Resorts Casino Hotel became the first casino opened in New Jersey on May 26, 1978, revolutionizing Atlantic City. This listicle ranks its legacy impacts, key facts, and 2026 relevance amid NJ's booming industry.
Resorts: The Trailblazer
Pros
Opened at 3:44 PM, 52,000 sq
Trade-offs
ft, 521 slots.
Opened at 3:44 PM, 52,000 sq ft, 521 slots.
- First legal US casino outside Nevada
- Irving Feld led opening
- Instant $1M+ revenue
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Legal and Economic Impact
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Analysis panel
AB 2600 bill passed 1977.
- Created 40,000 jobs
- Boosted AC tourism 300%
- Paved way for 9 casinos
Iconic Features of 1978 Launch
Fact: Stars like Frank Sinatra performed.
Key: Iconic Features of 1978 Launch
Stars like Frank Sinatra performed.- $100M construction
- 1,000+ dealers hired
- 24/7 operations
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Evolution to 2026
Pros
Now digital-first with online arm.
Trade-offs
Now digital-first with online arm.
Now digital-first with online arm.
- Mohegan-owned
- Live dealer apps
- Sportsbook integration
Other Early NJ Casinos
Fact: Bally's (78), Caesars (79).
Key: Other Early NJ Casinos
Bally's (78), Caesars (79).- Top 5 oldest still open
- Revenue leaders 2026