What is the History of Atlantic City?

Atlantic City is an iconic beach town in New Jersey that has been a popular destination for generations of vacationers since its founding in 1854. Located on Absecon Island, the city boasts miles of stunning Atlantic Ocean coastline and has become a premier destination for gaming, dining, entertainment and more. Here, we take a closer look at the history of Atlantic City, from its early days as a seashore resort to its current status as one of the most popular tourist destinations on the East Coast.

Origins of Atlantic City

Atlantic City’s story began in the mid-19th century, when it was developed as a beach resort for wealthy citizens of surrounding cities like Philadelphia. Construction of a network of Boardwalk and beachfront resorts began in the 1870s, spearheaded by local businessman Alexander Boardman and supported by city officials. As the development progressed, the city earned the nickname ‘Doomsday Town’ due to its setting on marshy land.

The Rise of Gambling

In the early decades of the 20th century, Atlantic City began to cultivate a reputation as ‘the world’s play-ground.’ This was largely due to the legalization of gambling in 1976. During this time, many of the city’s iconic casinos opened their doors, including the Trump Taj Mahal, Caesars Atlantic City, and Bally’s Park Place. To keep up with tourism demand and competition from other destination resorts, these casinos drove massive wealth into the city from both customers and investors.

The Decline of Atlantic City

By the 1990s, new gambling locations like Foxwoods and nearby Pennsylvania casinos began siphoning off customers from Atlantic City. Meanwhile, new mayor Lorenzo Langford embraced projects like beachfront renovations and the construction of convention centers and high-rise hotel rooms. But his administration’s failure to lower taxes hurt the financial trajectory of land-based casinos in Atlantic City. Compounding these problems were failings related to local crime by organized criminals. Together, these factors led to a period of economic decline in Atlantic City during the 2000s.

The Resurgent City

The early 2010s brought new hope for Atlantis city, with new casinos like Hard Rock opening and others like Revel closing their doors. Also during this period, mobile gaming companies like Caesars Entertainment and MGM Resorts International launched their mobile providers in New Jersey—bringing regulated industry to the state and millions of dollars in revenue. Roulette wheels were spun and slot machines set in motion from desktops and phones once again in Atlantic City. Meanwhile, taxes have been slashed in recent years and numerous investment projects have been undertaken to rebrand Atlantic City as a tourist destination—including a brand new life-guard headquarters as well as world-class accommodations at Resorts Casino Hotel. Today, tourism is a major driver of the city’s economy, with over $1billion in profit coming from visitors in 2018. The future looks bright for Atlantic City thanks to this resurgent economy and its efforts to revitalize itself as a tourist destination for both gaming and non-gaming activities. In short, the history of Atlantic City has been full of ups and downs—from its days as a fashionable beach retreat to its modern incarnation as a premier East Coast destination for gaming, entertainment, and more. After decades of economic decline, recent efforts to promote tourism are finally paying off – and with millions in annual profits coming in from visitors, things are looking up for this iconic New Jersey town.

An Insider’s Guide to Atlantic City’s Rich History and Modern Charm

Located on the eastern coast of New Jersey, Atlantic City is a resort city known for its casinos, boardwalk, and beaches. However, beyond the glitz and glamour lies a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. In this insider’s guide, we will explore the city’s history, local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to help you make the most out of your trip to Atlantic City.

A Brief History of Atlantic City

Atlantic City was founded in 1854 as a resort town for tourists seeking a coastal getaway. The construction of the Absecon Lighthouse quickly drew attention to the city and helped establish it as a tourist destination. In the late 1800s, the city experienced an economic boom with the development of the boardwalk, as well as the opening of several luxury hotels and casinos. In the 1920s and 1930s, Atlantic City became a popular destination for entertainment and nightlife, hosting performers like Frank Sinatra and Duke Ellington. The city’s popularity began to decline in the mid-20th century with the rise of Las Vegas, but it has recently experienced a resurgence in tourism with new developments and attractions.

Local Attractions

One of the most iconic features of Atlantic City is its boardwalk. Stretching 5.5 miles along the beach, the boardwalk features an array of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the Steel Pier amusement park and the iconic rolling chairs. Additionally, visitors can venture to the Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey, for panoramic views of the city and the ocean.

If you’re looking for some indoor entertainment, visit one of the city’s many casinos, such as the Borgata or the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. For a cultural experience, check out the Atlantic City Art Center, which showcases a variety of local and regional artwork.

Dining Spots

Atlantic City is home to a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from seafood to Italian cuisine. For a taste of the city’s famous saltwater taffy, be sure to stop by Fralinger’s or James Candy Company. For seafood lovers, Dock’s Oyster House is a must-visit, known for their fresh seafood dishes and classic ambiance. If you’re in the mood for Italian food, head to Chef Vola’s for a homey atmosphere and hearty portions.

Cultural Experiences

Beyond the boardwalk and casinos, Atlantic City is home to several cultural experiences. The African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey offers exhibits and programming that explores the history and culture of African Americans in the region. For a taste of the city’s music scene, visit the Atlantic City Country Club, which has hosted performances by legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a break from the crowds, check out the Atlantic City Wildlife Refuge. The refuge features several trails and observation decks where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the salt marshes and wildlife. Another great option is the Atlantic City Seafood Festival, which takes place annually and features live music, cooking demonstrations, and, of course, plenty of seafood.

Overall, Atlantic City offers a unique combination of history and modern entertainment that is sure to appeal to a variety of visitors. With its iconic boardwalk, diverse culinary scene, and cultural experiences, the city has plenty to offer beyond just its casinos and beaches.