Unlock the Thrills of Atlantic City Casinos – Your Complete Guide
Atlantic City is the top destination in New Jersey. From the historic boardwalk and marina to the sandy beaches and casino resorts, it’s a true entertainment hub. When you’re on the East Coast, NJ is the place to head for gambling and fun. Many of the Atlantic City casinos are now iconic, drawing in thousands of visitors just to say they played there.
In this guide, we’ll talk you through the very best of Atlantic City casino resorts where you can stay, play, and explore. From ratings and facilities to locations and the history of the place, we’ve got you covered.
AC Casino Directory – A Complete List of All the Casinos in the City
When you head to Atlantic City, you’re spoiled for choice. To make your decision easier, we’ve provided at-a-glance information about the best casinos in New Jersey. As well as providing an introduction to the resorts, we’ve added ratings from the popular review site, Tripadvisor, and hotel booking site, hotels.com.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa – A High-End Gambling Destination in New Jersey
Name and Address
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, One Borgata Way
Borgata Hotel Casino Rating Tripadvisor
4.0
Borgata Hotel Casino Rating Hotels.com
8.6/10
Number of Rooms
2,800+
Price Range
From $100
Additional Services
Casino, poker room, 18 restaurants, 7 bars, spa, and five pools
Borgata opened the doors to its casino and accommodation in the Main Tower in 2003. The Water Club, with suites and a spa, opened in 2008. It’s the largest hotel in New Jersey, located in the commercial marina district.
Besides the rooms, suites, spa, and restaurants, it has around 4,000 slot machines, 180 table games, and 50+ poker tables. It’s famous for its poker room and regular comedy shows. Borgata welcomes land-based casino players and virtual visitors through its NJ online casino of the same name. Since it’s one of the casinos owned by MGM, it’s part of the MGM Rewards program. Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa is also home to arguably the best buffet in Atlantic City, the Borgata Buffet.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa Online Casini Partners
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Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino – Experience the Charm of the Roman Empire
Name and Address
Caesars Atlantic City, 2100 Pacific Avenue
Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino Rating Tripadvisor
4.0
Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino Rating Hotels.com
7.0/10
Number of Rooms
1,000+
Price Range
From $51
Additional Services
Casino, six restaurants, bar, Roman baths and spa, and pool
Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino was the second casino to open in Atlantic City in 1979. The resort was originally known as the Boardwalk Regency, and the name Caesars was added later. It occupies a prime spot close to the AC Boardwalk. It’s famous for its Roman and Ancient Greek theme, which you’ll see in all of its casinos.
It’s known for performances at the Circus Maximus Showroom and Cabaret Theater. You’ll find more than 3,000 slot machines and 135 table games across the main casino and Palace East, an Asian gaming area. The online version, Caesars Casino, accepts NJ players. You can earn points in the Caesars Rewards program in-person and online. You can also redeem points for free drinks at Caesars Casino AC an for other cool benefits like promotions and services.
Online Casino Partners of Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino
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Harrah's Resort & Casino Atlantic City – A Classic Casino with Modern Amenities
Name and Address
Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City, 777 Harrah’s Blvd
Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City Rating Tripadvisor
4.0
Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City Rating Hotels.com
6.4/10
Number of Rooms
2,000+
Price Range
From $58
Additional Services
Casino, poker room, 12 restaurants, bar, spa, and pool
Harrah's is located in the commercial marina district of AC. It was the first of three resorts to open in the area in 1980, and the fifth casino overall. It’s known for its tall towers that show LED displays at night. The Broadway by the Bay Theater, now known as The Concert Venue, hosts many forms of entertainment, including boxing matches and shows.
It’s a top choice among AC casinos for slots with over 5,000 machines. It has hundreds of tables for poker, blackjack, roulette, and craps. Harrah’s Casino runs an online casino and is part of the Caesars Rewards scheme.
