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Climb New Jersey's tallest lighthouse for panoramic views of Atlantic City. The 171-foot brick tower features a 228-step spiral staircase and an original 1854 Fresnel lens.
Standing at 171 feet, the Absecon Lighthouse is the third-tallest masonry lighthouse in the United States. It was constructed with more than one million bricks using a wind-resistant, double-walled design. First lit in 1857, the tower guided ships safely past the Absecon Inlet until it was decommissioned in 1933.
Today, you can pay a climbing fee of approximately $10 to ascend the tower. The final climb is permitted 30 minutes before closing. Sneakers or closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended for the ascent. {{note:Read about What to wear for more packing details.}}
10-15 minutes228 steps to watch room
Ascend the historic cast-iron staircase to reach the top. You must climb 228 numbered steps to reach the watch room observation deck. Pace yourself during the climb. Read the dedication plaques on the stairs as you catch your breath.
15-20 minutesOcean and skyline views
The watch room serves as an observation deck with 360-degree views of the Atlantic City skyline and ocean. Bring a camera to capture the sweeping views from the top. While here, you can chat with the volunteer Lightkeepers stationed on the deck.
10 minutes12,800-pound lens
This area houses the original first-order Fresnel lens, manufactured in 1854. The massive lead glass lens weighs approximately 12,800 pounds. You cannot go inside the lantern room itself, but you get face-to-face with the glowing glass. There are 240 steps total to reach this top level.
