BY GAMBLERS, FOR GAMBLERS
Atlantic City’s resurgence begins with the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
By J. Phillip Vogel
It’s no secret that Atlantic City has seen its share of woes. Thanks in part to growing competition from neighboring states, the region has been hit hard in the wallet for over a decade, with dwindling visitation and multiple casino closings in recent years. But that’s all about to change with the opening of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on Thursday, June 28.
Perched on the site formerly housing the Trump Taj Mahal, the new Hard Rock promises to be a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience that goes beyond gambling and features exceptional dining, shopping, bars, lounges, spas and more – not to mention a hallmark of the Hard Rock brand: music.
“We have eight performance stages, so not only will we have something for everyone but something for every mood,” said Todd Moyer, Senior Vice President, Marketing for Hard Rock Atlantic City. “Sometimes you may want to listen to light jazz, or the smooth sounds of Motown. Other times you may be in the mood for country, reggae or rock. But whether you want to relax or crank it up, see an old favorite or discover something new, we’ve got you covered”
Moyer, who has held every marketing position in the industry and for the last 10 years and has been the general manager at two properties in Iowa, most recently the successful Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City, is eager to point out what visitors can expect when they pass through the doors next month. “Excitement – a different vibe at every turn and most importantly an environment that is rewarding and carefree,” Moyer said. “You will be able to find your way around; the property layout is intuitive and easy to navigate. It is a great place to bring your friends or meet new ones.”
And then there’s the casino itself. With its expansive gaming floor boasting over 2,000 of the hottest slots and a sea of table games, elegant design and game positioning, amenities, and highly trained staff, it’s a safe bet that the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will quickly become the premiere gambling destination in NJ – if not on the entire east coast.
To help achieve this goal, they’ve assembled a wealth of talent from numerous gaming jurisdictions, a management team that reads like a who’s-who in the casino industry, with experts and heavy-hitters brought in from across the country to develop a property that will be unlike any other.
It’s over a month until the opening and the excitement in the air is palpable. Locals and gamblers far and wide eagerly await the coming launch, which promises to be fun and exciting, and a major step in the rebuilding of the one-time gambling mecca.
As for Moyer, there’s a bit of personal satisfaction to be had by being involved in the Hard Rock’s creation. “I started my career in the gaming industry, humbly at the bottom as a tuxedo-clad greeter at the grand opening of Trump Taj Mahal. To be able to return to Atlantic City, my ‘hometown’, and be part of this new resurgence is truly a dream realized”
THE SLOTS HAVE ARRIVED
Months before the big day, Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City welcomed the arrival of their slot machines with the installation of models exclusive to the casino. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City’s slot machines will be the cornerstone of the casino’s highly anticipated gaming experience, as the grand opening approaches.
“The casino floor is coming to life with the installation of our all new themed slot machines. We’re excited to be raising the bar with exclusive amenities, technology and slot themes for our customers to enjoy,” stated Vice President of Slot Operations, Dave Polizzi.
A sample of the wide selection of the hottest slot machines installed include:
IGT: The Voice, Harley Davidson, $1, $5, $25 & $100 Wheel of Fortune, Wheel of Fortune MEGA Tower and Double Top Dollar, Fort Knox
Bally: Michael Jackson, Johnny Cash, Elvis, Lord of the Rings, Ultimate Fire Link, Monopoly Money, Seinfeld, WillyWonka, 88 Fortunes, Dancing Drums and Lock It Link
Aristocrat: Lightning Link, 5 Dragons, My Cousin Vinnie, Walking Dead, Buffalo Grand, Game of Thrones, RELM XL, Dragon Link
And with more than 2,000 slots expected to grace the floor, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There are also a host of exclusive slot offerings that include games that deliver the highest pay-out offered by manufacturer – 98%! They have also set an impressive goal of paying jackpots in five minutes!
There’s no doubt that Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will be the new go-to destination for world-class entertainment, rock star service and their signature legendary vibe.The music-inspired hotel will feature dynamic culinary experiences, superstar performances, sporting events, a beach bar and a spectacular casino packed with the latest slots and exciting table games.
The entertainment lineup set to kick off this summer includes incredible headline performances such as Maroon 5, Amy Schumer and Friends, Florida Georgia Line, Kid Rock plus over 300 nights of entertainment booked for the new casino resort.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City online room reservations are live; visit wwwhardrockhotel.com or call 609.449.1000. Hotel Guests can book now to experience music inspired offerings such as The Sound of Your Stay program.