Photos by Don Pearse Photographers, Inc.

When Twin River Holdings bought Bally’s Atlantic City in 2020 for only $25 million, it was going to be the flagship of the company, and actually became the company’s raison d’etre as it bought the Bally’s brand from owner Caesars Atlantic City just a few months later. The inexpensive price indicated that lots of renovations needed to be done, and to date, the company has poured over $100 million into the property.

But like most properties, it needed a focal point—and what better place than the hotel lobby? The Bally’s lobby is much larger than most, so the canvas was unlimited. When casino executives turned to SOSH Architects, there was an immediate connection, and a proposal for the Carousel Bar was born.

The first of its kind in New Jersey, Bally’s rotating Carousel Bar is one of the latest hospitality attractions to hit Atlantic City, and has become a must-see venue since its inaugural spin over Memorial Day Weekend 2022.

Inspired by boardwalk amusement parks, the design captures the nostalgia and whimsy of summer fun at the shore. Every aspect of the Carousel Bar’s sophisticated design, from the light and neutral color palette and warm wood tones to the custom curved color-changing LED light fixtures over the bar and pops of red accents, ties into the local environment, lending a subtle nod to the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk and iconic speakeasy era.

The immersive lobby bar captures the essence of a carousel ride through its central feature—an elevated 24-seat rotating bar. Guests get a 360-degree view of the adjacent casino and newly renovated hotel lobby on the revolving bar, which moves at a pace of 2.5 to 5 revolutions per hour, making it simple for guests to walk on and off. The surrounding glass rail defines the space to make it feel private yet visible, grabbing the attention of visitors while adding a sense of exclusiveness to the space. The overall design of the elevated bar and surrounding lounge area embraces a classic elegance with a modern twist to delight and immerse guests in a truly unique and playful experience.

The Carousel Bar is an integral part of Bally’s overall transformation, and brings a one-of-a-kind experience to the Atlantic City casino scene. Other Bally’s improvements include The Yard, built in the courtyard of the Dennis wing of the hotel, which can be enclosed during the winter months and open to the elements during the warmer seasons. Live music, specialty drinks and food are other attractions. Other Bally’s additions include several new food-and-beverage options and a new FanDuel sportsbook.

Bally’s Carousel Bar
Owner: Bally’s Corporation
Design and Architect of Record: SOSH Architects