Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall
New Jersey, USA
Located on the Atlantic City Boardwalk in New Jersey, Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall features a main arena, as well as the Adrian Phillips Theater, and has played host to musical acts including Elton John, Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, and the Beatles, plus an array of sporting events. It is also home to the Midmer-Losh and Kimball pipe organs; the Midmer-Losh is the largest and loudest musical instrument on Earth.
The basics
To truly experience Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, purchase tickets to one of the shows. You can also take a guided tour of the venue, which includes access to areas normally closed to the public, a chance to go inside the chambers of the world's largest pipe organ, and information about the building’s history and architecture. The tour is followed by a recital on the pipe organ. The hall also boasts several dining options and is conveniently located near many AC hotels.
Things to know before you go
- Accessible seating is located throughout the hall; seating is available to those with disabilities and up to three of their companions.
- Medium and large-sized handbags are allowed inside, but are subject to search. Larger baggage—including backpacks,diaper bags, luggage and duffel bags—are prohibited.
- While service animals for guests with disabilities and/or special needs are permitted, all other animals are prohibited.
- Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the venue. There are concession stands where a variety of refreshments can be purchased during your visit.
How to get there
Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall is located directly on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. If traveling from the north, there are major interstate highways that connect to Garden State Parkway South; from there, take exit 38 to the Atlantic City Expressway. From the south, take I-95 to Delaware Memorial Bridge to Route 40 to Route 322, or take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry to Garden State Parkway North to Atlantic City Expressway. Atlantic City is also accessible via NJ Transit; the rail terminal is adjacent to the Atlantic City Convention Center.
When to get there
Check Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall’s website for the most up-to-date events calendar. On non-event days, the box office is open Monday through Friday, 11am–5pm, and is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. On event days, it’s open Monday through Friday, 11am to the start of the event, and on Saturdays and Sundays, from three hours before an event until it begins.
What to know about the Midmer-Losh pipe organ
The organ in the main auditorium of Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall was built by Midmer-Losh Co., hence the name. With a total of 33,112 pipes, it’s the largest musical instrument on Earth, which was designed to fill the space of the auditorium. Although it hasn’t been fully operational since the mid-1970s, it’s subject to ongoing restoration work.
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