Best Hotels in Atlantic City

Ocean Casino Resort is the best hotel in Atlantic City overall due to its impressive views and classy amenities.

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Ocean Casino Resort

Atlantic City is just a few hours from the New York Metropolitan area by car, yet the dazzling coastal New Jersey town feels like it might as well exist on a different planet. Its many hotels and resorts make it easy to up and plan a trip to the shore, whether you're taking a road trip from Manhattan for a long weekend with friends or planning a party with guests from all across the country. Atlantic City's casinos are, of course, a major draw, but the city's beaches and famous boardwalk provide ample opportunity for distraction when you need a break from the slot machines.

Dozens of hotels and resorts, many featuring live entertainment, are ideally situated for exploration of the energetic New Jersey beach town. Or, stay in and discover a world of deep relaxation and indulgence via stellar spas and mind-boggling dining options. Whether it be "Vegas of the East Coast" vibes or a fun-filled beach vacation, we found the best hotels in Atlantic City, no matter the experience you're after.

Best Hotels in Atlantic City of 2023

Best Overall: Ocean Casino Resort

Ocean Casino Resort

Ocean Casino Resort

Key Specs

  • Free Wifi: Yes
  • Resort Fee: Yes
  • Approximate Room Rates: $89 to $699 per night

Why We Chose It

Guests consistently rave about the consistent cleanliness and impressive oceanfront views at this upscale resort. From the property's casino to the buzzy nightclub to the relaxing spa, there's something for everyone.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Oceanfront options

  • Large assortment of rooms

  • Praised for cleanliness

Cons
  • Can be especially expensive during peak travel dates

Overview

Ocean Casino Resort is an expansive property (1,399 guest rooms and suites) set on 20 beachfront acres on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk.

The resort's food and drink offerings are second to none—especially since Serendipity 3, the beloved New York City sweet shop, set up shop in spring 2022. Online gaming options mean you can soak up the sun while you watch for your winnings from the comfort of your lounge chair.

Notable amenities include pillow-top beds, a business center, and beach towels and umbrellas.

Best Luxury: Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

Borata Pool

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

Key Specs

  • Free Wifi: Yes
  • Resort Fee: Yes
  • Approximate Room Rates: $89 to $159 per night

Why We Chose It

The four-star Italian property (featuring MGM rewards for serious players) has all the Atlantic City trappings: glitz, glamour, and beautifully appointed rooms.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Budget rooms available

  • Praised for customer service

  • Offers rewards and military discounts

Cons
  • Transportation to destinations can get expensive

Overview

Affordable luxury is hard to come by, but Borgata offers just that. Comfortable, spacious rooms have blackout curtains to ensure sound sleeping after some gambling action at the namesake casino.

You'll eat well here, thanks to a Japanese izakaya, an Italian restaurant from James Beard award-winning chef Michael Symon, and an outpost of Old Homestead Steak House, where the martinis are ice-cold and the porterhouses perfectly seared.

Amenities include well-appointed workout facilities and multiple indoor and outdoor pool options.

Best Entertainment: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Architectural Photography Inc

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City

Key Specs

  • Free Wifi: Yes
  • Resort Fee: Yes
  • Approximate Room Rates: $79 to $350 per night

Why We Chose It

World-class entertainment, rock-and-roll thematic touches, and an incredibly passionate staff make this Atlantic City Hard Rock property the place to be (and be seen, if that's your thing).

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Oceanfront options

  • Walking distance to Atlantic City Steel Pier

  • Offers discounts for AAA members, military, veterans, and more

Cons
  • Some guests disappointed in cleanliness and restaurant quality

Overview

Opened in June 2018, this relative newcomer takes its musical roots seriously. In addition to the entertainment theme running throughout the property, just off-site is the Atlantic City Steel Pier, a sprawling amusement park on a pier right off the boardwalk.

