Atlantic City has long been a resort destination for those looking to capitalize on the beaches, nightlife and world-class gambling institutions there. Read on to find the best casinos operating in Atlantic City in 2022.
First things first, Atlantic City has a storied history with gambling. The 1976 legalization of gambling in New Jersey meant that just two years later, a casino opened on the iconic Boardwalk. The strict rules and regulations put in place by the state government mean that the casinos are safe and secure, so you can play comfortably.
Today, the Atlantic City casino industry accounts for more than 34,000 full time jobs with total revenue hitting nearly $3 billion. Nevertheless, the economic hardship caused by COVID-19 and a slowing city economy have caused problems. A looming smoking ban and worker strikes could see the casino brands lose out on millions in revenue.
While change might be on the horizon for the struggling Atlantic City casinos, there are still a good number worth visiting. Read on to discover the nine best casinos in Atlantic City right now.
Resorts Casino Hotel
If history is your thing, why not head to the oldest casino in Atlantic City? Resorts opened way back in 1978 and was the first US legal casino outside of Nevada. Overlooking the Atlantic City Boardwalk, the site boasts panoramic ocean views, a spa, pool, salon and a small handful of eateries including a steakhouse.
Here’s the catch: Resorts is old. While the hotel has undergone serious renovations in recent years in an attempt to revamp the vintage (or outdated) amenities, the dichotomy between new and old can be jarring. 2011 renovations altered the aesthetic of the hotel to suit a Roaring 20’s theme, but the modernization has been a never-ending project for the management team.
Most recently, the pool area was transformed to include a fully retractable roof, custom tile work, and informal lounge areas. Nevertheless, areas of the hotel and casino show their age, and not in a good way. Traditionalists might love it, but lovers of high-tech gambling and slick, modern design may want to look elsewhere.
People gamble at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City.
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
Formally known as the Trump Taj Mahal, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino building can also be found on the Boardwalk. You’ll find both a casino and a sportsbook under one roof. More than 2,000 slots games and 150 table games are on offer, including many Chinese games like sic bo and Asian poker. What’s more, Hard Rock offers casino bonuses for new players – a rarity at land-based sites.
If the New Jersey gambling scene isn’t enough for you, you could party it up at the Hard Rock’s nightclubs, catch a show in their 400-seat theater or relax in the spa. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is currently the top-ranking hotel in the state. Past visitors have praised the trendy style and luxurious shared spaces available.
Golden Nugget Atlantic City
Another former Trump location, the Golden Nugget has previously been known as Trump’s Castle and Trump Marina before it was bought over in 2011. Amenities include more than 700 guest rooms, seven restaurants, a theater and full tennis and basketball courts.
The casino resort underwent a renovation in 2012 which overhauled the aesthetics while retaining the gold rush theme. As far as casinos go, Golden Nugget has something for everyone: progressive jackpots on select table games, high-limit rooms and a 9-table poker saloon. Perhaps best of all, many of the slots can be played for free with a loyalty card.
Ocean Resort Casino
The Resorts, Hard Rock and Ocean casinos are all on the Boardwalk. (AP Photo/Wayne Parry)
It’s impossible to miss the stunning, reflective structure that holds the Ocean Resort Casino. Located at the northmost point of the Boardwalk, the glass facade hides a similarly sleek interior. Visitors can enjoy two nightclubs (one of them on the beachfront!), ten restaurants and a spa as well as indoor and outdoor pools.
When it comes to casino design in Atlantic City, Ocean Resort stands out. For the high rollers, high-limit table and slots games are housed in separate rooms. There is also an exclusive, invite-only loft with exceptional views of the ocean. The main casino floor and sportsbook are similarly luxurious.
Caesars Atlantic City
Players looking for game variety should make a stop at Caesars, which boasts one of the biggest casino game libraries in the city. Take a spin on any of the more than 3,000 slots games, or try your luck on the 120+ tables.
Unfortunately, Caesars shut down its dedicated poker room, but players can still enjoy variations like Three Card, Hold ‘Em, Flush and Pai Gow in the large real money casino area. The Atlantic City Caesars is a standard resort complete with restaurants, nightclub, pool and spa.
Tropicana Casino and Resort
Believe it or not, Tropicana is also a Caesars location. Just ten minutes walk along the Boardwalk, the giant Tropicana Resort bustles with activity. The site is the third largest casino in New Jersey, boasting more than 2,300 rooms, dozens of restaurants, shops, pools and an IMAX theater.
In terms of casino offering, the Tropicana has a similar variety to its sister casino. Daily poker tournaments are also available, so brush up on your strategy before you go!
The reflective exterior of the Borgata Hotel Casino in Atlantic City.
Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa
To stay at the biggest hotel in the state of New Jersey, you’ll have to head to the Borgata. The MGM-owned property is also the top-grossing casino, and it’s no wonder!
At a glance, the Borgata offers 4,000+ slots, 180+ table games and 50+ poker tables. Poker tournaments are held regularly in conjunction with the World Poker Tour and there is a busy sportsbook where you can watch horseracing, boxing, NASCAR, MMA, soccer & more.
The best part of the Borgata Hotel Casino is undoubtedly the design. The marble decor and spacious accommodations are decadent enough to inspire luxury, but welcoming enough to remain warm and inviting.
Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel and Casino
Opened in 1979, it’d be easy for Bally’s Atlantic City site to feel outdated. Thankfully, a multi-million dollar renovation has spruced up the interior and made Bally’s a decent place to gamble. It’s not flashy, but it’s practical.
The game selection is considerably smaller than at other casino resorts on the Boardwalk, but most players will still find something to play amongst the 640+ slot titles and 24 hour table games. High rollers can enjoy bet limits ranging from $100 – $10,000 in the high limit room, while the rest of us can play from as little as $5.
Elsewhere in the resort, you’ll find restaurants, shopping, a spa and an extensive fitness suite featuring basket and racquetball courts.
Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City
When it comes to casinos in Atlantic City, Harrah’s is undoubtedly one of the best. Play at any one of the 1,800+ slots, 100+ table games or 25+ poker tables to see what I mean. It’s worth pointing out that Harrah’s is also a Caesars brand, so it shares many similarities (including game titles) with the other Caesars Atlantic City locations.
There are a lot of stunning amenities at Harrah’s, but the highlight has to be the pool. Located underneath a large glass dome, patrons can enjoy the tropical atmosphere before taking a dip in the temperature-controlled waters.
Before you book a trip to an Atlantic City casino, brush up on your game strategy. Read our casino reviews to find the perfect site, claim a casino bonus and start playing now!
