Atlantic City currently boasts three operational poker rooms, located at Borgata, Harrah’s, and Tropicana. In contrast, Bally’s and Golden Nugget are still paused, awaiting their return.
Borgata resumed tournaments in September 2021. Harrah’s and Tropicana are currently focused on cash games—ideal for players who prefer to jump in and out without the commitment of an entire tournament grind.
If you or someone you know is dealing with a gambling problem, please reach out for assistance. Call 1-800-GAMBLER—help is just a call away.
Now, let’s move to poker rooms to visit and remember in Atlantic City! This Jackpot Sounds rating will expose you to the best gambling experiences ever.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
| Address | 1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
| Phone Number | (609) 317-1000 |
| Number of Tables | 52 |
| Games Offered | No-Limit Hold’em, Limit Hold’em, Pot-Limit Omaha, Omaha Hi-Lo, Seven Card Stud, Mixed Games |
The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa features one of Atlantic City’s treasures: its acclaimed poker room.
As the most prominent poker venue in Atlantic City, the Borgata Poker Room offers 52 tables, providing an exceptional selection of cash games and tournaments for players of every skill level.
The Atmosphere at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Entering the Borgata Poker Room feels like joining a sophisticated setup crafted for poker lovers. The lively ambience is filled with chips clattering and cards shuffled, creating electric energy.
Despite the vibrancy, the room remains orderly, with staff ensuring seamless operations. Comfy seating and well-kept tables add a luxurious touch to each game.
The clientele ranges from serious professionals engaged in high-stakes play to casual players indulging in a weekend escape. This blend fosters a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere where all feel at home.
Tournaments and Cash Games at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
The Borgata is renowned for its premier tournaments, such as the Borgata Winter Poker Open, Spring Poker Open, and Deepstack Challenge Series, attracting participants from across the nation.
Buy-ins for these events range from $150 to $3,500, making it a premier destination for amateurs and pros alike. Prize pools often exceed $1 million, heightening the thrill.
For cash game enthusiasts, stakes begin at $1/$3 No-Limit Hold’em and reach $10/$25 and beyond, with occasional Pot-Limit Omaha and mixed games available. Borgata is celebrated for its extensive variety and accommodates all bankroll sizes.
Amenities at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
The poker room provides numerous amenities that enhance the experience:
- 24/7 Play: Action is continuous at Borgata. A game is always available whether you’re a night owl or an early riser.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Tables come outfitted with automatic shufflers, USB charging ports, and cozy seating to help players stay focused.
- Food and Beverage Service: Players can choose from a diverse menu without leaving their seats. Nearby options like the Borgata Buffet and fine dining at Old Homestead Steakhouse and Izakaya are ideal for breaks between games.
- Smoke-Free Environment: The poker room is smoke-free, providing a comfortable space.
Professionalism and Service at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
The Borgata’s poker team is exceptionally trained and professional. Dealers manage games efficiently, and floor staff promptly address any issues or disputes.
The room is known for promoting fair play and cultivating a respectful atmosphere.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa’s Extras
For multitaskers, the My Borgata Rewards Program enables poker players to earn points redeemable for hotel stays, dining, and other casino benefits.
Cardholders enjoy complimentary parking, adding to the already outstanding experience.
Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City
| Address | 777 Harrah’s Blvd, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
| Phone Number | (609) 441-5000 |
| Number of Tables | 28 |
| Games Offered | No-Limit Hold’em, Limit Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Lo, Seven Card Stud |
Harrah’s Resort in Atlantic City is home to a poker room that perfectly balances a welcoming environment with a focus on quality gameplay.
While smaller than its competitors, Harrah’s offers a solid poker experience that keeps recreational and seasoned players returning for more.
The Vibe at Harrah’s Poker Room
Harrah’s Poker Room features a more intimate setting than larger venues like Borgata, with 28 tables. This creates a laid-back, friendly atmosphere where players can enjoy a less intimidating environment.
The room is well-lit and designed to make players feel comfortable, whether they’re new to poker or seasoned grinders.
The crowd here is a mix of tourists enjoying their time in Atlantic City and local regulars who know the ins and outs of the game. Conversations at the tables tend to be light-hearted, and the overall mood is relaxed but competitive.
Cash Games and Tournaments at Harrah’s Poker Room
Harrah’s specializes in cash games, which run daily and cater to a wide range of stakes. Standard games include $1/$2 No-Limit Hold’em, $2/$5 No-Limit Hold’em, and $4/$8 Limit Hold’em.
While it doesn’t offer as many high-stakes games as Borgata, Harrah’s is perfect for low to mid-stakes players looking for consistent action.
Occasionally, the poker room hosts smaller tournaments with buy-ins ranging from $60 to $200, attracting casual players who enjoy the thrill of tournament poker without the high stakes. However, regular tournament schedules are not as frequent as at larger venues.
