State of the Art Waterpark Coming to AC in 2023

Post date: February 9, 2022

By Joe Fabian

The world’s largest indoor water park is coming to South Jersey. Estimated to cost $100 million, Bart Blattstein is leading the development of this massive project called “Island Waterpark”. The waterpark will be located in a beachfront lot next to the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City, occupying 103,000 square feet. It will be a non-gambling, family friendly destination that will operate all year round. This is all made possible by a retractable glass roof that will enclose the entire park. Features of the park include a lazy river, pools, water slides, retail stores, lounge areas, dining options, and party areas. There will also be an adult section that includes alcoholic beverages and a spa.

Several unrealized plans for waterparks have haunted Atlantic City in the past, but both Blattstein and Mayor of Atlantic City Marty Small are sure that this time the waterpark will definitely open. Blattstein already broke ground on construction in early January and has no plans of stopping now. The construction is aided by a 20-year tax incentive that will help finance the park. This incentive entitles the project to a $2.5 million rebate in sales tax each year. There will also be other tax breaks for the materials used during the construction of the park.

Blattstein and Mayor Small, are hoping that this project diversifies Atlantic City’s entertainment offerings from the casino and gambling driven industry. Incorporating a variety of different tourist attractions is a major goal of Mayor Small. “Island Waterpark” is set to open by Memorial Day weekend 2023 and will greatly help reanimate Atlantic City’s tourism scene.