Atlantic City New Jersey

With a population of only forty-one thousand, Atlantic City is a bustling yet uncrowded city. Founded in the last years of the 18th century, the city has been on an upward trajectory of growth and popularity ever since. And for good reason: with an average elevation of just 8 feet above sea level, the climate is fantastic. Additionally, the location couldn't be better. A short drive from the skyscrapers of New York and the bustle of Philadelphia, Atlantic City is anything but inconvenient.

The city has benefited greatly from its fortunate combination of climate and convenience, and since the development of a popular resort in the 1850's, the word has been spreading like wildfire: Atlantic City is a wonderful place to visit. From boxing, to boats, to baccarat, there is something for everyone.

Atlantic City began its course to becoming "the showplace of the nation" early on. In the middle of the 19th century, Dr. Jonathan Pitney, sensing the potential popularity of the area, organized a group of investors and began construction of a public bath and resort. To supply visitors, they also chartered a railroad from Camden, just outside of Philadelphia. As predicted, the resort was a hit. Guests flocked in, and by the 1930's, Atlantic City had grown from a single resort and a few assorted shops into the venue for the Miss America Pageant and performances by world-class acts like Frank Sinatra, Benny Goodman, and Duke Ellington.

Atlantic City faced its biggest challenge during the middle of the 20th century. As airplane travel became more affordable and popular, families began to travel farther to spend their vacation time. Atlantic City suffered through a slump from the end of World War II through the late 1970's. Undaunted, city officials envisioned a plan to revitalize Atlantic City and transform it once again into a fantastic destination. In a controversial decision, voters decided to allow casino gambling in an effort to revitalize the city.

It worked. Since the first casino was built in 1978, the industry has created 45,000 jobs and spurred the development of numerous other attractions and activities. Atlantic City is once again a favorite destination of the entire east coast, and indeed, the world.