Is Atlantic City Safe for Travel? (Honest Advice)

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Atlantic City is a popular summer destination for people in and out of the Garden State. But as you plan to visit, you may wonder, Is Atlantic City safe?

I’ve lived in and loved the Garden State for many years, and can tell you that Atlantic City is generally safe to travel to.

As with all locales, there are some precautions you should take both before you go and while you’re there. To give you the inside scoop, I’ve loaded this article with information to make sure that you have a safe time while doing all the best Atlantic City activities. You can also see my guide to safety in New Jersey for more information.

Is Atlantic City Safe?

In general, Atlantic City is fairly safe to travel to, although it does have above average crime rates. The government made great efforts to keep everyone safe during the global pandemic, but petty theft can be an issue in some parts of the city. 

Atlantic City is a popular tourist destination. Many tend to visit, particularly during the late spring and summer months. Unfortunately, when tourists increase, so do petty thieves. Mugging, pickpocketing, and auto theft have occurred in certain parts of the city. To that end, it’s a good idea to stay in the main tourist areas that are well populated and avoid most residential areas. 

Things to Know About Safety in Atlantic City

Safe Neighborhoods and Areas in Atlantic City

Knowing where to stay in Atlantic City will be your biggest ally in having a safe trip. The Boardwalk and Marina District are the most popular areas for tourists. Traveling in these areas, where there are plenty of people around, is your best bet. The Downtown area is another popular neighborhood to stay in – but be aware of your surroundings.

Criminals are more likely to strike after dark and in secluded, isolated areas. Stay vigilant about your surroundings and do most of your exploring during the day.

Crime in Atlantic City

Unfortunately, crime rates in Atlantic City could be better. According to NeighborhoodScout.com, average annual violent crime rates are about 18.87 per 1,000 residents, and average annual property crime rates are about 68.12 per 1,000 residents. [Source]

However, many of these crimes occur in residential areas, and it doesn’t imply that all of Atlantic City is sketchy. Stay in tourist-centric areas such as the Atlantic City casinos and boardwalk, as well as the Marina District. This puts you at a lesser risk for violent crimes, as police presence tends to be heavier to protect tourists, especially during the summer. Petty crimes such as pickpockets and mugging, though, may still be an issue.

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Common Scams in Atlantic City

Because it’s a heavy tourist destination, Atlantic City scammers will try to prey on the unaware or intoxicated. Most of these involve petty theft. Atlantic City visitors should look out for these scams.

• Panhandling/Begging – Some people may try to beg you for change outside of casinos and entrances to Atlantic City’s beaches. They may even pose as someone who is legitimately in dire need. Don’t fall for it! It’s not a good idea to give money to panhandlers, as this emboldens them to continue.
• Mugging – Thieves will try and to take your bag and/or valuables. This is more common in the downtown area further away from the beach. Keep flashy jewelry out of sight and your belongings close to you at all times.
• Pickpockets – These thieves are less bold than muggers but just as dangerous. Keep any money on you close to your body, in zippered compartments. This makes it harder for a pickpocket to bump against you and steal.

Hazardous Weather and Natural Disasters

Since most of Atlantic City is close to the water, the temperatures tend to be cooler than in areas more inland. However, natural disasters and hazardous weather aren’t common here.

The worst natural disaster in recent history was Hurricane Sandy in 2012., which was an anomaly. It devastated homes and attractions, such as the Steel Pier Amusement Park. 

The most you’ll reasonably have to consider is a rainstorm, which only really occurs during spring and summer. Find out when the best time to visit Atlantic City is so you can choose the best possible time to visit.

Women’s Travel Safety

As in many locales, women traveling alone can draw the attention of criminals. The risk of harm while traveling alone as a woman in Atlantic City is low/moderate – but should still be kept in mind. Travel in groups if you can. 

If you’re a woman traveling alone, stay in well-lit public areas. Keep any belongings close to your person, and be aware of your surroundings. Try to limit going out after dark, especially in areas like Downtown Atlantic City or more residential areas.

Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Atlantic City?

Tap water in New Jersey is, in general, nothing to write home about. While it’s within EPA guidelines, some pipes can have contaminants. Because of this, you’re better off drinking filtered or bottled water.

5 Safety Tips for Atlantic City

Tip #1 – Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Two of the most common incidences of crime in Atlantic City are pickpocketing and mugging. To be safe, be aware of your surroundings and take notice if anyone seems unusually close to you. This is sound advice to use no matter where you travel.

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Tip #2 – Avoid Traveling Alone

If you can, no matter your gender, try to avoid traveling alone in Atlantic City. If anyone decides to do anything nefarious, they’re more likely to prey on someone who’s alone, as opposed to those in a group. The only possible exception is the height of the summer tourist season. There are more tourists and more police patrols as well.

Tip #3 – Keep Belongings Close to You

For convenience and safety, when out and about in Atlantic City, it’s a good idea to keep your belongings close to you. A good crossbody bag is a great idea. They’re easy to keep an eye on and make it hard for muggers and pickpockets.

Tip #4 – Try Not to Travel At Night

Criminals tend to get bolder under the cover of darkness. Be careful about traveling at night, especially alone. It’s a good idea to avoid taking walks alone at night as well. If you do, go straight to your destination (i.e. car, hotel, venue, etc). 

Stay in well-populated areas and avoid being out past midnight. If you have to be out late, travel in groups. 

Tip #5 – Don’t Leave Your Drinks Alone

This tip is actually good to keep in mind no matter where you travel. It only takes a few seconds for someone to slip something into your drink at a club, casino, or bar. Stay vigilant.

Tip #6 – Not Too Fancy

When we’re on vacation, we want to look our best! Because of that, we put on our nicest clothes, shoes, bags, and jewelry. But beware – petty thieves are counting on just that! If you have any particularly nice jewelry or even expensive designer bags, it may be best to hide them when you’re out and about. If you do wear them, just be mindful of your surroundings.

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FAQs About Safety in Atlantic City

What is the safest part of Atlantic City?

The safest part of Atlantic City is the Boardwalk. Uniformed and plain clothes police officers patrol the area frequently to ensure everyone’s safety.

Are Atlantic City Beaches safe?

Atlantic City beaches are safe, especially during beach season. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, lifeguards are on duty to keep beachgoers safe. Outside of Beach season, police still patrol the area often.

Is Atlantic City safe to walk at night? 

It’s not a good idea to walk around Atlantic City at night, especially alone. It’s fine, however, if you’re leaving an event and going a short distance to your vehicle or rideshare.

Is it safe to go to Atlantic City alone?

It’s moderately safe to travel to Atlantic City alone. If you must, use caution and keep alert. Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t travel at night.

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America’s Playground, a.k.a. Atlantic City has a lot of great activities to enjoy. If you’re looking for more Garden State fun, then check out these places to visit in New Jersey for some great ideas!

I hope I’ve answered the question “Is Atlantic City safe?” Have fun visiting!

(Featured Image Credit: Rosemarie Mosteller / Shutterstock)