Atlantic City offers more than just casinos and boardwalks. Its coastal charm, historic sites, and lively entertainment scene make it a fantastic place to explore through various city tours. Unlike many cities, Atlantic City provides unique experiences such as dolphin watching cruises and lighthouse visits, along with immersive scavenger hunts and vibrant shows. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing boat ride or dive into local history and entertainment, this list highlights the best options for making your trip memorable.
Many tours appeal to different interests and activity levels. For those inclined toward marine life, the Atlantic City: Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise Adventure offers the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. History buffs will enjoy the Absecon Lighthouse, exploring one of the oldest lighthouses in the country. For night owls, the Happy Hour Cruise combines scenic views and lively music. Finally, if you’re after a fun family activity, mini golf on the Ocean View Mini Golf Pass provides panoramic ocean views and themed holes.
1. Atlantic City: Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise Adventure
At number 1 on our list, the Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise offers a truly engaging experience. For around $53 per person, you’re out on the water for about two hours, searching for playful dolphins and other marine life. Led by a marine naturalist, the tour combines sightseeing with educational commentary about the behaviors and habitats of dolphins, making it both fun and informative.
What makes this cruise stand out is its combination of wildlife viewing and scenic Jersey Shore vistas. Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see dolphins frolicking just off the coast — “a family-oriented experience that even the kids loved,” as one review notes. The start and end point at Historic Gardner’s Basin is easy to access, and the tour’s flexible timings help fit into most schedules.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers and families looking for a relaxing, educational boat ride with the chance to spot dolphins in their natural environment.
2. Atlantic City: Absecon Lighthouse Admission Ticket
Next, the Absecon Lighthouse offers a quick but rewarding climb to the top of New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse. For just $10, you’ll ascend 228 steps, passing through the original Fresnel Lens that’s been guiding ships since 1857. The 30-minute tour includes sweeping panoramic views of Atlantic City’s skyline — perfect for snapping memorable photos.
The lighthouse’s history and architecture appeal to history enthusiasts and those interested in maritime navigation. Visitors have called it a “spectacular view worth the climb,” with some noting the landings along the way provide a much-needed breather. The guided experience from friendly staff enriches the visit, making it more than just a climb.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers and those after a quick, scenic adventure, the Absecon Lighthouse combines history, architecture, and spectacular views.
3. Atlantic City: Happy Hour Cruise
If you’re seeking a relaxed way to enjoy the Atlantic City scenery, the Happy Hour Cruise is a great pick. For about $30, you get an hour-long boat ride through marinas and back bays while sipping a drink on the open-air deck. On weekends, the cruise transforms into a lively party with a live DJ spinning tunes and the city skyline twinkling at dusk.
The cruise is praised for its vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff. Reviewers mention it as a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, with one noting, “the music and vibe made it feel like a mini celebration.” If you enjoy socializing and scenic views with a bit of a festive edge, this trip is well worth considering.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or friends wanting an easy, enjoyable way to see Atlantic City at sunset, with music and drinks adding to the fun.
4. Atlantic City: Ocean View Mini Golf Pass
For something active and family-friendly, the Ocean View Mini Golf Pass is a highlight. Priced at $16, this two-hour pass grants access to a multi-level 18-hole miniature golf course on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. The course features themed holes such as a craps table and slot machine, creating a playful, casino-inspired atmosphere.
Guests love the panoramic ocean views from the course and the fun obstacles that challenge players of all ages. It’s a laid-back activity suited for families, couples, or groups of friends. After your game, you can stroll along the Boardwalk or enjoy nearby restaurants.
Bottom Line: A fun, affordable activity that blends the thrill of mini golf with ocean vistas, perfect for families or groups looking for a casual outing.
5. The Hook at Caesars Atlantic City
At number 5, The Hook combines spectacular acrobatics and adult humor for a night of lively entertainment inside Caesars. This 75-minute show, priced at about $109, features jaw-dropping acts performed by an international cast, with a focus on art, music, and humor.
The show’s provocative and sexy tone makes it stand apart from traditional performances. Audience reviews rave about the athleticism and the humor, with one saying, “It’s a high-energy, sexy show that kept us laughing and amazed.” Before or after the show, dining at Superfrico offers an Italian-American psychedelic menu that complements the lively atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adults seeking an energetic, provocative night of entertainment that combines acrobatics with comedy.
6. Atlantic City: The Hook at Caesars Show Ticket
For a slightly shorter but equally thrilling experience, the The Hook at Caesars offers a 75-minute adults-only show featuring spectacular acrobatic acts. Priced at around $109, it’s ideal for those wanting an energetic, comedy-infused performance.
