Climb to the top of the Absecon Lighthouse (31 S. Rhode Island Ave.). The 1857 structure is one of the country's oldest of its kind and reputedly the tallest in New Jersey. Your reward for tackling the 228 steps will be expansive views of the coast and the Atlantic City skyline. You also can explore a small museum that includes a reproduced lightkeeper's dwelling and a Fresnel lens exhibit.
Indulge in some casino gambling. With most casino hotels open around the clock—offering blackjack, craps, poker, roulette, slots and more—you're bound to find a good fit. If Lady Luck is on your side, spend your winnings in one of the hot nightlife venues, glitzy shops or pampering spas dotted throughout the casino hotels.
Talk a walk on the beach. Atlantic City's stretch of sand has free access and runs from Jackson to Maine avenues, with the Boardwalk lining a 6-mile section. Calm waters (warm during summer) lure swimmers, while surfers head to the beaches at Delaware, New Hampshire and Raleigh avenues.
Ride a jitney. These small 13-passenger buses are a great way to get around the city, stopping at tourist attractions, casino hotels, the NJ Transit Rail Terminal (Atlantic City Rail Line, 1 Atlantic City Expwy.) and other points of interest. Casino hoppers will be pleased to know that the jitneys run 24 hours a day for $2.25 per ride; 75c (ages 62+).
If you've always wanted to walk in Miss America's shoes, now's your chance (sort of). Miss America memorabilia, including the shoes, dresses and crowns of former contestants, is on display at the Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel .
Shop until you drop. Bargain hunters head to Tanger Outlets (2014 Baltic Ave.). All the usual chains are represented, and you can refuel at one of the restaurants within the complex. Nostalgic shoppers will appreciate the Miss America plaques embedded in the sidewalk along Michigan Avenue.
Go boating. Atlantic City Cruises (800 N. New Hampshire Ave.) offers a dolphin-watching adventure as well as a morning skyline tour complemented by narration about area history. This and other sightseeing cruises depart from historic Gardner's Basin, a former fishing village that's also the spot to rent water sports equipment and bikes, hire a fishing charter or explore craft shops.
Entertain yourself. The casino hotels host a vast array of enticing performances and events—magic and comedy acts, boxing matches and musical shows are typically part of the agenda. Boardwalk Hall serves as a key concert and sports venue.
Plan a day trip to Historic Smithville and the Village Greene (615 E. Moss Mill Rd.), a re-creation of a 1700s village. Here, you can browse charming shops displaying such wares as lace, crafts, quilts, candles and other collectibles, or grab a bite in a quaint inn or tavern.
Have fun at an amusement pier. Steel Pier (1000 Boardwalk) is the place to be if you want to go for a spin on the Ferris wheel, ride the Crazy Mouse roller coaster, brave the bumper cars or try your hand at some carnival games. Central Pier (1400 Boardwalk) features a game arcade along with a large go-kart track.