National Media Encouraging Readers to "Do AC"

New York Times, USA Today, NY Daily News and More Put City in Spotlight

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J., July 27, 2012 /CNW/ - Top-tier regional and national media, including the New York Times, USA Today, NY Daily News and more, are helping to build a strong buzz around Atlantic City with coverage that local tourism leaders expect will help influence more people to "Do AC."

Drawn by the excitement surrounding a myriad of high-profile concerts and events along with large-scale new developments such as the Revel Resort and plans to open a new Jimmy Buffet-inspired "Margaritaville" complex at Resorts Hotel & Casino, media coverage has showcased the duality of Atlantic City's tourism product that goes beyond gaming to appeal to an audience seeking a full-service vacation destination.

Media have taken particular note of the booming summer music scene with knock-out performances by Beyonce, Phish, Avicci and Kanye West. Upcoming concerts include Keith Urban, Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band, Sheryl Crow, Enrique Iglesias and Jennifer Lopez.

"It's exciting to see the positive attention that Atlantic City is receiving in top media outlets," said John Palmieiri, executive director of the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority. "It shows that the efforts of all the partners involved with developing and promoting a world-class destination are taking root and being noticed."

According to Liza Cartmell, CEO of the Atlantic City Alliance, the coverage underscores the messaging of the destination's new "DO AC" campaign. "The media are picking up on the fact that there is so much to see and do here in Atlantic City, whether it be gaming, nightlife, events, family activities or more.

"Whatever the reason people choose to come, they are finding that this is an exciting time to be here and Do AC," said Cartmell.

The content of the media coverage has reflected the destination's diversity.

New York Times writer Steven McElroy covered the destination's efforts to brand itself beyond gaming, focusing on assets such as resorts, dining and nightlife, among other things. In addition, McElroy wrote a hotel review of Revel, detailing all of the wonders that the new hotel has to offer its visitors.

Michael Shoule wrote a feature for the New York Daily News positioning Atlantic City as a family friendly destination. He highlighted the attractions he and his own family found the most entertaining, such as the saltwater pool at the Chelsea, the beach and Boardwalk, the iconic Steel Pier, Atlantic City Aquarium and Lucy the Elephant.

In CBS New York's Getaway Guide, Traci Tournoux shared some ways to spend a weekend in Atlantic City. She recommended Harrah's Resort and the brand new Revel as places to stay and the Steel Pier and Absecon Lighthouse as attractions to visit. She also suggested dining and nightlife locations.

John Owens provided his four reasons to go to Atlantic City now in AAA New York Car and Travel. He featured the opening of Revel and the recent upgrades at Borgata and Golden Nugget. In addition, he recommended spas, shopping, cooking classes, and dining at celebrity chef restaurants. He also ensured readers that while Atlantic City does have so many new attractions; it has retained its charm.

Atlantic City's renowned Boardwalk was featured in FoxNews.com's list of top U.S. Beach Boardwalks as both the oldest and longest boardwalk of its kind. The story noted that the Boardwalk has become even more iconic since the debut of HBO's "Boardwalk Empire."

In USAToday, writer Kim Jones featured her top five reasons to visit Atlantic City. She highlighted the spas, the beaches and Boardwalk, the Atlantic City Food and Wine Festival, the 10^th annual Atlantic City Airshow - "Thunder over the Boardwalk" and the recent opening of the highly anticipated Revel.

"There are great things happening right now in Atlantic City, " said Jeff Vasser, President of the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority. "The fact that the media is recognizing it and choosing to cover us in a positive way is gratifying and helps spread the word that a fantastic experience is waiting for visitors here."

For additional information or to book a summer getaway in Atlantic City, visit www.doatlanticcity.com.

About the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority

The Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority serves as the destination's principal marketing arm, stimulating economic growth through convention, business and leisure tourism development. The Authority oversees the management of the Atlantic City Convention Center and Boardwalk Hall. The Authority is the first destination marketing organization in New Jersey to achieve prestigious Destination Marketing Accreditation by the Destination Marketing Association International. For complete Atlantic City information, visit www.doatlanticcity.com. Also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AtlanticCityNJ.

Media can visit www.facebook.com/louhammondpr or follow on Twitter @LouHammondPR for the latest client news.

SOURCE: The Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority

Lauren Pike, [phone], [email protected], or Terence Gallagher, [phone], [email protected], both of Lou Hammond & Associates; or Elaine Zamansky, [phone] [email protected], Karen Martin, [phone], [email protected], or David Zuba, [phone], [email protected], all of Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority

http://www.doatlanticcity.com