Atlantic City in Bloom: A Garden Tour to Remember

While Atlantic City is widely celebrated for its beaches, boardwalk, shops, and casinos, it also holds some of the most serene and scenic gardens waiting to be discovered. Last week, the City of Atlantic City's Planning & Development Department, in partnership with the Green Coalition of Atlantic City, hosted a vibrant Garden Tour that highlighted the natural beauty thriving within the urban landscape.

Residents and visitors alike were invited to take part in this refreshing journey, exploring a curated trail of green spaces that showcased the city's commitment to sustainability, beautification, and community pride. The tour spanned several iconic spots including Fisherman's Park, the Ducktown Garden, and the Gardener’s Basin Garden, each offering its own unique charm and horticultural treasures.

At Fisherman’s Park, attendees were greeted with neatly trimmed beds of native plants, educational signage, and the relaxing ambiance of a neighborhood gem. The Ducktown Garden offered a lush pocket of greenery tucked within one of Atlantic City’s most historic neighborhoods, where flowers bloomed vibrantly alongside vegetables and herbs tended by local volunteers.

Over at Gardener’s Basin Garden, the salty breeze from the nearby water mingled with the fragrance of blossoms, creating a tranquil atmosphere perfect for reflection and appreciation. Many participants noted how these spaces, though lesser-known, reflect the care, collaboration, and creativity of residents determined to make Atlantic City greener and more livable.

This tour was not just a visual treat—it was also an opportunity to learn about ongoing environmental initiatives, the importance of urban green spaces, and the role community members can play in nurturing them. Informational booths and on-site volunteers from the Green Coalition shared insight into sustainable planting, composting, and how to get involved in local garden projects.

The event drew in residents of all ages and backgrounds, uniting them through a shared appreciation for nature and community development. It served as a powerful reminder that beauty and growth can flourish in even the most unexpected corners of a city.

By hosting this Garden Tour, the City demonstrated a growing emphasis on integrating green infrastructure into Atlantic City's development plans. These gardens do more than beautify; they create spaces for education, relaxation, and environmental action.

From colorful flower beds to edible landscapes, the tour brought to light a side of Atlantic City that many had never seen before. It was a day filled with discovery, inspiration, and the simple joy of being surrounded by nature.

As Atlantic City continues to evolve, events like this reflect a commitment not just to entertainment and tourism, but to cultivating wellness and sustainability at the grassroots level.

‍

Photo Credit: Ed Lea / City of Atlantic City