Atlantic City: An Overlooked Luxury Escape

Published
12/14/2024

When you say “Atlantic City,” a few things usually come to mind immediately: the boardwalk, saltwater taffy, the beach, and gambling. These are definitely on the list of things to do and see when you visit AC, but people often fail to realize how luxurious an experience can be. If you know where to look, there are luxury experiences all over the city just waiting to welcome you. Let's explore the luxurious side of Atlantic City, an unsung gem in the New Jersey tourism sector.

About Atlantic City

Atlantic City is built on Lenape land; this was not the tribe's permanent home but a place they migrated to in the summer. Atlantic City was officially incorporated in 1854, and the first train arrived that same year. The boardwalk that is now famous worldwide was initially built in 1870 as a way for the hotels to avoid guests tracking beach sand into the lobby when they returned from a walk. Resorts International opened in AC in 1978, and with it came the first legal gambling institutions in town. Atlantic City was one the first resort towns available to the American middle class but is now a haven not only for the middle class but for tourists and Americans who seek luxury and opulence in their surroundings and experiences.

Gambling in Atlantic City

One of the main attractions for any luxury tourist who visits Atlantic City is the collection of exciting and opulent casinos and casino resorts that have made their homes in the city. One of the most glamorous and well-appointed casinos in the city has to be the Borgata. This isn't just a spot to do a little gambling; it's an exclusive luxury resort that you can bring the whole family to, thanks to its top-of-the-line facilities, entertainment, and dining options.

Gambling, of course, is one of the most exciting things to do when you stay at the Borgata. There's poker and other table games, for the Bond experience, of course! There are BetMGM money slots, as well as race and sports betting. The casino even has an app so you can gamble remotely.

There are a number of other casinos in Atlantic City that are well worth visiting if you’re in town, too, each with its own luxury offerings for anyone looking to enjoy some real R&R while playing at the tables. Here are a few of the best:

  • Caesars Atlantic City
  • The Hard Rock
  • Bally’s
  • Harrah’s
  • The Tropicana (there's a lovely shopping arcade here as well)
  • The Golden Nugget

Each location offers a combination of bars, restaurants, casino games, and entertainment to keep luxury-seeking visitors comfortable and entertained.

Luxury Activities

Considering the amount of luxurious experiences that Atlantic City offers, it's a real surprise to see that it rarely features on rundowns of the best places for luxury in the country. Here's what to do and where to go while you’re in town.

1.    See The Hook at Spiegelworld

This is an adults-only performance and unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. The Hook is essentially an homage to Atlantic City’s glorious history of entertainment. It's hilarious and a little bit naughty, so prepare to laugh your way through the sketches and dances (complete with a chorus line of lobsters) while sipping a delicious cocktail or enjoying a heavenly meal. The location, the beautifully restored Warner Theater, is the perfect place to experience the set of AC culture.

2.    Dine at Nobu

Dive into an explosive combination of Peruvian and Japanese flavors at the world-renowned Nobu. Nobu is known for its novel approach to these standout food cultures, and visitors love to watch chefs prepare the specialty dishes in front of them at the sushi bar. Nobu Matsuhisa's signature dishes, such as Black Cod Miso and Rock Shrimp Tempura, are, of course, available here, and there is a wonderful selection of advisory options for those who have never dined at Nobu before. The Atlantic City location is a soothing space featuring design elements of neutral, calming tones and a combination of modern and Japanese elements.

3.    Shop at The Playground

Once known as The Pier, this shopping paradise located at Caesars Atlantic City is the answer to all the shopping problems you’ve ever faced. Spending a day here doing some retail therapy from stores like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Michael Kors & Tommy Bahama, and other luxury brands is always an exciting excursion. Once night falls, you can throw on something gorgeous that you just picked up and dine or sip the night away. There's also a lovely water show at the fountains in the towering, airy atrium once every evening, so don't miss it.

Atlantic City Is Waiting For You

No matter what the time of year, Atlantic City offers an exciting array of luxury activities for those who like to relax, those who like to be active, those who love food or the arts, parents, kids, couples, and singles alike. Plan your next luxury escape to AC, and you’ll find an unexplored world of extravagant delights waiting for you.