Introduction
If you’re wondering whether the Hard Rock Casino in Atlantic City is open, you’re not alone. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the hospitality industry, and visitors to Atlantic City may not be sure which establishments are open. The Hard Rock Casino is one of the most iconic attractions in the city, and whether you’re a frequent visitor or planning your first trip, it’s important to know if it’s currently operational.
This article aims to provide comprehensive information about the Hard Rock Casino’s current operating status, what amenities are available, and any safety measures in place. We’ll also explore the Hard Rock’s place within Atlantic City’s broader history and the ongoing impact it has on the city’s economy.
Straightforward News Article
The Hard Rock Casino has been open since July 2, 2020, with several safety measures in place to protect employees and guests against COVID-19. Masks are required in public areas and certain games, and precautions such as plexiglass dividers and distance markers have been installed. Guests can also expect regular cleanings and sanitization efforts throughout the casino.
Currently, visitors can access slot machines, table games, and the poker room. Restaurants such as Hard Rock Cafe and Sugar Factory remain open, but some entertainment venues, such as the concert hall, remain closed. Visitors must also be at least 21 years old to enter the casino.
Experiential Piece
If you’re a longtime fan of the Hard Rock Casino or interested in experiencing it for the first time, you may be curious about what sets it apart from other Atlantic City establishments. Fortunately, there are plenty of highlights available even with the current heavily restricted capacity.
For example, the casino boasts over 2,000 slot machines and a variety of table games, providing guests with a range of gaming options. Those who enjoy poker tournaments will find an active scene at the Hard Rock. The hotel itself includes 2,000 guest rooms and suites, with views of the Atlantic City skyline.
One of the Hard Rock’s most distinctive features is the Maryland-style crab shack, located on the rooftop bar. The view of the city skyline from here is truly stunning. The Hard Rock also features several bars and restaurants, including the Hard Rock Cafe, which offers themed burgers and cocktails as well as live music.
Investigative Piece
Reopening any establishment amid a global pandemic presents a challenge, especially those, like casinos, with shared equipment. Indeed, a small number casino workers and patrons likely tested positive for COVID-19 in the early weeks of reopening in Atlantic City, though the Hard Rock has not reported any major outbreaks.
There are still concerns among the casino’s employees, who have been vocal about their fears of contracting COVID-19 on the job. In addition, public health experts have raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with reopening indoor spaces during this time.
It’s also important to consider the impact of reopening the Hard Rock on the wider community. Some workers who rely on tourist dollars for their livelihoods have expressed concerns that increasing tourism could lead to a rise in COVID-19 cases. However, the Hard Rock appears to be going to great lengths to prevent this, including implementing the aforementioned safety measures and limiting capacity.
Historical Piece
The Hard Rock is a significant part of Atlantic City’s casino culture. The property was originally opened as the Trump Taj Mahal in 1990, which established it as one of the largest casino resorts in the world at the time, even if it wasn’t necessarily one of the most profitable. After multiple bankruptcies, it was eventually sold to Hard Rock International and rebranded in 2018.
Over the years, the casino has undergone significant changes, reflecting larger shifts in Atlantic City and the wider casino industry. One of the more recent changes is the introduction of the Hard Rock brand itself, which has repositioned the resort as a hub for music and entertainment.
Hard Rock’s Continued Efforts to Give Back
While the Hard Rock is primarily known for its gambling and entertainment offerings, the casino has also made strides to give back to the community. This is particularly significant given the ongoing economic challenges faced by Atlantic City and its surrounding areas.
For example, Hard Rock Atlantic City set up a food drive in the early days of the pandemic to help distribute food to those in need. The casino has also partnered with community organizations and offered fundraisers for local charities. These efforts have gone a long way toward demonstrating the Hard Rock’s commitment to supporting the community that has sustained it over the years.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to visit Atlantic City soon, you’ll be pleased to know that the Hard Rock Casino is open for business. Along with plenty of gaming options, guests can enjoy restaurants, bars, and spectacular views of the city skyline. While reopening amid a pandemic presents some challenges, the Hard Rock appears to be taking safety measures seriously and is working to give back to the community that has sustained it throughout the years.
Ultimately, the Hard Rock Casino serves as a prime example of Atlantic City’s thriving hospitality industry and will continue to be an important part of the city’s culture and economy for years to come.