Key Takeaways

• The Atlantic City Boardwalk works well for beach access, ocean views, nightlife, and walkable attractions, while the Marina District offers a more self-contained resort setting
• Caesars Atlantic City pairs a classic Boardwalk casino experience with dining and entertainment; Tropicana Atlantic City emphasizes nightlife and variety; and Harrah’s Atlantic City offers a Marina District stay with restaurants, a pool, and spa amenities
• Your Caesars Rewards membership connects qualifying hotel stays, dining, gaming, and entertainment across Caesars Atlantic City, Tropicana Atlantic City, and Harrah’s Atlantic City
• Eligible Caesars Rewards members can use the Caesars Rewards Shuttle to travel between the Boardwalk and Marina District properties

Atlantic City is one of the few coastal resort cities in the U.S. that caters to every type of traveler. The ocean, the resorts, the Boardwalk, and the Marina District have shaped the culture of Atlantic City since the 1800s. History and nostalgia are what drive visitors to Atlantic City, yet the experience will always be defined by where you stay.

For most visitors, the choice comes down to whether they want the beach, Boardwalk, and nightlife close by or a more self-contained Marina District resort experience. From there, Caesars Atlantic City, Tropicana Atlantic City, and Harrah’s Atlantic City each fit a different kind of trip.

Atlantic City Boardwalk vs. Marina District

Atlantic City has 2 primary resort districts that are both defined by their atmosphere and surroundings: the Boardwalk and the Marina District.

Why First-Time Visitors Choose the Boardwalk

If you’re making your first trip to Atlantic City, you’ll want to stay on the world-famous Boardwalk. Everything that makes Atlantic City a resort town started here, and it remains the beating heart of the tourist experience. Visitors flock to the Boardwalk for beautiful sunrises, beach access, people-watching, celebrity dining, shopping, and live entertainment at Caesars and Tropicana.

Why Travelers Choose the Marina District

In the Marina District, you’ll find a quieter, easygoing version of Atlantic City. Harrah’s, on the edge of Absecon Bay, showcases marina sunset views, yacht-watching, and a secluded feeling that’s far different from the busy beachfront. The Marina District features a waterfront walkway, historic maritime attractions, and shopping districts that add to the area’s relaxed vibe.

Which Atlantic City Casino Hotel Fits Your Trip?

With its proximity to Philadelphia, New York City, Baltimore, and Newark, Atlantic City is one of the easiest places to get to on the East Coast. Choosing where to stay once you get there depends on what kind of trip you’re taking.

Caesars Atlantic City for Classic Gaming and Dining

A modern resort in the middle of a historic region, Caesars offers fine dining, shows and a regal gaming experience. The 145,000-square-foot casino is a favorite for novice and experienced players, while couples often flock to Caesars for romantic weekends and dinner at celebrity favorites like Morton’s and Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen. For a more elevated experience (literally), the resort’s upper floors are home to the 85-room NOBU Hotel Atlantic City and the namesake NOBU Restaurant.

Tropicana Atlantic City for Nightlife and Entertainment

With its Old Havana–themed interior and one of the busiest nightlife scenes in Atlantic City, Tropicana is the place to party. In many ways, the hotel itself is the vacation since it offers something for every entertainment taste in one location. If you’re looking for nonstop energy and nightlife:

• Anthem Nightclub
• The 1970s-themed party at Boogie Nights
• Cuba Libre Nights
• See Atlantic City's best dancers at Kiss Kiss Nightclub
• Firewaters Saloon
• Live music sing-alongs at Gin Rickey’s
• Planet Rose Karaoke Bar

Plus, Tropicana boasts nearly 30 restaurants and eateries, a 2,000-plus-seat showroom, and the only IMAX movie theater in Atlantic City.

Harrah’s Atlantic City for a Marina District Escape

When the Boardwalk gets too busy, head for calmer waters at Harrah’s. The 2,587-room resort is famous for its glass-domed indoor pool, spa and salon, convenient self-parking, and celebrity-chef dining, with restaurants by Gordon Ramsay, Guy Fieri, Buddy Valastro, and Bobby Flay.

How to Experience All 3 Atlantic City Resorts

Choosing one Atlantic City hotel doesn’t mean limiting the trip to one experience. Caesars Atlantic City, Tropicana Atlantic City, and Harrah’s Atlantic City each offer a different setting, while Caesars Rewards connects qualifying hotel stays, dining, gaming, and entertainment across all 3 properties.

The Caesars Rewards Shuttle also connects the Boardwalk and Marina District resorts for eligible Platinum, Diamond, and Seven Stars® members. You can stay at the property that best matches your trip while still making time for the restaurants, casino floors, shows, nightlife, and resort amenities at the other 2. Shuttle schedules, stops, and availability are subject to change.