Does Showboat Have a Casino? Exploring Entertainment Options at Showboat Atlantic CityWhen it comes to enjoying a fun and exciting getaway in Atlantic City, the Showboat Hotel stands out as a unique and historical destination. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the Showboat offers a variety of amenities and experiences for guests. One question that often arises is whether the Showboat Hotel has a casino. For those visiting Atlantic City, the presence of a casino can be a key factor in choosing where to stay. This topic will answer the question, explore the gaming options available at the Showboat, and provide an overview of the entertainment you can expect from this iconic resort.
Does Showboat Have a Casino?
The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City does not currently have a casino. However, this does not mean that the hotel lacks entertainment options for its guests. The Showboat has undergone several changes over the years, including the closure of its casino operations. Despite the absence of a traditional casino, the hotel remains a popular choice for visitors looking for a lively and unique experience in Atlantic City.
The History of Showboat’s Casino
The Showboat Hotel originally opened its doors in 1987 and featured a casino as one of its main attractions. The casino was a key part of the resort’s offerings, providing visitors with a wide variety of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and poker. Over the years, the Showboat became known for its lively entertainment, themed events, and diverse clientele.
In 2014, the Showboat’s casino operations were abruptly shut down due to financial difficulties. Despite this closure, the hotel continued to operate as a resort, offering other amenities such as its hotel rooms, restaurants, and entertainment options. The decision to close the casino was part of a broader trend in Atlantic City, where several casinos were forced to shut down or scale back due to changes in the gambling market.
What Are the Current Entertainment Options at Showboat?
While Showboat no longer operates a casino, it still offers a variety of entertainment options for guests. These alternatives provide a great way to enjoy your time at the resort without needing to gamble. Here are some of the main attractions at Showboat
1. Non-Gaming Attractions
One of the standout features of the Showboat is its focus on non-gaming entertainment. With the casino closed, the hotel has reinvented itself by offering different types of activities and events. For example, Showboat has become home to a variety of family-friendly attractions, such as arcade games, event spaces for concerts and shows, and a number of dining options.
2. The Playground Pier
One of the highlights of Showboat is its connection to the Playground Pier. This iconic pier stretches out over the Atlantic Ocean and is home to several shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining with ocean views, and even taking part in amusement park rides during the warmer months. The Playground Pier provides a lively and fun atmosphere for those staying at Showboat who want to enjoy more than just the hotel’s amenities.
3. Dining and Bars
Even without a casino, Showboat still offers a variety of dining options, ensuring that guests can enjoy good food and drinks during their stay. There are several restaurants and bars on the property, providing a diverse selection of cuisines, from casual bites to more formal dining experiences. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar, relax with a meal, and socialize without the pressure of casino gaming.
4. The Beach and Boardwalk
One of the most attractive aspects of staying at Showboat is its proximity to the beach and boardwalk. Just steps from the hotel, you’ll find the Atlantic City boardwalk, a historic and bustling area filled with shops, attractions, and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you prefer relaxing on the beach, taking a leisurely stroll, or enjoying the sights and sounds of the boardwalk, it offers plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation.
5. Entertainment Events and Concerts
Though the Showboat may no longer host a casino, it continues to offer a range of entertainment events and concerts throughout the year. The hotel is home to several event spaces that regularly feature performances, including live music, comedy shows, and special events. These performances help keep the energy high and provide visitors with entertainment options beyond traditional gambling.
Are There Casinos Nearby?
Even though the Showboat does not have its own casino, visitors can still enjoy a wide variety of gambling options at nearby casinos in Atlantic City. Atlantic City is known for its numerous casinos, and many of them are just a short walk or drive away from the Showboat Hotel.
For those seeking a traditional casino experience, some of the nearest casinos include
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Tropicana Atlantic City Located a short distance from Showboat, the Tropicana offers an extensive casino floor with a variety of slot machines and table games.
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Caesars Atlantic City A luxurious casino resort that features a vast gaming area and various dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
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Bally’s Atlantic City Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Bally’s is another popular casino located near Showboat.
These nearby casinos provide plenty of options for those who want to enjoy traditional gaming while still staying at the Showboat.
What Makes Showboat Unique?
While the absence of a casino may initially seem like a setback for the Showboat, the resort’s unique offerings make it stand out in its own way. The hotel has successfully shifted its focus to entertainment, family activities, and its beautiful location near the Atlantic Ocean. This transformation has allowed the Showboat to remain a relevant and popular destination for both families and individuals seeking a fun, relaxed experience without the distractions of gambling.
Additionally, the Showboat’s location makes it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a beach vacation while still being close to the excitement of Atlantic City’s boardwalk and entertainment venues.
Conclusion
the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City does not currently have a casino. However, this has not stopped the resort from offering an array of exciting entertainment options. From its connection to the Playground Pier to its proximity to the beach and boardwalk, the Showboat provides an exciting and unique vacation experience. While you can’t gamble at the hotel itself, there are plenty of casinos nearby to satisfy your gaming desires. Showboat has successfully reinvented itself as a family-friendly destination with plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, ensuring that guests still have a memorable stay.