Situated on Atlantic City's eastern coastline, the Absecon Lighthouse has been assisting wandering vessels since its establishment in 1856. Standing at a spectacular height of 171 feet (52 meters), it is quite easily the tallest structure of its kind in New Jersey. This splendid piece of 19th-century architecture is made up of a mesh of granite slabs that lend its walls an eye-catching sheen that still exists today. First lit in 1857, the lighthouse retains its original George Meade-designed Fresnel lens that at the peak of its powers propagated signals up to 36.1 kilometers (22.4 miles). Decommissioned in 1933, its lens shines brightly to this day.
This proud, well-loved historical monument has been delighting visitors since its conception in 1881. South Atlantic City landowner James Vincent de Paul Lafferty, Jr. had this mammoth beast constructed as a way to attract visitors and prospective buyers to his properties. Lucy stands 65 feet (20 meters) high and contains many rooms inside. It also sports a spiral staircase to the top of the edifice. Check out the website for an in-depth account of Lucy's long history.
You can be sure to find one of a kind gifts at the shops in Smithville, where the little Jersey village is open year round. With shops specializing in Early American local crafts and products, Smithville's stores include Cook's Corner, Adrianna's Boutique, Crafting Cellar and more. In town, there are also restaurants, cafes, and the popular Colonial Inn Bed and Breakfast. Special events have drawn people from all over the east coast and have included a Children's Festival, Antique Show Day, Corvette Day and Olde Fife and Drum Corp. The people of Smithville encourage every visitor staying in Atlantic City to start a tradition of seeing the village any time of year.
Tuckerton Seaport is a testament to the rich architectural history of New Jersey. Various recreated buildings and structures line the coastline of this recreated fishing village including Tucker's Island Lighthouse, Joy Dayton's Sawmill, and Jay C. Parker's Decoy Carving Shop. There are several restaurants that get into the action as well, paying tribute to the heritage of the Jersey Shore Baymen. The Museum offers lunch at the restaurant Skeeter's with a gift shop located within. Numerous educational programs are on offer as well.
Atlantic City's Steel Pier proudly stands as New Jersey's amusement park headquarters. Opened it 1898, it suffered a devastating fire in 1982 but reopened, fully renovated in 1993. Check out the giddy, stomach-churning excitement to be had on rides like Pumpkin Wheel, Log Flume, Grand Prix Go Karts, Dragon Jets, Crazy Mouse and much, much more. The International Food Court will keep you well-fed, but be wise as to how much time you wait in between eating and going on a ride!
The Atlantic City Aquarium is an excellent place to explore the deep blue sea and the fascinating marine life. This aquarium houses over 100 diverse species from the sea world; some of the exotic species shown here are the live corals, the Loggerhead Sea Turtles and more. There are various exhibits and exciting activities that take place here such as watching a live diver feed various exotic sharks and other marine lives. Besides, the center has various rental spaces that can accommodate every kind of event.
Reopened in 2004, Carnegie Library Center was built in 1903 and served as the city's most popular library until 1985. After a big gap, the center was revamped and now functions as an educational establishment catering to a multitude of people. On site, you will find a 75-seat lecture hall, 22-seat computer lab, a multipurpose room, conference centers and seminar rooms. Operated by the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, there are several educational programs, technological training and professional development courses offered here. Do make it a point to check the Civil Rights Garden too when you're here.
This attraction offers the excitement of sailing on a 34-foot Catalina (10.4 meters). They customize trips to your sightseeing desires and include trips around Brigantine, Ventnor, Margate, Longport, and Ocean City. Sailboats can hold up to six people. Charter prices depend on the length and time of your excursion. They also offer lessons. Call for more details and to schedule your outing.
Founded in 1875, Calvary Baptist Church has remained a church which is a class apart from others. In its long history, it has changed locations and names several times, but their morals have remained intact. People praise it for its teachings and practices, which lets Calvary carve a niche in the community. The church encourages the spread of education, not just among the members but also across the community. The Calvary Baptist Church has been honored by numerous laurels from various organizations and associations, which include the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, the Kentucky Baptist Fellowship, and a special mention by the Elkhorn Baptist Association.
The World War I Memorial is a historic site that is a sad reminder of the ghastly effects of wars on the lives of people. Included in the National Register of Historic Places, it was erected in 1922.
Founded in 1855, this majestic and historic church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Tolentine. The church is built in the Romanesque style which makes it in no way less than the cathedrals and basilicas of Europe. The intricacies of the design truly make it a sight to behold. The architectural splendor of the artistry is sure to hold you in awe. It is a church truly built to the glory of God.
Adventure out to sea with the capable seafarers at Atlantic City Cruises, where fun is just the beginning. AC has a variety of offerings to choose from, including the Morning Skyline cruise, the Dolphin Watching cruise, the Happy Hour cruise, the Sightseeing cruise, as well as a smörgåsbord of special occasion cruises. The Dolphin Watching cruise in particular is quite the crowd pleaser, providing marine adventurers plenty of opportunities to capture the graceful water mammals on film.