Hard Rock Atlantic City Unveils $375 Million Plans For Trump Taj Mahal

Updated on January 22, 2018
Hard Rock AC

Contents

Hard Rock International laid out its big plans for Atlantic City, to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars.

What’s happening to the Trump Taj Mahal

The international casino and hotel had earlier announced its purchase of the Trump Taj Mahal, bringing the Taj’s grand, but quickly fading history to a close. Even more, the purchase engendered renewed faith in the rejuvenation of Atlantic City’s economy and, perhaps, its reputation.

Hard Rock revealed the details of the renovation in a recent press release. Chairman Jim Allen said he sees the Hard Rock AC as a “catalyst for growth” in a city that desperately needs it:

“From world-renowned music events to innovative dining concepts, we’re excited to bring the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino experience to the Atlantic City Boardwalk – which has been home to our Hard Rock Cafe for more than 20 years. Our commitment to Atlantic City has never been stronger and we look forward to being a catalyst for further growth and development of the area.”

According to the release, the renovation will cost $375 million and create 3,000 permanent jobs.

Entrance, rooms to be overhauled

The renovation of the former Trump Taj Mahal will be a complete transformation, starting with the property’s outdated facade.

Hard Rock says it’s redoing the exterior on Pacific Avenue and the Boardwalk, as well as at the resort entrance and the porte cochére (vehicle turnaround/courtyard).

A conceptual drawing of the porte cochére reveals a courtyard with tiled fountains and flowers, along with a whimsical false ceiling and the Hard Rock’s prominent logo.

The Hard Rock’s rooms will get the royal treatment too.

“Guestrooms and suites will undergo a complete renovation and redesign to offer lavishly appointed rooms in a setting that is anything but uptight,” the release said.

Also of note:

  • Hard Rock says its Atlantic City property will also feature the company’s “The Sound of Your Stay” music amenity program, through which guests can have a Fender guitar sent to their rooms for free.
  • Hard Rock says it will move the current Hard Rock Cafe to a bigger venue where patrons will have beach access.
  • The resort’s casino will have 2,400 slots and 130 table games, as well as “an entirely redesigned interior with first-class food and beverage concepts.”

Next chapter in Taj’s story a positive one

While the Hard Rock’s purchase of the Taj marks the end of a symbolic era in Atlantic City, it’s an end that may be welcomed by city leaders and gambling enthusiasts.

The once-grand Taj became a pariah after it closed from a labor strike, during which billionaire Carl Icahn refused to offer employees moderate benefits.

Since the Taj shut its doors in October, the casino made news for being President Donald Trump’s former property and for a lawsuit over who has the rights to some of the casino’s iconic lettering.

Image credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

Privacy Policy