NJ League of Municipalities Conference Guide
Your complete guide to the NJLM Conference in Atlantic City. Best hotels near the convention center, dining recommendations, nightlife, and insider tips from locals who know the city.
Quick Facts
November
Typically mid-month
Tuesday-Thursday
10,000+
Annual Attendance
NJ's largest municipal event
400+
Exhibitors
State's largest municipal expo
Since 1915
Years Running
Over a century of tradition
What is the League of Municipalities Conference?
The New Jersey State League of Municipalities Annual Conference is the largest gathering of municipal officials in New Jersey. Each November, over 10,000 attendees—including mayors, council members, municipal managers, department heads, and vendors—converge on Atlantic City for three days of educational sessions, networking, and the state's largest municipal exhibition.
The League has been hosting this conference since 1915, making it one of the longest-running municipal conferences in the nation. What began as a small gathering of local officials has grown into the premier event for New Jersey municipal government, featuring hundreds of exhibitors and educational sessions.
Who Attends
What to Expect
Conference Schedule
While specific times vary by year, here's the typical conference structure:
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Check the official NJLM website for the current year's detailed schedule.
Where to Stay
Book early—conference hotels sell out months in advance
Book Early for Best Selection
With 10,000+ attendees competing for Atlantic City hotel rooms, conference blocks sell out quickly. The Sheraton (connected to the convention center) typically fills first. Book as soon as rates are announced—usually late summer.
Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel
Connected to Convention Center via Indoor Walkway
The only hotel directly connected to the Atlantic City Convention Center. Walk to sessions without stepping outside—crucial during November weather. Features business center, Coastal Craft Kitchen & Bar, fitness center, and Marriott Bonvoy points. This should be your first choice for maximum convenience.
Other Recommended Hotels
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Boardwalk beachfront with rock memorabilia and concert venue.
Tropicana Atlantic City
The Quarter shopping district. Often hosts conference room block.
Caesars Atlantic City
Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen restaurant. Boardwalk location.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
AC's premier casino resort. Worth the distance for dining and nightlife.
Harrah's Resort Atlantic City
Marina District location. The Pool nightclub venue.
Resorts Casino Hotel
America's first legal casino. Margaritaville complex.
Hotel Comparison
| Hotel | Distance | Casino | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel | Connected | No | $$ |
| Hard Rock Hotel & Casino | 0.4 miles | Yes | $$$ |
| Tropicana Atlantic City | 0.5 miles | Yes | $$ |
| Caesars Atlantic City | 0.6 miles | Yes | $$$ |
| Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa | 3 miles | Yes | $$$$ |
| Harrah's Resort Atlantic City | 3 miles | Yes | $$$ |
| Resorts Casino Hotel | 0.8 miles | Yes | $$ |
Booking Tips
- ✓Book early: Room blocks are announced in late summer. The Sheraton sells out first due to its connected location.
- ✓Consider the weather: November can be cold and windy. A connected or nearby hotel saves uncomfortable walks.
- ✓Marina District trade-off: Borgata and Harrah's offer superior dining and nightlife but require shuttle/taxi to the convention center.
- ✓Sign up for rewards: Marriott Bonvoy (Sheraton) or casino players clubs offer points and perks.
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Getting to Atlantic City
By Car
From North Jersey/NYC: Garden State Parkway South to Exit 38, then AC Expressway. Approximately 2-2.5 hours. From Philadelphia: AC Expressway direct, approximately 1 hour. From Trenton: Route 195 to AC Expressway or GSP South.
By Train
NJ Transit Atlantic City Rail Line runs from Philadelphia 30th Street Station to Atlantic City Rail Terminal. The terminal is about 1.5 miles from the convention center (taxi or jitney recommended).
Parking
Convention Center parking is available but fills quickly during conferences. Hotel parking ranges from $5-30/day. Casino self-parking is often free with players card. Sheraton guests have direct garage access.
Where to Eat
Conference days are long. Here's where to eat, from quick bites to client dinners.
Quick Lunch Near Convention Center
- •Coastal Craft Kitchen & Bar (Sheraton) - convenient, solid fare
- •Tanger Outlets food court - fast options steps away
- •Chelsea restaurants - 15-min walk for more variety
Business Dinner
- •Dock's Oyster House - classic AC seafood since 1897
- •Knife & Fork Inn - historic fine dining, great for clients
- •Bobby Flay Steak (Borgata) - celebrity chef steakhouse
- •Old Homestead (Borgata) - upscale steakhouse
Late Night
- •White House Sub Shop - legendary subs, open late
- •Tony's Baltimore Grill - 24-hour diner, AC institution
- •Casino restaurants - most open late or 24 hours
Client Entertainment
- •Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen (Caesars) - impressive setting
- •Buddakan (Borgata) - Asian fusion, dramatic decor
- •Izakaya (Borgata) - upscale Japanese
After-Hours & Nightlife
The conference doesn't end when sessions do. Atlantic City offers plenty of options for networking, entertaining clients, or unwinding after a long day.
