Atlantic City Hotel Completes $55 Million Facelift, Strengthening Its Position in the Gambling Mecca

The Borgata’s Water Club hotel, part of the iconic Borgata casino complex in Atlantic City, New Jersey, has officially completed its $55 million transformation and rebranding as the MGM Tower. This upgrade marks the latest in a series of major investments aimed at enhancing Atlantic City’s status as a premier destination for both gambling and luxury accommodations.

The completion of this ambitious project comes just as the Borgata approaches its 20th anniversary. More than 700 rooms in the Water Club were revamped as part of the rebranding, with the addition of luxury “vista suites” featuring stunning wraparound views of the Atlantic City skyline. The redesign draws inspiration from the marina, incorporating nautical design elements with neutral and blue tones, deep wood finishes, and sophisticated coastal vibes.

East-facing rooms now offer floor-to-ceiling windows for breathtaking views of the Atlantic sunrise, while west-facing rooms highlight marshland vistas, adding a serene touch to the guest experience. The MGM Tower also includes a newly introduced 9,000-square-foot event space on the 32nd floor, replacing the former Immersion Spa.

A Major Investment in Challenging Times

This renovation arrives at a time when the national hotel occupancy rate is nearing pre-pandemic levels at 63%, according to STR, a division of CoStar Group. Despite economic concerns, including high interest rates and a slowing real estate market, MGM Resorts’ commitment to reinvestment underscores its confidence in Atlantic City’s long-term potential.

As Corey Sanders, MGM Resorts’ Chief Operating Officer, noted, “Introducing the MGM Tower connects Borgata with the unparalleled entertainment and resort experiences MGM Resorts is recognized for worldwide. We believe this significant reinvestment will drive visitation to Atlantic City well into the future.”

Enhancing the Atlantic City Experience

The Borgata, located off the Boardwalk in Atlantic City’s Marina District, already boasts its own 43-story hotel with nearly 2,000 rooms. The adjacent MGM Tower, with its 43 stories and 757 guest rooms, has long been a fixture of the Atlantic City skyline. The recent renovation aligns the property with other high-profile improvements in the area, including Showboat Resort’s $50 million upgrades and Caesars Entertainment’s $400 million revamp of three local properties.

The Borgata remains the leader in in-person gambling revenue in Atlantic City, posting $58.4 million in revenue this January, a 21% increase over the previous year. With the completion of the MGM Tower’s redesign, Borgata aims to strengthen its appeal to both leisure travelers and business groups. The tower’s 27,000 square feet of meeting and event space, along with its indoor and outdoor pools, high-end boutiques, and proximity to entertainment and nightlife, ensure a top-tier experience for guests.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Atlantic City

As the MGM Tower opens its doors to guests, the future of Atlantic City’s hospitality industry looks bright. With major investments continuing to flow into the city, Atlantic City is positioning itself for long-term growth and renewed visitor interest.

“As we approach the resort’s 20th anniversary, we are more committed than ever to remaining a leader in hospitality and entertainment by continuing to evolve the Borgata experience,” said Travis Lunn, Borgata’s president and chief operating officer.

The MGM Tower’s completion is a testament to Atlantic City’s resilience and its commitment to delivering world-class experiences to visitors from around the globe.

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