Atlantic City's Significance in New Jersey's Travel Sector Highlighted in Recent Tourism Report
Big News Flash: May 13, 2025, 12:57h.Last Updated: May 12, 2025, 03:00h.
Devin O'Connor @CasinoorgDevinO | Read More | Asia Pacific Gaming | Commercial Gaming | Legislation | Politics | Tourism
Atlantic County, New Jersey: The Crown Jewel of Tourism
- New York City casinos loom as a potential threat to Atlantic City's gaming industry in the years ahead
- A record-breaking 123.7 million visitors to New Jersey in 2024, with Atlantic County accounting for a whopping 24 million
Tourism in New Jersey reached an unprecedented high in 2024, with a record $50.6 billion spent by 123.7 million visitors, as reported by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism in its latest study.
With an array of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions to offer, Governor Phil Murphy (D) exudes pride in New Jersey's ability to continuously attract new visitors. "We're eagerly looking forward to showcasing even more of the Garden State's treasures to traveling, resident, and local communities as we head towards landmark events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 and America's 250th anniversary," Murphy states.
Among the counties relishing in the state's tourist success is Atlantic County, home to Atlantic City and its nine casino resorts. In 2024, Atlantic County welcomed approximately 10.91 million lodging guests, accounting for more than 20% of New Jersey's overnight visitors. Additionally, the county boasted nearly 19% of the state's same-day visitor traffic, with a total of 13.1 million in-and-out guests. Overall, Atlantic County was responsible for 24 million visitors, or 19.4% of the statewide total.
Bracing for Competition
Despite the joyous celebrations, New Jersey's tourism assets - Atlantic City and Atlantic County - are bracing for new competition in the coming years with the emergence of casinos in New York City. By the end of 2025, three full-scale casino licenses, including privileges to operate slot machines, live dealer table games, and sports betting, will be awarded to locations in NYC, Long Island, and Westchester County.
As these casinos open, millions of New Yorkers who currently travel south to gamble in Atlantic City will have more accessible options nearby. Though visitor volume increased by 1.8% in 2024, Atlantic City's brick-and-mortar casino revenue declined by 1.1%, leading to diminished overall expenditures in Atlantic County.
Keeping the Edge
Atlantic City casinos are taking strategic measures to maintain their appeal and competitiveness. These efforts include the revamping of resort properties and the addition of non-gaming amenities, such as family-friendly attractions and beach concerts. Moreover, the coastline is being rejuvenated through sand restoration initiatives and the resumption of the annual airshow, which is seen as crucial growth catalysts for tourism spending.
The casinos in New York may not be able to offer the pristine Atlantic Ocean and relaxed ambiance that Atlantic City can provide. However, the resilience of the Atlantic City tourism industry remains undeterred, as it aims to continue thriving amidst the growing competitive landscape.
- The upcoming casinos in New York City could pose a significant threat to Atlantic City's gaming industry in the future.
- In 2024, New Jersey saw a record 123.7 million visitors, with Atlantic County accounting for a staggering 24 million.
- Spending by these visitors reached an unprecedented $50.6 billion in 2024, as reported by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism.
- Governor Phil Murphy expressed pride in New Jersey's ability to attract visitors, looking forward to showcasing more of the Garden State's treasures.
- Atlantic County, home to Atlantic City and its nine casino resorts, welcomed approximately 10.91 million lodging guests in 2024.
- Atlantic County accounted for more than 20% of New Jersey's overnight visitors and nearly 19% of its same-day visitor traffic.
- Three full-scale casino licenses will be granted to locations in NYC, Long Island, and Westchester County by the end of 2025.
- These casinos could attract millions of New Yorkers who currently travel to Atlantic City for gambling, potentially diminishing overall expenditures in Atlantic County.
- Atlantic City casinos are taking steps to maintain their appeal and competitiveness, such as resort property renovations and the addition of non-gaming amenities.
