Where to stay and eat in Atlantic City this summer

With a nightlife that rivals Las Vegas, beaches on par with Miami and a foodie scene comparable with New York City, Atlantic City is deserving of a spot on your summer travel bucket list.

Hear us out: You don't have to schlep all the way to the south or the West Coast for a pristine summer beach vacation, and the prices for a weekend in Atlantic City at a four-star hotel are still a fraction of what you're paying for a Hamptons share house (if you can even afford that!).

Plus, the coastal cosmopolitan is an easy trip for many East Coasters: a train from Philly is under an hour and a half, while a drive from Washington, D.C. to the resort city is three hours. The travel time and affordable prices are enough to make even a night in Atlantic City worth it this summer. Here's everything to know about a weekend in AC.

Where to stay in Atlantic City

Finding accommodations at a high-star resort in Atlantic City is surprisingly easy and affordable. And while it might be nice to find a lowkey Airbnb for the weekend, the hotels in Atlantic City are essentially Vegas-style works of art with murals, palm trees and Bellagio-style fountains. It's worth a stay!

The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino (around $99 per night) is the Steel Pier's newest, and although Caesars Atlantic City is slightly pricier, its unparalleled amenities and history may make it worth it. As one of the top hotels in Atlantic City, the hotel offers incredible avenues for dining and entertainment, including live shows!

Where to eat in Atlantic City

The resort city is filled to the brim with a rainbow of cuisines and restaurants, and no matter your budget, there is definitely an opportunity for a top-rated dining experience. Our favorites include Buddakan and Nero's Italian Steakhouse (located at Caesars), while Kelsey's and Chef Vola's are the perfect options for more low-key meals.

Editor's tip: Don't forget your own bottle of wine at Chef Vola's, as the old school Italian joint is BYOB!

What to do in Atlantic City

If you're looking for a little more than gambling and days spent along the boardwalk, Atlantic City is home to a number of exciting and off-the-beaten-path opportunities, like touring the Absecon Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1857, channeling your childhood at the Steel Pier Amusement Park and checking out the happenings at Little Water Distillery.

Check out more summer travel tips in the video above!