New Jersey, often called the “Garden State,” is a vibrant and diverse region located in the northeastern United States. Bordered by New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a rich blend of urban energy, suburban charm, and natural beauty.

Known for its iconic shorelines, including the famous Jersey Shore, the state is a hotspot for beachgoers and boardwalk enthusiasts.

New Jersey boasts a rich history, being one of the original 13 colonies and playing a significant role in the American Revolution. The state is also a hub of cultural diversity, with bustling cities like Newark and Jersey City showcasing thriving arts scenes, world-class dining, and cultural festivals. From the stunning scenery of the Delaware Water Gap to the excitement of Atlantic City’s casinos, New Jersey offers something for everyone.

If you’re planning a road trip across New Jersey and have a keen interest in gambling, there are several key destinations and experiences worth considering. The state is well-known for its land-based casino operations, particularly in Atlantic City, as well as its variety of online gambling platforms, which offer additional opportunities to enjoy casino gaming during your journey.

With the implementation of stringent security standards and increased regulation, New Jersey’s gaming industry has seen steady growth, offering road-trip participants various options to suit their preferences. Below, we explore the casinos and regions you can visit on a gambling-focused trip across the state.

Atlantic City: The Central Hub for Land-Based Casinos

Arguably the most well-known destination for casino enthusiasts in New Jersey is Atlantic City. Home to nine major casino hotel properties, the city remains a vital part of New Jersey’s gambling scene.

Properties such as Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Caesars, Harrah’s Resort, Golden Nugget Hotel Casino & Marina, and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino offer visitors access to a wide variety of gaming options in lavish settings. Each has its distinct appeal, ranging from vast collections of slots and table games to unique entertainment options, dining experiences, and spa treatments.

Atlantic City’s resort casinos, particularly the Borgata, have also expanded their outreach to include an online presence. For example, BorgataCasino.com and BetMGM provide gaming options for players who prefer to combine a physical casino visit with online play.

This pairing of land-based and online options greatly enhances the flexibility of the gambling experience. Additionally, properties like Bally’s Atlantic City and Ocean Resort Casino have expanded their capabilities, offering even more gaming sites with strategic online partners.

Travelers interested in sports betting can take advantage of the race tracks across the state, such as Monmouth Park and Meadowlands. Each of these racetracks provides sports wagering alongside the traditional casino games you’d find at more central gaming hubs. The combination of horse racing, casino betting, and sports wagering makes these facilities attractive options for those wishing to explore their gambling activities.

The latest available data reveals that although online gambling revenue has seen a noticeable increase in recent years, Atlantic City’s resort casinos continue to draw in thousands of visitors annually. For a road trip, the city is an essential stop for those looking to experience a premier gambling destination while still staying within the bounds of New Jersey.

Exploring New Jersey’s Online Casino Platforms Along Your Route

As you plan a road trip focused on gambling across New Jersey, it can be helpful to stay aware of the variety of online casino platforms available throughout the state. While visiting places like Atlantic City’s iconic land-based casinos, you can complement that experience by accessing New Jersey’s licensed online casinos, which can be enjoyed anytime, even while stopping for a break on the road.

Major names like BetMGM Casino, DraftKings, and FanDuel offer a large catalog of slots, table games, and live dealer options that can be accessed via mobile apps, providing flexibility no matter where you are.

Several of these platforms are paired with well-known land-based casino properties in New Jersey. For instance, Hard Rock Bet Casino is integrated with the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, allowing players to enjoy exclusive online games tied to the iconic land-based venue.

Additionally, for a quick and convenient option to continue gaming while traveling, platforms like Caesars Palace Online Casino are available. With a strong presence in both the physical and online sectors, NJ online casinos like these add another dimension to any gambling road trip as you explore multiple gaming experiences while on the move.

Key Trends in New Jersey’s Gambling Industry

A road trip across New Jersey showcases the evolving gambling market in the state. Gaming revenue in New Jersey has been rising, with internet gambling revenue setting a new record in October 2024, where casinos and their partners brought in $213.6 million. This is part of a broader trend reflecting changing consumer behavior, with online casinos now attracting more wagers than land-based casinos in some periods.

For example, there was a marked 21.1% year-on-year growth in the state’s total internet gaming revenue as of September 2024, resulting in earnings of $2.43 billion during that time. These figures highlight the increasing shift towards online gaming platforms as a way to complement traditional casino experiences.

Sports wagering performed equally well in the state, with gross revenue reported at $119.6 million for September 2024, a 7.6% increase from the previous year. The growing market was boosted by enhanced technology, better user interfaces in online and mobile platforms, and the overall ease provided for sports bettors.

Some racetracks such as Freehold ceased retail sports wagering operations in 2024, reflecting the growing dominance of the online sector. Shifts within the industry have shaped travel routes across New Jersey, particularly for those exploring both land-based and online gambling options.

Casino operations throughout the state maintain high standards for customer service and accessibility, ensuring that gamblers can enjoy seamless opportunities, whether in historic Atlantic City venues or via the user-friendly interfaces provided by increasingly competitive online casinos. As such, gaming remains a popular option for those visiting New Jersey, whether as the primary focus of their visit or as part of a broader leisure trip.

In conclusion, New Jersey is a treasure trove of experiences, blending natural beauty, history, and entertainment. Whether you’re basking on the sun-soaked beaches of the Jersey Shore, exploring the picturesque trails of the Delaware Water Gap, or diving into the cultural vibrancy of cities like Newark and Jersey City, there’s something for everyone.

Thrill-seekers can enjoy the adrenaline-pumping rides at Six Flags Great Adventure, while history buffs can step back in time at landmarks like Ellis Island and the Battleship New Jersey. For those seeking excitement and nightlife, Atlantic City offers world-class casinos, gaming, and a bustling boardwalk scene. Don’t forget the culinary delights, from fresh seafood along the coast to world-famous diners. No matter your interests, the Garden State invites you to create unforgettable memories.