Who says you need to travel far to embark on an unforgettable adventure? Atlantic City: A Taste of Adventure was the perfect reminder that some of life’s best journeys are only an hour away. What began as a wine tasting dinner at Morton’s The Steakhouse soon became a weekend to remember.

Instead of heading home after dinner, Raun suggested we turn the night into a weekend adventure. We booked a stay at Caesars Palace, excited to reconnect with a place we hadn’t explored in a while. Just an hour from home, Atlantic City revealed itself as more than just casinos — with live entertainment, incredible food, and a vibrant heartbeat all its own.

Our adventure kicked off at Carmine’s, an Italian restaurant known for its generous family-style servings. We treated ourselves to baked clams, a Caesar salad we still consider one of the best, and the show-stopping Lobster Fra Diavolo — piled high with lobsters, shrimp, mussels, and clams over linguini. Dessert was an unexpected delight: a strawberry shortcake topped with pistachio nuts that made the perfect sweet ending. Sharing the evening with fellow diners celebrating birthdays added even more warmth to our local escape.

The next day, we lunched at Gordon Ramsay’s Pub & Grill at Caesars Palace. The Short Rib Nachos were a standout, each bite a tantalizing dance of flavors. It was the perfect prelude to the main event—the wine tasting dinner.

As the evening unfolded, we found ourselves in a private room at Morton’s, set for an intimate wine tasting dinner. The ambiance was warm and welcoming, a perfect setting for what was to come. We were joined by three other couples, each eager to begin this culinary journey. Conversations flowed as freely as the wine, creating a lively and relaxed atmosphere.

The menu featured five exquisite courses, each paired with carefully selected wines. Our first course was a delicious array of hors d’oeuvres, featuring poached lobster with grilled corn on a brioche crostini and a roasted cherry tomato, pesto, and goat cheese galette. The Threadcount by Quilt Sauvignon Blanc enhanced each bite with its crisp notes.

With our taste buds ready, we moved on to the next course: Coffee-Cured Salmon Fillet, beautifully complemented by Glasir Holt Chardonnay. The combination of pickled red onion, capers, and whole grain mustard aioli created a symphony of flavors that felt both fresh and satisfying.

From there, we were treated to the Braised Niman Ranch Pork Osso Buco, served over a bed of wild mushroom risotto. The Dairyman and Las Alturas Pinot Noirs played off the rich, savory notes, with each sip deepening the experience and inviting us to linger a little longer over every bite.

Then came the showstopper: Sliced Beef Tenderloin, paired perfectly with The Grace Of The Land Cabernet Sauvignon. Tender, flavorful, and accompanied by fondant potatoes and roasted asparagus in a rich sauce lyonnaise, it was a dish that felt both elegant and comforting.

Finally, dessert arrived — a decadent Flourless Chocolate Cake served with The Fabric Of The Land Red Blend. Rich, smooth, and completely satisfying, it was the perfect ending to an unforgettable evening. Each course left us savoring the moment, completely caught up in the harmony of flavors.

What started as a Saturday evening of wine tasting and dinner turned into a relaxed weekend getaway. Our time in Atlantic City was a sweet reminder that the best adventures aren’t always far away—sometimes they’re found in good food, good company, and the little discoveries close to home.

So, whether it’s a short drive or a spontaneous idea, take the time to savor those nearby adventures. Sometimes the best memories are made just around the corner.

• Book Midweek or Off-Season
  Hotel rates in Atlantic City are often cheaper during the week or outside peak summer months. Bonus: fewer crowds!
• Make Dining Reservations in Advance
  Popular spots like Carmine’s, Morton’s The Steakhouse, and Gordon Ramsay’s Pub & Grill can fill up fast—especially on weekends. Reserve early to avoid wait times.
• Check for Local Events & Entertainment
  From comedy shows to live music and Broadway-style acts, Atlantic City’s entertainment scene is always buzzing. Sites like visitatlanticcity.com or the casinos’ official pages list current shows.
• Explore the Boardwalk Early
  Take a morning stroll on the iconic Boardwalk before it gets busy. You’ll get the best views—and the best coffee from local cafes.
• Thinks layers when packing
  Even in summer, indoor venues can get chilly with the AC cranked. A light sweater or jacket is your best friend.
• Sign Up for Casino Loyalty Programs
  Even if you’re not a big gambler, these programs often give discounts on dining, rooms, and shows.
• Don’t Skip Dessert
  Places like Morton’s and Carmine’s go above and beyond with their dessert menus. Save room—or share to sample more!
• Use Valet or Garage Parking Street parking can be hit or miss, but most casinos offer affordable valet or garage options that provide peace of mind and convenience. Many Atlantic City restaurants also offer parking vouchers for guests who spend a certain amount, typically between $50-$75. Simply ask the restaurant for the voucher and present it to the parking cashier. Additionally, some hotels require a rewards card for parking, so be sure to check with your hotel ahead of time.
• Snap Photos—but Stay Present
  Capture the memories, but don’t forget to live in the moment, especially during experiences like a wine tasting dinner