One of the Best Boardwalks in the U.S. Is Just 2 Hours From NYC — Here’s Why It Belongs on Your Fall Bucket List

While summer is winding down and fall is basically here, that doesn’t mean boardwalk season is over quite yet. Perfect for one last beach trip, with calmer ocean breezes and fewer tourists: one spot near NYC is making headlines before the season change—the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk . Recently ranked one of the best boardwalks in the entire country by Fodor’s Travel**,** this oceanfront icon isn’t just for summer—it’s actually one of the dreamiest fall escapes you can make in under two hours. Stretching 5.5 miles along the Jersey Shore , Atlantic City’s boardwalk has been drawing crowds since 1870. It’s the oldest and most famous boardwalk in the world, packed with arcades, neon-lit casinos, historic piers, legendary food stalls, and nonstop entertainment. But in fall, the vibe shifts. Gone are the shoulder-to-shoulder summer crowds. Instead, you get crisp ocean breezes, golden sunsets, peaceful walks, and dog-friendly beaches. Think of it as AC’s best-kept seasonal secret. Can’t-miss fall events in Atlantic City & on the boardwalk ---------------------------------------------------------- 🍂 Spooky Season on the Boards – Haunted mini-golf, ghost tours, costume parties, and pop-up Halloween bars take over in October. 🍺 Oktoberfest at Historic Smithville (Oct. 4–5) – Just a short drive from the boardwalk, you’ll find 150+ crafters, international eats, and plenty of beer. 🎃 Witch-Craft Festival (Oct. 11–12) – A one-of-a-kind haunted celebration with craft brews, live music, and spooky fun in nearby town Hammonton. 🏃 Atlantic City Marathon (Oct. 11–12) – The third-oldest marathon in the country, with runners racing eight miles right along the boardwalk. 🎶 Concerts & Comedy – This fall brings a stacked lineup: Stevie Nicks (Oct. 18), John Legend (Nov. 1), Jim Gaffigan (Nov. 7–8), Brandy & Monica (Nov. 22), and more. What to do (and eat) on the Atlantic City Boardwalk --------------------------------------------------- Beyond the events, fall is the perfect time to explore AC’s boardwalk staples without the long lines: * Ride the Steel Pier ferris wheel for sweeping ocean views. * Grab saltwater taffy from James’ or homemade fudge from Steel’s. * Warm up with pumpkin beers at Atlantic City Biergarten or sip cocktails by the fire pits at VÜE Rooftop Bar. * Treat yourself to boardwalk classics like funnel cake, pizza from Tony’s Baltimore Grill, and hand-cut fries. * Take a peaceful seaside bike ride or bring your pup for a walk on the now dog-friendly beaches. * Go indoors if temps drop—check out the Island Waterpark at Showboat or climb the historic Absecon Lighthouse. How to get to Atlantic City boardwalk from NYC ---------------------------------------------- * By car: About 2 hours from Manhattan via the Garden State Parkway. * By bus: Direct routes run from Port Authority via NJ Transit or Greyhound. * By Train: NJ Transit’s Atlantic City Line gets you there, with jitneys connecting to the boardwalk. See the full list of the best boardwalks according to Fodor’s Travel here. Source: https://secretnyc.co/top-boardwalks-in-us-2025-fodors-travel-atlantic-city-boardwalk/