From new venues to grand reopenings, here’s what’s hot in AC this summer.
Hammer & Nails is set to groom AC’s most discerning men.
THE AIRSHOW TAKES FLIGHT
The Atlantic City Airshow (visitatlanticcity.com) has roared back to life. Despite initial announcements that the skies over the Boardwalk would remain quiet in 2025, a recent partnership between Visit Atlantic City and Herb Gillen Airshows has resulted in the Visit Atlantic City Soar and Shore Festival, which is set to take place July 15 and 16. “The airshow has always been an incredibly popular event in Atlantic City, and we are excited to be able to partner with Herb Gillen Airshows to bring back this experience for our locals and visitors alike,” says Gary Musich, president and CEO of Visit Atlantic City.
The AC Airshow is set to soar once again.
AC AQUARIUM SPLASHES AGAIN
Back when Covid first hit, many local businesses in Atlantic City shut their doors for the time being. But unlike most, the Atlantic City Aquarium (acnj.gov) remained shuttered for the last five years due to a variety of factors, including the need for extensive renovations due to structural issues. But those woes are a thing of the past and lovers of all things aquatic have cause to rejoice, as the Atlantic City Aquarium has now officially re-opened. The updated version of this beloved space includes an array of new exhibits including six new “touch tanks” with daily live feeding shows set to debut this summer.
HIGH-END GROOMING COMES TO THE BOARDS
The Boardwalk in Atlantic City is the largest in the world and serves as the crown jewel of the town, but for all its shopping and entertainment options, one thing the Boardwalk has never offered is a full-fledged barbershop. Until now, that is. The newest location of Hammer & Nails (hammerandnailsgrooming.com) will launch in AC this summer, offering an elevated version of the classic barbershop experience and bringing in all the best elements of a traditional spa, but with a masculine-focused slant set firmly in place. Men can opt for services ranging from haircuts and shaves to manicures and pedicures as well as a variety of skincare and spa treatments. All this in an environment where sipping a nice whiskey is all but expected.
Take in some sips at Hard Rock’s The Balcony.
THE BALCONY BAR UPS THE GAME
Adding to Hard Rock’s (hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com) ever-growing list of exciting nightlife destinations, this summer it’s debuting The Balcony, an upscale spot to catch an oceanfront sunset or enjoy a premium cocktail with friends. The space will feature DJs spinning a mix of generational feel-good hits to ensure your night is unforgettable. Open weekends only, beginning at 7 p.m.
BYRDCAGE DELIVERS THE GLAM
It may be hard to believe, but Atlantic City spent the last 20 years without an official LGBTQ+ space in town (the last one being Studio Six, which closed in 2004.) Those days are now a thing of the past though, as the recent opening of The Byrdcage (byrdcageac.com)—a venue birthed from the mind of award-winning caterer and party planner Jason Tell— brings an exciting new chapter to Atlantic City’s nightlife scene. Part restaurant, part bar, part live entertainment space, Byrdcage offers guests a relaxed vibe at the first-floor piano bar, with the upstairs space being dedicated to entertainment, including live drag shows and more. Filling the space recently vacated by Good Dog Bar, Byrdcage ushers in a progressive twist to Atlantic City’s already pumping party.
Photography by: COURTESY OF BRANDS
