NEW JERSEY - When planning a South Jersey shore getaway, finding a destination that genuinely caters to families can inspire confidence and anticipation. Showboat Hotel Resort in Atlantic City is doubling down on its reputation as the region's top family-friendly resort. Today, the largest non-casino hotel in New Jersey unveiled a massive summer 2026 expansion, bringing immersive entertainment, fresh dining concepts, and upgraded accommodations to the world-famous boardwalk.
Driven by the long-term vision of owner Bart Blatstein, CEO of Philadelphia-based Tower Investments, the latest upgrades are transforming the property into an unparalleled coastal entertainment hub suitable for all ages. From an oceanfront seafood festival to a massive indoor Nerf battleground, here is a look at what is debuting at the Showboat this summer, ensuring there's fun for everyone in the family.
The Fairgrounds & Jurassic Beach
Taking over the area known as the Sandlot, Showboat is launching a brand-new Fairgrounds experience. The star of the show is a recurring Seafood Festival that operates every weekend through June 15, and then daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM for the rest of the summer. Visitors can expect fresh coastal catches, specialty vendors, and live entertainment right on the water, creating a sense of anticipation and curiosity about the new offerings.
Just on the other side of the Fairgrounds, the resort is debuting the Jurassic Beach Dinosaur Park. Operating on the same summer schedule as the Seafood Festival, this immersive attraction features larger-than-life dinosaur displays, fossil mining, and interactive games, making it a guaranteed hit for kids and a must-see stop on the Atlantic City boardwalk.
Strike Zone Arena & Lucky Snake Arcade
Since opening in 2021, the Lucky Snake Arcade has held the title of the world's largest arcade, seamlessly blending sports bars, an indoor raceway, and endless gaming under one roof. This season, they are leveling up by adding 20 new games and introducing the highly anticipated Strike Zone Arena. Billed as New Jersey's most exhilarating indoor Nerf arena, the now-open attraction features fast-paced team challenges and structured battle formats perfect for birthday parties, corporate outings, or just a highly competitive afternoon with friends.
New Culinary Additions and Boardwalk Nightlife
The resort's culinary footprint is also expanding. Showboat is introducing two brand-new dining concepts to satisfy your sweet tooth: Éclair, which brings elevated, French-inspired pastries and confections to the property, and Blissful Bubbles, offering whimsical, refreshing beverages to help guests cool down.
For the night owls, the newly expanded boardwalk corridor adjacent to the Fairgrounds now features local retailers, gift shops, and classic boardwalk games operating until 11:00 PM. To cap off the night, Surf Bar and Tacos Diablo are keeping their doors open daily until midnight, serving up late-night bites and cocktails.
Upgraded Accommodations & Waterpark Luxury
If you are planning to stay the night, the iconic New Orleans Tower has just debuted two newly added floors of guest rooms. These spaces feature modern redesigns, fully refurbished bathrooms, and upgraded in-room tech to give guests confidence in the quality and comfort of their stay.
Down at the incredible Island Waterpark, adults looking to escape the chaos can enjoy a newly expanded adult-only amenity area. Outfitted with premium lounge chairs and upgraded cabana spaces, it offers a resort-caliber poolside retreat right on the beach.
Since taking over the shuttered property a decade ago, Bart Blatstein has continually reimagined what Showboat can be. Fast forward to 2026, and it has evolved from a dormant landmark into an absolute powerhouse of family-friendly entertainment. With the addition of immersive outdoor festivals, cutting-edge arcade arenas, and elevated new food options, Showboat Hotel Resort is setting the standard for the ultimate Atlantic City summer getaway. Whether you are coming down for a quick day trip or booking a long weekend in the upgraded New Orleans Tower, this is one South Jersey destination that demands a spot on your summer itinerary.
Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is for food and foodies. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly.
