Atlantic City has seen better days, especially when it comes to its retail scene. Once a booming hub of activity, the city now hosts numerous empty malls, and Playground Pier is one of the most striking examples.
Originally known as Million Dollar Pier when it was built in 1906, it has been through several incarnations: Ocean One shopping mall, The Pier Shops at Caesars, and finally Playground Pier in 2015.
Despite its great location and extensive renovations, Playground Pier is now mostly empty, with just a handful of stores still open. This has earned it the unfortunate label of a “dead mall.” But not everyone sees it this way. ACX1 Studios believes this space has incredible potential.
ACX1 Studios bought Playground Pier last year with big plans to turn it into a vibrant entertainment venue. They envision a mix of retail shops, restaurants, educational spaces, and production studios for TV and film. With plans for up to 150 film sets, ACX1 hopes to draw major film companies and actors to Atlantic City.
The best part? ACX1 thinks the mall doesn’t need a major overhaul. Existing restaurants and stores could be used for filming, giving the space a new lease on life. This project could not only revive the mall but also inject fresh energy into the entire city, positioning Atlantic City as a key player in the entertainment industry.
Do you think ACX1 Studios has the right idea for revitalizing Atlantic City, or is there a better solution out there? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!