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Things To Do

Affordable Family Fun

Vacationers looking for free and affordable family fun in New Jersey need look no further than the many things to do in Atlantic City. In fact, there are plenty of events and attractions to enjoy for free on Atlantic City vacations. We have the perfect New Jersey kids’ activities in mind for cost-conscious visitors, who want to have fun at a great value.

From free events and attractions such as the Atlantic City Airshow, to events that cost less than the price of a movie ticket or even just hanging out on one of the top East Coast beaches, there are plenty of free Atlantic City, New Jersey kids’ activities. Here’s a list of some of the most affordable ways to find family fun in New Jersey – all right here in Atlantic City just waiting for visitors to explore.
AC Stories: Unlocking the Ocean
Unlocking the Ocean
April 15, 2013
So you know Atlantic City is ready for summer fun, an honored annual tradition demonstrates it for you...
AC Stories: Mayfest in Smithville
Mayfest in Smithville
April 15, 2013
Mayfest at Historical Smithville offers an abundance of family fun. There are more than 100 vendors, great food...
AC Stories: School's Out
School's Out!
April 15, 2013
No more teachers, no more books – it’s the official beginning of summer and the end of the school year!
DO FREE IN AC
  • Atlantic City Beaches – no beach fees (a rarity in NJ)
  • The Atlantic City Airshow "Thunder Over the Boardwalk" blasts through the skies and is one of the most popular free things to do in New Jersey.
  • The AC Boardwalk is the perfect place to stroll anytime, or ride bicycles (6am - 10am)
  • The Atlantic City Free Public Library's International Night Series brings music and dance from around the globe to Kennedy Plaza on the Boardwalk during the summer months. All shows are free.         
  • Crafters Village at Gardner’s Basin – stroll the docks in this historic back bay area, window shop at the unique craft shops, visit the AC Aquarium for a small fee. 
  • "Duality" Light Show at Boardwalk Hall, featuring 3D video technology, stunning animation and an original music score. Every night, after dark. Free.
  • Farmers Market at Center City Park during the summer season where local farmers bring fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers and craft vendors offer their wares for sale.
  • Korean War Memorial honors the contribution made to help gain freedoms for both the U.S. and South Korea, and Civil Rights Garden symbolizing the passion of the human spirit.
  • Movies Under the Stars - Free movies at various locations on the beach throughout the summer months. Bring your blanket, beach chairs and picnic baskets for family-friendly theatrical entertainment.
  • The Pier Shops (3rd Level) – Hit the Adirondack chairs on the fake sandy beaches on rainy days or when you want the best seat in the house for a sunset over Atlantic City.
  • The Water Show at the end of The Pier Shops, with dazzling illuminated water effects every hour on the hour, Boardwalk level at the ocean end of the building.
  • Wind Farm Tours - ACUA (Atlantic County Utilities Authority) offers free open house tours of the Jersey-Atlantic Wind Farm every Monday and Friday at 12 p.m. during the summer. No appointment necessary!
DO $10 AND UNDER
DO $20 AND UNDER
  • AC Cruises - Back bay cruises, dolphin-watching trips or sunset happy hour cruises aboard Cruisin' 1 
  • A.J. Meerwald - NJ's Official Tall Ship offers sailing trips and classes while in Atlantic City waters
  • Great American Trolley Tours - Take one of GA's fun trolley tours of the Jersey Shore 
  • IMAX Theater at Tropicana - Sit back, relax and enjoy a larger-than-life movie releases
  • Ripley's Believe It or Not! - Popular odditorium and museum of weirdness for kids of all ages
  • Steel Pier - AC's landmark amusement pier on the Boardwalk with thrill rides and games of chance
  • Storybook Land - Just outside of AC (and just over $20), amusement park based on nursery rhymes