Harrah’s Poker Room’s Amenities
Harrah’s poker room offers a host of amenities designed for player comfort:
- 24/7 Action: Cash games are available around the clock, ensuring there’s always a seat for those ready to play.
- Convenient Dining Options: Players can take advantage of Harrah’s on-the-spot food service or step out to one of the resort’s restaurants like Martorano’s Italian Restaurant or The Waterfront Buffet.
- Easy Access to Amenities: Near Harrah’s casino floor, the poker room is just steps away from slot machines, table games, and bars.
- Smoke-Free Environment: Like most poker rooms in Atlantic City, Harrah’s is smoke-free, providing a clean and pleasant atmosphere for all.
Professional Staff and Service at Harrah’s Poker Room
The poker room staff at Harrah’s are friendly and attentive. Dealers are professional, ensuring games run smoothly and efficiently, while floor managers are quick to address questions or concerns.
Players often praise the approachable and helpful attitude of the team.
Player Perks at Harrah’s Poker Room
Harrah’s is part of the Caesars Rewards Program, allowing poker players to earn points for their gameplay. These points can be redeemed for dining, hotel stays, and other perks throughout the resort and Caesars properties nationwide. The program also offers discounts on parking, adding convenience for frequent players.
The Setting at Harrah’s Poker Room
The poker room is located within the main casino area, making it easy to enjoy the resort’s other attractions. Harrah’s boasts impressive amenities, including The Pool After Dark, a nightclub that turns into a daytime oasis, and the relaxing Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa—perfect for unwinding after an intense poker session.
Harrah’s Poker Room is ideal for players seeking a casual, approachable poker experience. Its smaller size, friendly vibe, and consistent cash game action make it a favorite for tourists and local players.
While it may not host the grand tournaments of larger venues, its comfort, convenience, and professionalism make it a worthwhile stop for poker enthusiasts in Atlantic City.
Whether you’re a regular grinder or just looking for a fun night at the tables, Harrah’s has a seat waiting for you.
Tropicana Atlantic City
| Address | 2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
| Phone Number | (609) 340-4000 |
| Number of Tables | 18 |
| Games Offered | No-Limit Hold’em, Limit Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Lo, Seven Card Stud |
The poker room at Tropicana Atlantic City offers a cozy yet action-packed environment, making it a solid choice for players who enjoy straightforward poker with a dash of charm.
While it may be smaller and more flashy than some of its Atlantic City counterparts, Tropicana delivers a reliable poker experience for both locals and visitors.
The Vibe at Tropicana Atlantic City
Tropicana’s poker room has 18 tables and a modest setup, giving it an intimate and approachable feel.
The casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for players who want to enjoy their game without the pressure of a high-stakes environment.
The room is well-maintained, with comfortable seating and ample lighting, ensuring an enjoyable playing experience.
The crowd here mixes loyal regulars and vacationers looking to try some No-Limit Texas Hold’em.
The overall vibe leans towards laid-back, with friendly conversations often breaking out at the tables. It’s where you can focus on your game while feeling part of a community.
Cash Games and Tournaments at Tropicana Atlantic City
Tropicana focuses primarily on cash games, with various stakes to suit most players. Popular games include $1/$2 No-Limit Hold’em, $2/$5 No-Limit Hold’em, and occasional Limit Hold’em tables.
The action here is steady, and the games are known for being player-friendly.
While tournaments are not a mainstay at Tropicana, periodic events, usually with buy-ins ranging from $50 to $150, are held aimed at recreational players who want to try competitive play.
These tournaments attract a mix of locals and tourists, creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
Amenities at Tropicana Atlantic City
Tropicana’s poker room offers several conveniences to make players comfortable:
- Smoke-Free Environment: Like other poker rooms in Atlantic City, Tropicana’s poker room is smoke-free, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere.
- On-Table Food and Beverage Service: Players can order drinks and light snacks directly to their table, keeping the game going without interruptions.
- Proximity to Dining and Entertainment: Located near Tropicana’s renowned Quarter, the poker room is steps away from a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, including the famous Carmine’s and Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar.
- 24/7 Cash Games: Tropicana ensures round-the-clock action, so there’s always a game waiting no matter when you arrive.
Staff and Service
The staff at Tropicana’s poker room are professional and attentive. Dealers are efficient and courteous, keeping the games running smoothly. Floor staff quickly address player concerns, adding to the room’s welcoming environment.
Player Perks
Tropicana’s poker players can take advantage of the Caesars Rewards Program, which rewards gameplay with points redeemable for
- meals,
- hotel stays,
- prizes, and
- other benefits at Caesars Entertainment properties.
Frequent players also appreciate the occasional poker room promotions that offer bonuses or discounted entry fees.
