Atlantic City's poker legacy grows with Borgata's new tournament room
Atlantic City, often called the 'Las Vegas of the East Coast', has been a gambling and entertainment hub for over 170 years. Known for its iconic Boardwalk and bustling casinos, the city remains a key destination for high-stakes gaming and major tournaments. Recent developments, like a new poker room at the Borgata, continue to draw attention to its lively scene.
The city's gambling history took off in 1978 when its first legal casino opened—decades after Las Vegas legalised betting in the 1930s. Since then, famous venues like Caesars, Golden Nugget, and Harrah's have become household names. Atlantic City's influence even extends to pop culture, as the classic US Monopoly board game is modelled after its streets.
Poker has played a major role in shaping the city's reputation. The Borgata Poker Open, held annually at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa since 2003, stands as the most prestigious tournament in Atlantic City over the last 20 years. With multi-million-dollar prize pools, it attracts legendary players such as Phil Hellmuth and Daniel Negreanu. Other key events include the World Poker Tour (WPT) Borgata Winter Poker Open, which ran from 2006 to 2014, and stops by the Heartland Poker Tour (HPT). Recently, the Borgata expanded its offerings by opening a new tournament poker room. Beyond gambling, Atlantic City has long been a stage for high-profile events. The Miss America pageant called the city home from 1921 to 2004, then returned briefly from 2013 to 2018. The city also boasts ties to poker greats like Phil Ivey and Tom Dwan, both New Jersey natives known for their high-stakes play.
Atlantic City's mix of historic casinos, major poker tournaments, and cultural events keeps it a prominent name in entertainment. The recent addition of a new poker room at the Borgata reinforces its status as a top destination for gamblers and tourists alike. With deep roots in gaming and showmanship, the city continues to evolve while honouring its past.
