The Atlantic City you think you know is slowing disappearing. Gone are the days where stepping off the Boardwalk meant stepping into a somewhat of a potential “dicey situation”. Atlantic City today has been benefitting from huge investment by major brands to update and upkeep this historic Jersey shore destination. If you are looking for value for your vacation dollar, AC can deliver.

On my last trip , it was my job to explore The Water Club, Aces Train, The Walk and award-winning dining. For the first time in almost 15 years, direct train service from Manhattan has returned. Thanks to a joint partnership between Ceasars, Harrahs and The Borgata, you can step on board this beautiful mode of transportation. It’s called Aces and I loved it. In a trip that takes just over two hours, you’ll discover leather seats, two classes of service (coach and first), plenty of bar/food service, clean and spacious restrooms, and a quiet, comfortable ride. No disrespect to NJ Transit or Amtrak, but this service is exactly what was needed and the execution of service will impress.

Upon my arrival it was time to check in to The Water Club. This brand new hotel is next door to the Borgata and it is what a luxurious accommodation is supposed to be. It was very clear every detail was designed and constructed to create a very unique and tranquil hospitality experience. This is non-gaming hotel with a Spa that will knock your socks off. Spa immersion has all the usual suspects when it comes to spa services, but it’s the setting that will immerse you in relaxed comfort. The Water Club is located on the marina side and not directly on the Boardwalk, but after a day of strolling on the steel pier eating salt water taffy in the summer sun, The Water Club is about a five dollar cab ride away.

Did you know Atlantic City has more to offer your taste buds that just the all-you-can-eat-buffet? OMG, I beg you, please make dining in Atlantic City a part of your next trip. Michael Mina’s Blue Water Grill is one of my favorites. In addition, I always make sure I stop by Bobby Flay’s place when I am in town. On this trip, I had dinner at Buddakan. The diverse mouth-watering options and attentive, sincere service blew me away. Rachel was my server and it was very clear she believed in the menu (and for good reason). Whatever you do, order the Edamame dumplings (as an appetizer), you will thank me. And due to the high number of delicious restaurants in town, AC is hosting their first Restaurant Week. Restaurants by some of the country’s most celebrated personalities in the food world will participate, including Izakaya by Michael Schulson, Stephen Starr’s Buddakan and Continental and Wolfgang Puck American Grille. Other participating establishments include: 6ix A Bistro, Carmine’s, Steve & Cookie’s, Il Mulino, Knife & Fork, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Sonsie, Tepliztky’s, The Palm Restaurant and Wellington’s.

I travel to AC for food, spa, and the boardwalk. BUT shopping here can also be just what the casual buyer or the shopaholic needs. The Pier Shops at Caesars can consume an afternoon. If you are not familiar, AC has also developed The Walk. These are high-end outlet shops that consume block after block providing hundreds of opportunities to find value in our purchases.

Once again, I enjoyed seeing first-hand the rebirth and growth of Atlantic City. It hasn’t always had a diverse product, but today, it does. AC has thousands of hotels rooms to fit any budget or taste. Headlining entertainment, hundreds of gaming options and more dining choices than ever before can all be found in AC. Don’t miss it.

Erik Hastings