Atlantic City on a Budget
Free beaches + affordable fun
Atlantic City is one of the most budget-friendly destinations on the Jersey Shore. With free beaches (no badge required!), affordable motels, and plenty of free activities, you can enjoy a great shore vacation without breaking the bank.
Beach Badge: FREE
No beach badges needed - ever! This is a huge money saver.
Money-Saving Tips for Atlantic City
Free Beach Access
Atlantic City beaches are completely free - no badge required ever!
Save $10-15/person/dayPark Smart
Arrive before 9 AM for free street parking a few blocks from the beach
Save $15-25/dayPack a Cooler
Bring your own food and drinks instead of buying on the boardwalk
Save $30-50/dayVisit Midweek
Hotels are 30-50% cheaper Monday-Thursday vs weekends
Save $50-150/nightGo in September
Warm water, empty beaches, and lower prices after Labor Day
Save 30-40% overallBudget-Friendly Places to Stay
Average budget rate in Atlantic City: $80-150/night
Tropicana Atlantic City
$75-300/night
The Quarter offers rainy-day shopping and dining. Book the North Tower for newer rooms with better views.
Resorts Casino Hotel
$75-300/night
The Landshark Bar on the beach is the perfect summer hang. Ask about the casino history tours.
Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel
$100-300/night
Book early during major conventions like the League of Municipalities—rooms sell out months in advance. Club Level rooms include lounge access with complimentary breakfast.
Best Western Envoy Inn
$75-175/night
Use the free shuttle to visit casinos without paying resort fees. Walk to the beach and boardwalk.
Free Things to Do in Atlantic City
Beach & Swimming
Enjoy Atlantic City's beaches - the main attraction is free (or nearly free)
Boardwalk Walking
Stroll the boardwalk for people watching and ocean views
Sunrise & Sunset
Watch spectacular sunrises over the ocean and sunsets over the bay
Free Casino Parking
Park free at casinos and enjoy the AC experience
Sample Daily Budget
What a budget day in Atlantic City really costs:
Cheap Eats Tips
- •Pack a cooler with sandwiches and drinks
- •Hit the local Wawa for affordable breakfast
- •Share boardwalk portions - they're huge
- •Look for early bird dinner specials
Bringing your own food saves $30-50/day per person vs eating out.
Parking in Atlantic City
Typical Cost: Free-$10/day
Arrive before 9 AM for free street parking a few blocks back from the beach.
Atlantic City Budget Travel FAQ
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