Casinos in Atlantic City - Find Casinos Near You in Atlantic City

Brick-and-mortar Atlantic City Casinos Key Takeaways 

Casinos Helped Atlantic City Back on Its Feet

In the 1970s, Atlantic City faced a downturn, and its economy desperately needed a boost. The idea of legalizing gambling was put forward, and in 1976, the New Jersey legislature passed a bill legalizing gambling in Atlantic City. 

The first casino to legally open its doors was Resorts International in 1978, and its success paved the way for other casinos, such as Caesars, Bally's, and the Trump Taj Mahal, to follow suit. By the mid-1980s, Atlantic City had become a hub for gambling, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Early Days of Gambling in Atlantic City

But gambling had a long history in Atlantic City before it was legalized. In the 1800s, gambling was illegal, but that didn't stop the city's residents from finding workarounds.

The Golden Nugget, the city's first official casino, opened in 1941 but was shut down after a few months due to World War II. After the war, the Golden Nugget reopened and remained in operation until the early 1980s, when it was replaced by a newer casino of the same name.

Planning Your Visit to Atlantic City Casinos

When planning a gambling adventure in Atlantic City, it’s essential to consider your budget, the time of the year you are visiting, and your personal preferences.

Split your budget between gambling, accommodation, dining, and other forms of entertainment. Sticking to these amounts is instrumental in helping you make the most of your stay.

Besides, here’s what you should also take into account:

• Research promotions and deals offered by hotels and casinos - Chances are they will also come with an excellent goodie package that will save you more money and offer a couple of extra perks.
• Doing some research on Atlantic City Casinos - There are currently 9 casinos in Atlantic City, each with a rich history behind them. Spend some time gathering info about their gaming options, their extra services, their atmosphere, as well as other amenities you are interested in
• Look at other players’ reviews - That’s one of the most important and helpful things I can tell you. Reviews and ratings written by other visitors are the most accurate and unbiased knowledge base you can consult before spending money.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Keep reading for an in-depth look at everything you need to know about Atlantic City casinos.

The 10 Iconic Atlantic City Casinos You Need to Visit

Check out my super easy-to-follow map of the nine Atlantic City Casinos and get straight to your favorite destination!

The Atlantic City Casinos list features five-star establishments, and with all the entertainment options available, it can be hard to pick the perfect spot for playing your favorite games.

Let us give you an introduction to the nine legendary casinos you need to visit if you plan on spending some quality gambling time in Atlantic City.

This is just a starting point if you want to check legendary casinos nearby. 

In the later chapters, we will discuss a clearer and more efficient way to choose the perfect casino, hotel, and restaurant for you.

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

You can’t leave Atlantic City without a few games at the Borgata. It is one of the largest and most famous casinos in the region.

They got over 2000 slot machines and over 180 table games, so there’s plenty of fun for everyone.

The casino features an impressive poker room that quickly became a fan favorite among poker aficionados. So, it’s no surprise that you will undoubtedly encounter daily tournaments and cash games.

In terms of amenities, the hotel and spa are fantastic, especially if you are looking to chill and unwind after a day of gambling.

Caesars Atlantic City

Blackjack? Craps? Roulette? Caesars got them all and many more. 

This Atlantic City emblem is a renowned casino that boasts one of the region’s largest sportsbooks, making it perfect for sports fans.

If you are looking for the deluxe experience, Caesars’ Hotel is the right way to treat yourself. Not to mention the property is home to some of the city’s most popular restaurants.

Tropicana Atlantic City

This vibrant and colorful casino lets you choose from over 2400 slot machines and 130 table games, coupled with a solid and top-rated poker room.

The Tropicana has also made a name for itself thanks to its nightlife adventures. It features multiple bars and clubs, including the well-known Boogie Nights, that’s a sweet spot for those vibing with ‘70s and ‘80s dance parties.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

This is among the newest additions to Atlantic City's gambling scene, but it has quickly become one of the most popular.

Hard Rock prides itself on its over 2100 slot machines and more than 120 table games. Don’t worry if your stomach rumbles after a hard day of exciting gambling, though - the “estate” comes with world-class dining options and live entertainment at its Etess Arena.