Bally's Atlantic City Casino – Entertainment at Park Place and the Boardwalk
Name and Address
Bally’s Atlantic City, 1900 Pacific Avenue
Bally’s Atlantic City Rating Tripadvisor
3.5
Bally’s Atlantic City Rating Hotels.com
7.0/10
Number of Rooms
1,200+
Price Range
From $50
Additional Services
Casino, five restaurants and three bars
This hotel casino is famous for its Monopoly board address Park Place and the Boardwalk. It’s one of the largest hotels in terms of options by the beach and the site has a history, having been occupied by hotels for over 100 years. Bally’s Park Place opened in 1979 and changed its name to Bally’s Atlantic City in 2000.
Besides being famous for its superb location, the casino is a major attraction. It has around 1,300 slots and space for blackjack, craps, baccarat, and roulette. Bally Casino is the online equivalent for New Jersey players, and both sites used the Bally’s Players Club loyalty program. The many eateries and bars inside the casino offer happy hours and free Bally's drinks, with Guy Fieri's Chophouse being one of the most popular restaurants in the city.
Tropicana Casino & Resort Atlantic City – AC’s Largest Beach Resort
Name and Address
Tropicana Atlantic City, 2831 Boardwalk
Tropicana Atlantic City Rating Tripadvisor
3.5
Tropicana Atlantic City Rating Hotels.com
7.0/10
Number of Rooms
2,300+
Price Range
From $38
Additional Services
Casino, 18 restaurants and nine bars, one nightclub, spa, and four pools
Tropicana first opened in 1981. The location had previously been the famous Ambassador Hotel from 1919. Over the years, it has undergone major renovations for a modern look and expansion of the entertainment offering. Guests can enjoy the IMAX Theater, a family fun center, and an escape room.
The casino has over 2,000 slot machines, and plenty of options for blackjack, craps, and roulette. The poker tables are the place to find regular tournaments. There’s an online version of Tropicana Casino for NJ residents, where players can earn points through Caesars Rewards.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City – Upmarket Resort with Music Memorabilia
Name and Address
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, 1000 Boardwalk
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City Rating Tripadvisor
4.0
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City Rating Hotels.com
8.6/10
Number of Rooms
1,900+
Price Range
From $80
Additional Services
Casino, 12 restaurants and four bars, spa, and one pool
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino took over from Trump Taj Mahal in 2018. It has always been home to the Hard Rock Cafe, but now even more music memorabilia and a wide range of casual and fine dining restaurants can be found there, as well as Hard Rock Casino free drinks offered when you're actively playing slots or table games.
Head to the casino floor to earn Wild Card Rewards points. You’ll find around 2,500 slot machines, a dedicated Asian games section, and 130 table games. The Hard Rock online casino brings entertainment to players anywhere in NJ.
Online Casino Partnres of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
Casino
Offer
Bonus Code
Wagering
Secure Link
Unibet Casino
Get 20 spins weekly
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Resorts Casino Hotel – The First Atlantic City Casino Resort
Name and Address
Resorts Casino Hotel, 1133 Boardwalk
Resorts Casino Hotel Rating Tripadvisor
4.0
Resorts Casino Hotel Rating Hotels.com
7.8/10
Number of Rooms
900+
Price Range
From $70
Additional Services
Casino, 15 restaurants and seven bars, spa, and one pool
Here's a cool fact about Atlantic City and Resorts Casino Hotel: The casino was the first Atlantic City casino hotel and the first casino outside of Nevada to open. It’s been welcoming guests since 1978, but New Jersey visitors have been staying at the location since Chalfonte House was built there in 1868.
The Resorts has a casino with around 1,500 slots, a VIP room, and around 70 gaming tables, including roulette, baccarat, craps, and blackjack. It recently added electronic table games, which provide a similar experience to the options on its Resorts NJ online casino website. When playing online, you can earn points through the Resorts Rewards program and via the Star Card at the hotel.
