Atlantic City is having one of the worst years in its history, with news of a fifth resort-casino shutting down in one year.
The Trump Taj Mahal announced this week it will close next month. The casino was struggling with bankruptcy, taxes, and a union suing the casino for collective bargaining rights and pension benefits.
The Taj Mahal opened in 1990 with a gala that included an appearance by Michael Jackson. It's the second Atlantic City-owned casino by Trump Entertainment Resorts; the other, Trump Plaza, closed September 15. Three other casinos, Revel, Showboat, and the Atlantic Club, also closed this year.
Atlantic City is struggling to retain its footing as a resort destination as many East Coast cities like Philadelphia and Washington allow casinos in or near them. In the meantime, Atlantic City is doubling down on LGBT tourism, designating Park Place as a gay beach and establishing several gay-themed events, including the Miss'd America drag pageant.