The 15 thousand-seat Arena is a fantastic venue for concerts, sporting events, and all sorts of live performances. And by that, I mean lives from Blake Shelton and Maroon 5 to boxing and MMA matches.

The arena is named after David Etess, a gentleman who played an essential role in bringing casino gambling to Atlantic City in the 1970s.

Harrah's Resort Atlantic City

Harrah's is a well-known brand in the gambling industry, and their Atlantic City casino is no exception.

Thousands of slot machines, hundreds of table games, and a high-rated poker room will ensure your visit is one of a kind. 

Plus, the property features a wide range of dining options. Whether you’re into fine dining or just prefer something casual, they've got you covered.

You can also combine the culinary experience with some live entertainment at Harrah’s Concert Venue.

Golden Nugget Atlantic City

The Golden Nugget is one of the oldest casinos in Atlantic City, but it stands the test of time thanks to several updates and revisions.

The casino is a solid name, offering over 1400 slot machines and close to a hundred table games, besides an impressive poker room.

The casino sports high-rated restaurants that combine delicious foods with stunning views of the ocean, and the city skyline (see Chart House).

Ocean Casino Resort

Emerging in 2018, Ocean Casino Resort is among the newest additions to Atlantic City’s gambling formula. 

With countless gaming options and a high-limit area, the establishment combines a luxury hotel with multiple dining options, such as a Japanese Restaurant and a steakhouse. 

Resorts Casino Hotel

1978 saw the birth of Resorts, which received a couple of facelifts and renovations since then. The casino is a gambling paradise that mixes a truckload of gaming options with multiple dining experiences, including the well-known Margaritaville restaurant.

Bally's Atlantic City

Another landmark where the chips fly and the good times roll. Bally's is home to all the casino games you could possibly want. 

From blackjack to roulette, craps to poker, and an army of slot machines just waiting for your lucky touch, you're gonna have tons of fun.

Wild Wild West 

Though not necessarily a de facto Atlantic City casino, the Wild Wild West is a neat addition to the region's repertoire. It's located in the lower level of Caesars and offers diverse gaming options with affordable tables, as well as electronic games.

More specifically, the Wild Wild West is a hotspot for live entertainment. It comes with cool shows, weekly DJ parties, a nice bar, and a nonstop fun vibe. The dudes are pretty well-organised, meaning you can always check an up-to-date event calendar if you plan on landing a sports bet or a drink there.

Choosing the Right Casino

If what you read above caught you a little bit off-guard, wait until you see the rest of the boardwalk.

The city is full of excellent casinos and prime entertainment, but I don’t blame you if you don’t know how and where to start having fun.

Let’s shed some light on how to make a more efficient choice without fearing missing out. 

Generally, there are three main things you can base your choice of casino on:

• The casino type;
• The amenities a casino offers;
• The gaming options a casino offers.

Based on the Casino Type

There are currently nine casinos in Atlantic City, each offering a unique gambling experience. These nine fellows can be divided into three main types:

1. Classic casinos - They have been around for a long time;
2. Modern casinos - These have been opened in recent years;
3. Luxury casinos - That’s your stop if you’re rolling nice amounts of money or you are James Bond himself. Such casinos offer deluxe services and amenities.

However, dividing the nine casinos into these three types is a highly subjective decision.

Generally, classic casinos tend to have a more old-school, traditional vibe. 

Modern casinos are newer and more contemporary in design. 

Luxurious casinos usually boast more upscale amenities and services, even designer shops.

It is also possible to encounter casinos with a mix of classic, modern, and luxurious elements, each offering its unique atmosphere and experience. 

Based on the Amenities a Casino Offers

It’s also a good idea to compare the amenities and services different casinos offer.

In general, you can always find quality services like:

• Spa;
• Pools;
• Live shows;
• Fine dining.

There might be select options, dining varieties, or concerts unique to each casino, so it’s nice to have a general idea of what services you expect from the resort besides the gambling accommodation.

