Atlantic City Convention Center | Atlantic City

The Atlantic City Convention Center is a pivotal landmark in Atlantic City, serving as a major hub for business, entertainment, and large-scale events. Positioned strategically near the city’s famous Boardwalk and casinos, it plays an essential role in Atlantic City’s economy by attracting conventions, trade shows, concerts, and cultural gatherings from around the region and beyond. The center’s modern design and expansive facilities reflect the city’s ongoing efforts to diversify its tourism industry beyond gambling, catering to a broad array of visitors and industries.

I. Overview and Location

1. Strategic Positioning

Located in the heart of Atlantic City’s resort district, the Convention Center sits adjacent to several major hotels and casinos, such as the Borgata and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Its proximity to the Boardwalk and beaches allows visitors to easily combine business activities with leisure.

2. Size and Capacity

The center encompasses approximately 500,000 square feet of space, making it one of the largest convention facilities on the East Coast. This includes:

Over 200,000 square feet of exhibition space

A large main ballroom capable of hosting thousands of attendees

Multiple breakout rooms and meeting spaces of varying sizes

A 7,000-seat arena known as the Event Center

II. Design and Architecture

3. Modern and Functional Design

Constructed in the mid-1990s and opened officially in 1997, the Convention Center features a contemporary architectural style with large glass facades and spacious interiors designed to maximize natural light and adaptability for various event formats.

The layout is designed for efficient flow and accessibility, with wide corridors, multiple entrances, and easy access to parking and public transportation.

4. Facilities and Amenities

Exhibition halls equipped with advanced lighting, sound, and rigging systems

Meeting rooms outfitted with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology

Onsite food service and catering options

Loading docks and freight elevators for large-scale event logistics

Spacious lobbies and networking areas

III. Types of Events and Uses

5. Conventions and Trade Shows

The Convention Center hosts a wide variety of conventions, including:

Industry trade shows covering topics such as gaming, hospitality, technology, and healthcare

Professional association meetings and conferences

Regional and national business expos

6. Entertainment and Cultural Events

Concerts featuring both national and regional artists in the Event Center

Comedy shows and theatrical performances

Community festivals and cultural celebrations

7. Sporting Events

The Event Center is adaptable for sporting events such as boxing matches, wrestling, indoor soccer, and other tournaments, attracting athletes and spectators from across the country.

IV. Economic and Social Impact

8. Economic Driver

The Convention Center is a major economic engine for Atlantic City. By bringing thousands of visitors who spend money on hotels, restaurants, transportation, and entertainment, it supports local businesses and contributes significantly to the city’s tax base.

9. Diversification of Tourism

Atlantic City has traditionally been known primarily for its casinos, but the Convention Center helps diversify the city’s tourism economy by attracting:

Corporate clients and professionals

Families and leisure travelers attending conventions and expos

Visitors interested in cultural and entertainment events

This diversification enhances the city’s resilience amid fluctuating gaming revenues.

V. Recent Developments and Future Outlook

10. Renovations and Upgrades

The Convention Center has undergone several modernization projects in recent years, including upgrades to technology infrastructure, improved energy efficiency, and enhancements to visitor amenities to maintain competitiveness with newer facilities elsewhere.

11. Integration with Atlantic City’s Growth

Plans for future expansion and integration with nearby hotel developments aim to create a seamless experience for visitors, offering combined lodging, dining, and entertainment options within walking distance.

VI. Visitor Experience

12. Accessibility

The Convention Center is easily accessible by car, public transit (including bus and rail connections), and pedestrian walkways from major parts of the city.

13. Services

Onsite services include business centers, concierge assistance, Wi-Fi access, and ample parking facilities, ensuring convenience for event organizers and attendees.

Conclusion

The Atlantic City Convention Center is a cornerstone of the city’s efforts to evolve as a diverse, multi-purpose destination beyond gambling. Its expansive, modern facilities accommodate a wide array of events that draw visitors for business, entertainment, and cultural experiences. As Atlantic City continues to redefine itself, the Convention Center stands as a vital asset-supporting economic growth, fostering community engagement, and enhancing the city’s national profile as a versatile event destination.