Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City is moving forward with a $50 million capital improvement plan for 2026 that is already in progress, as the resort continues a multi-year push to refresh the property and expand amenities on the Boardwalk.
The 2026 program centers on renovations in the hotel’s North Tower, including upgrades to more than 700 standard guest rooms, more than 60 suites, and eight penthouses, along with refreshed walkways and corridors. Hard Rock said the majority of the projects are expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
The resort also outlined several additions and upgrades designed to enhance the on-property experience, including new dining concepts. Among the planned openings is Sitar, an East-Indian restaurant featuring modern Indian cuisine and Boardwalk views. Hard Rock also said Federal Donuts and Chicken, a Philadelphia-based concept, is expected to open at the property this spring.
Additional improvements underway include new carpet installation on the casino floor and along a second-floor corridor, the installation of 16 electric vehicle chargers at Rocktane Gas & Wash, and exterior restoration work on the South Tower.
Hard Rock Atlantic City said its cumulative investment in the resort has reached nearly $700 million since 2018, citing a pattern of recurring capital projects aimed at maintaining and upgrading the property. In 2023, the resort announced $50 million in improvements that included penthouse suite renovations, a new high-limit slot parlor, a private helicopter, and refreshed beachfront amenities.
The company is also continuing to invest in entertainment programming across its venues, including Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, Sound Waves, and the Vibe Stages. The 2026 slate highlighted in the announcement includes Rod Stewart, Nikki Glaser, Daniel Tosh, James Taylor, Charlie Puth, and Ricardo Arjona, among others.
Hard Rock also pointed to workforce and community initiatives as part of its broader positioning in Atlantic City, saying it earned a third consecutive USA Today Top Workplaces Award in 2026 and has supported more than 500 local organizations through partnerships and initiatives since opening in 2018, with a focus on education, food security, youth development, and social equity.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City’s property overview includes a gaming floor with 2,296 slots, 128 table games, and a dedicated sportsbook, along with more than 15 food and beverage offerings, 150,000 square feet of meeting and event space, and a large music memorabilia collection.
KEY QUOTES
“Our $50 million capital improvement plan for 2026 reflects Hard Rock Atlantic City’s unwavering commitment to reinvesting in our resort, our team members, and the Atlantic City community. From redesigned guest suites and new dining concepts to world-class entertainment, and continued community engagement, these investments ensure we continue delivering an exceptional guest experience while honoring one of our four core mottos to ‘Love All, Serve All’.”
George Goldhoff, President, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
