Page 15 - 2025 Southern NJ Vacationer

The Longest Yarn exhibit at Naval Air Station Wildwood
and Fort Mills, Kentucky, where it will be honored by the 101st Airborne Division.
The tapestry made its national debut at the Naval Air Station Wildwood (NASW) Aviation Museum, located at 500 Forrestal Rd, Cape May Airport. Displayed from April through Labor Day 2025, it will offer visitors a unique blend of art and history, regular museum admission will be required. For more information, www.usnasw.org
EXPLORE, DINE & DISCOVER ON THIRD FRIDAYS: Nestled in Millville’s Glasstown Arts District, High Street buzzes with vibrant art galleries, upscale dining spots, and unique boutiques. The district’s 19th- and early 20th-century architecture enriches the artsy atmosphere. www.glasstownartsdistrict.com.
The Riverfront Renaissance Center for the Arts showcases the creativity of artists from Southern New Jersey and nearby metropolitan areas. Don’t miss out on the Third Friday Fun, a monthly event featuring casual receptions where you can meet and mingle with the highlighted artists. Third Fridays in downtown Millville are a thrill, with visitors enjoying the lively arts scene, delicious dinners, and spirited nightlife. www.rrcarts.com
EXPERIENCE THE “WHEELY” BIG ATTRACTION! Atlantic City’s renowned Steel Pier is the heart of family fun along the city’s historic boardwalk. Opening its doors in 1898, Steel Pier became famous for its daring acts like diving horses and human cannonballs, as well as hosting top-tier entertainers and novelty acts. Fast forward to today, and the pier continues to thrill visitors of all ages with its amusements and exhilarating rides. The latest
addition, an astounding Observation Wheel, stands at 220 feet tall. It features 40 temperature-controlled gondolas that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Atlantic City skyline. Each gondola can comfortably seat six passengers, and has a total capacity of 240 passengers. www.steelpier.com
CHECK OUT A GOOD BOOK: The county library system is the information center for Atlantic County. There are ten branch libraries located throughout Atlantic County and each has computerized public access catalog to over 500,000 books and audio- visual items. In addition to community activities at the libraries, there is Wi-Fi access, and books-by-mail. Looking for a rainy-day activity or just a change of pace from sun and sand? Head to the library – of course nothing says you can’t take the latest best seller or a spine-tingling mystery by your favorite author to the beach with you. Kids have a summer reading list before they head back to school? The library has whatever is on their list. There are more than books at the library – classes, special events, technology assistance – you name it. www.atlanticlibrary.org
EVENTS GALORE IN ATLANTIC COUNTY:
Atlantic County is home to many time-honored festivals that attract large crowds of residents and visitors each year. These events include Bayfest (April) and Good Old Days (September) in Somers Point; Renaissance Faire (April), Mayfest (May) and Oktoberfest (October) in Smithville; Red, White and Blueberry Festival (June) and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Festival (July) in Hammonton; ACUA Earth Day (April) in Egg Harbor Township; and the 4-H Fair (August) in Mays Landing.
LIGHTHOUSE CHALLENGE: The allure of lighthouses and their centuries-old purpose as beacons of light against a fogged and dark shore remain a fascination for travelers. In New Jersey, the attraction for these legendary structures has taken thousands of visitors to new heights, literally! Call it an event or possibly a bucket list item; the Lighthouse Society of NJ dares beacon enthusiasts to visit 11 llighthouses, three life saving stations, and one museum over a two- day weekend. The route covers the Atlantic Coast from Sandy Hook to Cape May and the Delaware Bay and River Coast from Cape May to Paulsboro.
The 2025 Lighthouse Challenge is set for the weekend of October 18 and 19. For more information, or to register, www.lighthousechallengenj.com
TAKE A CHANCE AND ROLL THE DICE:
Atlantic City’s casinos are built to entertain, enticing guests with the thrill of gaming, luxury of resort living, and diverse experiences. The city’s iconic Boardwalk is adorned with world-class casino properties like Ocean, Hard Rock, Resorts, Caesars, Bally’s, and Tropicana, which redefine opulence. These casinos offer an extensive array of gaming options, including cutting-edge slot machines, card tables hosting thrilling rounds of poker and blackjack, and roulette. Beyond the gaming floors, guests are treated to lavish retreats with upscale accommodations, spa indulgences, and gourmet dining. Entertainment takes center stage with theaters hosting live performances, comedy shows, and concerts.
Atlantic City’s casinos also extend their allure beyond traditional gaming. Resort-style pools, vibrant nightlife, shopping boutiques, and chef-helmed restaurants add to the excitement, creating an unforgettable escape on the shores of Atlantic City. For more information, visit www.atlanticcitynj.com l
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