ROAM / Destinations / Atlantic City, United States

Atlantic City
United States

Historic Black entertainment hub — Atlantic City's Kentucky Avenue was a 'mini Harlem' where Black performers thrived when casinos were segregated. Still a popular weekend getaway for Black travelers from NYC, Philly, and DC.

ROAM 3.0 ★ HistoryEntertainmentBeachNightlife
Best time
May-September (beach season), year-round for casino visits
Currency
USD
Language
English
Mid-range / day
USD 120

Safety for Black Travelers

Atlantic City has significant economic challenges and elevated crime rates. Stay on the Boardwalk and casino areas. The Kentucky Avenue historic district is safe to visit during the day. The Atlantic Ocean beaches are free and accessible.

Neighborhoods to Know

The Boardwalk

Tourist, casino

America's first boardwalk — historic entertainment strip

Chelsea / Inlet

Residential, diverse

African American community neighborhoods

Kentucky Avenue Historic District

Historic (largely gone)

Once the Black entertainment strip — Club Harlem, Northside hotels for Black performers

Must-Visit Places

African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey

Museum · $

Documents the rich African American history of the South Jersey/Atlantic City region

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Kentucky Avenue historic area

Historic Site · $

Walk where Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Ray Charles performed for Black audiences

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City Casinos

Nightlife · $

Borgata, Hard Rock, Caesars — major entertainment destinations

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City Beach

Nature · $

Free public beach with views of the Boardwalk — popular with Black travelers in summer

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Revel Beach / Resorts Beach

Nature · $

Multiple beach access points along the Boardwalk

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Visa

No visa required for US citizens

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