If you decide to go there, take a walk on the boardwalk then head down to Cape May for some interesting architecture. I found no real history or culture in AC.

I agree with the previous poster---head for Cape May instead. It's an historic seaside town with gorgeous architecture, a great variety of B&Bs, some very good restaurants, and the ocean, too! Although Atlantic City has a rich history, it's overshadowed these days by casinos.

Atlantic City unfortunately is pretty much about gambling (and conventions; there are discount outlets and the like.) If you do choose to go to the shore--and there is a LOT to do in Philadelphia and the immediate area--I agree with Cape May for your interests. Ocean City is nice for wandering, boardwalk, etc. depending on the time of year, but Cape May has more in terms of architecture and history.

I agree with the Cape May suggestion. It's a half-hour longer trip, but much more interesting place to be on the ocean.

~Liz

IMHO you really don;t want AC. It is primarily for gambling. There are some shows and food ranges from awful to decent. Nearby areas are depressed and/or high crime, There are much more pleasant - less tacky -places to visit on the Jersey shore, starting with Cape May - but do check out some of the ther smaller towns. As long as you realize that you are in the off season andnot everythng will be open.

Agree that AC is not what you are looking for....Cape May might do, but also check out some of the towns in Monmouth County such as Spring Lake, Ocean Grove, Asbury Park and Long Branch....Lots of history there.
If you are interested in any of those, just ask and I'll be glad to answer any questions you might have...

Sadly, I agree with the consensus about Atlantic City. I remember when it was very different--back in the day of Steel Pier's "High Diving Horse."

For a side trip from Philadelphia you might consider New Hope, PA -- but probably only for a day or two.

You could see Lucy the Elephant in Atlantic City. It's a National Historic Landmark.

Lucy is in Margate, not AC.

Margate used to be South Atlantic City and about 5 miles from AC.

Let me add my $.02 to the comments already made. Simply put Atlantic City is NOT WHAT YOU ARE SEEKING. In fact you've already answered your own question - Atlantic City's big draw is gambling and nightlife which you said you don't want.

As far as "history, culture, architecture, the ocean, good food and interesting lodging" here's the facts:

History - The street names on the Monopoly Game Board are based on Atlantic City Streets. Any other "history" is best seen by watching the HBO series "Boardwalk Empire".

Culture - The Boardwalk has lots of tacky booths with games of chance, saltwater taffy shops, t-shirt and trinket shops and frozen custard stands. If that's your idea of culture you'll be in 7th heaven.

Architecture - Casinos, parking garages and high-rise hotels near the boardwalk. Venture two or three blocks off the boardwalk and you'll find areas seedy enough to be featured on an episode of Cops.

Good Food - if mediocre buffets, fast food places, hamburger and hot dog joints are your idea of "good food" you'll be in luck.

Interesting Lodging - high-rise casino/convention style hotels with glitzy lighting dominate the Boardwalk area while cut-rate motels will be found in other areas. You'll even find plenty of "flea-bag" places that rent rooms by the hour. How's that for "interesting"

Ocean - Unlike the other things on your list the beach and ocean at Atlantic City are actually pretty nice but not so much so as to offset the other shortcomings.

Go to Cape May or someplace else, anyplace else!

You can do a lot of things in Atlantic City! It's one of the best place to visit while in New Jersey! My friend is planning to have her wedding in Atlantic City later this year!

I've seen weddings in Grand Central Station, Central Park, on several beaches, in hotels, in casinos, etc.

Why not spend +2hours and drive to NYC for some culture?!