Ocean Casino Resort is often seen as a summer destination, complete with the Atlantic City boardwalk experience. But if I learned one thing growing up in South Jersey, it’s that Atlantic City doesn’t just shut down after Labor Day. In fact, locals and tri-state residents know AC is sometimes even more enjoyable after the summer crowds die down and school is back in session. Plus, a little getaway to Atlantic City is one of the few things that make it possible to get through those super boring, cold fall and winter months.
Although I’ve stayed at Ocean Casino Resort several different times, I love that every trip is truly unique. With so many different dining and entertainment options all without leaving the resort, I’ve never repeated the same experience more than once. If you’re looking for a fall getaway, you don’t need beach weather to make a weekend trip worthwhile. In fact, some of Ocean’s best experiences have nothing to do with the beach. From big-name entertainment and destination-worthy dining to spa treatments and indoor activities, there’s plenty to build an entire off-season weekend around. Here are some of my favorite on-site things to add to your next getaway.
Dinner before the show
After checking into your room (and admiring the amazing floor-to-ceiling ocean views), it’s usually time for dinner. Luckily, Ocean Casino Resort has no shortage of amazing on-site restaurants. On my most recent visit, I got to check out Chez Frites before attending the Sebastian Maniscalco comedy show.
Chez Frites by Stephen Starr is a French restaurant that is inspired by a classic French bistro. While the menu is simple, it’s packed with flavor and offers a great atmosphere for pre-show or pre-activity dining to kick off your weekend getaway. One highlight of my meal here was the traditional steak frites, served with unlimited fries (yes, you heard that right) and your choice of classic sauces like béarnaise, peppercorn, or chimichurri. In Atlantic City, many dining options can feel redundant, which is why I really appreciate that Ocean offers this French cuisine. If French cuisine isn’t your thing, other favorite on-site dinner spots include Ocean Steak and Amada, a Spanish tapas restaurant.
Entertainment at Ocean’s Ovation Hall
While Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City is better known across Atlantic City for shows and concerts, I’d consider Ocean Casino Resort AC’s next-best entertainment destination. Inside the 5,500-seat Ovation Hall, a huge selection of shows draws crowds year-round. On my most recent trip, I saw a hilarious stand-up comedy show by Sebastian Maniscalco at this venue on opening night. When you’re traveling to AC during the off-season (meaning it’s too cold for the beach), it’s nice to have a show or concert anchor your weekend getaway. Think: Check-in, pre-dinner drinks, pre-show dinner, show, a little bit of gaming, and a pre-checkout brunch.
Exhale Spa + Bathhouse
I’m not much of a spa person. In fact, people always think I’m kind of crazy when I refuse to go to the spa for any sort of massage or treatment. After all, it’s supposed to be relaxing — right? Spa treatments have never been my thing. But if you’re anything like me, you’ll love Ocean Casino Resort’s Exhale Spa + Bathhouse which offers a day pass that gives you access to everything but scheduled treatments and massages. This stunning retreat was voted #1 Spa in New Jersey and named one of the Top 100 Spas of 2021 by Spas of America.
With the day pass option, you can start your morning off with access to all the best spa areas, including the jetted pools, jacuzzi, Himalayan Salt grotto, and lounge area. Of course, if you want to, you can also pair this day pass access with a treatment or massage. If you’re looking for a true getaway and a retreat, I love the Exhale Spa as an off-season “reset” and a great way to make your trip to Ocean Casino Resort into an entire weekend getaway.
Next-day brunch
For me, no weekend getaway is complete without next-day brunch before checking out. Before heading home, stop by one of Ocean Casino Resort’s two exceptional brunch spots: Sunny’s or Harper’s. You really can’t go wrong with either spot. If you prefer a more upscale, traditional brunch spot, check out Harper’s for elevated brunch-style dishes like chicken and waffles or a crab omelet. Harper’s has earned many awards as Ocean’s top brunch spot.
For a more classic diner experience with ocean views, you may prefer Sunny’s. Don’t sleep on the steak and eggs at Sunny’s if you want a hearty meal that will keep you full all day. I also love the way they serve a side of avocado topped with the perfect flaky sea salt. From my experience, I’d recommend making reservations at Harper’s online in advance if you prefer to dine during peak brunch hours.
