Ocean Casino Resort is leaning into the winter season this year, transforming its Atlantic City property into a holiday destination that blends festive décor, seasonal dining and immersive attractions. During a recent visit, I experienced how the resort has integrated holiday programming throughout the guest experience — from themed accommodations to dining, entertainment and family attractions — creating a unified seasonal offering rather than a series of standalone events.
I began my stay in one of Ocean’s holiday-themed rooms, where festive elements were incorporated without overwhelming the space. A decorated tree, understated seasonal accents and a hot chocolate kit added warmth to the modern design. For the third consecutive year, the resort has reimagined their guest rooms with coordinated holiday décor. The seasonal dressings were nice, but for me, the star of the show was the view. Expansive floor to ceiling windows from our room on the 36th floor framed the city and shoreline from a bird’s eye view.
Before heading into the evening, we dined at Linguini By The Sea, which is transformed into a Winter Wonderland for the holidays. Decorated windows overlooked the boardwalk and ocean, creating a setting that felt extraordinary. Seasonal cocktails and winter-inspired menu offerings complemented the coastal atmosphere, offering a quieter contrast to the busier areas of the resort.The dishes at Linguini By The Sea were both comforting and refined, from perfectly cooked pasta coated in silky, well-seasoned sauces to fresh seafood that tasted clean and thoughtfully prepared. Each bite reflected careful attention to flavor and balance, elevating classic Italian fare with a coastal touch. The experience felt well suited for a relaxed dinner before the night’s activities.
After dinner, I made my way to Jingle Bell Bar, the holiday pop-up located inside the 1927 Lounge just off the casino floor. The space featured festive lighting, themed décor and specialty cocktails, creating an energetic environment that drew both visitors and locals. Guests gathered to take photos, sing along to familiar holiday music and enjoy the atmosphere, which felt more like a seasonal event than a traditional lounge.
Earlier in the visit, I also spent time at Santa’s Hideaway Adventure at The Shops at The Row. The experience begins with an “elevator ride” designed to simulate a trip to the North Pole before opening into an immersive setting where children meet Santa. As the only attraction of its kind in New Jersey and the surrounding region, it stood out for its creativity and thoughtful design. The adjoining shops offered holiday-themed gifts that extended the experience beyond the visit.
Seasonal touches were woven into accommodations, dining, retail and entertainment spaces, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.
For South Jersey residents looking for a nearby holiday outing — or visitors seeking a seasonal stay along the coast — Ocean Casino Resort offers an unforgettable winter experience. The combination of ocean views, thoughtfully designed attractions and accessible holiday entertainment makes it easy to experience the season without traveling far from home.