Based on Gaming Options

Each casino in Atlantic City boasts a massive load of gaming options. Whether you are into options like slot machines, table games, or sports betting, you will always find something to cater to your preferences.

The Boardwalk is Your Playground - Casino Games You Can Enjoy

Atlantic City is home to nine world-class casinos, each offering various gaming options. From classics to the newest entertainment, the menu is flexible enough to accommodate every gambler. 

If you are wondering what games you can play at Atlantic City casinos, let me tell you right from the start… You can play… All of them.

In more specific terms, you can find any game you want to try your hand at and experience the thrill of gambling and winning.

Slot Machines

The OG and landmark of every casino, slot machines are among the most popular and fun activities in the gambling world. Atlantic City is no exception, as its casinos feature thousands of unique slot machines.

They can range from classic three-reel formats to the latest technologies that offer unique and immersive graphics for the ultimate gaming experience, not to mention bonus features and multiple perks.

A higher payout rate means you will likely win back more of your bets over time. For that, looking for casinos with a high overall payout or slot machines with high RTP can be a lucrative idea

Table Games

If these are your guilty pleasure, you’ll have plenty of stuff to choose from. Table games are a big, nice family of games that literally made history. Some of the most popular table games you will always find at most Atlantic City casinos include:

• Blackjack;
• Roulette;
• Baccarat;
• Poker.

Specialty Games

People love twists and turns, and for that, variations of classic table games have become an attraction.

Atlantic City casinos also bring to the table multiple specialty games, most of which are unique to Atlantic City.

Some casinos offer Asian-inspired games such as sic bo and pai gow. Other casinos offer interesting titles like Let it Ride and Three Card Poker.

Electronic Table Games

These versions have their fair share of interactivity. If you are interested in electronic table games, you’ll be glad to know that many casinos offer such consoles.

They come with different betting options and feature cool themes and visuals. Some consoles also feature video poker, simulating the old school gameplay and graphics and having you play against an RNG software.

Lottery Hype and Arcade Fun

Atlantic City is home to games such as bingo and keno as well. Lottery games are hugely popular worldwide, so if playing with numbers and tickets is your go-to, AC’s got you covered.

Plus, some casinos feature arcade-style games, given their rise in player numbers due to their fresh, skill-based take on gambling.

Sports Betting 

Sports betting became legal in New Jersey in 2018. Thanks to that, Atlantic City casinos don’t shy away from sportsbooks where you can bet on different sports and events, including horse racing.

Something to Go Well with Gambling - Entertainment and Dining in Atlantic City Casinos

Casinos are not just throwing cards, rolling dice, and pulling levers. There are lots of different entertainment options that go hand in hand with the excitement of gambling.

These things like bread and butter, like pancakes and syrup, like… Whatever you feel like eating. 

And if you feel hungry already, be patient, as we will cover the best places to have snack or a fancy meal. 

But first, let’s start with some fun.

Nightlife in Atlantic City Casinos

Now, that’s a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you want to hit the dance floor or enjoy a tasty drink with your buddies, the city’s casinos have it all.

Some of the hottest spots for nightlife include:

• The Pool After Dark at Harrah's;
• Premier Nightclub at Borgata;
• Daer Nightclub at Hard Rock.

Each venue is a haven for different types of partygoers. Feeling energetic? Go wild on high-beat dance floors. Looking for a chill evening? Enjoy your favorite drink at an intimate lounge.

Dining Options at Atlantic City Casinos

Casual eateries, fine dining experience, something in the middle - you got it all. Atlantic City casinos are also renowned for the amazing culinary experience they offer.

For a quick bite, you can indulge in classic American food at Johnny Rockets or grab a slice of pizza at Tony Luke's.

If you are feeling fancy and want a more upscale vibe, you can also try the flavors of the ocean at Dock's Oyster House.

Not a seafood lover? No probs! Old Homestead Steakhouse offers the finest cuts of meat. 

Having a sweet tooth? Check out handcrafted desserts at the Sugar Factory!

All this talk of food got me starving, so let’s stop for a moment and move on to what shows and concerts you can attend in the Las Vegas of the East Coast.

