Lucy the Elephant
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Experience Type: family fun, historic landmark, photo op
At six stories tall, Lucy the Elephant has stood proudly on the Jersey Shore since 1881. Originally built to attract real estate buyers, she’s weathered storms, fires, and near demolition. Now a National Historic Landmark, Lucy invites visitors with guided tours and plenty of stories.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Take a Guided Tour – Join a 20-minute tour to step inside Lucy, hear her fascinating history, and climb to the howdah for sweeping Atlantic Ocean views.
- Visit the Gift Shop – Browse elephant-themed keepsakes. Purchases, admission tickets, and donations support the preservation of Lucy the Elephant for generations to come.
- See the ‘J’ on Lucy’s Toenail – Spot the mysterious letter “J.” Some say it honors her builder James Lafferty; others credit Josephine Harron, who saved Lucy from demolition.
- Explore the Grounds – Walk the boardwalk paths around Lucy. Snap photos from every angle, admire her unique architecture, and enjoy the coastal charm of Margate City.
- Eat at Lucy’s – Just steps away, The Other Lucy Beach Grille serves casual breakfast and lunch favorites, plus smoothies and ice cream for a sweet seaside treat.
Recommended Reading: Boardwalk Playground: The Making, Unmaking, & Remaking of Atlantic City traces the city’s shift from early resort town to casino hub, highlighting memorable personalities and key turning points that shaped this seaside destination.