For over a century and a half, Atlantic City (or AC as we locals call it) has had an amazing and infamous history, with many ups and downs in popularity and prestige. In recent years, casinos and mega-resorts have fallen on some hard times, with competition from newer nearby entertainment complexes including the Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods in Connecticut, the Sands in Bethlehem PA, and Resorts in the Catskills luring the NY crowds.
The iconic Boardwalk and Beach destination rose to a glitzy beginning when gambling was legalized there in 1976, but never really spread beyond a few of the Monopoly-named streets, (yes, the popular board-game properties are named after the AC streets) with the exception of the three properties in the Marina District (The Borgata, Harrah’s and The Golden Nugget).
So, all said…and not to make this a history lesson…what’s new and exciting in AC right now, and what are some of the favorites that keep us coming back for the beaches, bars, bands, restaurants and non-stop fun on the Jersey Shore?
The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. The most recent addition to the Boardwalk lineup is destined to be a star in our opinion. The iconic brand outdid itself with a spectacular lobby entrance that will blow you away. An enormous sparkling Gibson Les Paul hangs from the ceiling, and is surrounded by a multi-media meg-screen display of music icons, video clips and graphics that is truly a ‘wow’.
The entire space beckons to be explored, housing rock and roll artifacts, wardrobe and guitars from greats including Elvis, Prince, Michael Jackson with special attention given to New Jersey artists…Sinatra, Springsteen, Bon Jovi and more.
Here’s the differentiator: the music. Live music. Beyond the headliners in the concert venues (Pit Bull last weekend, Elvis Costello the Saturday we were there), we saw THREE fantastic live bands in both the lobby bar and the cafe, playing everything from old-school disco, funk, rock and pop to packed dance floors. A friendly, mixed crowd made everyone feel welcome from millennials to boomers. We had more fun than you can imagine!
Great choices of eateries, from the casual food court, to the classic Hard Rock Cafe to the upscale Robert’s Steakhouse and il Mulino. My tricked out Mac and cheese with pulled pork, accompanied by a pomegranate mule at the cafe was fantastic.
The place was buzzing with electric energy. Check it out…AC is making a comeback in a big way!
The Ocean. When we first visited here, this architectural gem impressed us to say the least. A tough economy in AC caused 4 casino closings, including the Revel back in 2012. Now, the sleek, elegant and ultra-modern steel and glass has finally re-opened with an interior design that dazzles.
The outside sky park and pool are stunning, with beach-dune landscaping blending perfectly with sweeping views of the Boardwalk, amusement pier and the Atlantic’s waves lapping the beach.
At the time of our visit a lot was still not open, but plenty was, with the promise of never running out of options to eat, drink and play. Our daytime visit rewarded us with sunshine streaming into bright spaces, including a fantastic sushi and Singapore noodle lunch at Zhen Bang.
We recall a lively nightime atmosphere, some memorable venues including Ivan Kane’s Royal Jelly Burlesque and Villain & Saint (and some expensive drinks) We’re really glad this place is back, hope this time is a charm, adding a modern marvel to the AC experience.
The Borgata and Water Club. For us, this mega-complex has always been our go-to, guaranteed spot for fun. The Gypsy Bar packs in the crowd with the best live bands in AC, go early for a good spot or risk a tough time getting a barstool or even a drink.
The place hasn’t lost a beat, and is still the class act of AC, bringing a Vegas experience to Jersey.
Harrah’s Pool. We stay here for the value, and don’t spend much time playing or dining…which may not be fair, since our other favorites are a sure bet. But the striking feature here is the Pool. Under a giant dome, escape to the tropics in year round 82 degrees. At night it comes alive with popular DJs…not our particular taste, but a hot spot for sure.
The Beach and Boardwalk. A trip to AC isn’t complete without a stroll though time, everything from cheesy souvenirs, arcades, the hotels and casinos, boardwalk food and the historic Convention Hall. At the Beach Bars in the Summer, what’s better than day-drinking with your toes in the sand, a cold beer, great food, music and the best people watching in NJ!
What are your favorite spots in Atlantic City?
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