Shows and Concerts at Atlantic City Casinos

From world-renowned performers to up-and-coming artists, the city's venues have something for everyone. 

The Borgata Event Center regularly hosts top-tier artists, while the Etess Arena at Hard Rock has welcomed legendary bands like The Rolling Stones and Metallica. 

The Tropicana Showroom offers diverse acts, from comedians to illusionists, while the Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Resort provides a stunning backdrop for unforgettable concerts.

Want Something Else? Here’s What You Absolutely Need to Try

If you want to wind up and relax after a hard day of gambling, enjoy some nice luxury spa treatments at the Borgata's Spa Toccare or relax by the pool at Harrah's The Pool.

If you haven’t gotten enough gaming and lots of fun, mark Steel Pier at Hard Rock on your list. 

They offer cool rides and carnival games, while the Absecon Lighthouse provides stunning views of the city's skyline.

That’s just a tiny piece of the Boardwalk. Ensure you save enough time to visit its dozens of shops, arcades, and other unique attractions for a rocking experience.

Enjoying Your Stay at an Atlantic City Casino Hotel

Don’t tell me you booked a room at an Atlantic City casino hotel just to sleep. You’re supposed to have the time of your life, even in a hotel room!

Leaving the drama aside, staying at an Atlantic City casino hotel can be an unforgettable experience.

Many such hotels have world-class amenities, from royal-like rooms to luxurious services and a vibrant atmosphere.

Among the finest casino hotels in the city, you can find:

• The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa;
• The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City;
• The Ocean Casino Resort.

How to Choose an Atlantic City Casino Hotel

When choosing a hotel in Atlantic City, it's important to consider what it offers. The right casino hotel is based on your own preferences and budget.

Consider things like:

• Price;
• Amenities;
• Different services;
• Entertainment options;
• Location (some hotels are located right on the Boardwalk, while others are a short walk or drive away)

Tips for Booking a Casino Hotel Room in Atlantic City

When booking a hotel room, it’s important to review details that directly influence your overall experience;

• Consider the room's location within the hotel - If sleep is a sacred ritual to you, try and request a room that’s away from things like elevators or ice machines;
• Check for any special deals or promotions that may be available - Discounts on room rates or complimentary breakfast are just some perks you can score if you do your research;
• Don’t be afraid to call the hotel directly to ask for any information you need - The staff is always ready to help customers and ensure each visitor enjoys their stay;
• Join the casinos’ rewards programs - You can thus benefit from discounts on hotel rooms and other amenities.

Plan B? Try These Options Too

While casino hotels are the cherry on top when it comes to enjoying your stay in Atlantic City, you can always go for other accommodation options.

If you don’t necessarily want all that glamour and fanciness, vacation rentals and apartments can be found on sites like Airbnb or VRBO. 

In addition, you can try the ‘traditional’ hotels and motels off the Boardwalk. They usually offer affordable rates if you are on a budget or prefer to spend more on shows, concerts, and gambling.

Don’t Overlook the Importance of Responsible Gambling

Sure, it feels cool and amazing to cash in your earned gambling chips and be on cloud nine, surrounded by colorful machines and amazing casino vibes.

However, it is also important to do it responsibly. It means keeping control of your gambling spree and avoiding the downsides of problem gambling.

In Atlantic City, casinos take responsible gambling seriously and offer resources and programs to help players stay in control. 

Having fun in moderation involves setting limits on how much you spend, taking breaks from gambling, and seeking help if you need it.

Never overlook the importance of responsible gaming. This is actually required by law in Atlantic City, and casinos offer lots of resources and tips that prevent the negative part of playing casino games for real money.

Resources and Help Atlantic City Casinos Offer

The city’s casinos provide multiple resources to help players gamble responsibly. These are usually:

• Self-exclusion programs - Players can voluntarily ban themselves from a casino or all casinos in the city;
• Websites, pamphlets, and brochures - They cover important stuff about problem gambling, and how to detect and prevent it;
• Trained staff - Many casinos have staff that’s always prepared to offer support and advice to players who need it.

