Best Casino Hotels in Atlantic City

Although it's not a beachfront hotel, travelers find that the luxurious Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa surpasses its neighbors – aside from its own sister The Water Club – in comfort and quality. Visitors describe the guest room decor as elegant, the amenities as deluxe and the beds as incredibly cozy. But you don't come here to hide in a guest room: Instead, get out and indulge at one of the numerous on-site restaurants (with menus crafted by acclaimed chefs like Wolfgang Puck and Bobby Flay), socialize at one of two in-house nightclubs or test Lady Luck at the 161,000-square-foot Borgata Casino. If you prefer a more relaxing getaway, spend the day being pampered at Spa Toccare. Recent guests rave about the Borgata's facilities and praise the fantastic customer service.

An East Coast offshoot of the Las Vegas classic, Caesars Atlantic City has become a landmark in its Atlantic City, New Jersey home. With towering columns aspiring to the aesthetic heights of ancient Rome, this immense casino hotel offers tempting diversions. The hotel's theme carries through to the tranquil QUA Baths and Spa; however, some visitors felt that while the guest rooms were impeccably clean, they were also a bit on the plain side. On the other hand, Caesars' on-site facilities (including the popular Playground at Caesars, the pool and deck, and the numerous dining venues like the trendy Buddakan at the Playground and Morton's The Steakhouse) earn rave reviews. But let's be honest: The highlight of this property is the expansive casino, which boasts a wide array of table games and slot machines.

Having recently completed the tallest tower on the skyline, Harrah's Resort Atlantic City has been reinventing itself to compete with its neighbors. This Harrah's – which is a member of the Caesars family – also steers clear of the tasteless and tacky decor and amenities that some might associate with Atlantic City. Instead, you'll find more elegant features, like the tranquil Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa and The Pool, an indoor tropical oasis complete with multiple pools, cabanas and, at night, a raging club. Some guests mention, however, that the worn guest rooms could use a little love and the staff could benefit from additional training. But everyone agrees that you certainly won't starve here. The hotel's dining options range from high-end to casual to family-friendly. And, of course, a Harrah's casino would not be complete without a buffet. You can find Harrah's Resort Atlantic City off the Absecon Inlet, near the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa.

At the recently renovated Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, all rooms come equipped with coffee makers, minifridges, pillow-top mattresses and ocean, bay or city views. During the warmer months in Atlantic City, New Jersey, guests have direct access to the beach and boardwalk – and the Beach Bar. Complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas and towels are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Of course, a trip to the renowned Hard Rock Casino is a must. Patrons can play slot machines and table games in a high-energy environment. Recent guests admired the property's rock 'n' roll memorabilia and the upbeat music playing throughout the casino. Party-ready visitors should also check out this Hard Rock's five on-site nightlife venues, which host entertainers ranging from musical acts to comedians. If you're looking for something a bit more relaxing, pay a visit to the redesigned Rock Spa & Salon, where you can enjoy a manicure, pedicure, deep tissue massage and more. Consider making an online reservation for spa services before you arrive at the hotel. Finally, when it's time to dine, take your pick from more than 15 food and beverage options, which feature innovative menus and fresh ingredients. Keep in mind that the property does not permit outside food or beverages in hotel rooms.

The Golden Nugget Atlantic City earns praise for its high-quality amenities. The guest rooms feature beds with pillow-top mattresses, iPod docking stations, high-speed internet access and 42-inch flat-screen TVs. But who needs to spend time in their room anyway? A nearly 80,000-square-foot casino can be found on the premises, along with multiple eateries ranging from an all-you-can-eat buffet to the upscale steak and seafood restaurant, Chart House. The H2O Pool, on the hotel's sixth floor outdoor deck, receives praise from recent guests for its views and lively atmosphere. Its location within Atlantic City is still not ideal for sightseers or casino hoppers; the property sits more than a mile north of the boardwalk (next to the Borgata).