“Boardwalk Empire“, the new 1920’s prohibition era mini-series premieres on HBO Sunday Sept 19th. Set in Atlantic City, the new series is poised to bring HBO its next big hit, and also put a different spotlight on this cities Jersey shores. The local tourism authorities are ready to reap the rewards, and also offer them up as well.
More than 50 local restaurants and bars will celebrate the 1920s theme by offering “Prohibition Prix Fixe” menus and “Prohibition Cocktails” from Thursday September 16 through Thursday September 30. Certain 1920’s themed menu items will be priced accordingly at $19.20 per person. Canadian Club Whisky, a top choice of rum runners during Prohibition, is just one of many specialty cocktails that will be presented. Also playing up the 1920s theme, Caesars Atlantic City is offering 1,920 rooms at the rate of $19.20 per night.
Casinos are still the biggest draw for this beach resort city, with three separate Trump properties, the famed Harrah’s and Caesars, and the recently opened lavish Borgata. So what else can a non-gaming visitor expect? Below are five must “C” reasons beyond casinos.
Five Must “C’s
- Clubs – the city has a long history of bringing in some of the biggest touring musical acts, and the splashiest showbiz performances. The past has seen the Beatles and Rolling Stones, while the present sees Lady Gaga and top name DJ’s. As for clubs, the list includes MurMur at Bogata, Casbah at the Taj Mahal, and Jay Z’s 40/40 Club. Also, the Foundation Room at the Showboat House of Blues has started opening their doors to non-members on certain nights. Definitely worth a visit to this lounge and restaurant in a somewhat museum like environ, home to some of the largest African and Indian art collections in the United States.
- Cuisine – beyond the typical Hooters or Hard Rock Café fare, and fast food fixes along the boardwalk, some top name celebrity chefs have opened properties here offering a wide array of dining opportunities a various price points. There are also some great local eateries known for their affordable booze and bites. As well, each casino has a plethora of dining options.
- Cycling – most wouldn’t think of Atlantic City as a place to go cycling, although one of the favourite pastimes of both locals and visitors is to ride along the boardwalk during the times allowed for bikes. Recommended to head out of town toward Ventnor with less people and a chance to view Lucy the Elephant, a somewhat odd large sculpture standing alongside the road that visitors can crawl up into.
- Clothing – brand name designers have taken up residence here recently, especially within “The Walk” outlet area of town. The other shopping area is “The Pier” with many restaurants and shops. Each of the casino properties also has their own collection of boutiques.
- Chelsea Hotel – this is the first non-gaming hotel built in the city in over 40 years. The bohemian look of the lobby provides the backdrop for this casually upscale property. It’s divided into the “Lux” and “Annex” towers, and there are two great dining facilities onsite, the casual “Teplitzky’s” diner and the 1940’s super club themed “Prime”, where ocean view dining can be found. The 5th Floor C5 lounge and the adjoining Cabana Club pool deck is one of the city’s hottest weekend destinations for the trendy set. There’s also a saltwater inspired spa, a fitness centre, complimentary bike use, and a pristine beach with the only full beach service on the boardwalk.
There’s definitely more to Atlantic City than casinos and carnival-like atmosphere, and now with faux prohibition back again, it’s the perfect time to go “C” for yourself!
More Info:
For more information on menus and promotion dates for participating restaurants, visit www.atlanticcitynj.com/bwempire_dining.aspx.
For additional information about Atlantic City, call 888-228-4748 or visit www.atlanticcitynj.com.
Boardwalk Empire – http://www.hbocanada.com/boardwalkempire/about.php
The Chelsea – www.thechelsea-ac.com
The Walk – www.acoutlets.com
The Pier – www.thepiershopsatcaesars.com