
Gardner's Basin Atlantic City
A charming waterfront destination in Atlantic City offering marine life, boat tours, dining, and free summer concerts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant breeze

Gardner's Basin Atlantic City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant breeze

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming waterfront destination in Atlantic City offering marine life, boat tours, dining, and free summer concerts.
"A fun change of pace from the Boardwalk!"

⚓ Book Boat Tours Early
Popular excursions like the AC Tiki Boat sell out fast, especially on weekends. Book online in advance!
🥞 Don't Miss Blueberry Pancakes
Gilchrist Restaurant is famous for its blueberry pancakes. A perfect waterfront breakfast spot!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Atlantic City Aquarium
Gardner's Basin
Explore diverse marine life in a newly renovated, family-friendly attraction. A must-see for animal lovers!

Waterfront Dining at Gilchrist
Gardner's Basin
Savor delicious meals with a view. Known for their blueberry pancakes and waterfront ambiance.

Boat Tours & Excursions
Gardner's Basin Marina
Embark on a tiki boat cruise, parasailing adventure, or dolphin watching tour for a unique perspective.

Free Summer Concert Series
Gardner's Basin
Enjoy live music performances, often featuring R&B legends, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Better Experience
Parking and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚓ Book Boat Tours Early
Popular excursions like the AC Tiki Boat sell out fast, especially on weekends. Book online in advance!
🥞 Don't Miss Blueberry Pancakes
Gilchrist Restaurant is famous for its blueberry pancakes. A perfect waterfront breakfast spot!
🎶 Check Concert Schedules
Free summer concerts are a highlight. Check the National R&B Music Society schedule for dates and performers.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking along the waterfront and exploring shops.
Tips
from all over the internet
⚓ Book Boat Tours Early
Popular excursions like the AC Tiki Boat sell out fast, especially on weekends. Book online in advance!
🥞 Don't Miss Blueberry Pancakes
Gilchrist Restaurant is famous for its blueberry pancakes. A perfect waterfront breakfast spot!
🎶 Check Concert Schedules
Free summer concerts are a highlight. Check the National R&B Music Society schedule for dates and performers.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking along the waterfront and exploring shops.
💰 Bring Cash for Vendors
While some places take cards, having cash is handy for smaller vendors and tips.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Gardner's Basin to be a pleasant and relaxing alternative to the main Atlantic City Boardwalk, especially enjoying the waterfront views and free summer concerts. While some find parking can be challenging during events, the overall atmosphere and dining options are highly praised.
"Very nice concert at this place. Great day out at the Gardener's Basin. Nice place to chill and enjoy the day."
andre willie
"It's always nice and the free concerts are great . We bought our own food and drink but they have vendors there also. Nice breeze off the water and grown up vibes we go every year at least twice."
Danen CMD
"I went to a music festival. Lots of parking and a few restaurants to eat at also."
Sharene Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gardner's Basin is located on the bay side of Atlantic City, north of the Boardwalk. You can drive and park in the available lots, or take a taxi or rideshare service. It's a scenic area to explore by bike as well.
Yes, there are parking lots available at Gardner's Basin. However, they can fill up quickly, especially during events or on busy weekends. Arriving early is advised.
While not directly adjacent, it's a manageable walk or a short drive/rideshare from the northern end of the Boardwalk. Some visitors enjoy biking to the basin.
While generally considered safe during events and concerts, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid isolated spots.
Many visitors enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, visiting the aquarium, and dining at the restaurants. Boat tours and parasailing offer a different perspective.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Gardner's Basin itself is a public area and does not require an entry ticket. However, individual attractions like the Atlantic City Aquarium or specific boat tours will have their own admission fees.
The basin is generally accessible during daylight hours. Individual businesses and attractions, such as the aquarium and restaurants, will have their own operating hours. It's best to check their specific schedules.
Yes, Gardner's Basin often hosts free summer concert series, offering live music entertainment. Enjoying the waterfront views and browsing the shops are also free activities.
Admission prices for the Atlantic City Aquarium can vary. It's recommended to check the official aquarium website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Absolutely! Booking boat tours like the AC Tiki Boat or dolphin cruises in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Gilchrist Restaurant is a popular choice for waterfront dining, known for breakfast and seafood. Other eateries offer diverse options, and vendors are often present during events.
Restaurant menus can vary. It's advisable to check the specific restaurant's menu online or call ahead to inquire about vegetarian or vegan options.
Yes, visitors often bring their own food and drinks, especially for events like concerts. This can be a cost-effective option.
You can find a range of cuisines, from classic American breakfast at Gilchrist to seafood and casual fare at other establishments.
Depending on the season and events, there are often vendors selling snacks, ice cream, and other treats throughout the basin area.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront offers scenic views of the water, boats, and the Atlantic City skyline. Murals add colorful backdrops, and the aquarium provides unique underwater shots.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be bright, but the waterfront breeze can be refreshing.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals. For commercial photography, permits may be required.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both wide waterfront scenes and details of boats or marine life. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
Yes, the murals in and around Gardner's Basin are popular photo subjects. They add a vibrant, artistic element to the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Adventures on the Water
Pro Tip: Always check the weather forecast before booking water activities, and consider bringing a waterproof bag for your phone and essentials. Some tours, like the 'Hot Ghoul Summer' boat party, offer unique themed experiences for those looking for something different. Booking in advance is crucial, especially during the summer months, as these popular tours fill up quickly.
A Taste of Gardner's Basin
Beyond Gilchrist, the basin features other restaurants and vendors that cater to various tastes. During events like the free summer concert series, food vendors are often on-site, providing convenient options for attendees. Many visitors appreciate the ability to bring their own food and drinks, making it a flexible dining destination for families and budget-conscious travelers. Exploring the different establishments can lead to discovering local favorites and enjoying the vibrant culinary scene of the area.
Community Events and Entertainment
Beyond the music, the basin is a focal point for other gatherings and celebrations. The Atlantic City Aquarium is a year-round attraction that has seen significant improvements, including new facilities, making it a more enjoyable experience for visitors. The area also hosts unique events like the 'Hot Ghoul Summer' boat parties, showcasing the diverse and creative spirit of Atlantic City. Keep an eye on local event listings to catch any special happenings during your visit.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit