Three Atlantic City casinos are set to begin luxury train service between New York and Atlantic City Feb. 6.
The Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa, Caesars Atlantic City and Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City spent $19.5 million outfitting two trains with four rail cars each. The Atlantic City Express Service (ACES) train will make the trip in about two-and-a-half hours with a stop in Newark. Trains depart the Big Apple from Penn Station.
The trains can’t run too soon for the casinos. In the third quarter of 2008, the average Atlantic City casino room rate was $103.05, down from $111.94 a year earlier, according to the New Jersey Casino Control Commission, which tracks the Atlantic City gambling market. Atlantic City casino hotels have been hit hard by more than the recession. They face increased competition from other gambling destinations in the Northeast.
The double-decker ACES trains run on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The rear of the train is a lounge area that may be rented out for groups to mingle and watch DVDs while away from seats. Tickets are available for purchase beginning Jan. 15. For more information, visit www.acestrain.com.
