Atlantic City's Borgata is undergoing a renovation and rebranding of its Water Club Tower, with a $55 million makeover planned.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, the wealthiest among the nine gambling properties in Atlantic City last year, is set to undergo its first significant renovation in over a decade. Situated in the Marina District and under the management of MGM Resorts, the casino plans to invest $55 million to revamp The Water Club, transforming it into one of the city's elite luxury resort destinations. This announcement coincides with their plans for their 20th-anniversary celebration in July, as the Borgata initially opened on July 2, 2003.
MGM revealed that the funds will be used to update over 700 guestrooms in The Water Club, and the renovation will also introduce new Vista Suites at the tower's corners, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic City skyline.
The remodeled Water Club will focus on enhancing the overall guest experience, from arrival to departure. Upon completion, it will be rebranded as the MGM Tower. The refreshed rooms will embody a nautical theme with a vibrant and playful atmosphere, featuring a warm and inviting decor in shades of neutral and blue tones, accented by rich wood finishes.
MGM aims to have the project complete by Memorial Day weekend.
Investing in the Future
In 2022, the Borgata maintained its dominance in the Atlantic City gambling industry.
Last year, the casino raked in brick-and-mortar gross gaming revenue (GGR) of $724.4 million, accounting for about 26% of the entire nine-casino market. Hard Rock trailed far behind at $492.3 million. Online, the Borgata's iGaming platform, BetMGM, brings in close to half a billion dollars.
To retain its top position, the Borgata intends to invest in new amenities and luxury. A dedicated valet and check-in area, indoor and outdoor pools, and upscale shopping are among the amenities planned for MGM Tower guests.
As the resort nears its 20th anniversary, the Borgata is more determined than ever to remain a leader in hospitality and entertainment by continuously enhancing the Borgata experience. In the coming months, they look forward to sharing their new vision with their valued guests.
The most thrilling aspect of the Borgata's facelift is a proposed 9,000-square-foot event space on the 32nd floor, replacing the former Immersion Spa.
A Fresh Perspective, Fresh Projects
Lunn, who was appointed to his Borgata leadership role in January, came to Atlantic City following stints leading MGM's operations in Mississippi at the Beau Rivage in Biloxi and Gold Strike in Tunica.
Upon his arrival at Borgata, Lunn was eager to start renovating the property. MGM granted him $10 million to allocate to the resort, which he initially channeled towards modernizing the casino floor with new slot machines.
Last month, Lunn admitted that a substantial amount of funding was needed to adequately upgrade the entire complex.
Hotel renovations remain a priority,” Lunn stated in February. “As the market leader, we need to be the best in class in our room product. Are we current? Do we have the latest amenities inside our rooms? That's on my shortlist.”
The remodel announced this week encompasses room amenity updates, such as white lacquer and natural wood furniture suitable for business travelers, bathrooms with marble finishes and chrome fixtures, and ambient lighting throughout.