Finish Lines and Fight Nights: Why Sport-Lovers Should Be Watching Atlantic City

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Atlantic City’s sporting season is heating up—here’s why it deserves a spot on your 2025 travel list.

Spring is here, and Atlantic City is already off and running – literally.

With the April Fools Half Marathon kicking off the season this weekend, Atlantic City’s Marathon Race Series is officially underway. This iconic Jersey Shore destination is no stranger to energy, but in 2025, it’s making serious moves as a go-to for sporty getaways. Think oceanfront races, epic fight nights, and post-event hangouts that hit just as hard.

If you’re a planning a holidays around PBs, punching power, or the perfect post-race pint—Atlantic City is calling.

Boardwalks, Bibs & Beach Bars

Next up on the calendar: the Bungalow Beach 5 Miler on 7 June – a flat-out favourite for summer runners. This is the kind of race that ends how all races should: with a beachside dash, a sea breeze, and a drink in hand at Bungalow Beach Bar. It’s all part of the Atlantic City Marathon Race Series, which delivers events all year with equal parts effort and atmosphere.

And if you’re the type to go long? Mark your calendar for 18–19 October, when the city hosts the full Atlantic City Marathon & Half Marathon, alongside 10K and 5K options. Expect autumn sun, iconic boardwalk views, and a race with heritage – it’s one of the oldest marathons in the United States and a cherished tradition since 1958.

Big Punches by the Beach

Not a runner? Atlantic City still has something to get your heart racing. On 12 April, Matchroom Boxing lands at the legendary Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, where IBF welterweight champions Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis takes on Eimantas Stanionis in a head-to-head unification bout that’s got serious electricity. It’s big-league boxing in a beachfront arena, and the energy’s already off the charts.

Run It. Watch It. Celebrate It.

Every good sporting moment deserves an equally good refuel – and this city delivers. Whether you’re swapping stories from the start line or rehashing the last round, grab a bite and a drink at LandShark Bar & Grill or Margaritaville, both just steps from the sand. Or go classic at Dock’s Oyster House, a local legend plating fresh seafood and strong cocktails since 1897.

Quick trip. Big reward.

At just over an hour from Philadelphia, or a short ride from NYC, Atlantic City is easy to reach – and hard to leave. Whether you’re chasing a medal or just soaking up the atmosphere, there’s no better blend of boardwalk, sport, and beach-town swagger.

Click here to find out more about visiting Atlantic City.