Casino Gaming
Nine major casinos offer gaming, from penny slots to high-stakes poker. Borgata is considered the premier destination.
Orange Loop
Atlantic City's non-casino nightlife district. Bourré, Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, and Iron Room offer great drinks without the casino floor.
Live Entertainment
Check Hard Rock Live, Borgata Event Center, and Tropicana Showroom for concerts and comedy during your stay.
Beyond the Conference
Have extra time? Atlantic City and the surrounding area offer more than casinos.
Absecon Lighthouse
New Jersey's tallest lighthouse (171 feet). Climb 228 steps for panoramic views of Atlantic City and the coastline.
Atlantic City Boardwalk
The original boardwalk (since 1870). Even in November, a morning or evening stroll is worth it for the ocean air.
Tanger Outlets
Connected to the convention center. Over 100 stores for shopping between sessions or after the conference ends.
Smithville
Historic village 15 minutes away. Shops, restaurants, and a scenic lake. Great for a peaceful escape.
Cape May
45 minutes south. Victorian architecture, charming downtown, and great restaurants. Consider staying for the weekend.
Wine Tasting
Several wineries within 30 minutes, including Renault Winery and Cape May area vineyards.
Practical Tips
What to Pack
- ✓Business attire for sessions (business casual is common)
- ✓Comfortable walking shoes (convention center is large)
- ✓Warm coat for outdoor walks between venues
- ✓Layers—temperature varies between venues
- ✓Umbrella (November weather can be unpredictable)
- ✓Phone charger (long days of sessions)
November Weather
November in Atlantic City averages highs of 55°F and lows of 38°F. Expect wind—the boardwalk can feel significantly colder. Rain is possible (average 3-4 inches for the month). The convention center is climate-controlled, but you'll need layers for walks between venues.
Insider Tips
- ★Book your hotel as soon as conference rates are announced—the Sheraton sells out months in advance.
- ★Register early for the best session selection and lower rates.
- ★Bring plenty of business cards—networking is a major benefit.
- ★Download the conference app for real-time schedule updates.
- ★The exhibit hall is huge—plan which vendors you need to visit.
- ★Evening events are great for informal networking—don't skip them.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book my hotel?▼
Book as early as possible—ideally when conference room blocks are announced (usually late summer). The Sheraton, which is connected to the convention center, sells out first. Other nearby hotels fill up quickly too. Waiting until fall can mean limited options and higher rates.
Is the Borgata worth staying at even though it is further away?▼
The Borgata is 3 miles from the convention center, requiring a shuttle or taxi. However, it offers the best dining, nightlife, and spa amenities in Atlantic City. Many attendees find the superior experience worth the commute, especially for evening entertainment. Consider it if proximity isn't your priority.
Can I walk between the convention center and casinos?▼
Yes, but factor in the weather. The Hard Rock and Tropicana are 8-10 minute walks. In nice weather, the boardwalk walk is pleasant. In November wind and rain, you may prefer a taxi or jitney (AC's local shuttle). The Sheraton is the only hotel with an indoor connection.
Are there good restaurants open for lunch near the convention center?▼
Options within a short walk include the Sheraton's restaurant, Tanger Outlets food court, and several Chelsea neighborhood restaurants. The convention center itself has food service during the conference. For more variety, take a quick taxi to the boardwalk or marina area.
What is the dress code?▼
Business casual is standard for most sessions and the exhibit hall. Some attendees dress more formally for opening sessions, awards ceremonies, or client meetings. Comfortable shoes are essential—you'll walk miles in the convention center.
Is Atlantic City safe for conference attendees?▼
The convention center area, boardwalk hotels, and casino resorts are generally safe and well-patrolled. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night. The casino shuttle buses are a safe way to travel between venues after dark.
Do I need to gamble to enjoy Atlantic City?▼
Not at all. Atlantic City offers excellent dining, shows, spas, shopping (Tanger Outlets, The Walk), and the beach/boardwalk. Many attendees never set foot on a casino floor. However, if you're curious, the casinos are happy to teach beginners.
How do I get the most out of the conference?▼
Plan your sessions in advance using the conference app or program. Prioritize the exhibit hall during less crowded times. Attend evening networking events. Exchange contact information with interesting people you meet. Take notes and follow up after the conference.
Official Resources
Book Your Conference Hotel
Compare rates and book early for the best selection
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Explore More
Planning more time in Atlantic City? Check out our other guides.