Atlantic City was revived after a state-wide referendum in 1976 legalized casino gambling in the city, and casinos began popping up along the boardwalk and in the Marina District starting in 1978.Ītlantic City International Airport ( IATA: ACY) is located about 9 miles to the west of Atlantic City along the Atlantic City Expressway. The heyday for Atlantic City as a beach resort lasted through the first half of the 20th century, when it fell out of favor. In its early days, Atlantic City catered to urban workers from Philadelphia. It was founded in the late 19th century as a resort destination after railroad companies constructed a track between Absecon Island (on which the city exists today) and Philadelphia.
From its founding, Atlantic City has always been about tourism.
