So, you’re planning a trip to the Jersey Shore and want to know exactly what casinos are on the boardwalk in Atlantic City right now. Honestly, the skyline has changed a lot over the last decade. It isn't just about the "Trump Plaza" or the "Taj Mahal" anymore—those are long gone, replaced by neon, rock-and-roll memorabilia, and massive floor-to-ceiling windows that actually let you see the ocean while you're playing.
As of early 2026, there are exactly six casino resorts physically touching the wood of the Boardwalk. Don't let someone tell you the Borgata or Harrah’s are "Boardwalk" spots; they are gorgeous, sure, but they’re over in the Marina District. If you want to walk out of the lobby and feel the salt air on your face immediately, you’re looking at a specific lineup.
The Six Big Names: What Casinos Are On The Boardwalk In Atlantic City?
The "big six" stretch from the quiet north end down toward the Chelsea neighborhood. You’ve basically got a four-mile playground, though most of the action is clustered in the center.
1. Ocean Casino Resort
This is the giant at the north end. It used to be Revel, but Ocean has really found its footing. It is arguably the most modern-looking building in the city. They just finished a massive reinvestment cycle, and honestly, the views from the "Sky Walk" are probably the best in town. They have the largest Topgolf Swing Suite in the world, which is a weirdly specific claim to fame but actually a lot of fun if you’re tired of the slots.
2. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
Right next door to Ocean is the old Taj Mahal, now draped in guitars and music history. If you're looking for energy, this is it. It’s loud. It’s flashy. Just this June, they've got James Taylor playing the Etess Arena, which shows you the kind of legendary acts they pull in. The memorabilia on the walls is legit—you can see outfits from Prince or guitars from Hendrix just walking to the bathroom.
📖 Related: Seeing Universal Studios Orlando from Above: What the Maps Don't Tell You
3. Resorts Casino Hotel
Walking south, you hit Resorts. It was the first legal casino in the U.S. outside of Nevada, opening back in 1978. It feels a bit more old-school, but in a "Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville" kinda way. They have the LandShark Bar & Grill, which is actually built right on the sand. It’s the only year-round beach bar in the city, which is great for people-watching even in the colder months.
4. Caesars Atlantic City
This is the center of the universe for many AC regulars. It’s got that classic Roman theme, though it’s been modernized quite a bit recently. They’ve poured millions into the "Centurion" and "Ocean" towers. If you like high-end shopping, The Pier Shops at Caesars (now technically called Playground but everyone still calls it the Pier) is attached.
5. Bally’s Atlantic City
Sandwiched between Caesars and the Wild Wild West, Bally’s has gone through a bit of a renaissance under new ownership. They’ve added a permanent indoor beer garden called The Yard, which has a retractable roof. It’s a vibe. They also still operate the Wild Wild West Casino area, which is technically part of Bally's now but feels like its own rowdy, Western-themed party zone with cheap beer and live bands.
6. Tropicana Atlantic City
Down at the "lower" end of the Boardwalk is the Trop. It’s a massive complex. If you get lost in "The Quarter"—their Havana-themed shopping and dining area—don’t worry, everyone does. As of January 2026, they just finished a total overhaul of the Solana Tower, so if you’re booking a room here, aim for that one. It’s fresh, coastal, and feels less like a 1990s hotel room.
👉 See also: How Long Ago Did the Titanic Sink? The Real Timeline of History's Most Famous Shipwreck
Why the Location Actually Matters
You might think, "A casino is a casino," but in Atlantic City, the Boardwalk is the soul of the place. Staying on the Boardwalk means you don't need a ride share to get between properties. You can literally hop from Hard Rock to Ocean in five minutes.
It’s also about the "non-gaming" stuff.
The Boardwalk is where the legendary Steel Pier is (right across from Hard Rock), with its massive observation wheel. If you’re traveling with family or people who don't gamble, being on the Boardwalk gives them something to do that doesn't involve a blinking light and a "spin" button.
A Quick Reality Check on the "Other" Casinos
I get asked this all the time: "Is the Borgata on the Boardwalk?"
No. The Borgata, Harrah’s, and Golden Nugget are in the Marina District.
It’s a five-to-ten-minute Uber or a ride on the "Jitney" (those little green buses) to get there. They are fantastic properties—Borgata is often cited as the nicest hotel in the city—but you won't be stepping out onto the wooden planks.
What Most People Get Wrong About AC in 2026
People still talk about Atlantic City like it’s a ghost town. It’s not.
While the state still has some oversight on the city's finances, the actual "Resort Zone" is booming. We're seeing more money being put into hotel room renovations right now than we have in decades.
✨ Don't miss: Why the Newport Back Bay Science Center is the Best Kept Secret in Orange County
Pro Tip: If you're looking for a quieter experience, the Boardwalk at the North End (near Ocean and Hard Rock) is wider and less "touristy" than the center section near Caesars. The center section is where you’ll find the T-shirt shops, the famous salt water taffy (James Candy Company is a must), and the heavier crowds.
Actionable Tips for Your Boardwalk Visit:
- The Jitney is your friend: If your feet give out, these small shuttle buses run 24/7 and hit every casino. It costs a few bucks and saves you a three-mile walk.
- Check the "Player’s Club" status: Many of these casinos are owned by different companies. Caesars, Tropicana, and Harrah’s are all under the Caesars Rewards umbrella. Hard Rock and Ocean are independent. If you have "status" at one, see if the others will match it. They often do to lure you in.
- Don't skip the food: Gone are the days of the $5 mystery buffet. You've got Gordon Ramsay at Caesars, Nobu at Caesars, and some of the best seafood at Ocean.
- The "Showboat" is a hotel, NOT a casino: People get confused because it looks like a casino. It’s a massive family fun center now with a waterpark (Island Waterpark) and an arcade. Great for kids, but no slots.
If you're heading down this weekend, start at one end—maybe Ocean—and work your way south. Each spot has a totally different "flavor," and part of the fun is finding which one fits your style. Whether you want the loud rock music of Hard Rock or the upscale chill of Ocean, the Boardwalk has a seat for you.
Just remember to pack comfortable shoes. Those wooden planks are unforgiving after three miles.
Your Next Step: Decide if you want a "mega-resort" feel (Ocean/Tropicana) or a "boutique" legacy feel (Resorts). Once you pick your vibe, check the specific entertainment calendars for Hard Rock and Ocean, as they usually have the biggest headliners booked months in advance.