History of the Atlantic City Boardwalk

For more than a century, the Atlantic City Boardwalk has remained one of the most recognizable landmarks on the East Coast. What began as a simple wooden walkway eventually transformed into one of the world’s most iconic seaside attractions. Today, the Boardwalk continues to reflect the city’s rich history while welcoming generations of visitors through its vibrant energy.

The Beginning

First constructed in 1870, the Atlantic City Boardwalk became the first boardwalk of its kind and remains the longest boardwalk in the world. Originally built to keep sand out of hotel lobbies and train cars, the Boardwalk quickly evolved into a popular attraction and an easy way for visitors to travel along the beachfront.

Growth in the Late 1800s and the Early 1900s

As Atlantic City started to gain more popularity, so did the Boardwalk scene with more expansions beginning to be placed in the works. With each expansion, businesses started lining up to open shops, hotels, and entertainment venues along the pathway, which helped transform the Boardwalk's identity into what locals and visitors know as today.

Historic Attractions

Steel Pier

As the Boardwalk accelerated in size and popularity, so did everything else around it, including the opening of Steel Pier in 1898. Known as the “Showplace of the Nation”, Steel Pier quickly became Atlantic City’s top venue for entertainment, thrills and excitement.

From hosting the world’s greatest stars like Frank Sinatra and The Supremes to jaw-dropping acts like horse diving and water-skiing canines, Steel Pier easily became one of the leading attractions in Atlantic City.

Today, visitors can still experience the excitement of Steel Pier through its amusement rides, ocean views, classic boardwalk treats, and The Wheel, the third largest observation wheel in the United States.

The Rolling Chairs

Rolling chairs have been an Atlantic City staple since the late 1800s and continue to be one of the top ways to explore the Atlantic City Boardwalk. In the early days, rolling chairs were the only vehicles permitted on the Boardwalk and were considered a luxury experience for vacationers. Today, rolling chairs continue to travel up and down the Boardwalk, offering visitors a nostalgic way to take in the sights and sounds of Atlantic City.

Boardwalk Fare

The Atlantic City Boardwalk is known not only for its history and attractions, but also for its classic food traditions. Favorites such as Salt Water Taffy, funnel cake, and boardwalk fries have remained staples for generations of visitors.

Salt Water Taffy

In 1883, Salt Water Taffy got its name when a candy shop was flooded with seawater. The owner jokingly called it “Salt Water Taffy,” and the playful name has stayed ever since. As the city grew, so did the popularity of this now-iconic candy. Grabbing a box of taffy became part of the Boardwalk experience, which continues today.

The Boardwalk Today

The Atlantic City Boardwalk is more than just a historic walkway, but a place where energy, culture, and the community come together. As you stroll along the Boardwalk, you’ll encounter souvenir shops, ice cream parlors, oceanside restaurants, and live entertainment, each contributing to its unique atmosphere. From the sounds of music and the movement of crowds to the wide variety of attractions and activities, there’s always something exciting happening.

Whether it is your first visit or a return trip filled with nostalgia, the Atlantic City Boardwalk continues to create lasting memories and unforgettable experiences for generations of visitors. Plan your Atlantic City getaway today!