Hey everyone! My name is Jen A. Miller, and I wrote a book about the Jersey Shore. I also blog about the area at downtheshorewithjen.blogspot.com and have been part of a few bachelorette parties in AC. So here’s what I have to offer based on the comments:
The Borgata is very nice, but, as has been noted, pricey. It is NOT on the Boardwalk. All but three of AC casino’s are on the boardwalk. Those not included are the Borgata, Trumpa Marina and Harrah’s. Yes, they are a short cab ride away or, if you are staying at Resorts, Bally’s or Caesars, you can take a free shuttle over to Harrah’s (they are all owned by the same company). I’ve had dinner at the Borgata steakhouse, and liked it, but it’s expensive.
I like Harrah’s. Their new tower rooms are gorgeous and offer a great view. Plus, they have an indoor pool that is for ADULTS ONLY. At night, it turns into a nightclub.
The Chelsea IS on the Boardwalk. It is on the south end of the boardwalk and very close to the Tropicana. I’ve stayed there, and it’s nice, but it does not have a casino. However, I’ve heard great thing about their steakhouse.
The Tropicana is where a lot of bachelorette parties end up. Adam Good Sports Bar is a great casual and dance-but-not-techno vibe. For a party experience, Providence is literally across the hall. They also have a karaoke bar at Planet Rose, plus restaurants from pub food (Ree Rah) to Cuban (Alma De Cuba). The rooms are going to most likely be cheaper, but the Tropicana has been having major management issues after having their houskeeping and cocktail staff slashed. Take that as you will.
If your girl loves to gamble, here’s what I’d recommend: have dinner at one of the restaurants at the Pier at Caesars. I personally like the Continental for a large group. Then cross the Boardwalk (or walk over the sky bridge) into Caesar’s to gamble. Then, if you want to continue to party, you have a few options: you can head back to the Pier, go to the Tropicana, as I mentioned, or cab it over to the Borgata if you want to hit up mur.mur or mixx. The Borgata also has the Gypsy Bar, which can be fun.
Depending on when you’re staying will determine price. If it’s a winter bachelorette party, you could get a good deal. You might want to look into the House of Blues Suites at Showboat. They are designed for large groups and have a common area where you all can hang out and get ready together (when I talk to bachelor parties, I point out that they can play video games). If you split the cost between a bunch of people, it can be a great affordable option. I’ve also stayed at the new suites at Caesar’s. They’re fantastic, but I’m not sure if it’s in the price range or not. Caesar’s is smack in the middle of the Boardwalk, too.
I would be wary just-outside-of-AC hotels. They might be good deals, but some of them rent by the hour.
If you want to go on my blog and search the hotel rates side by side, you can do that. Go to http://downtheshorewithjen.blogspot.com/ and click on the link under "Going to AC?" It’s a function that lets you put in when you want to stay and compare who’s charging what.
If you have more questions, just let me know! I’m planning my future sister-in-law’s bachelorette party, so this is all on my mind!