Standing proudly at 2301 Boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall is far more than just a venue; it’s a living legend. For over 90 years, this architectural marvel has been at the pulsating heart of Atlantic City’s entertainment scene, hosting an extraordinary array of dazzling performers, pivotal sporting events, and significant historical gatherings. It truly embodies the spirit of “Do AC,” consistently drawing visitors and residents alike with its diverse and exciting calendar.
Originally unveiled in 1929 as the Atlantic City Convention Hall, this grand structure was an engineering triumph of its era. Boasting a colossal 137-foot-high barrel vault ceiling, it proudly held the title of the world’s largest clear-span space. This immense scale, designed to accommodate Atlantic City’s burgeoning convention industry, set a new benchmark for venues worldwide.
Boardwalk Hall’s storied past is punctuated by a remarkable list of “firsts” and iconic moments. In 1930, it pioneered the nation’s first indoor college football game, setting a precedent for indoor sports. A decade later, in 1940, it became the cherished home of the Miss America Pageant, a tradition it upheld for many decades. During World War II, from 1942 to 1945, the Hall played a crucial role, serving as a headquarters and training facility for the Army Air Forces. History was made again in 1964 when the venue welcomed over 20,000 attendees for the Democratic National Convention, where Lyndon B. Johnson received his nomination. The innovation continued in 1970 with the country’s first indoor helicopter flight, further cementing the Hall’s reputation for groundbreaking events. Its historical significance was formally recognized in 1987 when it was listed on the United States Register of Historic Places as a National Historic Landmark. Adding to its unique features, the Hall is also home to the world’s largest pipe organ, a magnificent instrument that adds to its unparalleled grandeur.
The Hall underwent a significant transformation in the late 1990s, with an extensive three-year, $90 million renovation and restoration project commencing in December 1998. This ambitious undertaking seamlessly blended the building’s historic grandeur with modern amenities, creating a state-of-the-art special events arena capable of seating up to 14,770 people. The “new” Boardwalk Hall was unveiled with great fanfare in 2001, reopening with a moving patriotic ceremony honoring those who serve our nation and communities. This innovative renovation garnered numerous accolades, including nine architectural and engineering awards, notably the prestigious 2003 National Preservation Award.
In a fitting tribute in October 2017, the venue was officially renamed Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, honoring the late state Senator Jim Whelan, a former mayor and dedicated state lawmaker of Atlantic City. This renaming cemented his legacy within the very fabric of the city he served.
Today, Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, along with the Atlantic City Convention Center, is proudly owned and funded by the New Jersey Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA). OVG (Oak View Group) expertly handles both the venue management and the food services & hospitality, ensuring every event runs smoothly and every visitor has a memorable experience.
As always, Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall continues to be a vibrant hub of activity. Looking ahead, the calendar is packed with an exciting array of events:
- July 16, 2025: Catch the classic “Sherlock Junior Silent Film” presented by HORC, Ducktown CDC, The Noyes Arts Garage, and Visit Atlantic City.
- August 1, 2025: Prepare for intense action with the Professional Fighters League World Tournament Championships.
- August 2, 2025: “Tha Carter VI Tour” brings the legendary Lil Wayne to the stage, celebrating over 20 years of “Carter Classics.”
- August 23, 2025: Rock legends The Who embark on “The Song Is Over – North American Farewell Tour.”
- September 19, 2025: Experience the iconic sounds of Los Tigres Del Norte.
- October 4, 2025: A night of unparalleled talent with “The Queens! 4 Legends. 1 Stage.” featuring Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, and Stephanie Mills.
- October 11-12, 2025: Get ready for laughs at the Atlantic City Comedy Festival.
- October 18, 2025: The enchanting Stevie Nicks graces the stage.
- November 7-9, 2025: Fun for the whole family with Disney On Ice.
- November 22, 2025: The Black Promoters Collective presents Brandy & Monica on “The Boy Is Mine Tour.”
From its early days as a world-renowned convention center to its current status as a premier entertainment destination, Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall stands as a testament to Atlantic City’s enduring appeal and its commitment to providing unforgettable experiences. For more details on these exciting happenings and other entertainment options across the state, visit Explore New Jersey Entertainment.
July 2025
Wed16
July 16 @ 18:00
Sherlock Jr. Silent Film Screening – July 16, 2025
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey, United StatesHORC – Historic Organ Restoration Committee Atlantic City, NJ Preserving the sound of the shore—HORC is the organization behind the breathtaking restoration of Boardwalk Hall’s legendary pipe organ, the […]
August 2025
Fri1
August 1 @ 20:00
Professional Fighters League World Tournament Championships
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States
Professional Fighters League World Tournament Championships – August 1, 2025Live from Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall | Friday, August 1, 2025 Get ready for a night of adrenaline-pumping action […]
Sat2
August 2 @ 20:00
Lil Wayne: Tha Carter VI Tour
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States
Lil Wayne: Tha Carter VI Tour – Live in Atlantic City One of hip-hop’s most influential forces returns to the stage—Lil Wayne is bringing his Tha Carter VI Tour to […]
August 23 @ 20:00
The Queens! 4 Legends. 1 Stage. Featuring: Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, Stephanie Mills
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States
The Queens: 4 Legends, 1 Stage – A Historic Night of Soul Dates: September 25, 2025 (Newark) & October 4, 2025 (Atlantic City) Showtime: 8:00 PM Prepare for an event […]
Sat23
August 23 @ 20:00
The Who: The Song Is Over – North American Farewell Tour
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States
The Who: The Song Is Over – North American Farewell Tour The Who is saying goodbye in true rock ‘n’ roll fashion with The Song Is Over – North American […]
October 2025
Sat11
October 11 @ 20:00 – October 12 @ 23:30
AC Comedy Festival
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States
Atlantic City Comedy Festival 2025: Two Nights of Unforgettable Laughter! Dates: October 11-12, 2025 Showtimes: Get ready to laugh until your sides ache! The AC Comedy Festival is back in […]
Sat18
October 18 @ 20:00
Stevie Nicks
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States
Stevie Nicks Live in Atlantic City: A Night of Iconic Rock & Roll Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025 Showtime: 7:00 PM (Doors open 6:00 PM) Venue: Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, […]
November 2025
Fri7