New Jersey and Maryland undoubtedly have two of the best-known coastal cities in the Mid-Atlantic United States. While both Atlantic City and Ocean City are striking in their own way, they cater to different kinds of audiences with their attractions.
So, what follows is an analysis of the contrast of their entertainment, festivities, local cuisine, sporting events, and overall appeal and which one you should visit.
Atlantic City is the place of glitz and glamour. Nicknamed the "Las Vegas of the East," it is famous for casinos, nightlife, and live shows. The Atlantic City Boardwalk is a landmark location that combines the ocean view with all sorts of entertainment. Vacationers can enjoy amusement rides at Steel Pier or see icons like Absecon Lighthouse.
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Atlantic City also hosts several concerts and festivals throughout the year, like the Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival and Beach Concert Series.
Ocean City, by contrast, offers a relaxing atmosphere. Its three-mile boardwalk is lined with family-friendly activities like arcades, mini-golf courses, and amusement parks. The city has pristine beaches and a selection of outdoor pursuits like fishing and kayaking. Ocean City's calendar of events includes Springfest and Sunfest, with live music, craft vendors, and beach events. Families also like free seasonal events such as Sundaes in the Park.
Atlantic City tends to appeal to adults who have a particular interest in a vacation involving nightlife, gaming, and live entertainment. It is largely visited by couples or a small group of friends who seek excitement. Millennials are attracted because of its concerts and events, whereas Gen Xers and Baby Boomers for its affordability and predictable experiences.
Ocean City, on the other hand, is perfect for families and visitors seeking a relaxed beach vacation. Its appeal is suitable for all, from kids riding the boardwalk amusement park attractions to seniors taking a walk along the shoreline. People who love nature visit Ocean City for fishing tournaments, such as the White Marlin Open, or just to bask in the sun on its wide beaches.
The dining in Atlantic City reflects the urban, cosmopolitan lifestyle of the city. Restaurants are numerous and offer a variety of cuisines from Carluccio's traditional Italian cuisine to Macau Kitchen's traditional Asian cuisine.
Those who love seafood can enjoy it fresh at high-end places like Park Place Prime. More casual places offer familiar food like wings, calzones, and New York-style pizza.
Ocean City dining is focused around its beach appeal. Classic street food treats like Thrasher's fries, Fisher's popcorn, and Fractured Prune donuts are available on the boardwalk. Seafood lovers can dine on steamed crabs at Blu Crabhouse or grab casual eats at Billy's Sub Shop. OC Foodie Tour provides a general sample of the cuisine.
Atlantic City by no means lacks sporting activities or venues to supplement its status as an entertainment capital.
Known for its boxing legacy, Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall draws tourists with boxing matches in addition to annual summer beach volleyball tournaments. Though secondary to casino and nightlife opportunities in characterizing Atlantic City, sports contribute variety to its appeal. Unfortunately, the state doesn’t have an NBA team, and not many games have been played in the city, which could potentially bring in more tourists interested in the sport.
Its counterpart, Ocean City, is a known center of fishing tournaments like the White Marlin Open, the world's largest billfish tournament, and the Ocean City Tuna Tournament that draws quite some attention from the fishing crowd. These tournaments are attended by fishermen from all over the world, who compete for prizes and experience Ocean City's rich fishing tradition.
While Atlantic City is pure high-energy action with casinos, concerts, and nightlife for adults looking for thrills, Ocean City is a family-oriented setting with serene beaches, quaint boardwalks, and outdoor sporting activities for families and people, regardless of their age.
Whether it’s the frenetic casinos of Atlantic City that attract you there or the serene beaches of Ocean City that simply call for a long walk, you won’t regret choosing either of these Mid-Atlantic jewels.
