Pool & Spa News: Attractions: an assortment of places to see and be seen when out and about in A

Absecon Lighthouse The lighthouse, which is just a few blocks from Atlantic City's Boardwalk, is well worth the visit. Built in 1857, the 171-foot structure is the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and the third tallest in the United States. Visitors are still able to climb to the top for a view of the bay and the Jersey shore. 31 S. Rhode Island Ave.: (609) 449-1360: www.abseconlighthouse.org

Boardwalk The walk that started it all originates along the Absecon Inlet and follows the Atlantic Ocean for 4 1/2 miles. Shops, casinos and hotels line the wood walkway, urging one and all to come in and explore. Folklore has it that at one time, the Boardwalk planks were pulled up and put away during winter months. In summer, the Boardwalk is teeming with tourists and locals alike. Be warned, though, January temperatures often can dip well below 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring a coat!

Boardwalk Hall Listed on the Register of Historic Places, this 1929 building received $90 million in renovations to become an up-to-date sports arena, and the home of Atlantic City's minor league hockey team, the Boardwalk Bullies. The end of January catches the end of the Midget Indoor Car Races. Call Ticketmaster for information, (800) 736-1420: 2301 Boardwalk: (609) 348-7825

Central Pier Located just off the Boardwalk, the Central Pier is just that, central. Opened in 1884 as a place for musical acts and vaudeville, the Pier now houses video games and even laser tag. The activity center promises fun for the kid in all of us. Tennessee Avenue and St. James Place

Noyes Museum of Art Southern New Jersey's only fine arts museum emphasizes American folk art and crafts. The rural setting is part of the experience, reflecting earlier, quieter and less hurried times. The gift shop showcases pottery, ceramics, replicas of tableware and handmade hunting decoys. Lily Lake Road, Oceanville, N.J.: (609) 652-8848: www.noyesrnuseum.org

Ocean life Center This marine life center's mission statement reads in part. "Our commitment is to educate, inform and create a bond for children of all ages with the oceans that surround our planet." OLC houses eight aquarium tanks and features a display that highlights the fish and marine life of the Jersey Shore. The 750-gallon touch tank allows visitors to handle water creatures, from sea urchins to shore shrimp. 800 N. New Hampshire Ave.: (609) 348-2880: www.oceanlifecenter.com

Renault Winery The Renault Winery, established in 1864, has been through several owners, from a corporate-run facility to today's family-owned and operated business. The complimentary winery tour ends with a wine and champagne tasting. Stay for the gourmet six-course dinner at the Renault Restaurant. 72 N. Bremen Ave.: Egg Harbor, NJ.; (609) 965-2111: www.renaultwinery com

Must-See City Sights

1. Absecon Lighthouse

2. Atlantic City Convention Center

3. Atlantic City Hilton

4. Bally's Atlantic City

5. Boardwalk Hall

6. Borgata Hotel Casino & Resort

7. Caesars Atlantic City

8. Central Pier

9. Claridge Casino Resort

10. Garden Pier, Historical Museum & Art Center

11. Harrah's Atlantic City Casino Hotel

12. Ocean Life Center, Gardner's Basin Maritime Park

13. Resorts Casino Hotel

14. Sands Hotel & Casino

15. Showboat--The Mardi Gras Hotel

16. Steel Pier

17. Tropicana Casino & Resort

18. Trump Marina Hotel & Casino

19. Trump Plaza Hotel & Casino

20. Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort