Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/3108
available at one of Atlantic City's many venues such as historic Boardwalk Hall, which underwent a $90 million renovation to make it Atlantic City's premiere event arena. Atlantic City is one of the world's favorite destinations and the beach differentiates it from any other gam- ing locale. During the summer, the beaches are guarded by the country's first lifeguard organization and the water is safe thanks to a stringent State water quality program. Millions of guests stroll, ride a bicycle or tour the Boardwalk on a distinctive rolling chair. Today, the Boardwalk is more than four miles in length and 60 ft. across at its widest points. Many of Atlantic City's gaming properties have undergone recent renovations and changes. Harrah's Atlantic City made a big splash with the opening of The Pool, the Waterfront Buffet, an Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa – one of the largest in the chain – and new retail shops. The Pool is a year round tropi- cal paradise under a huge glass dome, complete with hot tubs, private cabanas for rent, a 50-seat bar and special events open to the public every week. Completed in March 2008, the centerpiece of the project is a 47-story, 961-room Waterfront Tower featuring 183-suites and 13- super-suites for high rollers. Harrah's is now the tallest hotel in Atlantic City. Recently opened in summer 2008, the $400 million Water Club, a signature hotel by Borgata, is a 43- story property featuring 800 guest rooms and suites, 18,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, and six retail shops. The hotel's motif is water, and its centerpiece is the two-story, 36,000- sq. ft. Immersion Spa, which includes 15 treatment rooms, 25-yard lap pool and fitness center. Guests have the choice of two indoor swimming pools and two outdoor heated swimming pools. The Atlantic City International Airport is a quick 20-minute ride from the heart of the city. Atlantic City is also within a few hours driving distance from New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Atlantic City CVA – (888) 222-3683 www.atlanticcitynj.com nEWaRK Newark is the Gateway to New Jersey – the financial, commercial, transportation, and cultural nucleus of the Garden State, offering a rich variety of quality entertainment, din- ing, culture and sports. This is New Jersey's largest city located just 13 miles southwest of Midtown Manhattan. After decades of decline and disinvestment, Newark today is attracting national attention for its ongoing rebirth and renewal. Newark is currently experiencing a renais- sance and is again asserting its posi- tion as a dynamic city with a bright future. New developments are pop- ping up in the downtown with busi- nesses moving back into the city and projects including a new basketball and hockey arena and a soccer stadi- um are presently being planned. For meetings, Newark provides many top facilities and hotels that can accom- modate groups of up to 1,500. Recognizable names such as the Crowne Plaza Meadowlands, Doubletree Hotel Newark Airport and Hilton Newark Penn Station can handle all of your business needs. Newark Liberty International Airport serves the city while also serving as an alternative into New York City. WHO YOU GONNA CALL? www.gonewark.com Black Chamber of Commerce of Northern New Jersey (973) 824-0264 www.theblackchambernj.com Black Meetings & Tourism April/May 2009: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 118 AREA GUIDES A view of the River Trent as it passes through the historical English town of Newark. Photo Credit: Andrew Dernie