Night life: A.C. night life ranges from luxurious lounges to crowded clubs. Whatever you're in the mood for, it's here

Pool & Spa News, Jan 10, 2003 by Anne Brooks

You may think you're worn out at the end of the day from all your trade, show activities, but the Boardwalk's billion or so light bulbs can bring you back to life in a moment.

Boasting a dozen famous casinos, many floor shows, headline bands and comedy acts, and countless excellent restaurants--well, let's just say there's a reason conventions are held in Atlantic City.

Acts and showtimes at the casinos were not available at press time, so you'll want to check with the casinos' concierge or guest services to see what playing closer to the Pool & Spa Show dates.

City nightlife includes off-the-beaten-Boardwalk options, so we've included a Bars/Nightclubs section as well.

CASINO-HOTEL NIGHTSPOTS

* Atlantic City Hilton Casino Resort, Boston and Pacific Avenues; (609) 347-7111; sales, (800) 231-8687; (609) 340-4879 fax. Entertainment: The Atlantic City Hilton Theater features headline entertainment, TBA.

Dizzy Dolphin Beachfront Bar: Sitting on the deck of this schooner-themed bar, complete with sailing masts, brings out your "inner captain." Set on the beachfront, it offers a beautiful ocean view even in chilly January. Boasting more than 100 specialty drinks and beers, Dizzy's is open 24 hours a day. There's also live music Friday and Saturday nights.

* Bally's Park Place Casino Resort, Park Place and Boardwalk; (609) 340-2000; sales, (800) 772-7777; (609) 340-2595 fax. Entertainment: Bally's "Legends in Concert" reigns as the longest-running show on the boards, featuring impersonations of Elvis Presley and others. Call for schedule and ticket prices.

Mountain Bar: Chill at this 90-foot-long bar, munching on various snacks. Open 24 hours.

* Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino, 2100 Pacific Avenue; (609) 348-4411; sales, (888) 241-8545; (609) 343-2611 fax. Entertainment: Shows vary at the Circus Maximus Theater, so find out about the schedule closer to NESPA show time by calling the Caesars box office at (800) 677-7469.

Bacchus Bar: Dancing, eats and an elevated view of gaming provided here.

Forum Lounge: Overlooking the seashore and Boardwalk, 'tis a nice place to unwind and listen to music

Gladiator Sports Bar: With its large-screen TV (natch), nightly entertainment and casual dining, this is a good R&R place.

Temple Bar and Grill: This spot at Caesars serves ye olde temple favorites such as Alaskan crab cakes and malossol beluga caviar, as well as pizza and grilled entrees. Voted "Best Place to Meet a Date" by Atlantic City magazine, it's open six days a week; closed on Mondays. (609) 441-2345.

* Claridge Casino Hotel, Indiana Avenue and Boardwalk; (609) 240-2400; sales, (880 257-5275; (609) 340-3867 fax. Entertainment: The Claridge has its own Legends lineup, featuring impersonations of Barry White, Celine Dion, Ritchie Valens and, of course, the King. Live music and dancers backdrop the show. Call the box office at (800) 752-7469, or get tickets in person at the Claridge box office and Bally's show and reservations desk.

Lucky's Bar & Lounge: Here they serve up live music, appetizers and cocktails in an open setting, so bring your parka. It's located on the fourth floor, at the top of the new Gateway connector bridge, right next to the Palace Theater. Open Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 a.m.

* Harrah's Atlantic City Casino Hotel, 777 Harrah's Boulevard; (609) 441-5000; (800) 2-HARRAH; (609) 348-6057 fax.

Atrium Lounge: Voted "Best Casino Lounge" by readers of Casino Player magazine, Harrah's Atrium Lounge offers both live music and a wide-screen TV at either the intimate tables or the long and winding bar. (609) 441-5501.

* Resorts Casino Hotel, 1133 Boardwalk; (609) 344-6000; sales, (800) 336-6378; (609) 340-6349 fax. Entertainment: Best to check with guest services when you arrive in town.

Tuxedos Lobby Bar: Sink into their oversized chairs and plush couches with your cash winnings, or drink in them if you lose.

VIP Lounge: A free buffet for high-rollers. Check with guest services to see if you qualify.

* Sands Hotel & Casino, Indiana Avenue and Brighton Park; (609) 441-4000; (800) AC-SANDS; 441-4180 fax.

Copa Room: This brand-new venue seats 850 and features big-name acts that sell out quickly, so call the be office in advance, (609) 441-4137.

The Copa Lounge: Located on the casino's second level, the Copa is reportedly hot on Tuesdays when live DJs spin, and on Thursdays when 1960s DJ Jerry Blavat turns oldies. Open Monday-Thursday, 12 p.m.-2 a.m.; Friday-Saturday, 12 p.m.-4 a.m.

* Showboat Casino Hotel, 801 Boardwalk; (609) 343-4000; (609) 343-4057 fax. Guest services, (609) 343-4270. Entertainment: Check with the entertainment office for show news, (609) 343-4020.

* Tropicana Casino and Resort, Brighton Avenue and Boardwalk; (609) 340-4000; (800) 257-6227; (609) 340-4007 fax. Entertainment: Check with the entertainment office for the Tropicana Showroom schedule.

Tiffany Lounge: Relaxed, intimate atmosphere and live entertainment.

Top Of The Trop: Breathtaking views from the 20th floor of the North Tower. Live entertainment includes The Comedy Stop, where top-rated comics perform Sunday-Thursday, 9 p.m.; prices range from $17 to $20. (800) 526-2935.