NJ Weekend Getaways: Holiday Family Fun at Ocean Casino Resort

One question I receive often as a blogger is, 'Do you have any ideas for weekend getaways?' Maybe you've already searched Reddit for weekend getaway ideas here in New Jersey but you're still looking for a fun family trip, especially during the holidays. Well, I found a place that you NEED to check out, perfect for a little Christmas magic. Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City has an amazing line-up of holiday family activities and offerings. I was able to check them all out myself, so read on for details and see why I think Ocean should be on your MUST VISIT list.

Disclosure: Ocean Casino Resort invited me to visit and experience their holiday offerings, but all opinions are my own. I wouldn't steer you wrong here, people, I swear!

Don't forget to Pin this post for future use. You never know when you'll be looking for a holiday getaway.

I know time is money so here are 5 things you can do during your holiday visit to Ocean Casino Resort. Scroll through for my bold headlines if you're pressed for time.

1. Holiday Hotel Rooms

It was impossible not to be in the holiday spirit the moment we stepped into our holiday-themed suite at Ocean. It was beautifully decorated with lights, trees, mistletoe, garland, reindeer, holiday soaps, even a hot chocolate bar. No attention to detail was lost. You could even put a crackling yule log on the TV to add to the ambiance. The holiday rooms are on a floor dedicated completely to them (the 36th floor, to be precise), so the lights in the hallway are even red and green. Guests have the choice of booking a One Bedroom Suite, Studio Suite Blu, Social Suite, Blu Queen, or a Social Suite with Blu Queen Connector.

The suite across the hall from us was the Mean Green Holiday Suite (in honor of your favorite GREEN holiday villain). How cool is that?

Good to Note: Holiday rooms and suites are available for stays from Thursday, November 28, 2024 to Monday, January 6, 2025. Book early to get the room that you want, especially if it's the mean green suite.

Worth It? I think this makes a great family gift and it's definitely an unforgettable stay. Bring your favorite Christmas jammies, get some holiday cookies and milk, enjoy some hot chocolate, holiday movies, early gifts to unwrap- there are a lot of possibilities here. Plus, you can't beat the view.

2. Santa's Hideaway Adventure

I've been to a lot of Santa visits and experiences over the years. From shopping mall Santas to theme park Santas to Santas flying in by airplane, I thought I had seen them all. But our experience at Ocean Casino Resort's Santa's Hideaway Adventure has been my favorite, by far. This unique experience is available exclusively at Ocean (from now till December 24th) and reservations are highly recommended (you can book on their website - walk-ups are permitted but FYI the attraction can get very busy and walk-ups are not guaranteed a spot). The adventure starts with you entering a magic elevator that virtually "transports" you to the North Pole. It was super exciting to watch the journey over Atlantic City and through the clouds (gotta, say, it felt REAL, even for me as an adult!). Then you arrive right at Santa's workshop to see the big man himself. I won't give away too much but it was truly a magical experience. We had one sick child in our group who could not attend, so that left ME to sit with Santa all by myself ! Don't worry, Santa said no one is ever too old to take a photo with him, and I was not intimidated at all. After your visit with Santa you can stop by the sweets cart for some hot chocolate and treats, too.

Good to Note: one reservation/package includes up to 6 people. Your time slot is shared with other guests but you get the elevator experience and photo time with your own group.

Worth It? YES! The experience is priceless and very unique. My photo came out lovely and Santa's workshop was very detailed and realistic. I loved how we exited, too, it was very clever (I won't spoil it here).

3. (For Adults) The Jingle Bell Bar*

*I'm giving two options for number 3, since one choice is adults only.

1927 Lounge is right near the casino floor and for a limited time you can enjoy the Jingle Bell Bar: A Holiday Pop-up Experience here. You can find beautiful holiday lights, festive cocktails, nostalgic decor, and themed entertainment.

Good to Note: this one obviously isn't for the kids, adults only here! The Jingle Bell Bar is not open every day, so be sure to check the Ocean website for operating hours.

Worth it? Yes! Especially if you love themed cocktails. The Santa's Hat was my pick and it was delicious. There are great photo ops here, too.

(For Kids) Eclipse Indoor Outdoor Pool

I added a second option here for kids since they can't visit the Jingle Bell Bar. They CAN check out the Eclipse Indoor Outdoor pool, which is open year round. No lifeguards are on duty so parents must stay with their kids, but how fun is it that they can actually swim outside and back inside again, even in the winter?

Good to Note: There is an adults-only swim time at the pool, so be sure to check policies about when kids can attend. The pool is heated but temperature will vary based on outdoor weather conditions.

Worth It? Of course! Kids will love being able to swim outside in the winter time. How cool is that??

photo via Ocean Casino Resort

4. Linguini by the Sea Winter Wonderland

Linguini By The Sea, one of the fine dining experiences at Ocean Casino Resort, has transformed into a Winter Wonderland this holiday season. You can dine amid their beautiful holiday decor from now until December 30th.

Good to Note: Reservations are recommended (at least, I recommend them!). This is fine dining, but it's suitable for both kids and adults. They are offering a special family style menu for their winter wonderland, which is a great deal.

Worth it? Yes! Food was delicious and I highly recommend their specialty cocktails for Winter Wonderland. The Blizzard Fairytale was both beautiful and delicious.

5. Ocean's Holiday Village

You can visit Ocean's Holiday "village," a festive shopping area of local artisans and crafters located at Shops on the Row.

Good to Note: Ocean's Holiday Village is open Saturdays- December 7th, 14th and 21st from 11am-9pm. Crafters/Sellers vary by date so be sure to look ahead if there's someone in particular that you want to shop from.

Worth it? Yes! Local artisans and crafters are always worth it. Check out 2 Chicks with Chocolate, a Jersey fave! Also, don't forget to check out the souvenirs from Ocean's own shop- they have some fun ornaments, stockings, holiday wear, and so much more to keep you in the festive spirit.