Casino gambling returned to Atlantic City after a 1976 referendum, and the first modern casino opened in 1978. Today the city's casino resorts line the Boardwalk and the Marina District, offering slot machines, table games, poker, sportsbooks and nightlife in buildings that function as small cities. Entry is free, the floors never close, and you do not have to gamble to enjoy the spectacle. You must be 21 or older to enter the gaming areas, and most visitors will find at least one casino that matches their budget and taste.
Each resort has its own personality. Some lean on retro glamor, with chandeliers and red carpet; others favor sleek modern lighting, rock-and-roll memorabilia or a lively sports-bar feel. Compare a few before settling in. Casinos on the Boardwalk are easy to walk between, so an evening can include a drink at one, a slice of pizza at another and a few hands of blackjack at a third. The Marina District casinos are a short ride from the Boardwalk and tend to feel more like destination resorts, with larger entertainment venues and spa facilities.
If you are new to gambling, a few principles help. Set a firm budget before you walk in and treat it as the cost of entertainment. Stick with games that suit your appetite for risk; low-minimum blackjack and simple slot machines are friendlier starting points than craps or roulette, although dealers are usually happy to explain rules at quiet tables.
Join the casino's loyalty program at the rewards desk, because it can produce discounts on food and rooms. Sportsbooks, legal in New Jersey for several years now, are a popular stop for game days, with big screens, betting kiosks and often a restaurant atmosphere.
Practicalities matter too. The legal gambling age is 21, and security will check ID. Smoking has long been permitted on much of the casino floor, so if you are sensitive to smoke, check each property's current rules, look for non-smoking sections and consider visiting during quieter daytime hours. Photography on the gaming floor is restricted. Drinks are often complimentary while you actively play, with a tip expected for the server.
Most casinos also have food courts, steakhouses and bars that are open to anyone, so you can enjoy the atmosphere without placing a bet. If gambling stops being fun, stop; resources for problem gambling are posted in every casino, and help is available at any time by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.
To get the most from a casino visit without overspending, try a few simple habits. Take a lap before you sit down so you can compare minimum bets and atmosphere. Learn the basics of one game from a free lesson, if offered, rather than guessing at the table. Take breaks for food and fresh air, since casinos are designed to keep you in place and time passes quickly.
Keep your phone charged, know where you parked, and agree on a meeting point with your group. Most importantly, leave when you reach your limit and enjoy what remains of the night on the Boardwalk. Sportsbook rooms are the easiest place to relax without playing: big screens, comfortable seats and a bar make game day feel like a party even if you never place a wager.
What to expect
The experience
Large casino floors with slots, table games, poker rooms and sportsbooks, plus bars, restaurants and live entertainment. Free to enter for guests aged 21 and over.
Best time
Weekday afternoons for quiet tables and easy parking; Friday and Saturday nights for the high-energy crowd.
How long
An hour for a look; an evening for play and dining.
Tips
Set a budget first, join the rewards program, carry ID, ask about smoking sections, and tip the cocktail servers and dealers.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Adults who want a classic Atlantic City night of games, drinks and people-watching.
- Families
- Gaming areas are 21 and over; plan family time for the Boardwalk and beach instead.
- Couples
- Dinner at a steakhouse, a show and a few hands of cards make a full night out.
- Pair with
- A live show, a Boardwalk walk and a late slice.
- Time needed
- Two to four hours for a night; shorter for a quick visit.
Good questions
How old do I have to be to gamble?+
You must be 21 or older to enter the gaming areas of Atlantic City casinos. Bring a valid government photo ID.
Do I have to gamble to visit a casino?+
No. You can walk in, have a meal or a drink, see a show or just look around, although the gaming floor itself is for adults.
Are drinks really free?+
Players actively gambling are often offered complimentary drinks by servers, and tipping is customary. Policies vary by property.
Is smoking allowed on casino floors?+
Rules on smoking have been debated and may change, so check the property or the state guidance before you go if smoke bothers you.
What if gambling is becoming a problem?+
Help is available at any time through the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline, and every casino posts responsible-gambling information and self-exclusion options.
