Under $100: Atlantic City: Winter Edition

Head to Atlantic City for a quick winter getaway heavy on both the savings and the fun. While the New Jersey shore isn’t exactly warm and toasty during the winter months, it’s a convenient getaway for those who live on the East Coast, and, as prices plummet before the start of summer, it’s perfect for those on a budget. Stay at one of many casinos for obscenely cheap room rates.

Grab breakfast at The Continental, the slightly vintage-themed eatery located in the shops at Caesar’s. Brunch on the weekends starts at 11 a.m., just in time for you to roll out of bed after a long night and roll straight to breakfast. Whether you prefer omelets, a breakfast quesadilla or a stack of pancakes, you can find all your favorites, starting at $8.

Take a morning stroll along the beaches and boardwalk for a healthy dose of fresh ocean air following breakfast. The crowds are sparse and many of the shops are closed for the season, but you’ll find several are still open, selling their salt water taffy, fudge and touristy t-shirts to whoever happens to stop by.

Grab lunch with a view of the ocean at LandShark Grill & Bar, part of the Resorts casino. With a Margaritaville feel, it’s a relaxed atmosphere with, of course, plenty of margaritas to choose from. The menu offers lots of seafood options, including sandwiches and larger entrees, such as fish tacos, steak and pasta. You can easily get lunch and a drink for less than $30.

If it’s shopping you’re after, though, you might do better to head to the Tanger Outlets, located right off the row of casinos. Stores include Kate Spade New York, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Tommy Hilfiger, the Brooks Brothers Factory Store and more.

Splurge just slightly on dinner at Buddakan for Asian fusion cuisine in a spacious setting. From wasabi-crusted filet mignon with a sweet potato mash ($39) to kung pao lobster in a chili-szechuan sauce ($39), you’re sure to find something to tempt you. Not every option is in the $40 range, though. You can stick to the dim sum and noodle portion of the menu for entrees that start at $11.

After dinner, what’s Atlantic City without a trip to the club? The Pool After Dark at Harrah’s has been voted one of the best spots to spot a celebrity in the city, as well as one of the best overall clubs. DJs and performers include Pauly D, Paris Hilton, 50 Cent and French Montana. Plus, after last year’s renovations, the club is bigger and better than ever before. General admission is relatively affordable, as low as $20 to get in the door, but to get a cabana for you and your friends, or even just a poolside day bed, you’ll be paying as much as $2,000.