Pool & Spa News: The insider's casino guide - Atlantic City show planner

With all of the different games we've been featuring in Atlantic City, how could we not mention the city's most famous games of all? With this handy guide to AC's biggest casinos, you shouldn't have any trouble deciding how to spend at least some of your off-hours away from the Pool & Spa Show.

ATLANTIC CITY HILTON CASINO RESORT

This is a first-class establishment, from its interior of Italian marble, imported gold glass and murals to the five-star Peregrines' restaurant ,and extraordinary entertainment (in season). In keeping with its upscale ambiance, the Hilton features high-limit tables, and the baccarat area was voted the city's best by Chance magazine readers.

BALLY'S PARK PLACE CASINO RESORT

Bally's is known for having good odds on keno and craps, and excellent poker and horse-betting rooms. Of the nine restaurants on the premises, Prime Place (steaks) and Animations (desserts) are particularly memorable.

CAESARS ATLANTIC CITY HOTEL & CASINO

If you like Caesars in Las Vegas, you should have a good time here. The casino totals more than 124,000 square feet, makes it one of the largest in Atlantic City. Its whimsical slot machines include Rock 'n Roll with Elvis and Monopoly. Between Caesars' 12 restaurants, there is something for every taste. Standouts include The Bacchanal and Primavera.

CLARIDGE CASINO HOTEL

Claridge lives up to its reputation as the "smaller but friendlier" casino--a reminder of Atlantic City's grand old days as the East Coast resort city. Its exterior is an expanded version of the original hotel, built in 1930.

HARRAH'S ATLANTIC CITY CASINO HOTEL

Harrah's is famous for its buffet and steaks. Located in the Marina District, Harrah's must be reached by cab, shuttle or jitney, but is within walking distance of Trump Marina. It also features excellent eateries.

RESORTS CASINO HOTEL

Here's where it all started. Resorts was the first casino in town, opening in 1978. Thanks to a $50-million renovation, it now boasts a baccarat pit, and high-stakes player's lounge, and a number of nonsmoking tables, all set in a striking art deco design. Of its seven eateries, premier spots include Camelot (steaks) and Capriccio (Italian).

SANDS HOTEL & CASINO

The Sands' famous Copa Lounge attracts big-name musical acts; the Medici provides fine Italian dining; and the staff is among the nicest you'll encounter. The Sands caters to the mid-range player, but there also are low- and high-limit tables, and the poker room is highly regarded. Awarded the best overall slots in American Casino Guide 2001.

SHOWBOAT CASINO HOTEL

The aptly named Showboat looks like a Mississippi riverboat on the outside. Inside, there's a New Orleans- style party atmosphere, with Cajun restaurants, nonstop free entertainment, slot machines and table games.

TROPICANA CASINO & RESORT

The word among garners is that the loosest slots are at "the Trop." Be sure to check out the Crystal Room, a beautiful setting complete with crystal chandeliers and vibrating, high-back player's chairs.

TRUMP MARINA HOTEL & CASINO

This casino tends to draw two types: high-rollers, who appreciate the VIP service and high-limit tables--and the younger crowd, who love the multiple showrooms that attract the big-name entertainers. And the piece de resistance? Fine restaurants with an ocean view.

TRUMP PLAZA HOTEL & CASINO

"A very elegant, high-class establishment" is what one critic calk Donald Trump's first casino venture in Atlantic City. Not surprisingly, the table games tend to be high-limit. Of the eight restaurants here, gourmets will gravitate toward Max's (surf 'n turf) and Roberto's (Italian).

TRUMP TAJ MAHAL CASINO RESORT

The first multibillion-dollar casino to come to Atlantic City, the chandeliers alone are worth $14 million. The smoke-free poker room is a favorite, as is the live simulcasting of horse races. Nearly all of the eight restaurants are award winners.

WILD WILD WEST AT BALLY'S

The Old West is the theme at this casino on Bally's property. So don't be surprised when you find a passel of robotic characters gunslingers, a prospector and his mule, dancehall gals and more not to mention Western stores and restaurants.