Location and Extras
The poker room’s location within Tropicana provides easy access to the resort’s bustling nightlife, entertainment, and accommodations.
After a poker session, players can unwind at Boogie Nights, Tropicana’s vibrant retro nightclub, or relax in the luxurious accommodations offered by the resort.
AC Poker Rooms That Closed
Over the years, Atlantic City has seen several poker rooms close their doors, leaving behind fond memories for players who frequented them.
While these rooms are no longer operational, they once added to the vibrant poker scene in the city. Have a look at four notable poker rooms that have ceased operations:
- Bally’s Atlantic City,
- Golden Nugget Atlantic City,
- Caesars Atlantic City, and
- Ocean Casino Resort.
Bally’s Atlantic City Poker Room
Bally’s poker room, which once offered a straightforward and casual poker experience, closed during the pandemic and has not reopened.
Known for its 12-table layout, it attracted a mix of recreational players and tourists seeking low-stakes games like $1/$2 No-Limit Hold’em.
While not as lavish as some of its counterparts, Bally’s poker room was appreciated for its easy-going vibe and accessibility on the Boardwalk.
Golden Nugget Atlantic City Poker Room
Though relatively small with ten tables, Golden Nugget’s poker room had a loyal following.
It primarily offered low-limit cash games and was favored by beginners and locals looking for a relaxed environment. Its convenient location near the marina and the casino floor made it a popular spot before it closed in 2020.
Despite its closure, the Golden Nugget thrives with other gaming options and entertainment.
Caesars Atlantic City Poker Room
Caesars’ poker room once was a staple in the Atlantic City poker scene. It was a mid-sized room with 20 tables and a variety of cash games and tournaments.
Positioned conveniently on the Boardwalk, it was a destination for locals and tourists.
Known for its elegant décor and efficient staff, the room appealed to players who valued a touch of sophistication in their poker experience. Unfortunately, it hasn’t reopened since closing in 2020.
Ocean Casino Resort Poker Room
Ocean Casino Resort’s poker room, which briefly operated with 10 tables, was known for its modern design and comfortable atmosphere. Its proximity to the ocean gave players a unique view, setting it apart from other poker venues.
While the room had the potential to grow, it struggled to gain traction and eventually closed.
The resort now focuses on other gaming and entertainment options, maintaining its reputation as a top Atlantic City destination.
US Online Gambling Legality
The legal landscape of online gambling in the United States is mainly shaped by federal laws that serve as a framework for state-level regulation. One of the most influential pieces of legislation is the Wire Act of 1961, which prohibits transmitting betting information across state lines.
Initially aimed at combating organized crime, its relevance to online gambling came under scrutiny as the internet emerged.
In 2011, the Department of Justice clarified that the Wire Act applies only to sports betting, paving the way for states to regulate other forms of online gambling.
Another critical law is the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006, which prohibits financial institutions from processing payments for illegal online gambling activities.
While UIGEA does not define what constitutes legal or illegal gambling, it has created a complex environment for operators to navigate, encouraging many to seek licenses in jurisdictions where online gambling is explicitly permitted.
State-by-State Regulation
Online gambling legality in the US is primarily determined at the state level, resulting in nationwide patchwork of regulations.
States like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Delaware have embraced online gambling, offering robust online casinos, poker, and sports betting markets.
In contrast, states such as Utah and Hawaii maintain outright bans, reflecting local cultural and political attitudes.
States that regulate online gambling have stringent licensing and compliance standards.
Operators must partner with licensed brick-and-mortar casinos and meet strict guidelines for responsible gaming, fairness, and data security. This ensures that players are protected while fostering a legal and transparent gambling environment.
Within this framework, Jackpot Sounds advocates responsible gaming practices, ensuring players are informed about their legal rights and the risks associated with unregulated gambling sites.
The platform partners exclusively with licensed operators, providing a trusted source for players to access safe and compliant gaming options.
Jackpot Sounds also educates users about state-specific regulations, making it easier for players to navigate the complex legal landscape.
Sports Betting Expansion
The 2018 Supreme Court decision in Murphy v. NCAA overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), allowing states to legalize and regulate sports betting. This ruling marked a turning point, with over 30 states legalizing sports betting in some form.
States like Nevada, New Jersey, and Illinois have become leaders in the market, generating significant revenue through sports betting taxes and licensing fees.
Online sports betting platforms, including famous names like DraftKings and FanDuel, have capitalized on the legal shift.
These platforms operate in states where online sports betting is permitted, creating seamless experiences for bettors while adhering to state regulations.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its growth, the US online gambling industry faces challenges, including inconsistent regulations, interstate restrictions, and concerns over problem gambling.
However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration among stakeholders.
Operators, regulators, and advocacy groups continue to work together to establish best practices, ensuring a sustainable and responsible gambling environment.
