Our Picks For The 15 Best Tours & Things To Do In Atlantic City

Atlantic City is famous for its lively boardwalk, bright casino lights, and seaside charm. But beyond the gaming tables and nightlife, there’s a surprising variety of experiences that can turn a visit into something memorable. Whether you’re after a relaxing boat cruise, a panoramic climb, or a quirky scavenger hunt, Atlantic City offers activities that suit many tastes.

We especially enjoy the Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise for its lively marine encounters, and the Absecon Lighthouse for those who want a taste of history with spectacular views. For a bit of excitement, the Spiegelworld shows provide adult-only entertainment that’s both funny and jaw-dropping.

If you’re traveling with family or friends, options like mini golf or the Island Waterpark make for a fun day out. Meanwhile, the ghost tour adds a spooky twist to the city’s story. With so many choices, you’ll find something to make your Atlantic City trip unique.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and entertainment designed to appeal to different travelers. You’ll find sea cruises to see dolphins, like the Atlantic City: Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise Adventure, and historical landmarks such as the Absecon Lighthouse.

For family fun, there’s the Ocean View Mini Golf on the boardwalk (see details here) and the Island Waterpark (more info here).
If you’re looking for entertainment, the adult-themed The Hook at Caesars (ticket info) and the Spiegelworld shows provide lively, jaw-dropping nights. Finally, the ghost tour (see reviews) offers a spooky glimpse into the city’s past.

1. Atlantic City: Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise Adventure

For around $53 per person, this 1.5-hour dolphin cruise offers an unforgettable marine experience. Departing from New Jersey, the cruise combines sightseeing with educational commentary from an onboard marine naturalist. You’ll head into the open ocean in search of leaping, frolicking dolphins, often seen playing in the waves just beyond the shoreline.

What sets this tour apart is the live narration about how dolphins interact with local waters and the marine ecosystem—adding a learning aspect to the fun.

Guests love the chance to see dolphins up close in their natural habitat, rating it 4.6 out of 5 based on nearly 500 reviews. The boat is comfortable, and the naturalist’s commentary makes it both entertaining and informative.

Best suited for families, nature lovers, or anyone craving a relaxing marine adventure. A potential downside is that weather conditions can affect dolphin sightings, so plan for a clear day.

Bottom Line: A lively, educational cruise that’s perfect for families and marine enthusiasts looking for a memorable sea experience.

2. Atlantic City: Absecon Lighthouse Admission Ticket

Climb New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse—the third tallest in the country—on this 30-minute visit for just $10. This landmark has been guiding ships since 1857, and the original Fresnel Lens remains on display. The ascent of 228 steps rewards you with panoramic views of Atlantic City’s skyline and the ocean. It’s a classic way to combine history with scenic sightseeing.

Stunning photos of the cityscape are a bonus, and many visitors appreciate the compact, manageable visit. The lighthouse is well-preserved, and the staff share interesting stories about its history.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, photographers, or anyone wanting a quick but meaningful glimpse of Atlantic City’s maritime past. The only drawback is that the climb might be too strenuous for some with mobility issues.

Bottom Line: A brief, rich dose of history and spectacular views at a very accessible price point.

3. Atlantic City: Ocean View Mini Golf Pass

For $16 per person, enjoy a 2-hour round of multi-level mini golf on Atlantic City’s most iconic boardwalk. This 18-hole course offers unique themed holes, such as a craps table and a slot machine, that add a playful twist to your game. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy the breathtaking ocean views while challenging your friends or family.

Rated 4.6 out of 5 by 33 reviewers, many praise the spectacular city and ocean vistas you get from the course. The setting on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk makes it a perfect post-meal or post-ride activity. Kids and adults alike will find this fun and engaging, especially with the themed holes. After your game, you can stroll along the boardwalk, making it a full afternoon of entertainment.

Bottom Line: A fun, affordable activity with fantastic views—ideal for families and casual players.

4. Atlantic City: Little Water Distillery Spirit Tasting

For $15, this 1.5-hour tasting experience at Atlantic City’s first distillery offers a chance to sample award-winning spirits, including whiskey, gin, vodka, and rum. The tour includes handcrafted cocktails made with regional ingredients and a complimentary shot glass to take home.

