MargateorVentnor
Atlantic County alternatives
Margate vs Ventnor: Which Downbeach Town Is Better?
Just south of Atlantic City, Margate and Ventnor offer quieter beach experiences while still being minutes from casino entertainment. Margate is famous for Lucy the Elephant and its upscale vibe, while Ventnor provides a more residential, family-oriented atmosphere.
Quick Comparison
Notes
- Beach Badges: Same pricing — neither town sells daily badges
- Signature Attraction: Lucy is a National Historic Landmark
- Dining Scene: Margate has more dining options
- Atmosphere: Different vibes for different preferences
- AC Proximity: Ventnor borders Atlantic City
- Beach Crowds: Ventnor is less crowded
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Beaches
Both towns have well-maintained beaches with lifeguards and sell season badges only—$20 each, with no daily option. Margate's beaches attract a more social crowd, especially near the jetties. Ventnor's beaches are generally quieter and more spread out.
Activities & Attractions
Margate's main attraction is Lucy the Elephant, a 6-story elephant-shaped building from 1881 that's a National Historic Landmark. You can tour inside and climb to the howdah for views. Ventnor offers the fishing pier, mini golf, and easy access to Atlantic City's casinos and boardwalk just over the border.
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Dining
Margate has developed an upscale dining scene with restaurants like Steve & Cookie's, Tomatoes, and Sofia. Ventnor dining is more casual with pizza shops, delis, and neighborhood restaurants. Both towns are close enough to Atlantic City's celebrity chef restaurants.
Accommodations
Both towns are primarily vacation rental destinations with beach houses and condos. Hotels are limited—most visitors rent weekly in summer. The proximity to Atlantic City means casino hotels are an option for those wanting nightlife access.
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Getting There
Both are about 1.5 hours from Philadelphia and 2.5 hours from NYC. Take the Atlantic City Expressway to Route 40 or the Garden State Parkway. Parking is metered but generally easier than Atlantic City. Both towns are bikeable with flat streets.
The Verdict: Who Should Go Where?
Best for Families
Ventnor wins slightly for families seeking a quiet beach experience. Kids will love Lucy the Elephant in Margate though.
Best for Couples
Margate offers better dining and a more social scene. Stay here for upscale BYOB dinners.
Best for Budget
Both cost the same for badges. Ventnor may have slightly cheaper rentals as it's less trendy.
Best for Nightlife
Neither has significant nightlife—that's what Atlantic City next door is for.
Best for Foodies
Margate wins with its restaurant scene, though AC is minutes away for even more options.
Overall Verdict
Margate for dining, Lucy, and a more social vibe. Ventnor for maximum quiet and easier AC access.
Vacation Rentals in Either Town
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Margate vs Ventnor FAQs
What is Lucy the Elephant?
Lucy the Elephant is a 6-story elephant-shaped building in Margate, built in 1881 as a real estate attraction. It's the oldest surviving roadside attraction in America and a National Historic Landmark. You can tour inside and climb up for ocean views.
Can you walk to Atlantic City from Ventnor?
Yes! Ventnor borders Atlantic City directly. You can walk or bike along the boardwalk from Ventnor into Atlantic City. It's about a 15-20 minute walk to the nearest casinos.
Which town has better restaurants?
Margate has a more developed dining scene with upscale restaurants like Steve & Cookie's, Tomatoes, and Sofia. Ventnor is more casual. Both are close enough to Atlantic City's celebrity chef restaurants for special occasions.