Hotel Review: When you think of Atlantic City you think of New Jersey, which these days make you think of Snooky and the Situation but the situation is quite luxurious at The Water Club at Borgata.
One of the Atlantic City Expressway’s first stops, set back off the ocean and a trolley ride from the boardwalk sits the Water Club, an extension of the Las Vegas style Borgata Hotel and Casino.
Upon arrival, the plush white leather couch that sits beneath the lavish glass chandelier and embedded in shag carpets calls to exhausted gamblers in need of a rest. The calming water accents, solo hanging orchids, and natural light filtering into the lobby from the Sunroom café sets the tone for guests at check-in. Enjoy the ride in the sleek mirrored elevators where leather handles keep you grounded as it zips you to the top floors where the views are quite impressive. To the east in September the Atlantic stirs up hurricane size waves while to the west, New Jersey marshlands embody the same serenity and calm that exudes from the Water Club.
The music, mood, and style certainly take you far from the New Jersey stereotype of young, loud, and overdone. Instead, schedule a massage at Immersion Spa where the vibe is Zen, peaceful, and sophisticated. Perhaps the most delightful and relaxing massage I have had, the experience continues by soaking in the pool size Jacuzzi surrounded in floor to ceiling glass windows. Squeeze in a little exercise in the lap pool or in the state of the art Techno Gym fitness center.
For lunch, enjoy a Mediterranean style chicken sandwich and truffle infused frites while sitting by the tranquil pools transporting you to a Miami Beach boutique hotel.
As the night begins a short walk past a few upscale shops takes you into the heart of the Borgata casino, world-class restaurants, and nightlife. After trying your hand at a blackjack table or betting on black at roulette stop by Wolfgang Puck’s for a world class epicurean experience. With the open air ‘patio’ feel there may be too much to watch to look up, but if you do you will find a design of falling leaves hanging from the ceiling. The bar and dining experience takes you yet again from NJ and into a California style cuisine where the food is top notch. Try the perfectly sized crab cakes and the halibut for a light and satisfying dinner.
Shake it up a little at MurMur nightclub at the Borgata with a private table and of course a bottle (or two) to enjoy. The dancers and crowd create an energetic and euphoric atmosphere.
After a few drinks, another hand or two at gambling it’s only a quick stroll back to the Water Club at Borgata – which is almost like being in the cool kids club in high school. Atlantic City is known for it’s fun and games and the Water Club at Borgata quietly provides the breath of fresh air it needs.
By Cate Harrison Bocchino
