The Evolution of Atlantic City's Casino Industry: A Timeline

Introduction:

Atlantic City, a bustling coastal city in New Jersey, has long been known for its vibrant casino scene. Over the years, the gambling industry has experienced significant growth and transformation. This article explores the timeline of when Atlantic City got casinos, highlighting key milestones and their impact on the city's development.

1. The Early Years:

Before the advent of casinos, Atlantic City was a small fishing village. It wasn't until the 1960s that the city began to transform into a gambling destination. In 1976, the New Jersey State Legislature passed the Casino Control Act, paving the way for the development of casinos in Atlantic City.

2. The First Casino:

The first casino to open in Atlantic City was Bally's Atlantic City, which opened its doors on May 26, 1978. This marked the beginning of a new era for the city, as it embraced the gambling industry and welcomed visitors from all over the world.

3. The Boom Years:

The 1980s and 1990s saw a rapid expansion of the casino industry in Atlantic City. During this period, several major casinos were built, including the Borgata, Tropicana, and Trump Plaza. These new additions brought immense economic growth to the city, attracting millions of tourists annually.

4. The Golden Age:

The early 2000s were considered the golden age of Atlantic City's casinos. The city's gaming revenue reached its peak, and the casinos were competing with Las Vegas for the title of the world's gambling capital. However, this period of prosperity was short-lived.

5. The Decline:

By the late 2000s, Atlantic City's casino industry began to decline. The city faced fierce competition from neighboring states, such as Pennsylvania and Delaware, which had also started to offer gambling. Additionally, the economic downturn and increased competition from online gambling further contributed to the decline of Atlantic City's casinos.

6. The Present:

Today, Atlantic City's casino industry is struggling to regain its former glory. The city has been working on various initiatives to revitalize its economy, including rebranding itself as a family-friendly destination and focusing on non-gaming entertainment. While the future remains uncertain, Atlantic City's casinos continue to operate, hoping to regain their former prominence.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Q: How many casinos are currently operating in Atlantic City?

A: As of 2021, there are 11 casinos operating in Atlantic City.

2. Q: What was the first casino to open in Atlantic City?

A: The first casino to open in Atlantic City was Bally's Atlantic City, which opened on May 26, 1978.

3. Q: How did the casino industry impact Atlantic City's economy?

A: The casino industry brought significant economic growth to Atlantic City, creating thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars in revenue. However, it also led to increased crime and social issues.

4. Q: What are some of the popular attractions at Atlantic City's casinos?

A: Atlantic City's casinos offer a wide range of attractions, including slot machines, table games, poker rooms, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Many casinos also feature luxury hotels, spas, and shopping centers.

5. Q: How did the competition from neighboring states affect Atlantic City's casinos?

A: The competition from neighboring states, such as Pennsylvania and Delaware, led to a decline in Atlantic City's gaming revenue. Many visitors chose to travel to these nearby destinations, where they could find similar gambling options at lower prices.