Last week, Philadelphia developer and Tower Investments CEO Bart Blatstein disclosed plans for a “family-friendly” entertainment destination at the Showboat in Atlantic City, formerly a New Orleans-themed casino.
The upcoming Lucky Snake venue will include New Jersey’s largest arcade along with an esports arena, a speakeasy, a boxing ring and a sports bar. Blatstein addressed reporters at the Boardwalk property with a 15-foot yellow Burmese python, named Banana Peel, draped around his neck.
The $7 million attraction is scheduled to open May 15 at the Showboat, which closed its casino in 2014, but continues to operate as a hotel. Blatstein bought the property in 2016. Blatstein said there will also be new meeting and convention spaces at the hotel.
“This is a very exciting time for us,” Blatstein said. “We at Tower Investments are extremely proud of this hotel and are thrilled to further expand on its offerings for guests of all ages, especially families. It has always been our mission to deliver an unforgettable experience for our guests and we are delighted to bring a family-friendly and year-round resort option to Atlantic City.”
A $100 million indoor water park is under construction next to the hotel and is expected to open next year.
Blatstein’s Atlantic City track record, however, is dismal. He bought the Pier at Caesars and transformed it into the “Playground,” designed to feature music and entertainment, but it closed less that a year after opening. His purchase of Atlantic City Garden Pier and been equally disappointing, having sat fallow for more than three years. And the Showboat itself has not been a huge success, closing down several towers to guests.
Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, on hand for the announcement, called it, however, “a complete and total game changer” and will provide more things to do for families.
“This is Dave & Buster’s and more on steroids,” said Small. “I’m thrilled that we have this family attraction here in the great city of Atlantic City.”
