Guide To The Shore: Top Nightlife
When the sun goes down, the Jersey Shore's electrifying nightlife heats up! From sexy escapes at posh clubs to casual evenings at seaside bars, the Shore offers tons of trend-setting venues. -Veronica Dudo
DUSK
2100 Pacific Avenue
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
609-345-dusk
www.duskac.com
Classy and contemporary club Dusk continues to revolutionize evening entertainment in Atlantic City. Located inside Caesars Casino, the dashing and distinct 10,000-square-foot nightclub is positioned above the famous AC Boardwalk and is just steps away from The Pier Shops at Caesars.
Dusk's ambience is created by adding elements of color, sound, light, and energy—ingredients for a beguiling backdrop. With décor in dark hues of blue, purple and gold, Dusk has an underwater feel that's both relaxing and rejuvenating.
Dusk's layout consists of three concentric ovals around the main dance floor, symbolizing the rings created by a water droplet. Enter the club into the outer ring, which is elevated over the dance floor and includes two sleek full-service bars. The middle ring is comprised of 30 bottle service tables, and the last ring features the dance floor.
On many nights, artists or bands perform on either of Dusk's two elevated stages in the center of the dance floor. Past celebrity appearances include: LMFAO, Cisco Adler, Schwayz, Zach Gilford, Brody Jenner, Leighton Meester, Ryan Cabrera, Tyson Ritter and Rob Buckley. The DJ booth overlooks the entire club and is equipped with the latest technology, like wireless system control, which allows the DJ flexibility while spinning.
The banquettes along the dance floor are designed for guests to lounge in style and comfort and are wide enough for couples to sit together. Dusk's high-end bottle service list features fine champagnes, tequilas and other liquors. A ladies only VIP lounge leads into a spacious women's restroom.
Another of Dusk's unique features is its multilayered mesh ceiling, which features over a thousand rotating LED lights that project different colors that move to the beat of the music—a truly interactive experience.
Adjacent to Dusk's main area is the Dawn Room, an upscale pub that stretches over 1,700 square-feet and has its own DJ booth, dance floor and sound system.
This posh club redefines partying with its sexy surroundings, and allows you to party from dusk until dawn.
Boogie Nights
1133 Boardwalk
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
609-340-7698
www.resortsac.com/entertainment/boogienights.php
It's time to get your groove on at Boogie Nights, the ultimate 70's and 80's dance party at Resorts Casino. Every Friday and Saturday night, guests are stayin' alive as they're transported back in time to the fabulous 70s and 80s.
This "disco" is so much more than just a walk down memory lane, though. The mood is set for guests as soon as they walk in. Some era favorites adorning Boogie Nights include lava lamps, funky furniture and the ever-popular disco ball. Celebrities like Dan Aykroyd, David Cassidy, Caesar Milan, Danny Bonaduce and Brian McKnight have all shook their groove thing at Boogie Nights.
Disco, pop and dance hits are spun by a live DJ, while a screen on the wall displays music videos and pictures from each decade—a nice touch to the classic atmosphere. Staff members take part in all the fun, donning their best era-inspired attire, including Mr. Boogie and the Roller Girls, who zip around on roller skates out on the disco-lit dance floor. Guests are also encouraged to get decked out in psychedelic ensembles for contests.
Since Boogie Nights is dedicated to bringing back the music, styles and pop culture of the 70s and 80s, the drink menu is no exception and features creative cocktails that reference famous icons. Patrons can't help but smile while ordering the Miami Vice, Donny Almond, or Jack Tripper.
The celebration can continue at Boogie Nights…or for a lifetime. Vegas Style weddings with retro flair are available, complete with the couple's choice of one or both of the ordained Boogie Nights personalities, Mr. Boogie and Dee Dee Rivera. The Boogie Nights gang will even assist couples in writing their vows before the ceremony, which takes place on the dance floor. Need a best man, a bridesmaid or a flower girl? No problem—"Madonna" and "Michael Jackson" can step in for the occasion and "Roller Girl" will happily skate down the aisle.
If you're looking for a truly unique nightlife experience that's a kaleidoscope of entertainment and nostalgia, look no further than Boogie Nights!
mur.mur
One Borgata Way
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
1-866-MY BORGATA
www.theborgata.com
The Borgata Casino & Spa has a reputation in Atlantic City for being progressive, especially when it comes to nightlife. Located inside the Borgata beneath the casino floor, mur.mur has a personality all its own. This stylish 8,300 square-foot space offers signature bottle service and a sultry and intimate experience. Not only has mur.mur ushered in a new culture of nightlife, it has helped transform the perceptions of what nightlife in a seaside resort can be.
