The new addition along Atlantic City’s Steel Pier

If you’re in Atlantic City and of legal drinking age, make your way to the Steel Pier. Yes, THAT Steel Pier, the iconic Atlantic City landmark that opened in 1898 and was home to the famous Diving Horse shows. As part of a $21-million renovation, they’ve added a bar called the Diving Bell to the very end of the pier.

It’s a calm, cool spot, right over the ocean, and far enough removed from the beach that you feel like you’re on a hidden oasis. Even the noise from the pier’s rides was minimal. The drinks aren’t anything too flashy or fancy — my white sangria was serviceable, and the couple next to me suggested the frozen daiquiri — and the vibe is very casual and laid back.

But what you’re going here for is the ambiance, and that chance to be over the ocean and outside while enjoying a cocktail. It felt like the coolest spot in Atlantic City on a 90 degree day.

Expect more changes to the Steel Pier — this summer’s additions were the first part of a $100 million renovation that will partially enclose the pier so that it can stay open year round by 2015.