Atlantic City Memories

Atlantic City is a unique place. It's not necessarily clean. If you wander too far from the casinos, you tend to fear for your life. The resorts are older and not nearly as spectacular as the ones in Las Vegas. Despite all of this, I love Atlantic City.

When walking the boardwalk, you are overcome by the smells of the ocean air, pizza and cheese-steaks. You are surrounded by the sounds of carnival games and seagulls. Faces are lit by the glow of amusement park rides and you can't help but smile as you hear "watch the tram car please".

The shops are filled with cheap jewelry, souvenirs, saltwater taffy and t-shirts with cheesy slogans. The signs from the casinos light up the night. You are surrounded by memorabilia from years and years of Miss America pageants and the Atlantic Ocean is in front of you as far as the eye can see.

There is something inexplicably great about eating pizza on the boardwalk. Is it the ocean air? The view? Something in the sauce? Or is it just my imagination? There is nothing like it anywhere else and I am salivating just thinking about it. Papa T's is one of my favorite places to indulge in that delectable culinary experience.

Getting frozen custard from Kohr Brothers is worth the trip in itself.

My favorite AC attraction is The Blue Martini in Bally's. It's an amazing bar with an incredible selection of over 100 flavored martinis. It is decorated in deep, plush reds and maroons with velvety fabrics and ornate, dimly-lit chandeliers. The walls are lined with cozy booths and couches, where you can sit and enjoy live music and while sipping their heavenly concoctions. The cocktails, the music and the squishy furniture make you want to find a good spot and sit for hours.

Atlantic City has earned a special place in my heart. It might be because I can't get there as easily anymore. It might be because I got to see Tony Bennett at Caesars Palace. It might be because I've made special memories while in the city with my husband. In any case, if I think about it as if it were an old friend (that you love--flaws and all) and I miss it.