New Jersey’s strip club scene has a split that surprises many first-time visitors. Venues are divided less by style or price than by one question: does the club sell alcohol? That decides how much the dancers may take off. This guide explains the rule behind the split and lists the New Jersey clubs in our directory.
How New Jersey’s alcohol rules shape strip clubs
Bars and clubs holding a liquor licence are regulated by the state Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Its rule N.J.A.C. 13:2-23.6(a)(1) says that no licensee shall “allow, permit, or suffer” any lewdness or immoral activity on or about the licensed premises. New Jersey liquor-law attorneys who handle these cases explain what that means in practice:
- Clubs with a liquor licence cannot run as nude bars. The typical licensed “go-go bar” requires dancers to stay partly clothed.
- All-nude clubs are usually BYOB. These venues do not sell alcohol; some let guests bring their own drinks.
- The owner is responsible even without knowing. The word “suffer” in the rule means the state does not have to prove the licence holder knew about the conduct.
- Penalties are strict. Under the state’s penalty schedule, a first lewd-activity offence carries a presumptive 30-day licence suspension, rising to 45 days where the conduct involves audience participation. Repeat violations can cost the licence altogether.
So at a New Jersey club that serves drinks, expect bikini or partly clothed entertainment. A fully nude club will not sell alcohol.
Atlantic City
Atlantic City has most of the New Jersey listings in our directory, near the casinos and the Boardwalk.
- Lace Atlantic City — 181 S South Carolina Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401. Describes itself as a bikini venue with sports on TV.
- Stiletto Atlantic City — South Carolina Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401. A 21-and-over gentlemen’s club with VIP rooms and bachelor party packages.
- Delilah’s Den — 2405 Pacific Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401.
- Bare Exposure — 2303 Pacific Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401. Bills itself as the city’s all-nude club, across from Boardwalk Hall, and has run on a BYOB basis. At least one review platform lists it as closed, so confirm before you go.
Gloucester City
Gloucester City is in South Jersey, across the Delaware River from Philadelphia.
- Cheerleaders New Jersey — 54 Crescent Blvd, Gloucester City. The club lists a full bar, a main stage, VIP rooms and free on-site parking.
What to check before you go
- Confirm whether the club sells alcohol or is BYOB. This tells you what kind of entertainment to expect. At BYOB venues, ask which drinks you may bring, because some clubs restrict the types allowed.
- Check that the club is still open. Clubs close, change names or change hours. Call ahead or check the club’s own website or social media.
- Follow the house rules on contact. The club’s liquor licence is at stake if dancers or guests break the lewdness rules, so staff enforce no-touch rules firmly. Bring ID; venues are generally 21 and over.