Plan your visit

Plan your Visit

Check the seasonal hours before you go. Prepare for the 228-step climb with the right shoes and water.

Absecon Lighthouse

31 S Rhode Island Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

GPS 39.3663, -74.4141

Open directions

Getting there

Drive or walk from the boardwalk.

How	Time	Cost	Notes
Car: Drive to 31 S Rhode Island Ave in the Inlet section of Atlantic City via Route 30/Absecon Blvd or Atlantic Avenue.	5-10 minutes from the central Atlantic City casinos	Free	A small free parking lot is available on-site, with occasional overflow parking at a nearby boat ramp.
Walk: Walk from the northern end of the Atlantic City Boardwalk (North Beach area) inland.	10-15 minutes walking from Ocean Casino Resort or Showboat	Free	A straightforward and scenic walk, highly recommended during daylight hours.
Bus: Take NJ Transit Bus No. 505 (Atlantic City/Margate/Longport).	Varies by departure point	$1.60+	The bus stops at Atlantic & Vermont Avenues, requiring just a one-block walk to the lighthouse.

When to go

QuietModerateBusyPeak

Summer is the best time to visit. The lighthouse is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM in July and August. Between September and June, it operates on a limited schedule and closes on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

What to bring

Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes for the 228-step spiral climb
Light jacket or hoodie to block strong ocean breezes at the top
Water bottle to hydrate before and after ascending the tower
Smartphone or camera for panoramic skyline and ocean views
Sunscreen for exploring the outdoor 2-acre grounds
Sunglasses to cut the glare off the Atlantic Ocean
Small hands-free daypack or crossbody bag to keep hands free on the stairs
Physical credit card or cash for the climbing fee and gift shop purchases

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The final tower climb begins 30 minutes before closing time.

Arrive early to ensure you have enough time for the stairs.

How the day runs

Suggested itineraries for your visit.

Start your day with coastal history before hitting the boardwalk.

10:00
Arrive and Park
Park in the free on-site lot at 31 S Rhode Island Ave.
10:15
Climb the Tower
Pace yourself up the 228 steps to the watch room.
10:45
View the Lens
See the original 1854 first-order Fresnel lens up close.
11:00
Explore the Museum
Visit the replica Keeper's House and gift shop.

Rules and Recommendations

Climbers must wear appropriate footwear. Sneakers or comfortable closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended. Running on the 228 stairs is strictly prohibited. Keep a steady pace.

Leashed dogs are welcome on the outdoor grounds and inside the museum. They are not allowed inside the tower. Bring a water bottle to hydrate after your climb.

Easiest way to do it

White tour boat named 'CRUISN I' on green water from an aerial view

Dolphin Watching Adventure Cruise in Atlantic City

1 h 30 min 4.3 (39)

Admission fee

From$50per person

Viator$50 GetYourGuideCompare

Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.

Planning questions

How long does it take to visit Absecon Lighthouse?

Expect to spend 60 to 90 minutes. The spiral staircase takes 10 to 15 minutes to climb. Exploring the watch room, museum, and grounds takes the rest of the time.

What are the operating hours for Absecon Lighthouse?

Summer hours (July and August) are daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Winter and Spring hours (September to June) vary, and the facility is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Is the Absecon Lighthouse dog friendly?

Yes, partially. Leashed dogs are permitted on the 2-acre grounds and inside the museum. They cannot go up into the tower.