Atlantic City in New Jersey may not have the cachet of Las Vegas and its fortunes are sharply declining.

But it’s the closest tacky entertainment destination we have to Vegas on the East Coast.

A declining gambling hub, Atlantic City is about 130 miles south of NYC and 55 miles south-east of Philadelphia.

Atlantic City Boardwalk

Over the last decade, Atlantic City has taken a severe beating – neglect by New Jersey politicians, competition from casinos in neighboring Pennsylvania, Delaware and New York, a sinking economy, gambler fatigue and poor management by corporate leaders.

As if all that were not bad enough, Atlantic City took a killer blow from the Sandy storm on October 29, 2012.

Besides the casinos, other attractions in Atlantic City include the Boardwalk lined with fast-food joints and performances by street artists.

It’s unlikely the decline of Atlantic City can be stemmed. As more states allow online gambling, the fortunes of Atlantic City will further decline and the city will into a seedy resort for vagrants, hookers and criminals.

The Indian presence in Atlantic City these days is primarily in the form of blue collar workers at the casinos, surrounding motels and restaurants.

Atlantic City Casinos

Trump Taj Mahal, Atlantic City

After a near death experience, Trump Taj Mahal managed to survive.

Trump Taj Mahal offers a variety of gambling, dining and entertainment options.

A Indian restaurant inside called Maharaja Express Fusion is inside Trump Taj Mahal casino.

Located off the Atlantic City boardwalk, Trump Taj also includes a large hotel with over 800 rooms providing first class amenities.

Other prominent casinos in Atlantic City include Borgata, Bally’s, Harrah’s and Caesars.

Street Performers

Street Performers in Atlantic City

You never know what you’ll see in Atlantic City!

Really!

During one of my visits to Atlantic City, I found these young street performers, just off the boardwalk.

Fortunately, I had my Sony digital camera handy to capture the moment.

So the next time you’re at the boardwalk, keep your eyes and ears open! 🙂