Casinos up the ante on discount deals

ATLANTIC CITY - As this town's 11 casinos prepare for their busiest season, each is pulling out the stops to accommodate visitors with tight budgets.

Every gambling hall here is offering summer promotions to attract customers, such as Alexis DeJesus of Brigantine, who says he's on the hunt for competitive room rates, more activities along the Boardwalk, and additional rides at the Steel Pier for his 2-year-old daughter, Gianna.

"They need to be more competitive - at the top of their game," DeJesus, 27, said of the city's gambling palaces while he was visiting the Tropicana recently.

The economy, increased slots competition from Pennsylvania, and lower consumer discretionary spending have hurt Atlantic City's gambling revenue, resulting in a 15.7 percent year-to-date decrease compared with a year ago. Casino operators here say value is this summer's buzz word.

"Consumers, in general, right now are more mindful of value and quality," Borgata spokeswoman Noel Stevenson said. "We've noticed that guests are still seeking that sense of escapism and are looking to have some fun as long as they feel it's money well spent."

As a result, deals and packages are plentiful.

The Borgata starts Spa Week this Sunday and continues through next Friday, with specially priced room-and-spa packages starting at $210 plus tax. A Toccare Escape or Complete Immersion package will earn a customer a $25 complimentary gift card toward a purchase at Hugo Boss, La Perla, or Just Cavalli at the Shoppes at the Water Club, the Borgata's high-end mall. The Las Vegas-style casino also will offer guest-only access to its private beach.

For those who prefer poolside, the Borgata will debut its expanded pool areas next Friday, featuring 5,000 square feet of new deck space and an outdoor bar. Partygoers can enjoy VIP treatment at Mixx dance club for $50, which includes private table service and up to five cocktails.

The Tropicana began running value specials in April that will continue all summer, such as the Fiesta Buffet, which includes seafood, for $24.95. Tickets for the Broadway show Fame went on sale May 1 for $25 and will be discounted for select dates during the show's June 22-to-Sept. 9 run.