Showboat Hotel

Originally opened in 1987 as a casino, hotel, and bowling center, the Showboat reopened solely as a hotel in summer 2016. Occupying a large building along the boardwalk, the massive property is peppered with hints of yesteryear's grandeur, including impressive details like stained glass ceiling panels in the lobby, overhead chandeliers, and marble floors adorned with colorful Persian-style rugs. The hotel's restaurant is no less eye-catching, with vibrant painted ceilings and walls. It feels a bit dated here and there, and, due to its size, some guests complain of a deserted atmosphere, but leisure tourists who don't want to gamble or don't mind a short commute to nearby casinos should be satisfied here.

The hotel is situated right on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, an iconic oceanside stretch lined with shops, restaurants, and activities. The Steel Pier, an amusement park, is just a five-minute walk away, while the Central Pier Arcade, with lots of games including a go-kart speedway, is 11 minutes away. Many casinos are within a 10-minute drive, such as the Borgata, Caesars, Tropicana, and Harrah's, or it's a 10-minute walk to the Resorts Casino Hotel. Other area attractions include the Absecon Lighthouse, which is a nine-minute walk away. Ripley's Believe It or Not is a 10-minute walk from here. Philadelphia is a bit over an hour's drive away, as is its international airport. Newark Liberty International Airport is about a two-hour drive. New York City is about a three-hour drive from Atlantic City. 

Decor among the guest rooms varies; most rooms are decked out in a pleasant contemporary style, but some have not yet been renovated and are dated, featuring chainlike furnishings, carpets, patterned couches, and striped wallpaper. The more contemporary rooms have a golden/creamy color scheme accented by jewel tones like rich purple headboards or chic seating. All units are spacious and offer seating in the form of sofas or armchairs, as well as desks. Other standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, safes, and irons/ironing boards. Suites have large balconies with ocean views, plus some have wet bars and dining areas. Bathrooms have large granite or marble sink vanities that offer plenty of storage space, plus they're equipped with shower/tub combos and wall-mounted hairdryers. Suites have both whirlpool tubs and separate walk-in rainfall showers. Toiletries are provided. Some rooms have uninterrupted ocean views. 

One of the biggest complaints here among guests is the hotel's lack of features, they particularly miss the casino that is now closed. There are no fitness facilities or other amenities like a spa or pool, but the hotel does offer a couple of dining options. The ACE serves American classics and comfort food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There's also a casual surf bar that's open seasonally and offers food/drink service on the beach. There's a year-round cafe that serves coffee and breakfast pastries. Pets are welcome here for a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout. Parking incurs a daily fee (both self and valet options). Note that guests must pay a daily resort fee if they don't book directly with the hotel.