Bally’s AC Announces 360-Degree Rotating Carousel Bar As Part Of $100 Million Makeover

Written By Bill Gelman on March 29, 2022
Bally's AC Lobby Bar rendering

Bally’s Atlantic City guests will soon experience a very moving experience when visiting the lobby bar.

And we literally mean “moving” as the company sent out a press release announcing Atlantic City’s first and only 360-degree rotating bar. The new entertainment space is being dubbed the Carousel Bar. And it’s targeted for a Memorial Day Weekend debut.

Call it the centerpiece of the hotel lobby makeover.

The concept is fitting considering “America’s Favorite Playground” is a famous Atlantic City tagline.

Yes, the Carousel Bar will move, but don’t worry about getting motion sickness. According to the press release, “the floor is so slow-moving that the person can simply walk onto the rotating floor.”

More details about Carousel Bar

Those familiar with Bally’s may notice the former Lobby Bar is missing furniture and the bar is closed.

The Carousel Bar will be a “subtle nod” to the timeless amusements. Some might remember the former Million Dollar Pier (now the Playground Pier).

An elevated 24-seat rotating bar reminiscent of a carousel will be the central feature. Think Atlantic City Boardwalk speakeasy era with a touch of nostalgia and whimsy. The design includes changing light displays and a modern glass rail.

Then there is the menu. Guests will enjoy modern, craft cocktails with the spirit of Atlantic City flavors.

Here is a small sampling of the drink menu:

  • Merry Go Round: lemon vodka, Hammonton blueberries, lemon bitters and cotton candy swirl
  • Shore Breeze: Cucumber gin, aperol, sweet vermouth and lemon tonic
  • Funnel Cake Espresso Martini: vodka, espresso, house selected coffee liqueur funnel cake syrup, crème, espresso cocoa bean and powder dusting
  • Sea Spray Spritz: Prosecco, Blanco tequila, dry vermouth, passionfruit and lemon

The Carousel Bar will be open seven days a week. Bally’s will announce operating hours at a later date.

And getting back to the spinning element, the bar will rotate 2.5-5 revolutions per hour.

A fresh look for Bally’s AC lobby

When designing a new lobby bar, updating the check-in area makes complete sense.

And Bally’s announced some details regarding the updated look. The all-new design will include a complete refresh of the space from carpet to walls, to column enclosures.  A reimagined front desk with new finishes will “transform the arrival experience to align with the stunning new guest rooms.”   

Bally’s $100-plus million makeover moving along

Those familiar with Atlantic City casino history know Bally’s is the third-oldest property. So the Bally’s name comes with strong brand recognition.

The parent company even changed its name from Twin River Worldwide Holdings to Bally’s Corp. However, Atlantic City success requires much more than a strong brand name.

And this is a big reason behind the $100-plus million in renovations. Besides the Carousel Bar and redesigned lobby, guests will notice new hotel rooms, and The Yard. Bally’s is billing The Yard as a  “game-changer and an unmatched experience and must-see attraction for all guests visiting Atlantic City.”

The indoor/outdoor beer garden will feature a a gastro-pub style menu.

Memorial Day Weekend is the target completion date.

Other amenities such as the retail FanDuel Sportsbook, Jerry Longo’s Meatballs & Martinis and Water Dog all opened last year.

Photo by Bally’s Atlantic City
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Bill Gelman

Bill Gelman has been reporting on the NJ gambling market since 2018, right around when the Garden State launched sports betting. Bill transitioned from lead writer for Play NJ and NJ Gambling Sites to his current role as managing editor in 2020. Besides offering in-depth analysis on NJ gambling market trends and news, Bill regularly sits down with Atlantic City casino industry executives to offer readers exclusive interviews and comprehensive coverage. Bill received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Ithaca College. He has contributed to other Catena Media sites including The Lines, Legal Sports Report, PlayPennsylvania and PlayCanada.

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