Ocean Casino Resort – Contemporary Waterfront Experience and the Tallest Tower in AC
Name and Address
Ocean Casino Resort, 500 Boardwalk
Ocean Casino Resort Rating Tripadvisor
4.0
Ocean Casino Resort Rating Hotels.com
8.4/10
Number of Rooms
1,300+
Price Range
From $80
Additional Services
Casino, 18 restaurants and seven bars, one nightclub, spa, and three pools
Ocean Casino Resort is a more modern addition to the AC casino scene. It opened in 2018, taking over from Revel Casino Hotel Atlantic City, which opened in 2012 and closed in 2014. It’s the tallest building in AC and the second-tallest casino tower in the US.
Ocean has thousands of slots and table games in its main casino. However, it has also expanded, adding The Cove, a high-limit slots area with 140 machines, and The Loft, a high-limit gambling area with table service. There’s an online equivalent of the casino available in New Jersey. Players can get points and perks through Ocean Rewards.
Golden Nugget Atlantic City – Experience the Gold Rush
Name and Address
Golden Nugget Atlantic City, One Castle Boulevard
Golden Nugget Atlantic City Rating Tripadvisor
4.0
Golden Nugget Atlantic City Rating Hotels.com
7.8/10
Number of Rooms
700+
Price Range
From $52
Additional Services
Casino, poker room, 10 restaurants and three bars, spa, and one pool
Golden Nugget Atlantic City Hotel, Casino & Marina first opened its doors as Trump Castle in 1985. From 1997 to 2011, it operated as Trump Marina. It was sold and extensively renovated in 2011 and then welcomed guests under its new name, Golden Nugget. Plus, it has access to the marina, as you've probably guessed.
It’s known for having a wide choice of games for players in the land-based casino and at its online equivalent. It has more than 1,500 slots and several regular and high-limit tables with craps, Pai Gow poker, roulette, and blackjack. The 24K Select Club gets players’ comp points.
Golden Nugget Atlantic City Online Casino Partners
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Taxation of Winnings in Atlantic City – What You Need to Know
When you gamble and win at the casino resorts in AC, your winnings will be subject to the usual federal income tax rate. However, it’s essential to take into consideration the state rate too. In New Jersey, there’s a 3% tax rate that applies to residents and non-residents.
You’re able to deduct losses, so it’s worth keeping track of your activities. In some cases, when you win a certain amount, the casino might deduct and pay the taxes for you. It’s still best practice to know how much you win and how much you owe.
History of Gambling in Atlantic City – How Did It All Start?
Gambling in the US has changed a lot over the years. For a while, all legal gambling activities were based in Nevada. However, that all changed, and it has made AC what it is today. Let’s take a look at where it began and what it looks like now. To learn a more comprehensive version of the timeline, check our Atlantic City casinos history article.
1870 – 1970
To understand how AC became a gambling hub, we need to go back to the building of the Boardwalk. It was constructed in the 1870s to make access to the coastal hotels more convenient. Visitors flocked to the resort for fun and entertainment.
1970s
The idea of introducing legal gambling in New Jersey was first considered in 1974. It didn’t succeed that time, but two years later was discussed again, but this time limited to Atlantic City. Two years later, the first casino opened.
1980s
Within a few years, the area was seeing casinos constructed all along the boardwalk. Many new casinos, including Trump Plaza, opened their doors, giving visitors more options than ever before.
1990s
Tourism was booming and all 12 casinos, including three owned by Trump, were seeing high gaming revenues. It was around this time that shows, performers, and boxing matches came to AC.
2000s and 2010s
Revenues fell and casinos were bought, sold, and closed. Borgata changed the game, encouraging others to make changes, rebrand and modernize to keep up.
Today
Land-based gambling and online gambling are available in NJ. In terms of growth, AC isn’t expanding, but there’s some new blood with Hard Rock and Ocean adding to the thriving casino scene.
Closed Casinos in Atlantic City
Several casinos along Atlantic City's Boardwalk have closed down over time. One such establishment was the Atlantic Club Casino Hotel, which ceased operations in January 2014 due to financial difficulties and a lack of buyer interest.
In 2014, the Claridge Hotel experienced a similar fate but was later acquired by Caesars Entertainment and reopened as a casino-free hotel.
The Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino, briefly owned by former President Donald Trump, also closed its doors in September 2014. Later, in February 2021, the building was demolished. In August 2014, the Showboat Atlantic City, a popular casino and hotel, shut down. Its closure was part of Caesars Entertainment's strategy to reduce competition in the area.
However, amidst these closures, there have been positive developments. The Hard Rock Hotel Casino Atlantic City, previously known as the Trump Taj Mahal, closed in 2016 but reopened under new management in June 2018. After extensive renovations, it has become a thriving entertainment destination.
Future of Atlantic City Casinos – What to Expect in the Coming Years
Gambling revenues have stabilized in Atlantic City, which suggests a bright future. Both new and old casinos are going strong. Casinos have adapted to changing circumstances and have found ways to keep going, even during tough times.
From more spacious casino floors with daily cleaning to the introduction of more electronic games, we can expect AC to keep evolving. Entertainment and innovation will be two key factors in the future of casinos. Offering dining experiences, spas, pools, shopping, and gambling in a resort with live music, comedy, and sports will still draw crowds.
It’s not clear whether any new casinos could find success in the market as things stand. However, an expansion of activities to include poker and sports betting seems like the inevitable move.
Sports Betting in Atlantic City
Since people were coming to gamble, it made sense for AC to also be home to sports betting. Several resorts now offer a sportsbook. Sports betting became legal in New Jersey in 2018. Many casinos acted quickly, adding retail sportsbooks to their sites.
The first to open was the sportsbook at Borgata. Others quickly followed suit. Bally’s teamed up with FanDuel, and Resorts joined forces with DraftKings. They were followed by online sports betting equivalents.
FAQ
What are the most popular casinos in Atlantic City?
The most popular casinos in AC are Borgata, Caesars, Hard Rock, and Ocean. Borgata has topped the highest revenue list for many years. Its modern design, Las Vegas-style approach and extensive amenities are what draw visitors to it. Caesars is one of the oldest and has cult status.
Are there any online casinos based in Atlantic City?
Yes, many land-based casinos in Atlantic City have an online equivalent that’s available to players across the state. Some of them, such as Borgata, include rewards systems that work at online and land-based establishments.
What types of games can I play at Atlantic City casinos?
When you visit a casino in Atlantic City, you’ll have access to slot machines and table games. They include craps, roulette, baccarat, blackjack, and casino poker. Several resorts also have poker rooms.
How can I get to Atlantic City casinos?
It depends on your current location. You may find taking a plane the most convenient way to get to Atlantic City if you're located further from the Jersey Shore. You would land in Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), which is found 9 miles northwest of the city center. If you're located in northern NJ, PA, or NY, casino bus trips to Atlantic City might be a better option for you. It only takes about 2 hours to get to AC from either of those locations. You may also take a train from Philadelphia to AC, which only costs $10 for a one-way ticket.
Is there a specific AC casino dress code?
No, AC casinos don't typically force any rules and regulations regarding the AC casino dress code. However, some venues within the casinos, like fine dining spots and nightclubs, may impose a dress code you'll need to stick to when attending.
Do Atlantic City casinos offer gift cards?
Yes, all the casinos in the city offer AC casino gift cards. Note that most resorts only allow gift cards to be spent on dining, accommodation, and in retail stores. Gambling is excluded from this list in all AC casinos but Hard Rock and Ocean Resort.
Are there poker rooms in AC casinos?
Yes, there are currently three poker rooms at AC Casinos: Borgata, Tropicana, and Harrah's. Of these three Atlantic City poker rooms, Borgata offers the biggest number of tables (52) as well as being the host for the World Poker Tour and daily tournaments.
Is smoking allowed in Atlantic City casinos?
As per 2006 New Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act, 25% of gaming floor space in each casino can be designated as smoking areas. Therefore, smoking is allowed in AC casinos but is limited to specific areas of casino floors.
How do casinos affect the economy of Atlantic City?
Although being immensely profitable for the state in general, AC casinos hardly affect the level of life in the area. Atlantic City is nowhere near the level of median household income compared to some of the richest towns in NJ, coming up to less-than-average $29,773. However, the correlation between these phenomena requires additional research to make any claims.
