The Wild Ideas of Atlantic City: A Look Back

By Chuck Darrow

The launch of state-sanctioned casinos in Atlantic City in May 1978 marked a turning point, leading to many innovative developments. Among them are the Convention Center, the transformation of what is now James Whelan Boardwalk Hall, the creation of The Walk retail district, and the opening of Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa.

However, not every idea was a success. Here’s a rundown of five notably impractical concepts that originated in Atlantic City over the past several decades:

Diving Animals

Donald Trump’s acquisition of Resorts International included the Steel Pier, famous for its diving horse, which was eventually stopped due to protests. In 1993, Trump introduced a diving act featuring a mule, miniature horse, and a dog. Unsurprisingly, protesters returned, and the act ended by Labor Day.

Morton Downey Jr.’s Singing Debut

Controversial talk show host Morton Downey Jr. briefly stepped into the spotlight as a singer in 1990 at Trump Castle Hotel & Casino. Despite his father’s talent as a tenor, Downey’s performance was underwhelming, leaving his opening act to take over most of the stage time.

Mini Ice Shows

Bally’s Grand Hotel-Casino featured ice shows in its small Opera House venue. The shows were lackluster, consisting of performers gliding a few steps only to return to their original positions—an amusing yet absurd display.

Revel Casino

The $2 billion Revel casino opened in 2012 but was deemed an epic fail, eventually closing in 2014. Its subsequent transformation into the successful Ocean Casino Resort demonstrated that the building’s design wasn’t the issue, but rather poor management choices, including a lack of amenities and high prices.

Covering the Boardwalk

A proposal was made in 1988 to cover the Boardwalk with a plastic bubble, effectively blocking the ocean view and breezes. While the plan never gained support, it’s interesting to note that ideas for enclosing the Boardwalk have existed since at least 1903.

Chuck Darrow has dedicated over 40 years to covering Atlantic City casinos.