Overview

Atlantic City is a resort city on the Atlantic Ocean coast of New Jersey, United States. Long known as a destination for seaside recreation, it combines beaches and a wooden boardwalk with a concentration of hotels, entertainment venues and casinos. The city's identity is tied to seasonal tourism, conventions and events that draw visitors from nearby metropolitan areas.

Geography and layout

The city occupies part of a barrier island facing the open ocean, with public beaches along its eastern shore. A prominent wooden boardwalk runs parallel to the shoreline and links many of the city's hotels, retail shops and amusement piers. Beyond the beachfront, the urban area contains residential neighborhoods, commercial corridors, and convention facilities.

History and development

Atlantic City developed as a seaside resort in the 19th century after improved transportation made ocean access easier for urban residents. The famous boardwalk was constructed in 1870 to protect the shore and provide a promenade for visitors. During the 20th century the city expanded as a vacation and entertainment center; notably it hosted the first Miss America pageant in 1921. In the late 1970s New Jersey authorized casino gambling in Atlantic City, transforming the waterfront economy toward gaming and large resort complexes.

Economy, tourism and culture

Tourism is the primary economic driver, centered on beaches, nightlife, casinos and events such as conventions and concerts. Attractions have included amusement piers, performance venues and the long boardwalk culture that has inspired music, film and literature. The city has experienced economic cycles of growth and decline and has pursued redevelopment and diversification of its visitor offerings.

Transportation and access

Atlantic City is served by highways and public transit that connect it with regional population centers. Seasonal visitor traffic increases in summer months and during major events hosted at local hotels and the convention center.

Notable facts and distinctions

  • The boardwalk is one of the city’s defining features and a focal point for tourism.
  • Atlantic City has been associated with gambling since legal casinos appeared in the late 1970s.
  • The city has featured in popular culture and is one of the properties on the U.S. Monopoly board.