As expectations for meetings evolve, planners are increasingly seeking destinations that offer more than just space — they’re looking for places where their events can leave a lasting, positive impact.
Atlantic City offers venues to suit every type of meeting. And while each space in this iconic oceanfront destination has its own unique character, they all share one powerful mission: helping every gathering leave a meaningful mark on the community. Across 1.8 million square feet of meeting space and more than 17,500 hotel rooms, intention and impact are the common thread.
As the summer event season approaches, the hospitality community in Atlantic City is embracing a “Small Steps, Big Waves” mindset. By connecting event organizers with local organizations and raising the bar for sustainability, events in Atlantic City live on well beyond the program’s opening and closing dates.
Make Your Mark With Purposeful Team-Building Activities
Corporate social responsibility isn’t just a duty — it’s an opportunity to elevate an event into something with a bigger purpose. Visit Atlantic City partners with more than 20 local nonprofits to help event organizers connect with causes that align with their mission and attendees’ values.
Beyond facilitating charitable donations for organizations such as the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, the Humane Society of Atlantic City, and the Boys and Girls Clubs, attendees can roll up their sleeves and volunteer to be part of the mission.
One standout experience is at MudGirls Studios, where groups can collaborate with disadvantaged women who create ceramics as a source of supplemental income. “When art is created in a group, it is an excellent way to build connections with others and offer support,” said Dorrie Papademetriou, founder and designer for MudGirls Studios. “Working side by side in our studio, barriers are broken. Through the vehicle of art making, we illustrate the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.”
Papademetriou sees the organization’s partnership with Visit Atlantic City as a key part of its mission, which goes beyond monetary support: The chance to work with conference attendees gives the women it works with a sense of self-empowerment. “The creative projects from Visit Atlantic City create fulfilling work through which our women gain a sense of self-confidence,” she said.
Feeding the Future
Beyond supporting financial wellness, event organizers can also directly impact the physical well-being of Atlantic City residents. While the city is a celebrated culinary destination for visitors, many locals have faced food insecurity for decades — a challenge rooted in the absence of a full-service grocery store.
That’s where Reed’s Farm — a nonprofit regenerative farm in Egg Harbor Township, approximately 10 miles from downtown Atlantic City — is stepping in. In 2024, the farm grew over 27,000 pounds of produce, playing a crucial role in closing the city’s nutrition gap. But the mission extends far beyond the crops: Reed’s Farm provides educational and vocational opportunities, particularly for students and individuals with cognitive disabilities.
Organizers can support by sponsoring farm animals or engaging teams in meaningful activities like mulching, planting trees, or working in the gardens. A new corporate retreat space set to open in the barn in 2025 will offer even more immersive experiences.
“We aim to provide a community hub that inspires all who gather here to engage with nature and celebrate its healing capabilities,” said Cookie Till, restaurateur and owner of Reed’s Farm. “One of our greatest goals is to become a dependable, sustainable source of food for Atlantic City residents.”
While events can make a big impact in Atlantic City, planners can rest easy knowing they can leave behind a small environmental footprint. The LEED Gold-certified Atlantic City Convention Center has reduced its energy consumption every year since opening in 1997.
Getting around the city is also becoming greener. Atlantic City Jitney, known for its efficient group transportation, has replaced half its fleet with vehicles powered by renewable natural gas, with plans to transition the entire fleet.
Even dining contributes to eco-conscious efforts. Many restaurants and casinos participate in a clam and oyster shell recycling program, helping preserve marine ecosystems and keep Atlantic City’s beaches vibrant.
Savoring Summer
There’s never a wrong time to host a meeting in Atlantic City, but summer offers a special kind of magic with more opportunities for memory-making moments.
Attendees can start the day with a peaceful stroll along the world’s first and longest boardwalk, coffee in hand and ocean breeze in the air. For those seeking adventure, jet skiing and parasailing excursions await. For a more laid-back activity, guests can unwind in a poolside cabana and soak up the sun. As evening falls, the city comes alive with a vibrant lineup of theater, live music, comedy shows, and nightlife.
Whether your meeting is a single day or spans several, there’s so much to experience that attendees may be inspired to extend their stay. Those searching for a leisurely outing can enjoy championship golf courses or explore the Atlantic County Winery and Vineyard Trail, featuring 10 unique stops. Attendees turning their meeting-stay into a family vacation will find plenty of kid-friendly experiences, from solving puzzles at the Escape Room at the Tropicana to thrill-seeking rides at the historic Steel Pier or spending the day at Island Waterpark at Showboat Resort. In Atlantic City, there truly is something for everyone.
Learn more about taking small steps to create big waves in Atlantic City and explore the new Visit Atlantic City website.
This content was created collaboratively by Visit Atlantic City and Skift’s branded content studio, SkiftX.