From their initial descent into the club on an escalator, partygoers feel the vivacious energy and exuberant vibe of this seductively-lit club. Brick-and-stone walls and pillars provide anchor the décor, which is accented with bold railings, sparkling booths and clever lighting. Hot pink lamps shine down onto the dance floor, creating a sexy ambiance.
For guests who reserve VIP booths, there's signature bottle service, while on the dance floor—the focal point of the venue—guests dance to eclectic and energizing sets from a live DJ. On the balcony level, patrons can mix and mingle. Some celebrity guest DJs include Samantha Ronson, VICE, Ruckus and Jazzy Jeff.
Its unique combination of lighting, style and design—and a plethora of celebrity appearances—make mur.mur a popular venue for trendsetters. Celebrity guests and clientele include Fergie, Gwen Stefani, Paris Hilton, Eva Mendes, Kristin Cavallari, No Doubt and Nick Cannon.
In this chic club, there's always something going on, whether it's a celebration or celebrity visiting to host a party.
32º Luxe Lounge
2831 Boardwalk
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
609-576-5206
www.32lounge.com/ac
Whatever the temperature outside, hot spot 32º is heating up the night. Located inside The Quarter at the Tropicana Casino & Resort, 32º Luxe Lounge serves up glamour and luxury in a tantalizing setting.
32º has a boutique-y atmosphere, and patrons have the opportunity to socialize, dance, chill and party the night away in this cozy space. With an environment designed to be intimate rather than overwhelming, this modern lounge captures the passion and mystery of the night. Crystal chandeliers sparkle from the ceiling above animal-print covered booths that border the dance floor, and sheer curtains adorn the front windows. Using a state-of-the-art sound system, DJs keep the high-energy vibe going with a mix of house, hip hop and rock & roll. And 32º is home to the Vamp Room, an elite after-hours party every Friday and Saturday night that keeps the party pumping until the sun comes up.
In an effort to live up to their name, 32º serves premium spirits at 32º F. Fan favorites on the drink menu are vintage champagnes, wines and rare cognacs. The club also offers European bottle service, and liquor shots are served in glasses made of pure ice (designed to seductively melt in your mouth!).
Finished partying but didn't finish your alcohol? No worries—32º has private liquor lockers that can be rented on a yearly basis for VIP customers. Just stash your bottles away for future fun times with friends!
The Ocean Drive
40th & Landis Avenue
Sea Isle City, NJ 08012
609-263-1000
www.theod.com
For over 20 years, The Ocean Drive in Sea Isle City has been a Jersey Shore tradition. Known to regulars simply as "The OD," this casual seaside bar is famous for its drink specials and live entertainment.
Making the most of its beachy location, The OD proudly offers afternoon happy hours like the Saturday No Shower Happy Hour and the Sunday Jam. Live entertainment is offered every night and features a variety of bands. Crowd favorites include Secret Service, Mr. Greengenes, Lost in Paris, and Lucky You. When the bands perform, patrons can forget everything else as they dance at the foot of the stage. Often, the enthusiastic crowds raise their glasses while singing along to their favorite songs.
The OD's theme, "good friends, great fun, and the best music," truly captures the vibe of the bar. In fact, many people have met at The OD and gone on to get married—including two of the current owners and at least six of the current bartenders!
The OD's menu includes light bites like wings, Jersey littleneck steamed clams, a chicken quesadilla, burgers and crab fries.
If you're looking for a classic Jersey Shore bar, The Ocean Drive is the place to go.
The Deck at the Golden Nugget (Formerly known as Trump Marina)
Huron & Brigantine Blvd
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
800-777-8477
www.trumpmarina.com/entertainment-clubs/bars.cfm
The Deck at the Golden Nugget is an outdoor nightlife destination sure to add variety to your AC partying. This casual seasonal restaurant and outdoor bar overlooks the Frank S. Farley State Marina and offers great food, drinks, live bands and entertainment.
Whether you arrive at this bay-front establishment by car or boat, you'll enjoy prime views of the water. Guests also have their choice of food items; the menu includes everything from party appetizers to desserts. Customer favorites include Maryland Crab Soup, Crispy Coconut Shrimp, and the Key West Chicken Salad, paired with tropical beverages like the Banana Bay Breeze, Mandarin Splash, Mai Tai One On, and Wave Rider. A breakfast menu is available on Saturdays and Sundays.
The calendar at The Deck is jam-packed with theme nights like Loud and Local Nights and Country Nights, and the live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays really kicks things into high gear.
With a combination of fun, excitement and a prime outdoor location, The Deck has become one of the most popular hangouts at the Jersey Shore.
