If the cost of casino/hotel rooms and dinners are out of your budget, but you'd still like to stay and play in Atlantic City, here are some ways you can stretch your entertainment dollars in this tight economy.
Join the clubs. Every casino has a "players' club." This is a card you obtain for free and use it when you gamble. You rack up points for the money you spend. These points can be cashed in for various things in the house, including rooms, dining and other amenities. Look for guest services next time you visit and ask for your card. It may be called a club card, membership card or other type of card, but they'll know what you mean.
Get on the mailing lists. Every casino has a mailing list. Simply Google your casino of choice or click the link. Sign up for the list(s) of your choice. You will be emailed coupons and special deals. (Continues below)
Order your alcoholic beverages while playing. If you would like a drink while gambling, flag down a cocktail waitress instead of interrupting your play and going to one of the casino bars. Most casinos still provide free drinks to gamblers on the casino floor, but what you can have may be based on your level of play. Proof of age required; must be 21 to drink and/or gamble.
Visit during the week. Remember, the casinos aren't nearly as crowded during the week and those rooms are sitting there. They want to sell them, even at deeply discounted rates. Sometimes, you can pick up a great package including room, dinner and entertainment.
Stay off the Boards. If you don't have to stay in the casino/hotel, you can find some great deals a few blocks away or even in another town. Some of Atlantic City's neighbors even provide shuttle service to your favorite casino. Look for hotel/motels in Absecon (offshore), Ventnor and Margate (downbeach from AC). There are also good deals right in Atlantic City but off the Boards.
Eat off the Boards. You can find some great restaurants in Atlantic City and the surrounding areas, too, if you don't have to keep your dining experience to the casinos. Most of the fast food places are there, but if you want something a little bit better, you can do that, too, and oftentimes at prices far below the casino restaurants. There's lots of great local foods right on the Boardwalk, too, between the casinos. Try a Taylor pork roll sandwich and some Kohr's frozen custard.
Look for national coupons like Groupon. Sign up for some of the national deal groups like Groupon or Living Social. Make sure you sign up for the Philadelphia and/or South Jersey editions. You will get emails announcing specials on rooms, dinners, shows, etc. They are beginning to feature Atlantic City on a more regular basis. You oftentimes get your deal for half or more off the cost of the accommodation.
When in doubt, CALL. Call around and simply ask what deals they are offering. The casinos will be delighted to talk to you and tempt you to their establishment with the best deal they can offer.
I hope this helps you enjoy your stay in Atlantic City even more by spending less. If you have another way or ways of saving on your trips to Atlantic City, please leave me a comment.
Enjoy your visit! But remember. . . if you gamble, please gamble responsibly.
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