My earliest memory of Atlantic City, N.J., traces back to when I was just a tyke: I insisted on being carried because I thought I was going to fall through the cracks in the Boardwalk.
When I revisited Atlantic City after a few decades, I noticed a couple of things had changed: first, there was more space between the Boardwalk and me so the cracks no longer posed a threat, and secondly, a bevy of colorful casino hotels had cropped up, trying their best to woo passersby with flashy signs and loud speakers bellowing out promises of fortune and drink specials.
But some things had not changed: the roar of the ocean, squawking seagulls, the ruckus of penny arcades and the smell of cotton candy wafting through the air, tantalizing the taste buds. Purveyors of the famous rolling chairs—a carriage of sorts pushed by a person—called out to weary tourists in hopes of securing a fare. The sense of nostalgia served as a pleasant reminder of simpler times, when the decision de jour was what flavor of ice cream to order.
I started my Boardwalk trek at Steel Pier, across from the
Trump Taj Mahal Casino Hotel. The pier is packed with old-fashioned amusements, from mild to wild—you can savor a coastline view from the top of the Ferris wheel, or turn it up a notch by braving the Crazy Mouse Coaster. If rides aren’t your thing, try your hand at some midway games.
Heading westward, I encountered an eclectic assortment of kitschy-yet-fun shops touting beachwear and souvenirs. These are interspersed with arcades and a gluttonous mishmash of fast food stands selling hot dogs, cheese steaks, funnel cakes and the like (keep in mind it’s probably best not to tank up before hitting the rides). I popped into Fralinger’s Salt Water Taffy, a Boardwalk staple since the 1880s; on par with modern times, they even offer a sugar-free version that’ s mighty tasty. For a more upscale lunch experience, several of the casino hotels have restaurants with outdoor seating adjacent to the Boardwalk, where you can people-watch while lingering over your meal.
On a more serious note, I encountered the
New Jersey Korean War Veterans Memorial at the Boardwalk’s intersection with Park Place. An eternal flame highlights a granite wall displaying the names of New Jerseyans who perished in the conflict.
Farther along the Boardwalk opposite
Caesars Atlantic City, the Pier Shops welcomes those seeking to indulge in some serious retail recreation. Upscale proprietors abound: names like Burberry, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Salvatore Ferragamo lure shoppers on the hunt for luxury goods. While I was there I witnessed the hourly Water Show, a light and sound production synchronized to dancing fountains that makes for a nice few minutes of free entertainment. The high-end mall also happens to have a great view of the coastline that’s especially captivating during sunset.
I received another blast from the past as I approached my final stop on my seaside promenade, the iconic Boardwalk Hall. Although it still serves as an entertainment venue, the center was in the spotlight during its stint hosting the Miss America pageant until 2004.
If you’re in Atlantic City, I highly recommend a stroll down the Boardwalk for a little exercise and fresh air as well as a healthy dose of nostalgia. Feel free to share your own Boardwalk memories.
