Memorial Day Getaway

         Memorial Day weekend was incredible. Greg and I arrived in Ocean City, New Jersey bright and early. To our surprise, the beach wasn't crowded and the weather was spectacular. The sun was strong and the water was cool. We spent most of the day playing in the Ocean. At night, we strolled the Ocean City boardwalk, ate delicious cheap pizza for dinner and browsed the stores. This family friendly town is great for the young ones at night, but we wanted drinks. Atlantic City it was...

       

Ocean City, NJ   

One of two amusement parks on the Ocean City boardwalk.

Atlantic City

View of the beach from our room in Atlantic City.

       As much as we love Ocean City, the hotel rooms can get pricey. Greg and I took advantage of our room comps, and stayed at the Tropicana  Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey (roughly 30 minutes away from Ocean City). The Tropicana is on the beach, it has a pretty large casino, a few nightclubs and taverns, popular restaurants, and shopping.  

      We were given a corner room in the South Tower with ocean views. Our room was better then what we usually receive. The large down pillows, soft sheets, and heavy comforters helped us sleep through the night. We also found the hotel to be much more accommodating. Without hassle, they provided us with extra blankets at night and a late check out in the morning. We look forward to returning soon. 

  

Although we enjoy Atlantic City for the hotels and nightlife, it is dangerous at night. If you leave your resort, I would recommend using the Jitney as public transportation. This bus is easily accessible, inexpensive and takes you to every major hotel/casino. Do not wander around Atlantic City at night; it’s just not safe.

            Atlantic City has a plethora of hotels to choose from. Do your research and you can find an affordable deal. As I have said in the past, our favorite hotel is Harrah’s. 

             As an early birthday dinner, Greg treated me to my favorite lobster feast. If you visit the Atlantic City/Ocean City area, treat yourself to Gregory's located in Somers Point, New Jersey.

   

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Tips for visiting Atlantic City and Ocean City New Jersey

*Midweek is the best time to visit. Rooms in Ocean City and Atlantic are less expensive and the beaches aren’t as crowded. 

*If you drive, remember to have enough money for tolls and gas.  The tolls are expensive and traffic can be horrendous. Gas stations are scarce on the way.  

*You have two options when parking in Ocean City for the day. Parking meters with a four-hour time limit (quarters only) or parking lots for $20 a day.

*When parking in Atlantic City, I think valet at one of the major casinos is best. It's safe and affordable.

*Ocean City is a “dry” town.  If you want to purchase alcohol, you have to head out of town. I have always gone to Boulevard Super Liquors right outside of OC.

*Ocean City charges a beach fee.  Daily beach tags cost $5.00. Atlantic city beaches are free. 

*Families should visit Ocean City. 

*Pack your own lunch and water when going to the beach to avoid the high costs on the boardwalk.

*Most of the casinos in Atlantic City offer free membership cards. Sign up for as many as you can even if you don’t gamble.  Just being a member will get you comps.

*When clubbing in Atlantic City, call the club or a local promoter to get on the guest list.  Free entry and front of the line service is always a good thing.  And of course, always dress your best.  
Click here for a list of AC nightclubs