Many rooms have ocean views, and all guests should make a point to satisfy their sweet tooth cravings at Sugar Factory, the on-site dessert venue. Notable amenities include pillow-top mattresses, accessibility features, and electric vehicle charging.

Best for Adults: The Water Club

The Water Club Massage Room

The Water Club

Key Specs

  • Free Wifi: Yes
  • Resort Fee: Yes
  • Approximate Room Rates: $89 to $689 per night

Why We Chose It

Distinct from its sister property, Borgata, The Water Club's 800 rooms come with direct access to an array of amenities, including five heated indoor and outdoor pools and tempting retail offerings including Hugo Boss and Capri.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Oceanfront options

  • Luxury bedding, bath, and design

  • Offers rewards and military discounts

Cons
  • Can be especially expensive during peak travel dates

Overview

Exuding sophistication and boasting luxurious touches via bed linens, spa-like showers, and richly-textured wood furniture, The Water Club is the premier spot for luxury seekers.

A stay here should include a visit to Immersion, the two-story spa offering everything from ayurvedic therapies to body wraps, after which you can head out on the town feeling fresh.

All rooms have views of the shimmery water on the horizon, and guests can take a dip in the five on-site pools. Adults-only pools, a shuttle bus service around Atlantic City, and a helpful concierge are some of the amenities guests can enjoy.

Best for Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties: Harrah's

Harrah's Atlanic City

Harrah's Atlanic City

Key Specs

  • Free Wifi: Yes
  • Resort Fee: Yes
  • Approximate Room Rates: $69 to $799 per night

Why We Chose It

This pet-friendly property, featuring stellar service, is ideally situated in the Marina District, slightly removed from the chaos at the center.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Bay view options

  • Large assortment of rooms

  • Year-round pool and nightlife on site

Cons
  • Must travel to reach the beach

  • Some guests disappointed with customer service

Overview

Boasting a whopping 2,590 guest rooms, Harrah's is a massive resort. But one of the property's biggest attractions is its gorgeous pool. It's covered by a glass domed ceiling, so guests can enjoy this top amenity year-round.

Dinner at Gordon Ramsay Steak is a worthwhile option, though McCormick and Schmick's will no doubt appeal to seafood lovers. And if it's on-site nightlife you're after, rest assured Harrah's twice-weekly nightclub (by the pool) gets going with the help of an energetic DJ and guests who remembered their dancing shoes.

Guests will love flat-screen TVs, blackout curtains, and a spacious workout area.

Best on the Beach: Tropicana

Tropicana Room

Tropicana Atlantic City

Key Specs

  • Free Wifi: Yes
  • Resort Fee: Yes
  • Approximate Room Rates: $59 to $639 per night

Why We Chose It

If easy beach access is a priority, then Tropicana's three-minute walk is surely a selling point. But the full-service resort and casino have plenty of on-site offerings to keep travelers occupied and entertained for the duration of their stay.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Easy beach access

  • Multiple dining options

  • Full-service spa

Cons
  • Guests were disappointed in room availability upon arrival

Overview

A favorite among couples, Tropicana Resort & Casino is a part of Caesars Entertainment Group. As such, the resort is noticeably well-managed and attentive to details.

Seasonal beach service offers guests the option to hang out on the sand for a change of pace after lounging by the pool. Four different room towers are linked via Skybridge, making it easy to access the plethora of dining options spread throughout the expansive property.

Fortunately, there's also room service at this entertaining property if you'd rather stay in. Guests can enjoy self-check-in, an IMAX movie theater, four indoor and outdoor pools, and a full-service spa.

