Which Was the First Bally's Casino?

Bally’s didn’t just rock up to the online casino world – we built it. Long before online gameplay, live dealers on demand, and casino action at your fingertips, Bally’s was laying down bricks, neon lights, and unmistakable swagger across the U.S. The result? An epic collection of land-based casino venues and a reputation that’s made Bally’s an icon.

But which was the first Bally’s land-based casino to kick everything off? Let’s roll it back.

The first Bally’s casino: Bally’s Park Place, Atlantic City

The very first Bally’s land-based casino was Bally’s Park Place, located in the heart of Atlantic City, New Jersey. It opened under the Bally’s name in 1979, marking a major milestone in the Bally’s evolution from pinball machines and slot innovations to full-scale casino operator.

The property was originally the Dennis Hotel, but once Bally Manufacturing took ownership, it became something much bigger. Bally’s Park Place combined hotel luxury and glamour with cutting-edge casino gaming and helped define what modern casino entertainment should look like.

Park Place Casino, Atlantic City, wasn’t just a new casino. It was Bally’s planting its flag.

Why Atlantic City was prime location for Bally's first casino

In the late 1970s, Atlantic City was becoming the States’ answer to epic entertainment. Casino gaming had just been legalised in New Jersey, and Bally’s made its move.

The first Bally’s casino, sitting smack-bang on the city’s coastline and boasting views across the famous boardwalk immortalised by Monopoly games, was at the heart of a fast-growing casino destination for folks across the East Coast. Bally’s Atlantic City venue combined resort-style luxury with cutting-edge casino games and Bally’s unmistakable entertainment DNA.

See, what made Bally’s story different from all the other folks looking to set up shop is where it began. Founded in 1932 in Chicago, Bally started out producing pinball machines and amusement games. That background in entertainment innovation laid the groundwork for everything that followed.

By the time Park Place opened, Bally’s already understood one crucial thing: gaming should be exciting, immersive, and built for players, by players. That mindset carried from pinball arcades to casino floors - and eventually to the online casino experience Bally players enjoy today.

Sure, Bally’s very first land-based casino has changed a little since '79 (it isn't called Bally's Park Place Casino & Hotel anymore!), but the success speaks for itself. Visit Atlantic City today and you’ll still see the Bally’s name sitting proud in prime location. Head for the bright lights and you’ll be able to step inside our OG casino to experience the history – and the games - for yourself.

Expanding the Bally’s casino empire

After the launch of Bally’s Park Place, the brand didn’t slow down. Bally’s went on to open and acquire multiple casinos across the US, including landmark properties in Las Vegas and beyond.

Today, Bally’s operates a diverse portfolio of casinos and resorts, blending heritage locations across over 20 states with modern gaming innovation. Each of our Bally's land-based casinos are packed with awesome collections of slot machines, live casino tables and more, with plenty of amenities designed to excite.

Live entertainment, bustling bars, upscale restaurants, conference spaces, shops, hotels and nightclubs are all available for players to dive into, depending on their location of choice. Urban, city or resort. Epic to eccentric. There’s something for every player at Bally’s brick-and-mortar casinos.

And Bally’s story isn’t just an American one. In the UK, Bally’s Newcastle has become a landmark destination for casino entertainment.

Located in the heart of the city, Bally’s Newcastle brings the same confidence and experience to the UK casino scene. From classic table games and poker rooms to slots and live entertainment, Bally’s Newcastle reflects the same player-first approach that defined Bally’s earliest land-based casinos. We’re talking epic entertainment, awesome service, and big rewards. All available in the heart of the one of UK’s most vibrant cities.

Keep it local at Bally Bet's Sports & Online Casino Site

If a trip to Atlantic City (or even Newcastle) isn't on the cards, then Bally Bet has you covered. Bringing over 90 years of know-how and passion for games that have made our land-based casino venues a success, Bally Bet Sports & Casino’s online site is here to raise your game.

We’re designed for players who know what they want: smart bets, sharp odds and a slick way to play online. All at your fingertips. The latest live casino table games and slot innovations? We’ve got them. Thrilling sports betting markets? You bet. You’ll even find our famous 5-star American-style service online, too.

Play online or download our mobile betting app. Whatever your style, Bally Bet has got you covered.

Go on, dive in to see for yourself.

FAQs about Bally’s land-based casino

1. When did the first Bally’s casino open?

Bally's Park Place opened in 1979, marking Bally's transition from pinball machine manufacturer to full-scale casino operator in Atlantic City.

2. Does Bally’s still operate land-based casinos? 

It sure does. Today, Bally’s has over 20 land-based casino venues operating across the U.S. and UK.

3. Does Bally's have casinos in the UK?

Yes, Bally's operates Bally's Newcastle in the UK, located in the heart of Newcastle city. This venue is the first Bally’s casino to open in the UK.

4. Can I play Bally's games online in the UK?

Yes, UK players can access Bally's games through Bally Bet Sports & Casino online. Our online casino site offers live casino table games, slots, and sports betting, bringing over 90 years of Bally's gaming expertise to online players.

5. What games are available at Bally's casinos?

Bally's casinos offer a comprehensive selection of gaming options including slot machines, live casino tables, poker rooms, and various table games, such as blackjack, baccarat and online roulette games.

For even more inside information about the Ballyverse, including who Bally Bet is, check out the Bally Bet Sports & Casino blog, where you can also find a range of helpful articles about sports betting and online casino games.

All offers mentioned correct at the time of writing but may be subject to change.