The Princeton Bar & Grill
2008 Dune Avenue
Avalon, NJ
609-967-3456
www.princetonbar.com
After a day at the beach, beachgoers seeking a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere often head to the Princeton Bar & Grill in Avalon. Whether you're looking for a live band, DJ or opportunity to karaoke, the Princeton Bar & Grill is the place to go.
The seaside décor on the bar's walls compliments a modern bar. There's booth seating and friendly service, and food is available both inside and outside. Appetizer favorite include ahi tuna sliders, Monterey Jack and Colby-stuffed ravioli, and boneless chicken bites. Popular main dishes include the salmon burger; Angus burger; grilled Cajun rib eye; pappardelle with veal, sausage and porcini ragu; crab cakes; and fish and chips.
An outside area gives guests the choice between the refreshing sea breeze and the party inside. Dark brown wicker lounge chairs and white tables on the front patio--under the glow of ample lighting—provide comfy seating for guests day or night.
The Boiler Room
251 Beach Avenue
Cape May, NJ
888-944-1816
www.congresshall.com/content/boilerroom.html
Congress Hall's basement nightclub, the Boiler Room, has the look and feel of an upscale New York City nightclub paired with the relaxed atmosphere of the beach. It caters to a mix of people--from hotel guests to locals, young and old—and offers an upbeat atmosphere where everyone can enjoy themselves.
The Boiler Room is open mid-March through December and was built right into the foundation of the building. In fact, Congress Hall's original boiler pit now rests next to the stage, and its faceplate hangs on the back wall of the club.
This stylish and dimly-lit club has exposed brick walls, metal bar fittings and ten TV monitors. The club is lined with couches that stretch the length of the wall, a DJ booth and a dance floor that provides an up-close-and-personal view of the bands that perform at the club. And with regional entertainment on the calendar each weekend, guests at the Boiler Room have plenty of opportunities to dance.
With live music and a classy yet rustic ambiance, The Boiler Room sets the mood for an unforgettable night.
40/40 Club
2120 Atlantic Avenue
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
609-449-4040
http://ac.the4040club.com
Famed rapper Jay-Z brings his luxurious lifestyle to Atlantic City at the 40/40 Club in Caesars Casino. The businessman, artist and mogul co-owns this 15,000 square foot sports bar and lounge.
The 40/40 Club is named after one of baseball's most prestigious milestones: when a player hits 40 home runs and steals 40 bases in just one season. Real-life members of this elite club include Jose Canseco (1988), Barry Bonds (1996), Alex Rodriguez (1998) and Alfonso Soriano (2006), and their jerseys are on display in the lounge.
Offering a variety of plush accommodations, 40/40's patrons can relax in the club or rent a private VIP room designed to delight guests. Both the Caesars Diamond Club Lounge and the A Rod Lounge are fully-equipped with personal entertainment centers, 72" plasma TV's, Italian leather wrap-around couches, handmade pillows and custom pool tables. The lounges can accommodate up to 60 guests.
The largest VIP room is the ESPN Hall of Fame Lounge, which has all of the same amenities but can accommodate 120 guests. The room also includes oversized leather beds, custom-made pool tables and a Play Station II—all controlled by their own touch-screen remotes. In addition, this room has a museum of ESPY photos and awards.
Other popular VIP rooms are the Cognac Room and the Cigar Room.
On the main floor of the 40/40 Club is a centrally located bar with six chairs that are suspended from the ceiling. Purple and charcoal decor adorns the walls, and the tabletops, floor and bars are lined with imported South American slate.
The 40/40 Club is a multi-level upscale sports bar and lounge that's a home-run choice.
Memories
9518 Amherst Avenue
Margate City, NJ 0840
609-823-2196
A must-visit Jersey Shore nightclub is Memories. Located in Margate, this venue was made famous by beloved radio and TV personality Jerry Blavat.
Known to his fans as the Geator with the Heater, Blavat's seaside nightclub is a place for old friends to gather in the summer and hear the sounds of the 50s, 60s and 70s. Oftentimes, newcomers are surprised and charmed by the welcoming vibe of the club and the friendliness of its patrons, whose ages range from young to old.
Order at the bar, then head to the main event: the dance floor! This famous locale encourages guests to let loose and enjoy the classic tunes. Jerry often gives one-of-a-kind shout-outs to regulars or introduces celebrities who stop by, or performs Golden Oldies tunes. On weekends, this fun-filled dance party is broadcast on various radio stations, so that listeners at home can join in the fun.
After all these years, Margate's Memories is still going strong and creating exactly what its moniker says: unforgettable memories for patrons of all ages.
