Prior to and during the advent of legalized gambling, many of these hotels were demolished. Most of them were either shut down, converted to cheap apartments, or converted to nursing home facilities by the end of the decade. With an economy entirely dependent on tourists who were now shunning the decaying resort, the city reached its nadir.ĭuring this time, many of the resort’s once-great hotels were suffering from high vacancy rates. In the 1950s, as air travel to vacation spots in Florida and the Caribbean became more widely available, Atlantic City’s popularity as a resort destination began to decline.īy the 1960s, the city was beset with the economic and social problems common to many urban centers at the time. In the 1920s it was considered the premier tryout town for theatrical productions headed for Broadway and beyond.īeginning in the 1930s and continuing in the next three decades, Kentucky Avenue was renowned for its nightlife, with Club Harlem and other venues attracting the best talent and biggest stars from the world of jazz.ĭuring World War II, the city offered much more than entertainment distractions, as it served as a training site for military recruits and a recovery and rehabilitation center for wounded soldiers. Attractions such as the Boardwalk, amusement piers, floor shows, and beauty pageants drew throngs of visitors, including many famous people, throughout the years.įrom the 1880s to 1940s, Atlantic City was a major vacation resort. The city grew rapidly and offered lodging, dining, entertainment, and amusements for all ages, tastes, and incomes. It is located on Absecon Island and borders Absecon, Brigantine, Egg Harbor Township, Galloway Township, Pleasantville, Ventnor City, and the Atlantic Ocean.Ītlantic City’s proximity to major population centers, coupled with convenient, inexpensive train access, allowed thousands to flee hot cities and enjoy summer pleasures at the cool seashore.

The city was incorporated on May 1, 1854, from portions of Egg Harbor Township and Galloway Township. The images are part of Glen Fairweather’s collection. These fascinating vintage images show Atlantic City in the 1960s before gambling was legalized and huge hotel chains moved in.

Time of gambling dayy at atlantic city