The distillery shares insights into how they create their unique craft spirits, making this a delightful experience for spirit enthusiasts.

Rated 4.4 out of 5, visitors note the great variety of spirits and friendly staff. It’s perfect for those interested in local craft beverages or looking for a relaxed, flavorful outing. The only potential downside is that it’s a casual tasting—if you’re seeking a full bar experience, this is more about quality than quantity.

Bottom Line: A relaxed, informative tasting that highlights Atlantic City’s emerging craft spirits scene—great for connoisseurs and curious drinkers.

5. The Hook at Caesars Atlantic City

At $108.51 per ticket, The Hook promises a 1 hour 15-minute adult-only show inside Caesars Atlantic City. Set in the historic Warner Theater, it features jaw-dropping acrobatics, provocative humor, and a sexy homage to Atlantic City’s golden age of entertainment. The show’s international cast performs spectacular feats that will leave you both amazed and entertained.

Rated 4.0 out of 5, many reviews highlight the lively atmosphere and impressive acts, though some mention the show is best suited for adults. It pairs well with dining at Superfrico, the venue’s Italian-American psychedelic restaurant. The show is a perfect choice for those wanting a night of high-energy entertainment with a bit of a risqué twist.

Bottom Line: An adult-oriented, exhilarating night out with acrobatics and humor—ideal for couples or groups seeking lively entertainment.

6. Aces to Ashes: Apparitions of Atlantic City Boardwalk Ghost Tour

For $31, this 1-hour after-hours ghost tour explores Atlantic City’s haunted sites, including Chicken Bone Beach and the Warner Theatre. Guided by an engaging storyteller, you’ll learn about spooky legends and spectral sightings rooted in the city’s past. The tour visits multiple haunted locations, each with its own eerie story.

Rated 4.0 out of 5, the tour is praised for the entertaining guide and atmospheric storytelling. It’s best suited for night owl history fans and those interested in ghost stories. The walking pace is manageable, but some sites may be less interesting if you’re not into haunted tales.

Bottom Line: A fun, creepy way to see a different side of Atlantic City’s history—perfect for thrill-seekers and ghost aficionados.

7. Atlantic City: The Hook at Caesars Show Ticket

This 75-minute adults-only show at Caesars offers a lively mix of acrobatics, comedy, and provocative performance art. Priced at $109, it’s a ticket to a high-energy spectacle that celebrates Atlantic City’s entertainment past. The show features international performers and is a lively, humorous experience.

Rated 4.3 out of 5, many find it hilarious and impressive, especially the jaw-dropping acro acts. It works well as a spontaneous night activity and pairs nicely with dinner at Superfrico. Suitable for adults who enjoy dynamic, slightly risqué entertainment.

Bottom Line: A fun, energetic show that captures Atlantic City’s entertaining spirit, perfect for an adult night out.

8. Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Roll The Dice In America’s Playground

For $12.31, this app-based scavenger hunt offers a flexible, interactive way to explore Atlantic City at your own pace. Using your smartphone, you will visit major landmarks and hidden gems, answering trivia and solving challenges. It’s perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers wanting a personalized tour.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 from one reviewer, it’s loved for its easy-to-follow format and engaging content. The activity is suitable for all fitness levels, but be prepared for walking along the boardwalk and city streets. It’s great for first-time visitors wanting an active way to learn about the city.

Bottom Line: An affordable, fun activity that adds discovery and competition to your Atlantic City visit.

9. Atlantic City: Surrey Bike Rental

Renting a surrey bike for up to six people for $84 per hour is a charming way to see the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Pedal along the coast, enjoy the ocean breeze, and visit landmarks like Steel Pier. It’s a leisurely, group-friendly activity that offers a different perspective on the city.

Rated 4.5 out of 5, visitors appreciate the relaxing pace and scenic views. It’s especially well-suited for families or groups wanting a shared experience away from the hustle of the casinos. A potential drawback is the limited time—an hour might fly by for some.

Bottom Line: A relaxing, social way to explore the boardwalk and beaches—ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends.

10. Atlantic City: Boardwalk Tram Tour with Local Guide

For $37, this 1.5-hour guided tram tour offers narrated insights into Atlantic City’s historic and modern landmarks. You’ll pass iconic spots like The Claridge, Borgata, and Steel Pier, with insider tips on dining and entertainment along the way. It’s a comfortable way to get a broad overview of the city.

