When Did Casinos Come to Atlantic City: A Historical Journey

Atlantic City, often celebrated as the "Entertainment Capital of the World," has a rich history that intertwines with the development of casinos. The arrival of casinos in this seaside resort town marked a significant turning point, transforming it from a small fishing village into a bustling gambling Mecca. Let's delve into the timeline and the factors that contributed to the rise of casinos in Atlantic City.

The Early Years: The Roots of Gambling in Atlantic City

Gambling has been a part of Atlantic City's history since the early 1800s. The first known gambling house, the Enoch Pratt House, opened in 1852. However, the city's gambling industry was not yet a significant force. The early 20th century saw a more structured approach to gambling, with the advent of racetracks and horse racing. The first racetrack, the Atlantic City Racetrack, opened in 1910, and soon became a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts.

The Prohibition Era: The Rise of Illegal Casinos

The 1920s were a pivotal era for Atlantic City. The Prohibition era, marked by the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution, led to the ban on the production, transport, and sale of alcoholic beverages. This ban created a demand for illegal alcohol, and Atlantic City became a hub for bootlegging operations. To cater to the bootleggers and their patrons, illegal gambling houses started popping up in the city.

The first legal casino in Atlantic City was the Brown's Hotel, which opened in 1929. However, it was not until the repeal of Prohibition in 1933 that the legal gambling industry began to flourish. The Atlantic City Racetrack was rebranded as the Atlantic City Race Course and was granted a license to operate as a gambling establishment.

The Legalization of Casinos: 1978 and Beyond

The landmark year for Atlantic City's casino industry was 1978. That year, New Jersey voters approved a constitutional amendment to authorize casino gambling in the state. The first casino, Bally's Atlantic City, opened its doors on June 27, 1978. The following months saw a rapid expansion, with additional casinos like the Tropicana, Caesars, and Harrah's joining the scene.

The arrival of casinos brought a surge in tourism and revenue to Atlantic City. The city's skyline transformed, with towering hotels and resorts housing casinos that offered a variety of gambling games and entertainment options. The 1980s and 1990s saw a golden age for Atlantic City, with the city attracting millions of visitors annually.

The Challenges and Changes: Atlantic City Today

Despite its success, Atlantic City faced numerous challenges. Competition from neighboring states, particularly Pennsylvania, which opened its own casinos in the early 2000s, began to erode the city's market share. The 2008 financial crisis also had a significant impact on the city's economy, leading to a decline in tourism and a rise in unemployment.

In recent years, Atlantic City has been striving to revitalize its tourism and casino industry. The city has invested in infrastructure improvements, entertainment options, and attractions to attract visitors. While Atlantic City's casino industry is still vibrant, it faces stiff competition and must continue to adapt to the changing landscape of gaming and entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions about the History of Casinos in Atlantic City

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

A: As of 2023, there are 11 casinos operating in Atlantic City, including both land-based and water-based casinos like the Ocean Casino Resort and the Golden Nugget Atlantic City, respectively located on the boardwalk and aboard a ship in the marina.

2. Q: What is the most popular casino in Atlantic City?

A: The popularity of casinos can fluctuate, but the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa is often cited as one of the most popular, thanks to its luxurious amenities, extensive gaming options, and entertainment lineup.

3. Q: When did the first casino open in Atlantic City after the legalization of gambling?

A: The first casino to open in Atlantic City after the legalization of gambling was Bally's Atlantic City, which opened on June 27, 1978.

4. Q: How has the opening of casinos in neighboring states affected Atlantic City?

A: The opening of casinos in neighboring states like Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New York has significantly affected Atlantic City, leading to a decline in tourism and revenue. However, the city is working to diversify its economy and attract visitors with non-gambling attractions.

5. Q: What are some of the attractions in Atlantic City outside of the casinos?

A: Atlantic City offers a variety of attractions beyond the casinos, including the Boardwalk, which is one of the longest boardwalks in the world, the Atlantic City Convention Center, and the historic Smithville Village. Additionally, the city features beautiful beaches, aquariums, and entertainment venues that cater to all ages.