Signs of Problem Gambling

Even if you don’t have difficulty playing moderately, knowing the signs of problem gambling will better prepare you for helping those around you as well. That’s because gambling is a worldwide hobby that brings many people together.

Some common signs of problem gambling include: 

• Spending more money than you can afford; 
• Lying about gambling activities; 
• Experiencing negative consequences as a result of gambling; 
• Feeling unable to control your gambling behavior.

Tips for Responsible Gambling

There are a couple of simple, yet efficient ways to prevent problem gambling. When you control your habits and activities, you feel more in the power of your own mind… And wallet. 

From what I saw and read, these four are among the most effective ways to control or avoid problem gambling:

1. Set a betting budget and stick to it - Keep some cash for nice food, clothes, and shows too. Oh, and for the plane ticket back home, obviously…
2. Don’t chase losses or try to win back lost money - Play for fun, not until you go broke or live under the impression that someone’s trying to rip you off
3. Take breaks from gambling and focus on other responsibilities and needs - Get some sunlight, go for a walk, or take part in other forms of entertainment like a carnival, a concert, a show. Don’t forget to eat and stay hydrated too!
4. Don’t drink heavily while gambling - A Piña Colada (or a Cuba Libre, in my case) never hurt anyone, but it is heavily advised to avoid drinking too much. It can impair your judgment and lead to reckless behavior.

Laws and Regulations for Atlantic City Casinos

As a popular destination, Atlantic City casinos attract hundreds of visitors and gamblers worldwide. 

Because of that, one must also understand the specific rules and regulations governing the gambling scene in this amazing region.

Legal Gambling Age

Riddle me this - What’s the magic number in Blackjack, and the age you must reach to enjoy gambling in Atlantic City?

If you said 21, that’s correct. 

Unfortunately for the 18-year-old visitors out there, the legal gambling age in AC is 21 years old. To enter and play at a casino, you must be at least 21 and provide a valid ID, like an ID card or a driver’s license.

Drinking Regulations

As with gambling, you must be at least 21 years old to legally enjoy alcoholic beverages on casino grounds.

All drinks served in the casinos must be bought from the casino bars or restaurants, as you cannot bring your alcohol onto the casino floor.

Also, bear in mind that the casino staff may refuse service to anyone who seems to be intoxicated to avoid any ruckus.

Smoking Regulations

Smoking is not allowed on the casino floor but in designated areas. This is put in place to protect the health of non-smokers, be they players or employees. 

Moreover, some casinos can have their own smoking policies, so make sure you check with the specific casino before lighting up.

10 Tips to Start Off on The Right Foot in Atlantic City

Newbie in Atlantic City? Don’t worry. Here is some great advice that will help you turn from a newcomer to a gambler ready to enjoy everything this superb city has to offer.

1. Book Your Hotel Mid-Week

Atlantic City is a nice getaway for many tourists from all over the world. Even if there are a crazy lot of hotels and resorts in AC, it’s hard to find a room on weekends.

Rates can be higher during the weekends, which means less budget available for gambling :(. 

Generally speaking, avoid booking your hotel on Fridays and Saturdays. This can save more money, as you can benefit from special rates.

Also, hotels are offering midweek excursion packages that sometimes include dining credits, event tickets, or other goodies.

2. Have Cash On You

ATM fees are ridiculously high. All those taxes you waste could’ve been money for casino games or exquisite meals at top-rated restaurants. 

Plus, it’s tedious to find your bank’s ATM inside the casino or near your hotel. To avoid unnecessary expenses, have cash ready. This will help you with the next tip… Literally.

3. Tip Often and Smile

Tipping etiquette is essential in the gambling world, and Atlantic City is no exception. Giving tips to your waiter, casino staff, and the hotel’s concierge is highly appreciated. 

You show respect and appreciation for the services provided, and you also unlock a potentially new perk, which is:

4. Getting Free Drinks While Gambling

Though not technically a piece of advice, getting free drinks is something you can take advantage of as a newcomer.

The key is knowing who to tip and when to tip. Rewarding the staff handsomely will often fulfill any drink request. 

