Posted on: December 10, 2024, 05:40h.
Last updated on: December 10, 2024, 05:40h.
A unique boutique hotel inspired by the iconic board game Monopoly is set to be developed in Atlantic City, the original location of the board’s famous street names.
Officials at RMS Capital, a real estate developer based in New Jersey, announced plans to begin construction next year on The Top Hat at The Orange Loop. The design of the boutique hotel is based on the top hat game piece from Monopoly, which players traditionally use to navigate the board and acquire properties.
In addition to a prominent top hat on top of the three-story building, the initial concept includes a racecar extending from the facade. The racecar piece was introduced in 1943, adding to the game’s charm since its inception in 1935.
Mark Callazzo, managing partner of RMS Capital, stated, “The Top Hat at The Orange Loop will redefine Atlantic City. It goes beyond being just a building — it will serve as a notable landmark for locals and tourists alike.”
“The Orange Loop has undergone a significant transformation from its previous state, and this project signifies its next phase of growth. It aims to rejuvenate the area, support local businesses, and offer distinctive experiences that promote tourism and economic prosperity,” Callazzo explained.
Diversifying Atlantic City
The Top Hat hotel will be situated along Tennessee Ave. at the core of Atlantic City, connecting to the Boardwalk at the Central Pier.
While RMS did not disclose the specific address of the hotel with six bedrooms and retail space spanning 1,400 square feet on the ground floor, The Orange Loop encompasses three beach blocks from Tennessee Ave. south to St. James Place and New York Ave. This vibrant district hosts a variety of establishments including restaurants, coffee shops, live music venues, a yoga studio, a cannabis dispensary, a beer hall, and a church.
The Top Hat will not include any gambling facilities, but each room is expected to feature a Monopoly game. Its appeal lies in attracting new visitors to Atlantic City who wish to experience a Monopoly-themed boutique hotel and short-term rental.
Callazzo further added, “The Top Hat represents more than just a structure. It symbolizes the resilience and creativity of Atlantic City.”
The closest casinos to The Orange Loop are Bally’s to the south and Resorts to the north.
Monopoly History
The classic Monopoly game board, in production for nearly 90 years, features Atlantic City street names on 21 of the 22 available street deeds. The exception is Marvin Gardens, located in the neighboring Ventnor City.
Preceding Monopoly, a board game known as The Landlord’s Game gained popularity among a group of Quakers in Atlantic City. Charles Darrow, one of the Quakers, designed his own version of The Landlord’s Game using local street names in Atlantic City.
Monopoly slot machines are widely loved inside casinos nationwide. The game is also adapted into interactive online lottery games and scratch cards.
Light & Wonder, a leading gaming manufacturer, holds exclusive rights to produce Monopoly-themed gaming products through a licensing agreement with Hasbro.