The tour is appreciated for its informative narration and scenic route, though it’s somewhat limited in scope. It’s a good choice for first-timers or those wanting a quick, guided overview without the walking of a traditional tour.

Bottom Line: A practical way to learn about Atlantic City’s past and present from a comfortable tram ride.

11. Hard Rock Cafe Atlantic City

Dining at the Hard Rock Café is more than a meal, it’s a music-themed experience. For around $40, you get a 2-hour prix-fixe menu featuring American classics like burgers, ribs, and salmon, plus a drink and dessert. The lively, music-filled atmosphere adds to the fun.

Rated 3.5 out of 5, many reviewers highlight the friendly staff and tasty food. The vibe is energetic, making it a good spot for casual dining or celebrating special occasions. The menu is broad enough to cater to different tastes, with vegetarian options available.

Bottom Line: Good for a casual, lively meal with music memorabilia, especially if you love American comfort food in a themed setting.

12. Island Waterpark at Showboat

For $59, this waterpark offers 11 waterslides, a lazy river, surf simulator, and kids’ area—a full day of fun. The Wild Wave FlowRider lets you surf on real waves, while the adventure pool includes basketball hoops for active play. The park also features adults-only areas like the Bliss Pool with a swim-up bar.

Rated 4.5 out of 5, visitors love the variety and the family-friendly amenities. It’s perfect for a sunny day with kids or if you’re just looking to cool off and enjoy some adrenaline-pumping rides. Be prepared for a full day, especially if you’re planning to try most attractions.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for families or groups seeking a day of water-based fun in Atlantic City.

13. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Atlantic City by Operation City Quest

For just $10, this interactive, app-guided scavenger hunt makes sightseeing feel like a game. It covers downtown Atlantic City, with points for solving puzzles and answering trivia about local landmarks. A remote, live host is available for hints and encouragement.

Rated 4.0 out of 5, it’s praised for being a fun, engaging way to explore. It’s suitable for all ages and encourages discovery at your own pace. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking around the city.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, entertaining way to turn your visit into a game, perfect for families or competitive groups.

14. Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt

At $29, this custom, immersive scavenger hunt includes a live remote host and is designed to encourage problem-solving and exploration. It’s more personalized and involves creative challenges that reveal the city’s stories and secrets.

Rated 3.0 out of 5, it can be a unique experience, especially for those who enjoy customized adventures. It’s best for travelers interested in a more thematic, detective-style activity and willing to participate in creative challenges.

Bottom Line: A different kind of scavenger hunt for adventurous travelers looking for a tailored experience.

15. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Atlantic City by Crazy Dash

For $10, this casual scavenger hunt uses an app to find objects and complete challenges across Atlantic City. It’s designed for easy fun, with live rankings and a remote host to keep the game lively. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or casual explorers.

Rated 3.0 out of 5, it’s the simplest of scavenger hunts, making it a good choice for those who prefer a light but engaging activity. Dress comfortably and enjoy the relaxed pace.

Bottom Line: A straightforward, fun scavenger hunt, suitable for anyone wanting a light activity without too much complexity.

How to Choose the Best Tour for You

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you love marine life, the Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise offers a memorable experience. History buffs will enjoy the Absecon Lighthouse for its panoramic views. Families might prefer the Ocean View Mini Golf or Island Waterpark, while those seeking lively entertainment may opt for The Hook or the Spiegelworld shows.

For active explorers, the surrey bike rental or scavenger hunts provide a fun way to see the city from a different angle. Book early, especially for shows and water parks during peak season, and check weather conditions to maximize outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts

Atlantic City offers a surprisingly diverse set of activities beyond its casinos. Whether you’re after a relaxing boat cruise, a historical climb, or an energetic scavenger hunt, there’s something for all. We recommend pairing a dolphin cruise with a visit to Absecon Lighthouse for a day combining nature and history. Night owls will enjoy The Hook or the ghost tour for a lively or spooky evening.

Remember, the key to a great trip is choosing activities aligned with your interests and planning ahead—especially during busy weekends or holiday seasons. With this variety, you’re sure to find experiences that make your Atlantic City visit truly memorable.