Best Things Nearby:
Beaches and boardwalk
Casinos
Outlet shopping a few blocks away
Beach clubs on the dunes
Restaurants of all types
Entertainment to suit everyone
Wineries
Cape May
Jersey Shore
Best Things About the Resort:
Wonderful views of the ocean and boardwalk
Proximity to the beach and casinos
Quiet retreat in a very busy atmosphere
Pool on a deck overlooking the ocean
Resort Experience:
Somewhat apprehensive after reading some negative reviews, we were prepared for some disappointment but decided that we would make the best of the situation. Our arrival went smoothly - the bellhop unloads your car, you self-park with a voucher, and, once checked in, you call for your bags. A smile and a tip went a long way - we were assigned an upgraded corner studio unit on the top floor with an amazing view of the ocean, boardwalk, and city.
At 450 square feet with six floor-to-ceiling windows, the unit feels very spacious, open, and easy to make our home for the next week. The neutral decor of black, taupe, and gray blends well with the light oak furniture. The partial kitchen is more than adequate with a small refrigerator, two-burner stove, small microwave - you can easily have breakfast or lunch – and enough utensils, dishes, and pots and pans for dinner, but who wants to cook?
Although there isn't a dining table, the bar area with high stools and an ocean view or the small coffee table in front of the leather sofa were both perfect for a drink or snack. Storage was adequate, with a closet, an armoire that housed the TV and DVD and had four drawers, and a nightstand that provided more storage space. There were plenty of kitchen cabinets and the luggage fit in compartments under the bed.
I just loved the bathroom. It was long and narrow, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city. It sounds strange, but it was the best. The twin sinks with cabinet storage had great lighting, plenty of mirrors - even a magnifier - and a really powerful hair dryer. To top it all, the Jacuzzi tub with shower overlooked the ocean.
The location on the boardwalk is perfect - within walking distance of casinos, restaurants, and the jitney. The elevator can be slow at busy times since only three elevators service 31 floors. Timeshare salespersons are not pesky and security personnel are in the lobby at all times.
Atlantic City has improved over the past 5 years - Not only is the boardwalk active, but there is now outlet shopping, a convention center, and beach clubs on the dunes, and the Tropicana has a "Quarter" with restaurants, music, and shopping, making it a nice diversion for the whole family.
In my opinion, Atlantic City is more a place for adults, but we saw many families who were enjoying their time at the beach and along the boardwalk. This particular resort does not plan any activities for either adults or children, but this should not be considered a negative aspect. If you come to Atlantic City, you more than likely are not looking for a take-care-of-the-kids experience. Most people are here for the beach or casinos. If you need the Disney atmosphere, Florida should be your choice.
We've already made reservations for next summer. It's an exciting city that's getting better all the time, and Atlantic Palace is a good choice if you don't need to be in a casino hotel.
- Unit Type: Studio
- Activities: Fair
- Amenities: Good
- Unit Satisfaction: Excellent
- Family Friendliness: Fair
- Service: Fair