Hampton Beach Casino: A Haven of Entertainment on the New Hampshire Coast
The Hampton Beach Casino stands as an iconic landmark and a hub of entertainment on the beautiful New Hampshire coastline. Immerse yourself in the rich history, captivating attractions, and boundless amenities of this historic destination.
A Historical Tapestry: From Ballroom to Casino
The casino's origins trace back to 1891 when it debuted as a magnificent ballroom known as the Hampton Beach Assembly Hall. Over the years, it underwent several transformations, including its conversion into a casino in 1935. The casino's golden age spanned the 1950s and 1960s, hosting legendary performers like Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, and Jerry Lewis.
A Contemporary Haven of Entertainment
Today, the Hampton Beach Casino remains a vibrant entertainment complex that welcomes visitors of all ages. The heart of the casino lies in its two main venues:
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The Ballroom: A legendary space that has witnessed countless performances by renowned musicians, comedians, and other entertainers.
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The Coliseum: A more intimate venue perfect for live theater, concerts, and special events.
In addition to its performance spaces, the casino offers a myriad of other amenities, including:
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Arcades and Rides: An exciting array of arcade games and carnival rides for hours of family-friendly fun.
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Restaurants and Bars: A selection of dining options ranging from casual snacks to fine dining, accompanied by a variety of bars.
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Shopping: A charming collection of boutiques and souvenir shops where you can find unique gifts and mementos.
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Hotel and Conference Center: The adjacent Ashworth by the Sea Hotel offers comfortable accommodations and meeting spaces for both business and leisure travelers.
An Economic and Cultural Pillar
The Hampton Beach Casino plays a vital role in the local economy and serves as a cultural hub for the community. The casino:
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Supports Over 1,000 Jobs: Directly and indirectly employs over a thousand individuals, contributing significantly to the local labor market.
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Generates Tourism Revenue: Attracts over two million visitors annually, boosting the tourism industry and generating revenue for the region.
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Preserves Architectural Heritage: As a designated National Historic Landmark, the casino stands as a symbol of New Hampshire's rich past.
Why the Hampton Beach Casino Matters
The Hampton Beach Casino is more than just an entertainment venue. It is:
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A Source of Nostalgic Charm: Preserves a bygone era of opulence and glamour, evoking memories and providing a glimpse into the past.
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A Catalyst for Community: Brings people together for shared experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity.
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An Economic Driver: Contributes to the local economy and provides employment opportunities, vital for the well-being of the community.
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A Preservation of History: Serves as a living testament to New Hampshire's rich heritage, inviting visitors to connect with the region's past.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
To fully enjoy all that the Hampton Beach Casino has to offer, consider the following steps:
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Plan Ahead: Check the official website for the latest event listings and book tickets in advance to ensure availability.
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Arrive Early: Allow ample time to explore the complex, enjoy the various amenities, and secure the best seats for performances.
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Indulge in Local Flavors: Savor the culinary delights of the casino's restaurants, featuring dishes inspired by local ingredients and seafood.
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Take Advantage of Nearby Attractions: Stroll along the scenic Hampton Beach boardwalk, explore the charming downtown area, or venture out for a day trip to the nearby Seacoast Science Center.
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Consider an Overnight Stay: Extend your visit and experience the full ambiance of the casino and the surrounding area by booking a room at the Ashworth by the Sea Hotel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there age restrictions at the Hampton Beach Casino?
A: The casino is generally open to all ages, but certain events and performances may have age restrictions.
Q: What is the dress code for the casino?
A: Casual attire is acceptable, but semi-formal or formal attire may be requested for special events.
Q: Are there accessible seating accommodations?
A: Yes, the casino provides accessible seating options in both The Ballroom and The Coliseum.
Q: Can I bring my pet to the casino?
A: Pets are not permitted inside the casino or hotel, except for service animals.
Q: What are the hours of operation?
A: The casino's hours of operation vary depending on the day of the week. Check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Q: Is there a parking lot?
A: Yes, there is a large parking lot adjacent to the casino with ample spaces for visitors.
Tables
Table 1: Historic Milestones of the Hampton Beach Casino
| Year |
Milestone |
| 1891 |
Debuts as Hampton Beach Assembly Hall |
| 1935 |
Transforms into a casino |
| 1950s-1960s |
Golden age of entertainment |
| 1992 |
Designated a National Historic Landmark |
| 2003 |
Receives major renovations |
| Present |
Thriving entertainment complex |
Table 2: Economic Impact of the Hampton Beach Casino
| Impact |
Value |
| Direct and Indirect Jobs |
Over 1,000 |
| Annual Visitor Count |
Over 2 million |
| Tourism Revenue Generated |
Not available |
| Local Economic Contribution |
Significant |
Table 3: Upcoming Events at the Hampton Beach Casino
| Date |
Event |
| March 17 |
St. Patrick's Day Celebration |
| April 21 |
Earth Day Festival |
| May 12 |
Mother's Day Brunch |
| June 3 |
Hampton Beach Seafood Festival |
| July 4 |
Independence Day Fireworks |
| August 25 |
Hampton Beach Film Festival |
| September 15 |
Oktoberfest |
| October 31 |
Halloween Costume Contest |
| November 23 |
Thanksgiving Day Buffet |
| December 24 |
Christmas Eve Dinner |
Additional Resources
