When people think of Atlantic City, the images that often come to mind are the bustling boardwalk, bright neon lights, and the unmistakable excitement of casino floors. But tucked away in the city’s Marina District is one of Atlantic City’s most distinctive destinations: Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City. More than just a casino, Harrah’s has built a reputation as a self-contained entertainment hub where you can gamble, relax, party, dine, and stay in style—all under one roof.

This article takes you through everything you need to know about Harrah’s: its history, casino offerings, accommodations, dining options, entertainment, and what makes it stand out compared to other Atlantic City resorts.

A Brief History

Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City opened its doors in 1980, marking a major step in transforming the Marina District into a gaming destination. At the time, most of Atlantic City’s casinos were clustered along the iconic Boardwalk. Harrah’s, however, set its sights away from the crowds, building a property that would anchor an entirely new district.

Over the decades, Harrah’s has expanded significantly, including multiple hotel towers, a vast casino floor, and its famous glass-domed pool complex. Today, the resort remains one of the largest hotels in New Jersey, with nearly 2,600 rooms and suites spread across several towers.

The Casino Floor

Of course, no visit to Harrah’s is complete without experiencing its massive casino. Covering roughly 160,000 square feet, it is among the largest gaming spaces in Atlantic City.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Table Games: Blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat, and poker variations are all available. Dealers are known for being friendly and approachable, which makes the gaming floor accessible even to beginners.

• Slot Machines: With over 2,000 slot machines, ranging from penny slots to high-limit options, there’s something for every style of player.

• Poker Room: Harrah’s features a dedicated poker room that attracts both casual players and seasoned pros. It frequently hosts tournaments and is considered one of the better poker venues in the city.

• Sportsbook: Thanks to the legalization of sports betting in New Jersey, Harrah’s now offers a modern sportsbook lounge where guests can bet on football, basketball, baseball, and more in a comfortable setting.

Accommodations

Harrah’s is massive, and it shows in the variety of accommodations it offers. The resort has multiple hotel towers, each with its own style and price point.

• Waterfront Tower: Sleek, modern, and featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the bay. This is the most contemporary of Harrah’s lodging options.

• Bayview Tower: A luxurious choice with spacious rooms and a touch of elegance.

• Marina and Harbour Towers: Older but recently renovated, offering good value without sacrificing comfort.

All rooms come equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and plush bedding. For those looking to splurge, Harrah’s also offers suites with separate living areas, wet bars, and whirlpool tubs.

Dining Options

One of the strengths of Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City is its dining scene. From casual bites to fine dining, the resort covers all the bases.

• Martorano’s: An upscale Italian-American restaurant famous for meatballs and hearty pastas, created by celebrity chef Steve Martorano.

• Gordon Ramsay Steak: A stylish steakhouse where you’ll find prime cuts, seafood, and signature Ramsay dishes.

• Coastal Craft Kitchen & Bar: A relaxed atmosphere perfect for brunch or casual dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

• Food Court Options: Including quick bites like burgers, sandwiches, and pizza for guests on the go.

Whether you’re after a celebratory dinner or just a late-night snack, Harrah’s makes sure you’re covered.

Entertainment and Nightlife

One of Harrah’s biggest draws is its nightlife. In fact, the resort is famous for hosting one of Atlantic City’s most legendary party spots: The Pool After Dark.

• The Pool After Dark: By day, Harrah’s glass-domed pool is a tropical oasis with palm trees and heated water. By night, it transforms into a nightclub, complete with DJs, light shows, and bottle service. It’s one of the hottest nightlife experiences in the city, attracting celebrities and partygoers alike.

• Concerts and Shows: Harrah’s also hosts live performances, comedy acts, and seasonal entertainment in its theaters and lounges.

Relaxation and Amenities

For guests who want to balance gaming and partying with relaxation, Harrah’s offers plenty of options:

• The Spa at Harrah’s: A full-service spa with massages, facials, and wellness treatments.

• Fitness Center: A modern gym available to all guests.

• Shopping: Several boutique stores offering everything from clothing and jewelry to souvenirs.

• Pools: In addition to The Pool After Dark, there are family-friendly pools and adult-only areas.

Meetings and Events

Harrah’s isn’t just for leisure—it’s also one of Atlantic City’s top destinations for conventions and events. The Waterfront Conference Center boasts over 100,000 square feet of meeting space, making it one of the largest in the region. This makes Harrah’s popular for corporate events, weddings, and large-scale gatherings.

Why Choose Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City?

There are plenty of casino hotels in Atlantic City, but Harrah’s has carved out its own identity by offering something for everyone:

• It’s family-friendly during the day with pools and casual dining.

• It transforms into a party hotspot at night with The Pool After Dark.

• It provides a diverse casino experience, appealing to both casual gamblers and serious players.

• Its location in the Marina District gives it a quieter vibe compared to the Boardwalk resorts, while still being just a short ride away from the action.

Tips for Visiting

• Weekdays are cheaper: If you want the best rates, consider staying midweek instead of weekends.

• Plan ahead for nightlife: The Pool After Dark is popular—reservations for tables or VIP service are recommended.

• Join Caesars Rewards: As Harrah’s is part of the Caesars Entertainment group, signing up for their rewards program can earn you discounts, comps, and perks across multiple properties.

• Use the shuttle or rideshare: Since Harrah’s is located in the Marina District, it’s not on the Boardwalk. Budget for transport if you want to explore other casinos downtown.

Final Thoughts

Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City is a true all-in-one destination. With its sprawling casino, diverse dining, buzzing nightlife, and comfortable accommodations, it stands as one of the city’s most versatile resorts. Whether you’re there to gamble, party, relax, or attend a business event, Harrah’s delivers an experience that feels both grand and approachable.

For anyone planning a trip to Atlantic City, Harrah’s should be high on your list—especially if you’re looking for a resort that can shift effortlessly from relaxation to high-energy entertainment.