The show’s vibrant nature and international cast provide a dynamic backdrop for an evening of laughs and jaw-dropping stunts. Many visitors appreciate the proximity of the performance, which takes place in Caesars’ iconic venue. Dine at Superfrico before the show for a full night of entertainment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or groups looking for a lively, high-energy show with great seating options in a renowned casino setting.
7. Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt
For those who prefer exploring actively, the Adventure Scavenger Hunt combines sightseeing with a detective-style challenge. For $29, your team will be guided by a live, remote host through a series of puzzles and clues around Atlantic City’s downtown area.
This scavenger hunt turns typical sightseeing into an interactive game, encouraging creative problem-solving. Reviewers describe it as “an innovative way to discover the city while having fun with friends,” making it a great choice for mixed-ability groups or families. It’s a flexible activity, lasting around two hours, and suitable for all fitness levels.
Bottom Line: Best for puzzle lovers and groups wanting a personalized, interactive way to discover Atlantic City.
8. Hard Rock Cafe Atlantic City
If comfort food and music are your priorities, the Hard Rock Cafe Atlantic City offers a classic American meal with a rock ‘n’ roll vibe. For around $40, you get a two-hour prix-fixe meal, which includes options like burgers, ribs, and vegetarian dishes, with an included drink.
It’s a lively spot, often praised for its friendly staff and energetic atmosphere. Many visitors value the consistency and fun environment, making it a good choice for families or groups celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: Great for a casual, musical dining experience with familiar comfort food right on the Boardwalk.
9. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Atlantic City by Operation City Quest
For a digital twist, the Fun City Scavenger Hunt offers an app-based game to explore Atlantic City’s downtown. It costs just $10 per person for about two hours of puzzles, challenges, and discovering city secrets with a remote host providing hints and encouragement.
This activity suits competitive groups and those who enjoy tech-driven adventures. Reviewers mention how it makes exploring interactive and engaging, especially for families or friends wanting a lively but low-impact activity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for tech-savvy explorers wanting a competitive edge while discovering Atlantic City.
10. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Atlantic City by Crazy Dash
If low-cost, casual fun appeals to you, Crazy Dash’s Scavenger Hunt offers a relaxed way to explore. For just $10, players collect points by finding objects and completing challenges using an app, with a remote host available for support.
This hunt is the easiest and most casual among the options, perfect for families or groups looking for light entertainment without strenuous activity. Reviewers note it’s a laid-back way to see the city’s sights without pressure.
Bottom Line: Best for casual explorers and families seeking a simple, fun activity with minimal commitment.
11. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Atlantic City by 3Quest Challenge
The 3Quest Challenge adds a riddle-solving twist to city exploration. Also priced at $10, it guides you through three themed quests, each with puzzles and challenges. You can set your own time limits to increase the challenge.
While it has yet to receive reviews, this activity appeals to puzzle fans and those wanting to test their problem-solving skills. It’s suited for groups wanting a structured but flexible adventure.
Bottom Line: Great for those who love riddles and aim to finish multiple quests with a sense of accomplishment.
12. Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Atlantic City by Holly Jolly Hunt
Finally, the Holiday Scavenger Hunt offers a festive way to celebrate the season. For groups of up to 10, the $20 fee includes a one-hour app-guided hunt to find holiday items around Atlantic City.
It’s perfect for families or friends wanting a cheerful, themed experience. The game encourages capturing holiday-themed photos and competing for top scores on the leaderboard — a fun way to add holiday spirit to your trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families during the holiday season or groups seeking a themed, interactive activity.
How to Choose the Right City Tour in Atlantic City
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and activity level. If wildlife is your priority, the dolphin cruise offers an affordable and memorable experience. History buffs will enjoy the lighthouse, while those looking for evening entertainment might prefer the Happy Hour Cruise.
For families or casual explorers, the Ocean View Mini Golf and the Holiday Scavenger Hunt are excellent choices. Active and puzzle-loving travelers may opt for the scavenger hunts or 3Quest.
Booking early, especially for popular shows like The Hook or the lighthouse, ensures you secure your preferred times. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for fewer crowds and better availability.
To sum it up, Atlantic City offers a variety of city tours that suit all interests and activity levels. From relaxing boat cruises and historic lighthouse visits to lively entertainment shows and interactive scavenger hunts, there’s something for all. For a laid-back day, the dolphin cruise or mini golf are excellent choices. If you’re after a night of fun, the shows at Caesars or Caesars’ adults-only acts deliver on excitement. Be sure to pick experiences that match your style and book ahead — Atlantic City’s best tours fill up fast.