I think casinos now are seen as just another business. You have to study the market like you would if you were building a restaurant or department store. You can’t just build a casino anymore and expect it will make an automatic profit just by existing.
What would be interesting would be if California ever changes its gambling laws. California does allow some gambling but it doesn’t allow real casinos. I think this is the only thing keeping Las Vegas and the rest of the Nevada gambling establishment in business. A big share of the entire state’s economy could be destroyed by one legislative session in Sacramento.
The Quarter at the Trop has some good restaurants. Ri Ra is an Irish pub there with good food. Since you will be on foot Lucy the Elephant will be a bit out of your way as will Smithville, the Bird refuge and the Pine Barrens. Borgata is a pretty nice place as casinos go. The Jitneys are a good way to get around town. They are small buses that run continuously up and down Pacific Ave. I think they are $1.75. There is THE Irish Pub on St. James just off the boardwalk. Its open 24/7. The clientele can be an interesting mix. The food is pretty cheap, too. Margaritaville and Landshark just opened at Resorts but I haven’t been to either yet. The Wonderbar is located at the base of the Albany Ave bridge, not too far from the Trop. Outdoor deck bar and very good food. Try the avacado chicken wrap. Its awesome.
I live in Margate and rarely venture into AC except for the occasional show or meal. Count Blucher has it right. With the exception of the Wonderbar and the Outlets (clean and safe) stay within a block or two of the boardwalk. You won’t have much time do go much further anyway.