlantic City.  When questioning a hotel concierge or even a stranger on the street, the suggestion for excellent seafood is always, undoubtedly, to go to Dock's.  And it's easy to see why. 

Within walking distance of the Boardwalk or the Convention Center, the building is welcoming and inviting.  There are just some restaurants that instantly make a guest feel welcome upon arrival, and Dock's Oyster House is at the top of that list.  The service alone should make this place legendary, as orders are taken quickly with a finesse that can only come with years of service in employment that one truly loves. 

This seems to be the theme at Dock's.  I have rarely experienced a group so devoted to their craft... which is serving and creating some of the best dishes in Atlantic City. 

Hence the name, Dock's offers an extensive list of oysters from the raw bar, as well as several shrimp selections, clams, and lobster.  The appetizers range from a creamy Maine Clam Chowder to an absolutely delicious Calamari, battered lightly and fried to perfection. A nice choice of salads are also present on the menu, with a refreshing House Salad comprised of mixed greens, toasted walnuts, blue cheese, apples, and cider vinaigrette. 

But one should save ample room for the entrees, because it is extremely difficult not to fit in that last bite!  Dock's Seafood Fry is an excellent choice, including a delightful selection of shrimp, flounder, a crab  cake, and french fries.  Other seafood options also include Seared Sea Scallops, Pecan Crusted Salmon, Crab Meat Au Gratin, and the Lobster Tail. 

However, not sampling the steaks would be a huge mistake, because the Cowboy Steak, 26 ounces of grilled divinity, might just possibly be one of the most wonderful cuts of meat in all of Atlantic City.  Dock's also offers a Filet Mignon, a New York Sirloin, and the Rack of Lamb.

When in Atlantic City, it is IMPERATIVE to have a meal at Dock's Oyster House. 

For more information, please visit online, or call (609) 345-0092.

 

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Now, we mentioned Nucky Johnson early on, so it would be remiss to not start off with the fact that yes... he actually ate at the Knife and Fork Inn.  Devotees of HBO's Boardwalk Empire may flock here to just be in the same building, but the crowd of guests in the entryway are plainly here for the food, the ambiance, and the impeccable service that makes the Knife and Fork Inn one of Atlantic City's top restaurants!

The building itself, had I no knowledge of the wonders within, would draw me in merely out of curiosity.  It stands proudly at the crossroads of Atlantic, Pacific, and Albany Avenues, and if a building could ever be said to possess a personality, it would be the Knife and Fork Inn.  And it is no wonder, because throughout its storied past, specifically during Prohibition, it has more than likely seen its fair share of colorful characters, intense situations, and roaring good times!

Sometimes the atmosphere of a restaurant can overshadow the food, but this is not at all the case.  The unique setting of the Knife and Fork Inn pairs perfectly with some of the best food that I have tasted... ever.

The appetizers and salads are served in generous portions, with choices like the Warm Spinach Salad, a Shrimp Cobb Salad, Kobe Sliders, and delicious Grilled Tuna Skewers.  The Lobster Bisque is a creamy masterpiece, filled with tender chunks of lobster that could nearly serve as an entree, it is so filling!

But make no mistake, there is no skipping the main course at the Knife and Fork Inn... especially when they specialize in steaks grilled to something quite beyond perfection.  With two cuts of Filet Mignon and Sirloin to choose from, the steaks and chops keep coming, with a Dry-Aged Bone In Cowboy, the Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb, and Braised Short Ribs... to list a few.

And the seafood also makes a prized appearance, with options like Grilled Swordfish, Pan Roasted Lake Trout, Seared Four-Spice Tuna, and the Lobster Tail.

The enormous side dishes must not be left out, because you must somehow find room for the Beer Battered String Beans, the French Fried Beet Chips, and the Onion Rings!

Is it fair to say that this is my absolute favorite restaurant in Atlantic City?  In the effort of full disclosure, I think I must admit that I would rather be at the Knife and Fork Inn, halfway through a mouth-watering steak, than just about any other restaurant.  I have a feeling that Nucky would have agreed.

 For more information, visit them online, or call (609)344-1133.

Now, if you happen to be in New York City, and you are wondering what would be the easiest, most comfortable way to travel to Atlantic City, that question has a simple answer!

 

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 I think that one of the most popular getaways from the Big Apple is to Atlantic City.  There is just something about skipping away for a weekend to hit the slots, walk the infamous Boardwalk, or just relax by the pool. 

Greyhound's Lucky Streak departs conveniently from the Port Authority Bus Terminal. This is one great way to travel.  Not only are the seats comfortable and roomy, but there's a lot of space to stretch out your legs.  Free Wi-Fi is available, as well as outlets to keep all of your devices powered. This makes the trip to AC a breeze.

Besides the already low price, the great deals do not stop there.  When you arrive at the casino of your choice, you will be presented with free play to use at that property.  And don't worry about doing the guesswork as to your departure time, because the tickets are roundtrip and open-ended, meaning you can check the schedule and leave when it is convenient for you.  With so many stops and pick up locations, the possibilities are endless!

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You may visit Greyhound's Lucky Streak online for additional information. Plan your getaway today!

For additional details, visit DO AC, where you will find all of the tools that you need to plan your next getaway to the Atlantic City area. You can also stop in their convenient location right on the Boardwalk, and stock up on maps, brochures, and other helpful information.  To plan in advance, order your DO AC Visitor Guide online before you embark on a remarkable experience!