Since gambling became legal in 1970, New Jersey has become the third biggest state for commercial gambling, and Atlantic City a gambling mecca packed with resorts and casino properties.
Nowadays, AC may not be as glamorous and big as it once was, but it certainly has more casinos than anywhere else along the East Coast. It counts nine casinos, generating over $3 billion in revenue per year.
Generally, every AC gambling venue strives to cater to both high and low-rollers. Its low-roller options may not be as diverse as Las Vegas, but it’s fairly easy to find them.
It is important to note that you have to be at least 21 to be able to enjoy what these casinos offer.
So, let’s see what’s on offer in AC and what to know before you head there.
Qualities of a Good Low-Roller Casino
It is advisable to consider a couple of aspects when choosing a low-roller casino in Atlantic City or anywhere else.
The first factor refers to low bets. If you want to stretch your bankroll as long as possible, you need to find games with low stakes, whether it’s slots or table games.
In most cases, casinos require a minimum bet of $10. It is challenging to find those that offer lower ones, but it’s not impossible. Some AC casinos will allow you to play certain roulette variations, craps, and poker with $5 bets. Furthermore, a few of those venues also feature $5 blackjack.
Let’s continue with another essential aspect that also refers to low bets. Numerous casinos will raise the minimum bets during evenings and weekends to increase their profits.
However, what’s the point if they are not available 24/7?
Because of this, you should seek out casinos offering low stakes at all times.
The next point affects true gambling aficionados who won’t just settle for one game type. They usually like trying their luck at multiple games, which is another factor to consider. So, you should focus on choosing a casino that offers a slew of different affordable games.
The 3 Best Low Roller Casinos in Atlantic City
Atlantic City has also been known as a city with the lowest stakes on the East coast. However, to enjoy them, players need to know where to head. We have singled out the best three land-based casinos in Atlantic City for those on a budget.
As the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement and the New Jersey Casino Control Commission closely monitor each AC casino, players can rest assured that their gambling experience will be fair and legal.
Here’s the rundown.
Wild Wild West Casino
Image by: dougtone, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
This gambling establishment, conveniently located in the center of the Boardwalk, opened in 1997 as an extension of Bally’s. It quickly became a popular destination for casual gamblers seeking a unique experience in town.
Although certain things changed over the years, the casino is known for its exciting nightlife, award-winning sportsbook, and, most importantly, $5 table games.
This Old West-themed casino that works around the clock offers more than 2,000 slot machines and more than a dozen gaming tables.
Slots and video poker are available in denominations ranging from $0.1 to $100, which suits players of all budgets.
Compared to other casinos that require $10, visitors and AC residents can enjoy $5 roulette, casino war, and craps. There are also $5 blackjack tables paying 6:5 rather than the standard 3:2. This is excellent news for those looking to stretch their bankroll.
The casino also offers $10 Three Card Poker tables. Other games include:
- Royal Derby
- Video Game Gambling
- Electronic Craps
- Big 6
Another interesting fact is that this casino features an enormous WSOP poker room with 42 tables. Poker enthusiasts have the opportunity to casually play poker live or join one of the 5,000 tournaments regularly held at this gambling establishment. Some poker games you can find at this casino include:
- Pai Gow
- Four Card Poker
- Let it Ride Poker
- 2-4-6 Limit Hold’em
- 1-2 No-Limit Hold’em
Aside from table games and excellent slots, the casino provides reasonably priced accommodation and doesn’t raise its prices during weekends or evenings, as is the case in other gambling venues.
You’ll also find a bar and a few dining options if you want to grab a bite. And party-goers can enjoy live stage bands, DJs, and other entertainment options.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Image by: PJFerrara, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa is another location you can visit without spending an arm and a leg.
This casino overlooking the marina has a reputation as one of the best in AC. It is a part of the MGM Resorts group and boasts locations worldwide, making it an excellent option for frequent travelers.
Apart from classic casino games, Borgata boasts an online casino and sportsbook since New Jersey is one of the states with legalized online gambling.
Its gaming floor consists of 200 tables for games such as:
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Baccarat
- Poker
- Craps
This land-based casino also boasts $5 blackjack tables with nine blackjack variations, including Unlimited Blackjack and Blackjack Exchange. All blackjacks pay 3:2.
The casino floor also has a premier poker room with 50 poker tables hosting tournaments such as the World Poker Tour. Variations of this casino classic include:
- Caribbean Stud Poker
- Spanish 21
- Texas Hold’em
- Three Card Poker
- Four Card Poker
Low poker table bets span from $2 to $10.
Borgata Casino also features video poker. Players can have a crack at titles such as Jacks or Better, Bonus Poker, Double Double Bonus, and Super Double Bonus for as little as a quarter, 50 cents, and a dollar.
Slot fans will be thrilled to know that Borgata is home to 4,000 slot machines featuring diverse themes. They can bet with denominations ranging from a penny to $500. Furthermore, you’ll find some of the highest jackpots here.
Aside from being open 24/7, this establishment offers accommodation, restaurants, fitness centers, five indoor and outdoor pools, two spas, and multiple shopping options. It is also considered a nightlight hotspot hosting many internationally-known performers.
Tropicana Casino & Resort
This casino oozes an old-school feel and is situated on the far south end of the Boardwalk.
Like several other casinos, Tropicana Casino features $10 blackjack tables that pay 3:2.
On the other hand, this is the only gambling venue after Wild Wild West Casino to offer $5 craps tables. However, the catch is that you need to play them during weekdays to be able to enjoy these low stakes.
Tropicana also boasts $5 roulette tables, but the bets go up to $15 during the weekends.
This gambling establishment has video poker on offer, too. The best option for low-rollers is:
- Joker Wild, available for a 25-cent denomination
- Jacks or Better is available for $1, $2, $5, and $10
- Double Double Bonus and Deuces Wild for $5
Tropicana Casino offers a choice of over 2,400 slot games, including the newest slots and classics with captivating themes that cater to low and high-rollers.
Those who enjoy sportsbooks will be pleased to know that this land-based casino has partnered with William Hill, a renowned name in sports betting.
However, Tropicana is more than a casino. It is a full resort that offers gambling options, beach entertainment, accommodation, a fitness center, spa, two pools, and works around the clock.