Atlantic City’s Showboat To Expand

Atlantic City’s Showboat To Expand

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has announced a significant step forward for Atlantic City with the approval of a $4.2 million Atlantic City Revitalization Grant.

This funding is earmarked to support the expansion of the Showboat Family Entertainment Center, a key venue offering year-round, family-friendly attractions.

In addition, the NJEDA Board has allocated nearly $4 million to reopen the Atlantic City Revitalization Grant Program, paving the way for new applications and further investment in the city’s revitalization efforts.

The Showboat has become the go-to place in Atlantic City for families. Over the past few years, it has transformed from a former casino into a dynamic hub of entertainment, catering to all ages.

With the addition of the Lucky Snake Arcade, the largest indoor arcade on the East Coast, and Island Waterpark, a massive indoor water attraction, the Showboat offers year-round activities.

Its family-friendly focus and unique amenities have made it a standout destination, redefining Atlantic City as more than just a haven for casino-goers.

Showboat Expansion Brings New Opportunities to Atlantic City

The $4.2 million grant will fund a major expansion of the Showboat Family Entertainment Center, located on the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk.

The project will add 18,000 square feet to the Lucky Snake Arcade and Raceway, introducing new arcade games, attractions, and entertainment options. Highlights of the expansion include:

• A new open-air entryway along the boardwalk facade.
• Additional food and beverage outlets.
• A ten-lane bowling alley.
• A kids’ play area with private party rooms.

The enhancements aim to solidify Showboat as a premier destination for families, offering a mix of fun, affordable, and diverse entertainment options.

Showboat is already known for providing year-round indoor activities, a rarity in Atlantic City, and this expansion will further its mission of catering to visitors of all ages.

Bart Blatstein, Owner of Showboat Properties, LLC, expressed his gratitude for the state’s support. “Showboat is thrilled with the support of the State of New Jersey in furthering year-round family-friendly entertainment in Atlantic City,” Blatstein said. “Atlantic City has been in the past, and will be again, a world-class destination.”

A Boost for Community and Economic Development

Tim Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of NJEDA, emphasized the broader impact of the grant. “Under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has focused on investing in Atlantic City to foster sustainable and inclusive economic growth that will have an impact for years to come,” he said. “With this award, Showboat can expand their family-friendly entertainment options and make significant upgrades to continue attracting residents and visitors.”

Also See: Atlantic City Electric Agrees to New Audit

The project will also support local schools and organizations by offering educational and sporting activities in the newly expanded space. By diversifying its offerings, Showboat aims to serve both residents and tourists while creating opportunities for community engagement.

Jacquelyn A. Suárez, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, praised the family-focused direction of the project. “The Showboat Family Entertainment Center has ushered in a new era for Atlantic City – one that offers attractions for families with children of all ages,” Suárez stated. “This venue demonstrates that creative projects can flourish in Atlantic City.”

Reopening the Atlantic City Revitalization Grant Program

In addition to funding the Showboat project, the NJEDA Board approved nearly $4 million in supplemental funding to reopen applications for the Atlantic City Revitalization Grant Program. These grants will cover up to 50% of capital project costs within Atlantic City, with awards ranging from $250,000 to $2.5 million.

Originally launched in December 2023, the program aims to mitigate the negative economic impacts of COVID-19 by supporting real estate development, rehabilitating underutilized properties, and promoting economic growth.

The additional funding ensures that Atlantic City can continue its trajectory toward becoming a vibrant, world-class destination.

With these investments, Atlantic City is poised to strengthen its appeal as a dynamic, family-friendly destination. As the Showboat Family Entertainment Center continues to grow, and new grant applications bring fresh opportunities for revitalization, the city’s future looks brighter than ever.

The Wildwood Video Archive was there for the grand opening of Showboat’s Island Waterpark. You can check out our tour video below.