The New East Coast Gay Escape

by Jimmy Im

Let’s face it: traditionally gays have not been the first to race to the casinos as a “mancation” getaway, preferring beach destinations, nightlife meccas and spa retreats to the ding of slot machines.

But things are changing, not only in Las Vegas, but over on the East Coast as well. The once seedy Atlantic City—a destination where the gay scene was virtually non-existent—is proving casinos are no longer spearheading its image. Offering a coast of terrific beaches, a thriving boardwalk, dynamic culinary scene and award-winning spas, Atlantic City is experiencing a renaissance, thanks to the swelling of celebrity-studded restaurants, new boutique hotels and a thriving shopping scene. You can bet your chips that the gays will be coming to this burgeoning hotspot by the busloads (scratch that—they already do, thanks to notorious party promoter Daniel Nardicio's frequent booze bus trips!). Too boozy? Hop on the weekend Aces Train, which now goes direct from NYC.

The East Coast version of Las Vegas is transforming faster than a roulette wheel’s dizzying spin. While this gambling paradise for seniors, mobsters and suburban families has never really loomed large on the gay travel radar, it's now managing to gradually shed its previous reputation with new attractions that cater mostly to the sophisticated and stylish (and still, camp-loving) traveler. As a result, it's not unusual to see Jersey’s next top models working the boardwalk, young couples renting out posh hotel suites, and slews of Blackberry-toting hipsters jostling for elbow room at one of the trendy casino bars. Obviously, the gays want in.

Nearly $2 billion was invested in Atlantic City with the hopes to lure a younger, more affluent and trendy audience. Needless to say: success! The emergence of The Borgata Hotel and Casino (which certainly bumps up the posh and hip level in town) is a sure-fire testament to this factor. It's not only the fancy facelift capturing the attention of the gay traveler; there are a host of other attractions and concerts (including Elton John, Barbra Streisand, Mariah Carey and Madonna) that take the queers out of the casinos. Summers have the boys hustling across the border with a beach scene worth flocking to—and while the infamous Fire Island shuts down for the summer, the boardwalk/beach scene in Atlantic City still thrives year-round.

Not only are beaches a gay man’s favorite playground, swanky boutique hotels also also act as seductive, dangling carrots. Just recently, Borgata unveiled The Water Club, an 800-room non-gaming hotel next door. Rooms are tastefully furnished with modern decor and luxury furnishings (expect custom-made beds, hand-woven sheets, separate closet shower with bench and prime views of the boardwalk). And what girl doesn't like to be pampered? The two-level, full-service spa features innovative treatments, sauna, large whirlpool, lap pool and fitness center. Feel trapped indoors? Head down to the buzzing outdoor pools (four of them!), in an oasis of lush landscaping. Bumping up the spa scene is Qua Baths & Spa at Caesar’s, which features a variety of men’s treatments and baths where heaps of gays get quite friendly and pampered. If you're looking for a mancation closer to the beach, the brand-new Chelsea is a boutique on the boardwalk. The hotel's decor is a throwback to the sixties married with a modern flair, so expect leopard-print loveseats in the rooms and funky, retro decor. Co-owner Paul Sevigny (that's right, Chloe's bro) ensures the weekends are packed with a mixed clientele on their fifth-floor terrace, including private cabanas and the works.

Want strictly gay? The West Side Club, Atlantic City's only gay bar, is nothing less than perfect for fun-packed, late nights with its divey vibe, Jersey go-go boys and a wealth of drag queens frolicking the dance floor with drunk cuties (owner Gidget should know, as he's pouring the stiff drinks). While the saying goes “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,” visitors to Atlantic City no doubt will be eager to tell all (if they can remember, thanks Gidget) when they return home.

See and Do:

The Pier Shops at Caesars: Four-level complex with innovative structure and smart glass facade. Features trendy restaurants, name-brand and boutique stores right on the shore! thepiershopsatcaesars.com

Casinos: Sorry to point out the obvious, but it is Atlantic City. Note: Borgata is where the cute boys roll. theborgata.com

The Boardwalk: Whether people watching, participating in booth games or getting in a good post-hangover jog, the boardwalk is where the action is.

Concerts/Entertainment: Check atlanticcitynj.com for listings.

West Side Club: Divey, campy and fun gay bar in the city. Hey, it’s the only one—better make it a night out! westsideac.com

Qua Spa at Caesar’s: 14 treatment rooms, Roman baths and a delicious Tea Lounge… the ultimate pampering! quabathsandspa.com

Stay:

Showboat Mardi Gras Casino: This classic unveiled the House of Blues Studio suites; very RnR and exciting crash pads. The hotel's exclusive Foundation Room is where it's at—remember Patti Labelle’s birthday party here last year? harrahs.com

Borgata Resort & Casino: With its wealth of nightclubs and celebrity restaurants, Borgata is the reigning hot spot hotel. theborgata.com

Water Club: Borgata's boutique, the new Water Club, is raising the stakes in Atlantic City with its two-floor spa, spacious and modern rooms and suites, outdoor oasis and major swank—all reasons that helped make this spot a gay institution. thewaterclubatborgata.com

Chelsea: Blast to the past at Chelsea with its nod to retro-modern. 331 rooms, two buzzing restaurants (Steven Starr's Chelsea Prime has the best cuts on the block), complimentary wireless and 24-hour room service make it a cut above the rest. (Noted highlight: fifth floor includes a game room, lounge with fireplace and outdoor pool terrace.) thechealsea-ac.com

Eat:

Teplitzky: One of Atlantic City's newest restaurants, this modern take on classic ‘50s dining features innovative dishes and a cute staff.
thechelsea-ac.com

Seablue: A Michael Mina experience. The best, freshest seafood in town, and the two-pound lobster pot pie is a must. theborgata.com

Bobby Flay: This celebrity chef has hosted several Food Network TV programs, so you know there’s got to be something (ahem, everything) good on the menu. theborgata.com

Izakaya: Japanese cuisine with a modern flair and chic décor. theborgata.com