A Quick Overview of Atlantic City New Jersey

In 1870, Alexander Boardman invented the concept of the Atlantic City Boardwalk in order to keep sand out of the hotels and rail cars and to create a central location for strollers and beachfront businesses. In 1881, a 6-story, 90-ton metal elephant was built as part of a real estate marketing stunt in Margate. In 1940, city officials agreed to hold the annual Miss America Pageant in its Convention Hall every September, cleverly extending the tourist season by six weeks each year. Today, like yesterday, business is booming in Atlantic City where entrepreneurs conceive of innovative business ventures and money-making strategies.

The $268 million ultra-modern Atlantic City Convention Center offers 500,000 square feet of exhibit space and 109,100 square feet of meeting space. Larger than any other convention center from Boston to Atlanta, the City has dubbed its facilities "America's Northeast Business Address." The Convention Hall, with its famous 33,112 pipe organ, hosts college basketball tournaments, an antique and collectibles show in March, a restaurant gala in April, and a gourmet food and gift show in October. And several hotels in town can accommodate convention traffic. For a historic flavor, try the restored Flanders Hotel, an all suite facility that hosts weddings, banquets, business meetings, and conference crowds. For a more contemporary atmosphere, try the Sheraton Convention Center that adjoins the Convention Center via a glass skywalk.

For the commuter businessman or woman, traveling to Atlantic City for work could not be easier. Several domestic flights link the City to Detroit, Cleveland, Philadelphia, New York, and Florida. A one-hour train ride or a seat on the Philadelphia Airport Shuttle will get you to Philadelphia where an international airport will fly you directly to Europe, the Caribbean, or Canada.

Initially intended to revive tourist appeal, the casino industry-the largest in Atlantic City-has created 45,000 jobs. The Casino Career Institute, a branch of Atlantic City Community College, offers professional training in security and dealing.

Atlantic City continues to grow, with new and larger casinos planned, and the older ones being remodeled.

Smuggler's Cove, named after the transport of illegal hooch into the local nightclubs during Prohibition, is the city's newest hot spot. Casinos near this marina, including the Mirage, Le Jardian Palais, and the art-deco themed Trump Marina, offer the latest in slot machine technology as well as outrageous architecture and amusement rides intended to target families with younger children.

Certainly the gambling scene in Atlantic City rivals that of Las Vegas. Other professions that figure largely in the economic health of Atlantic City are the ocean industries and restaurant and hotel management.

If you're a professional looking to start a new business, looking for work in a tourist town, or looking to host a national convention, Atlantic City is an excellent area to consider.