And believe me, when the poker game or slot spin gets intense, you’d really use a cup of whatever you like most.

5. Don’t Hit The Tables as Soon as You Arrive in Atlantic City

My good man, how can you expect to enjoy gambling to its fullest if you’ve got that terrible jet lag or barely had time to change your shoes and put on a comfier outfit? 

Get yourself a couple of hours of relaxation, whether it’s spa or just sleeping. 

6. Beware of Flying Thieves

Seagulls are notoriously adept at snatching food out of your hands. Firmly grasp your food or drink, as the birds often fly closely above your head, and they can get pretty aggressive.

Oh, and mind the droppings. Some say it’s luck, but I say this will save you a trip to the laundry shops.

7. Use the Walkways Between Casinos

Atlantic City casinos are connected by many walkways. These are super helpful, especially at night.

Walkways save you time, keep you dry as they can shelter you against rain, and help you avoid shady individuals or thieves.

8. Respect the Dress Code

Casinos can have their own dress codes you’d better respect. Picking the appropriate outfit does two things:

One, it offers you access to the casino and its premises and rooms. You can be required to dress in a specific way for specific areas.

Two, it shows you respect the staff and the patrons.

Now, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to wear a tuxedo or a cashmere shirt. It all depends on the specific casino and its areas, but a mixture of casual and elegant will do the trick most of the time.

9. Understand the Rules of The Games You Want to Play

It goes without saying that playing a game of whatever without making a fool of yourself or losing money requires you to know the rules.

At least the basic rules. Whether it’s blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, or poker (mind the variations), understanding the core gameplay and mechanics is a tremendous help.

10. Know the Lingo

Grab a notebook and your favorite clickity-clicky pen and write down these slang terms. They help understand both fellow players and the casino staff, especially the dealers and the games you want to play.

Doing your homework properly will make you more professional, knowledgeable, and confident.

• AC - Short for Atlantic City;
• Boardwalk - A long, wooden walkway along the beach featuring shops, restaurants, and attractions;
• High Roller-  A player who wagers large amounts of money at the casino;
• Pit -  An area on the casino floor where table games are played;
• Whales -  Players who make huge bets, similar to high rollers;
• Comps - Complimentary items or services offered to casino patrons based on their level of play or loyalty;
• Eye in the Sky -  The casino's surveillance system, which monitors the entire casino floor;
• Toke - A tip you give to the dealer or other casino staff;
• Fish - A newbie or an inexperienced player;
• Hold - The percentage of money that the casino keeps from all bets placed;
• Dealer - The casino employee who deals cards or runs table games;
• Pit Boss - A casino supervisor who oversees table games and dealers;
• Croupier - A casino employee who operates roulette, baccarat, and other table games;
• Betting Limits - The minimum and maximum amounts you can bet on a particular game;
• Bankroll - The amount of money you have set aside for gambling;
• House Edge - The mathematical advantage that the casino has over the players;
• Marker -  A line of credit that a casino extends to a player;
• Junket - A group of gamblers who travel to a casino together, often as part of a promotion or special event;
• Showboat - Denotes a flashy, attention-seeking person, which may also refer to the former Showboat Casino in Atlantic City;
• Revel - It refers to the former Revel Casino, which closed in 2014 and later reopened as Ocean Resort Casino;
• The Walk - An outdoor shopping center in Atlantic City, also known as Tanger Outlets.

Enjoy Atlantic City As If It Were Your Last Day… But Save Some For Tomorrow Too!

We hope we got you hyped for visiting the nine iconic Atlantic City casinos and everything the Boardwalk offers.

With tons of entertainment options bombarding your senses, it’s hard to make a clear action plan. And with our ultimate travel guides for New Jersey casinos, you’re in for the ride of your life. But for now…

Don’t worry. Just take it easy. 

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience without overthinking it. The perfect start is to pick a game you like and visit a casino that attracts you the most.

Have a good time gambling, and wind up with a tasty meal, a nice drink, or an amazing live show.

Explore everything Atlantic City offers with an open mind, and remember to gamble responsibly and stick to your budget.