If you’re planning a trip to Atlantic City, you should know more about casinos than just slots and blackjack. New Jersey’s gaming laws made it difficult for the casino industry to grow, and this resulted in a statewide budget crisis and state regulators’ inability to work. In September 1985, Hurricane Gloria closed the casinos, followed by Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy in August and October 2012, respectively. In addition, in February, the state government canceled state-run gaming operations, citing the threat of a COVID-19 pandemic to hit the state on March 16, 2020. Since then, several Atlantic City casinos have built permanent facilities to replace temporary facilities.
Another Atlantic City casino is the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Located in the former Trump Taj Mahal, this modern hotel features bold colors and a guitar god aesthetic. There are many live music venues on the premises, as well as electric guitars available to guests. The hotel’s recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation. While the casino itself may seem forgettable, it’s the best option for anyone looking for an affordable night out in the city.
In June 2018, two new Atlantic City casinos opened. The Taj Mahal, formerly owned by Donald Trump, was purchased by the Seminole Tribe of Florida for $50 million. The new owners spent an additional $500 million on renovations. Hard Rock International rebranded the Taj Mahal under the Hard Rock International brand and removed the Taj’s India-themed facade. The Hard Rock Casino will also include a 60-foot guitar to re-create the Taj’s original feel.
A few more Atlantic City casinos are located near the boardwalk. The Borgata, Golden Nugget, and Resorts Casino Hotel are all within walking distance of the boardwalk. For those who wish to stay at a less expensive hotel, the Borgata Hotel and Casino & Spa is located at 1000 Virginia Avenue. They’re close to the boardwalk and are an excellent choice for families and solo travelers. You can also find a casino hotel in the Marina District.
The town’s history has been as varied as its casino industry. The seaside town once embraced the glitz and glamor of the Gilded Age, then became a gangland capital during the Prohibition era. After gambling was legalized in the 1970s, the city was quickly transformed into the East Coast’s answer to Las Vegas. However, recent economic hardships have slowed Atlantic City’s growth.
The Borgata is a luxury hotel located in the Marina District. It has a giant poker room and sports book, as well as more than a dozen restaurants. Its limits are reasonable compared to other Boardwalk hotels, but still offers a high level of comfort for those who don’t enjoy noisy casinos. The minimum bet for table games is $5 or $10, and all blackjacks pay 3-2. If you’re playing at a lower limit, you can try your luck at the smaller wings of larger casinos. You can also try your luck at mobile betting at these casinos, and make sure to take a friend with you.
In the 1980s, Atlantic City began to grow and boom. Trump purchased at least one of the two Atlantic City casinos and turned it into the Trump Taj Mahal. Donald Trump attended the grand opening ceremony and claimed the property as the eighth wonder of the world. It was also billed as the largest casino in the world. In 1989, he bought the property from the owner of the Taj Mahal, Resorts International. Trump later sold his stake in the resort and reopened it as the Trump World’s Fair Hotel and Casino.