The sun is setting later, temperatures are rising above 65 degrees, and the distant sound of seagulls making their way to the beach can be heard on the horizons. That means that the ever-present presence of the seaside resort town of Atlantic City will once again become a regular weekend destination for plenty of Philadelphians.
There are plenty of reasons to head to AC, and even if you’re not a gambler, the casinos can be some of the most compelling. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in particular has its own appeal. Besides being a mecca for music lovers both aesthetically and literally, the venue has global appeal with venues in 76 countries spanning 262 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops and Cafes (including in the City of Brotherly Love.)
There are a few standout reasons to head to the beach-side destination that might stick out to city folk coming up, however.
1. Live Entertainment
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City recently welcomed the return of headlined entertainment to their line-up of what to expect. The Etess Arena, the seaside resort’s prime venue for live events recently hosted comedian Bob Saget with special guest Mike Young, and also Vic Dibetto, but Philadelphians who are looking to head down to the shore for more entertainment still have plenty of opportunities to do so.
On Sunday, May 30, at 7 p.m. and then again at 10 p.m., Hard Rock will be welcoming comedian Andrew Santino to kick off the summer on a light note for Memorial Day. Santino has paved his own way in the comedy world with as a stand-up artist, podcaster and actor in hit shows and films such as ‘Sin City Saints’, ‘The Disaster Artist’, ‘Mixology’, and ‘I’m Dying Up Here’.
Hard Rock is the perfect venue to start up with live performances as well, as the Casino already has had their own Motor City Live featuring some of Motown’s greatest and classic hits in full spin since the winter season, with stringent and strict guidelines.
“We are excited to safely bring back indoor headliner entertainment, a pillar of the Hard Rock brand,” said Joe Lupo, President of Hard Rock Atlantic City in a statement. “We have seen success this winter with the return of Motor City Live and are now at a place where we can expand our offerings into Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, providing fans with good, clean fun this spring and beyond.”
Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies, so its safe to say they have the tools to put on a show amidst a pandemic, both safely and swiftly.
2. Food
What better way to spend your time than eating? No matter what your preferences are, what you’re craving or what you are in search for, most of your needs can be met edibly through Hard Rock. Boasting more than 15 food and beverage offerings, even the pickiest of diners can find something that tickles their culinary fancy.
On the fine-dining side, Hard Rock features Council Oaks Steak & Seafood featuring some of the Northeast’s freshest seafood; Kuro boasting some of the most flavorful Japanese specialties; Il Mulino highlighting contemporary Italian fare and Trattoria Il Mulino, which offers the same but just steps away from the boardwalk. For casual dining, Philadelphians can look for the Hard Rock Cafe, Fresh Harvest All You Can Eat, Youyu Noodle Bar, Sugar Factory, Fish & Co. or even check out the quick bites offered on site such as the Hard Rock’s Flavor Tour featuring seven different options or the famous White House Sub Shop.
3. Amenities
The entertainment and food are definitely the reasons why you come to AC, but the amenities at the resort are why you will want to stay—and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has plenty to offer.
The beach is a draw that you can only get at a few Hard Rock locations, and specifically in AC, visitors also have the added bonus of the beach bar conveniently located atop the sandy shores.
The pool on the other hand, offers that same aquatic experience as the beach, but in a much more private setting, and without the salty tides if you’re into a more enclosed water activity. The pool is located on the 4th level of South Tower and offers an indoor and outdoor (with the deck) encounter while there.
Those who are into betting can out their luck at the Casino’s Sportsbook as well at the north end of the casino, just adjacent to Sugar Factory. The Sportsbook is open Monday through Thursday from noon to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Guests can find odds posted on boards at the Sportsbook, with odd sheets being available to them as well.
Lastly, it wouldn’t be a vacay without pampering would it? According to the official site, the Soundbody spa and salon features 31 newly designed treatment rooms, including 20 dedicated massage rooms, four facial rooms, two couples’ suites, three body treatment rooms, and two Rhythm & Motion rooms. The full-service salon includes manicures, pedicures, make-up, barber, and hair services.
For a full list of what Hard Rock Hotel & Casino offers, visit hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com
