What’s New in Atlantic City: Spring/Summer Openings to Watch in 2025

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With major renovations, new culinary ventures, and beachfront upgrades, Atlantic City is entering the 2025 season with a fresh burst of energy. Known for its iconic boardwalk, coastal atmosphere, and growing appeal among Irish visitors seeking something different on the U.S. East Coast, the city is continuing to evolve – offering a compelling mix of entertainment, lifestyle and leisure.

Here’s a look at what’s new and noteworthy in Atlantic City this spring and summer.

 Atlantic City Aquarium Reopens with New Marine Life and Interactive Experiences

The Atlantic City Aquarium reopened to the public on 24 March, offering a fresh and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Following a five-year closure, the revitalised attraction now features a range of new marine life, including sharks and an expanded series of interactive touch tanks.

One of the most popular features – the Cow Nose Ray Touch Tank – is now surrounded by six new hands-on exhibits, allowing children and adults alike to get up close with a variety of sea creatures in a safe, educational environment.

With its scenic harbourfront location, the aquarium is once again a standout option for families, couples, and casual explorers looking to add a fun, educational stop to their Atlantic City itinerary.

LandShark Bar & Grill to Launch Outdoor Stage and Tiki Bar Experience

This summer, LandShark Bar & Grill, located at Resorts Casino Hotel, will debut an expanded oceanfront deck and tiki bar, complete with a new outdoor entertainment stage. The venue aims to capitalise on the resort’s newly widened beach by offering a more immersive seaside atmosphere.

Guests can expect fire pits, hammocks, cabanas, cornhole, and beer pong tables, creating a laid-back, beach club feel right on the Atlantic Ocean. The enhancements are designed to position LandShark as a go-to venue for casual drinks, live music, and relaxed entertainment on the boardwalk.

Tennessee Avenue: Atlantic City’s Creative, Culinary Quarter Evolves Again

Just a short walk from the Boardwalk, Tennessee Avenue has become one of Atlantic City’s most exciting and character-filled neighbourhoods – where laid-back local energy meets ambitious food and drink culture. For international travellers seeking a taste of the city beyond the casinos, this is where Atlantic City reveals its soul.

In 2025, the street enters a new chapter led by Atlantic City native and hospitality veteran Salvatore “Sal” Spena, who is overseeing a trio of new culinary experiences that build on the area’s independent spirit and social vibe.

Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, already a popular destination for craft beer and casual bites, will unveil Jennifer’s Oyster Bar in May – a seafood-focused outdoor venue celebrating locally sourced oysters from Barnegat Bay, alongside shrimp, crab legs, and clams on the half shell, paired with rotating taps and wines on draft.

Two new restaurant openings across the street will further elevate the area:

  • Isabella’s Italian Pizza Kitchen will offer wood-fired pizzas, Sicilian-style sauces, and modern Italian fare rooted in high-quality ingredients and comfort food favourites.
  • Paulie’s Steak Italiano will blend steakhouse classics with bold Italian flavours, transitioning in the evening into a late-night destination with cocktails, conversation, and atmosphere.

Whether you’re stopping by after a day on the beach, catching up with friends over oysters and craft beer, or discovering one of the city’s coolest corners for the first time, Tennessee Avenue offers something distinctly Atlantic City.

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