Spotlight on Atlantic City

The spotlight was on Atlantic City last night (July 21) as tourism officials visited Toronto to showcase all that’s happening in the “entertainment capital of the east coast.”

Heather Colache, sales manager of Meet AC (Atlantic City Convention & Group Sales) spoke with PressToday and shared the news that US$300 million is being invested into the city, known for its beaches, boardwalk and casinos. Upcoming projects – all within the next three years – include three new hotels, two with casinos and one a “family friendly” casino-free hotel with a water park.

Phase one of The Playground, a US$50-million renovation project of the former Pier Shops at Caesars, is already open with future plans to include a permanent stage and pool on the beach. Also on the way is a new US$14 million observation wheel being built on the beach by Steel Pier and expected to open next spring.

“There’s tons of things going on,” said Colache. “Atlantic City is the best value on the east coast for fun and entertainment. That’s what we’re all about. We’re easy to get to, safe and clean.”

She noted that news of Atlantic City’s demise due to Hurricane Sandy, about 1.5 years ago, was greatly exaggerated and that all is well in the holiday destination.

Access to Atlantic City is also easy with Air Canada offering seasonal summer service, four times weekly, through Sept. 7. Flight time from Toronto is only one hour, 20 minutes.

Pictured at the Toronto event are (l-r) Dave Szukics, Resorts Casino Hotel, Colache and John Happersett, Tropicana Atlantic City.