Best for Families: Club Wyndham Skyline Tower

Club Wyndham Skyline Tower

Club Wyndham Skyline Tower

Key Specs

  • Free Wifi: Yes
  • Resort Fee: No
  • Approximate Room Rates: Varied; guests must contact for available rates

Why We Chose It

Featuring one, two, three, and four-bedroom resort suites, complete with kitchen facilities and room for families to spread out, Club Wyndham comfortably hosts guests looking to take advantage of some of Atlantic City's best attractions.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Spacious rooms for families

  • On-site fitness center, pools, hot tubs, and sauna

  • Game room for kids

Cons
  • Room rates are not easily accessible for any selection of dates

  • Several blocks from the beach

Overview

When family fun is the impetus for the Atlantic City getaway, Club Wyndham is the ultimate option. This property is a smoke-free facility attracting families, couples, and groups.

Daily housekeeping is not included, but the resort's comfortable set-up and welcoming vibe certainly make up for any generic resort details. Notable amenities include a fitness center, indoor and outdoor hot tubs and pools, sauna, and a game room.

Best Off-Property: Seaview, a Dolce Hotel

Seaview a Dolce Hotel

Seaview a Dolce Hotel

Key Specs

  • Free Wifi: Yes
  • Resort Fee: Yes
  • Approximate Room Rates: $169 to $369 per night

Why We Chose It

This quietly luxurious hotel carefully balances historic seaside charm with modern appeal.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Historic boutique resort

  • Close proximity to Atlantic City entertainment

  • Award-winning dining

Cons
  • Guests noted that rooms can be too cold during winter

Overview

Discerning travelers will be hard-pressed to find the flaws in this iconic New Jersey property, which is set on 670 acres just outside of Atlantic City.

The boutique property with 296 guest rooms still manages to feel intimate. It has hosted pro golfers and celebrities, including Grace Kelly and Mick Jagger, throughout the years, so you know it's going to deliver an elevated experience.

Serene rooms, inviting common spaces, and award-winning dining are just a few of the things Seaview has going for it. Amenities include BABOR bath products, luxurious bedding by Revive, and a 55-inch flat-screen HDTV.

Best on the Boardwalk: The Claridge

Vue Rooftop Bar Sunset

The Claridge

Key Specs

  • Free Wifi: Yes
  • Resort Fee: Yes
  • Approximate Room Rates: $59 to $499 per night

Why We Chose It

Unique touches are apparent throughout the property, and the thoughtfully decorated rooms are anything but unoriginal.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Oceanfront options

  • Transportation to popular nearby destinations


  • Walking distance to Atlantic City Boardwalk

Cons
  • Guests were disappointed in hotel cleanliness and staffing issues

Overview

An Atlantic City institution, The Claridge's 480 rooms have recently been renovated, and many offer stellar ocean views. This is the kind of property that prides itself on its full-service capabilities.

From transportation around town to on-site shopping, a nice-sized fitness facility, and multiple food and drink venues, The Claridge is one of Atlantic City's most popular hotels. Its Manhattanesque design is eye-catching, and its proximity to the boardwalk is unrivaled, but it's the accommodating staff that really put the icing on the cake.

Guests will love the arcade/game room, bike rental, and art gallery.

Most Inclusive: Resorts Casino

Resorts Casino

Resorts Casino

Key Specs

  • Free Wifi: Yes
  • Resort Fee: Yes
  • Approximate Room Rates: $69 to $649 per night

Why We Chose It

It doesn't get much more classic than the beach-adjacent Resorts Casino if you've come to Atlantic City for a regular, good time.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Oceanfront options

  • LGBTQIA+ friendly since historic beginnings

  • On-site casino and close proximity to Atlantic City Steel Pier

Cons
  • Guests were disappointed in hotel cleanliness

Overview

Atlantic City's first gay nightclub was once a Resorts Casino claim to fame, and although it is no longer open, the retro hotel continues to be one of the most welcoming LGBTQIA+ resorts around.

In addition to the warm, inviting allure of the classic Atlantic City hotel, there are Art Deco design touches, a partially-covered outdoor pool (useful in inclement weather), and history within the walls. (In fact, it's the first casino hotel inside of Atlantic City, and notably also the first legal casino outside of Nevada.) Now, that's a recipe for a rollicking Atlantic City stay!

