» Tour the Jersey Shore!

A Little Light Magic takes place on Absecon Island, home to Atlantic City and the “downbeach” communities of Ventnor, Margate and Longport. It’s been one of my favorite places since childhood! In recent years, I’ve been saddened to see so many of the old sights and shops torn down to make way for new construction—but I’m happy to report that many quirky old sights still exist, if you know where to look for them. Here’s a tour of some of the real places on Absecon Island visited by Nick and Tori in A Little Light Magic.

Have fun on the trip!

Absecon Island, North to South… Roll over pictures for their descriptions.
The White House Sub Shop 2301 Arctic Avenue, Atlantic City An Atlantic City legend. Famous for Philly-style cheesesteaks and hoagies since 1946.	Formica Bros. Bakery 2310 Arctic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ Hand-crafted breads and pastry since 1919. Currently owned by the third generation descendant of the original founder. Cannoli to die for.	The Steel Pier Atlantic City Boardwalk at Virginia Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ This historic amusement pier, once home to such acts as the High Diving Horse and Rex the Wonder Dog, was first opened in 1898. Despite an announcement that the pier would close "permanently" in October 2006, the Atlantic City landmark remains open for the 2009 season.

Sack O' Subs 5217 Ventnor Avenue, Ventnor, NJ Cheesesteaks and subs by the Sacco family since 1969. Fantastic!

Sunrise on the beach Margate, NJ The beach, the ocean, and the lifeguards are the ultimate summer constants in Margate. If you're in town, don't miss the annual Margate Memorial Life Guard Race!

Lucy the Elephant 9200 Atlantic Avenue, Margate, NJ This quirky six-story wooden elephant, built in 1881 to attract real estate investors to the island, has also been a hotel and tavern. Now Lucy is a museum and National Historic Landmark. The only elephant you can walk through and come out alive.	Margate Dairy Bar 9510 Ventnor Avenue, Margate, NJ Soft ice cream and Italian water ice since 1952. A Philadelphia Magazine "Best of the Shore" award winner. If you're in Margate, don't miss it.	Ozzie's Luncheonette 2401 Atlantic Avenue, Longport, NJ Betty Boop rules in this 1950s throwback diner. The menu is modern and creative.

top