There are many incredible destinations worth visiting on the east coast of the USA, but few can offer quite the same thrill as a jaunt to Atlantic City.
Although the gambling capital of New Jersey has a population of fewer than 40,000, its influence on American culture cannot be disputed, and as one of the top gaming destinations on the east coast, it attracts thousands of high-rolling casino enthusiasts each and every year.
Casino gambling was officially made legal in Atlantic City in 1976, with the first casino, Resorts International, opening its doors just two years later, in 1978. Over the 44 years since, the city has expanded substantially, and now, there are no fewer than nine casino resorts found there – so if you’re considering a lavish gaming break this year, then look no further.
If it’s your first time visiting Atlantic City, then knowing where to start for the best experience can be tricky – but these five impressive casino resorts are certain to impress, and promise a luxurious and adrenaline-fuelled stay from start to finish.
Ocean Resort Casino
One of the best places to head to for non-stop excitement in Atlantic City is the opulent Ocean Resort Casino, where you can check yourself into one of the 1,399 rooms and suites to enjoy unobstructed ocean views, as well as a great variety of fine and casual dining establishments, a Topgolf Swing Suite, HQ2 Nightclub and a private Beach Club. Add to that Ovation Hall, Ivan Kane’s Royal Jelly Burlesque Nightclub, the opulent Exhale Spa and not one, but six sprawling swimming pools, and you could easily get lost in the lap of luxury here for days on end.
But for gaming lovers, perhaps the most impressive offering you’ll find here is the 138,000 square feet of casino entertainment. Set within a sparkling glass building and boasting an elite nightlife ambiance, Ocean Resort Casino provides one of the swankiest and most sophisticated casino experiences available, with a huge array of games and slots to get stuck into for the chance to win big.
Caesars Atlantic City
One of the city’s oldest and most stunning casinos is Caesars Atlantic City – the second to open its doors when casino culture first began here in 1979, and still one of the most highly sought-after today. The building was formerly known as the Regency Motor Hotel before it was purchased by Caesars when casino gaming was legalised in the city, although it didn’t start to use the Caesars name until later on, in 1987.
Since acquiring the site, Caesars has undergone extensive improvements, with the 25-floor Centurion Tower added in 1997 and over 600 extra guest rooms created as a result.
At Caesars Atlantic City, the casino is one again the piece-de-resistance, with four distinct gaming zones spread across 145,000 square feet. Despite the fact that its poker room is sadly now shut, it continues to offer a wealth of other gaming possibilities. Visitors can play more than 3,000 slot machines and 135 table games on the casino floor, with the on-site Caesars Sportsbook also accepting sports wagers – so prepare to be spoilt for choice.
Hard Rock Hotel Casino Atlantic City
The stunning casino called Hard Rock Hotel Casino began its life as Taj Mahal. Construction on the Taj Mahal in AC began in 1983. Donald Trump bought it after the original owner passed away in 1986 and the property’s construction wouldn’t be finished until 1990. The Taj Mahal experienced uncertainty throughout its first 18 months of existence after launching in April 1990. But after turning the ship around in late 1991, Trump’s Taj Mahal was a huge success.
For more than ten years, Trump’s Taj Mahal was the most profitable casino in Atlantic City. The triumph, nevertheless, would not endure. Hard Rock International acquired it in March 2017 after it had closed in 2016. The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City reopened on the premises. Since then, Hard Rock International has made a significant effort to restore the area’s reputation.
In terms of gaming, Hard Rock Atlantic City has more diverse gambling alternatives. Nearly 2,200 slot machines and more than 120 table games are found on the casino floor. The Hard Rock Sportsbook at the casino accepts wagers on sporting events. Members of Wild Card Rewards have access to unique events, free play rewards, and comp dollars.
When it comes to the success of the new management, you can just look at the recent events that transpired in Atlantic City, the strike of gaming employees. It’s widley regarded that Hard Rock handled the issue very well and even struck an agreement with Local 54 of the Unite Here union.
Tropicana Atlantic City
The Tropicana Atlantic City casino resort, another Caesar’s establishment, is also a great choice while visiting the city and is just as beautiful as its competitors. Previously known as the Ambassador Hotel when it first opened its doors all the way back in 1919. Ramada bought the property when the previous hotel closed in the 1970s, and hence, its current iteration was born.
Ramada rebranded the establishment to Tropicana Atlantic City after obtaining the Tropicana moniker. It has been changed several times since, with Caesars Entertainment eventually acquiring the Tropicana name in 2018.
More than 2,000 slot machines are available to visitors and guests at the Tropicana Atlantic City casino resort, as well as a huge variety of table games including classic favourites like blackjack, roulette, and mini-baccarat. You’ll also find a selection of poker games, such as Texas Hold’em and Caribbean Stud Poker, available to dip in and out of, while the sports betting lounge provides a chance to unwind while watching the results of your wagers on enormous panoramic displays, with 180 chairs and 250 square feet of betting boards.
Golden Nugget Atlantic City Hotel, Casino and Marina
Former Trump property Golden Nugget is the fifth and final casino to add to your Atlantic City itinerary. Built in 1985 under the name ‘Trump’s Castle’, it was renamed within a decade to Trump Marina, before being sold to Landry’s, Inc in 2011 and reopening after renovations under the Golden Nugget name.
Although one of the smaller properties in the city, it’s still one of the best, so don’t let the size fool you. More than 700 guest accommodations are offered at the 14.5-acre resort, with five video walls and more than 50 TVs available in the sports betting area to watch sporting events. Plus, there are several entertainment alternatives for those seeking something a little different, including a sprawling theatre with 462 seats and a ballroom with 2,000 seats, both of which regularly accommodate live performances.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