Amenities include screening rooms, a Margaritaville pool bar, a spa, and fitness center.

Final Verdict

Ocean Casino Resort is our best overall pick for hotels in Atlantic City thanks to its stellar views, upscale finishes, on-site casino and nightclub, and relaxation spa. While this option can be more expensive than others (especially during peak travel dates), it offers a large range of room selections to fit a variety of budgets. Ocean Casino Resort has reliable customer service, quality, and entertainment options that make it a great choice for families, friends, and couples alike.

Guide to Choosing an Atlantic City Hotel

Although a year-round destination, Atlantic City is especially pleasing in the summer when visitors take to the beach and outdoor pools when a break from the tables is needed. Aimless boardwalk wandering is all but mandatory, as is partaking in some of the classic boardwalk beach eats like fried oysters and ice cream.

To choose the best Atlantic City Hotel for your stay, consider the attractions you'd like to visit and their proximity to various hotels. If you're planning a family beach trip, oceanfront options or hotels within a short walking distance can help you avoid busy parking lots and additional fees. On the other hand, if you're interested in entertainment, nightlife, and casinos, you can opt to book a hotel with these perks on-site.

Compare the Best Hotels in Atlantic City

Hotel Free Wifi Resort Fee Room Rate Selection
Ocean Casino Resort Best Overall Yes Yes $89 to $699 per night
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa Best Luxury No Yes $89 to $159 per night
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City Best Entertainment Yes Yes $79 to $350 per night
The Water Club Best for Adults No Yes $89 to $689 per night
Harrah's Best for Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties Yes Yes $69 to $799 per night
Tropicana Best on the Beach Yes Yes $59 to $639 per night
Club Wyndham Skyline Tower Best for Families Yes No Varied; guests must contact for available rates
Seaview, a Dolce Hotel Best Off-Property Yes Yes $169 to $369 per night
The Claridge Best on the Boardwalk Yes Yes $59 to $499 per night
Resorts Casino Most Inclusive Yes Yes $69 to $649 per night

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Do Rich People Stay in Atlantic City?

Atlantic City has a large selection of luxury hotels for guests to choose from. Seaview, a Dolce Hotel, has been known to host celebrities and professional athletes. Other high-end options include Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Ocean Casino Resort, The Water Club, and more.

What Is the Safest Part of Atlantic City?

The Atlantic City Boardwalk is generally known as a family-friendly area with plenty of security for guests to enjoy a safe trip.

What Is the Best Part of Atlantic City?

Atlantic City has plenty to offer: Many guests enjoy popular attractions including the Boardwalk, the Steel Pier amusement park, city tours, and sightseeing, casinos like Caesars and the Borgata, shopping at the city's outlet malls, historic sites, and more.

What Is the Best Month to Go to Atlantic City?

Atlantic City is commonly visited during the spring and summer months. If you'd like to visit during the peak season with plenty of visitors and added entertainment, opt for a late summer trip between June and August. For a more relaxed vacation, book a spring trip between March and May.

How Much Money Do You Need for Atlantic City?

Your budget for a trip to Atlantic City depends on the entertainment destinations you'd like to visit. Families visiting with children may budget about $50 to $100 per day for tickets to amusement parks and other attractions, while those visiting for the casinos may budget more. Remember to plan separately for dining, and opt for hotels with a few meals included on-site to save more.

Methodology

We evaluated several dozen Atlantic City hotels before determining which properties to include in our list of places to book for a trip to the glitzy Atlantic beach town. We reviewed both old and new properties, taking into consideration the total package offered by a hotel (e.g. location, staff interaction, décor, notable amenities, pools and common areas, location, nightlife, and more).

We also paid attention to dining options, proximity to casinos, spa offerings, and other unique experiences available to guests looking to maximize their stay. We researched all facets of the properties and read through numerous customer reviews as well.

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