Rising above the vibrant skyline of Atlantic City, New Jersey, the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa stands as a beacon of luxury and excitement on the East Coast. Opened in 2003, this gleaming 43-story tower in the Marina District has redefined the city’s gambling scene, blending Las Vegas-style opulence with a distinctly modern flair. Operated by MGM Resorts International, Borgata spans 2.8 million square feet, making it the largest hotel in New Jersey with 2,798 rooms and one of the most profitable casinos in Atlantic City. Its prime location, just a short drive from Philadelphia and New York City, draws over 5 million visitors annually, lured by its expansive casino floor, upscale accommodations, and world-class spa. Unlike the boardwalk-centric casinos of old Atlantic City, Borgata’s sleek design and comprehensive amenities cater to a sophisticated clientele, offering a respite from the salty air with its indoor-centric luxury. Whether you’re rolling dice, dining at a celebrity chef’s restaurant, or unwinding in the spa, Borgata promises an elevated escape in America’s Playground.
History and Development of Borgata
The Borgata’s story begins with a bold vision to revitalize Atlantic City, a once-thriving resort town struggling by the late 20th century. Launched on July 3, 2003, as a joint venture between Boyd Gaming and MGM Mirage (now MGM Resorts), it was the first new casino in the city in over a decade, costing $1.1 billion to build. Its debut marked a turning point, introducing a 161,000-square-foot casino floor and a towering hotel that dwarfed competitors. The name “Borgata,” Italian for “village,” nods to its self-contained ecosystem of gaming, dining, and entertainment. Early success saw it capture 70% of its revenue from gambling, quickly outpacing rivals and cementing its status as Atlantic City’s top earner. Expansions followed, including the 2006 Water Club tower, adding 800 rooms and a second spa, and ongoing renovations to keep pace with modern tastes. Today, Borgata thrives as a symbol of renewal, blending its Italian-inspired roots with cutting-edge luxury, a testament to its adaptability in a competitive market.
Key Milestones in Borgata’s History
- 2003: Opens as Atlantic City’s first new casino in 13 years.
- 2006: Water Club tower adds luxury rooms and spa.
- 2016: MGM acquires full ownership from Boyd Gaming.
- 2018: Launches online gaming platform in New Jersey.
- 2023: Celebrates 20 years with major renovations.
Gaming and Entertainment Offerings
Borgata’s casino floor is a gambler’s dream, spanning 161,000 square feet with over 3,000 slot machines and 180 table games. Slots account for 65% of the gaming space, offering everything from penny spins to high-limit jackpots, while tables like blackjack, poker, and baccarat draw crowds—VIPs contribute 30% of gaming revenue. The poker room, one of the largest on the East Coast, hosts high-profile tournaments like the Borgata Poker Open, attracting pros and amateurs alike. Beyond gambling, entertainment shines with the 2,400-seat Event Center, hosting icons like Tony Bennett and cutting-edge DJs at Premier Nightclub, a pulsating hotspot with a $14 million design. The Music Box theater offers comedy and smaller acts, while seasonal outdoor concerts at The Lawn add a summery vibe. Shopping at The Street’s boutique stores and the indulgent Spa Toccare or Immersion Spa elevate the experience, ensuring Borgata appeals to thrill-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions at Borgata
- Main Casino Floor – Vast gaming with slots and tables.
- Borgata Poker Room – East Coast’s premier poker hub.
- Premier Nightclub – High-energy nightlife with top DJs.
- Event Center – Concerts and live performances.
- Spa Toccare – Luxury wellness and relaxation.
Gaming Options Table
| Game Type | Description | Popularity |
|---|---|---|
| Slot Machines | 3,000+ machines, diverse stakes | Very High |
| Blackjack | Multiple tables, classic rules | High |
| Poker | Tournaments and cash games | Very High |
| Roulette | American style, various limits | Moderate |
| Baccarat | High-stakes favorite | High (VIPs) |
Accommodations and Dining Experiences
Borgata’s accommodations are a cut above, with 2,798 rooms split between the main tower and the Water Club. The main tower offers Classic Rooms with marble bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows, while suites like the Opus boast 1,500 square feet of decadence. The Water Club, a boutique-style extension, provides a serene escape with its glass-walled rooms and proximity to the Immersion Spa. Dining is a highlight, with over 15 restaurants led by celebrity chefs. Wolfgang Puck American Grille serves upscale comfort food, Bobby Flay Steak delivers prime cuts, and Izakaya by Michael Schulson offers modern Japanese flair. Casual options like The Metropolitan café and Bread + Butter deli cater to quick bites, while 70% of visitors—many tourists—savor the variety. The culinary scene reflects Borgata’s luxury ethos, pairing Atlantic City’s seafood bounty with global flavors in a sleek, modern setting.
Popular Room Types
- Classic Room: Stylish, 460 sq ft, main tower.
- Opus Suite: Spacious, 1,500 sq ft, luxury perks.
- Water Club Room: Tranquil, 510 sq ft, spa access.
- Vista Suite: Panoramic views, 1,000 sq ft.
Dining Highlights Table
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range | Ambiance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wolfgang Puck Grille | American | Upscale | |
| Bobby Flay Steak | Steakhouse | Bold | |
| Izakaya | Japanese | $$ $ | Modern |
| The Metropolitan | Café/Bistro | $$ | Relaxed |
Getting There and Practical Tips
Borgata’s location in Atlantic City’s Marina District is easily accessible, a 2.5-hour drive from New York City or 1 hour from Philadelphia via the Atlantic City Expressway. NJ Transit trains from Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station stop at Atlantic City Rail Terminal, with a quick taxi or shuttle to Borgata, while Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is just 15 minutes away. On-site, parking is ample with valet options, and the casino operates 24/7. Visitors should dress smart-casual for gaming areas (no beachwear), book rooms early for summer or event weekends, and join the Borgata Rewards program for perks. Weather ranges from hot summers (75°F–85°F) to chilly winters (25°F–40°F), so pack accordingly. With its polished vibe, Borgata suits those seeking a refined Atlantic City experience over the boardwalk’s bustle.
Travel Options
- By Car: 2.5 hours from NYC via Garden State Parkway.
- By Train: NJ Transit from Philadelphia, then shuttle.
- By Air: ACY airport, 15-minute drive.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa is Atlantic City’s crown jewel, a testament to luxury, gaming, and reinvention since its 2003 debut. Its 161,000-square-foot casino, lavish rooms, and celebrity-driven dining redefine the city’s reputation, drawing over 5 million visitors yearly—70% tourists—with its sophisticated allure. From the poker room’s intensity to Premier Nightclub’s beats and Spa Toccare’s serenity, Borgata offers a complete escape, balancing high-stakes thrills with high-end relaxation. As the top revenue generator in Atlantic City, it proves that modern elegance can thrive amid a historic gambling hub. Whether you’re a gambler chasing a jackpot or a traveler seeking indulgence, Borgata delivers an experience that’s both bold and refined, securing its place as a standout in America’s gaming landscape.