Atlantis Resort Bahamas: Public Access Areas

Visitors to Atlantis in the Bahamas can enjoy the extensive public access areas without paying for a tour or day pass. Anyone not interested in swimming, water rides, or aquariums, should avoid the additional cost.
Many tourists enjoy the Atlantis Resort and Casino in the Bahamas without actually staying as a guest at one of the resort’s properties. Day trippers from cruise ships and guests at other hotels can purchase a day pass to enjoy the Atlantis Aquaventure’s water slides or tour the extensive aquariums; however, anyone can enjoy the public access areas of the Atlantis.

The Great Hall of Waters
The Great Hall of Waters is the lobby of the iconic Royal Towers. Upon arrival by bus or taxi, take a moment to admire the Flying Horses fountain featuring the golden statue of several winged horses. From the sprawling front entryway, gaze across the water at Harborside Resort’s colorful villas and the many luxurious yachts at anchor in the Atlantis marina.

Once inside the Royal Towers, the light and airy space echoes with the sound of running water from the fountains. The high, arched ceiling features golden scallops and "historical" paintings from the Lost City of Atlantis. Giant windows run from the floor of the lower level to the ceiling to give you an overview of the grounds and the Ruins Lagoon above ground and under the water. Descend the curved marble staircase to get a closer look at the graceful manta rays and other sea life.

Follow the corridor to the left to reach Marketplace Buffet restaurant or Plato’s Lounge for snacks and drinks. Guests with appointments at the Mandara Spa continue to the left to the west wing of the Royal Towers.

The Casino
The corridor to the right leads through a retail corridor to Poseiden’s Gate, where you can take a photograph on a giant, golden throne. The gate leads into the huge casino, which houses Pegasus Race and Sports Book, Nobu restaurant, Aura nightclub, and Atlas Bar and Grill.

The Crystal Court Shops
On the other side of the casino, the high-end Crystal Court shops provide a cool, elegant place for shopping. From there, you can either continue following the corridor to the Coral Towers, or exit the air-conditioned building for the sunny Marina Village.

The Coral Towers, Convention Center, and Beach Tower
If you opt to stay inside and head for the Coral Towers, another retail corridor lines the way. You’ll find the Coral Lounge in the lobby; downstairs is the Atlantis Speedway for radio-controlled vehicles. A narrow passage to the right leads to the library.

Continue on down another corridor, where you’ll find the Bahamian Club and Chop Stix (formerly Mama Loo’s) restaurants, as well as the Joker’s Wild Comedy Club and the Atlantis movie theater. This corridor joins the Convention Center and eventually terminates at the Beach Tower lobby. You’ll find the Atlantis Pal’s Workshop (Build a Bear), the Earth and Fire Pottery Studio, Gamer’s Reef video arcade, and Club Rush.

The Marina Village
If you decide to go outside at the Crystal Court Shops, descend the steps to the marina and pass Murray’s Deli and the Marina Pizzeria to the entrance of the Marina Village. The charming pedestrian area boasts several restaurants, Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, Starbucks Coffee, and a large assortment of retail shops. You’ll also find plenty of benches, where you can relax watch passersby, or even yachts.

The Cove
The other side of the resort offers the elegant, open-air lobby of the Cove. The upscale dining includes Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill, as well as the wildly popular Mosaic Buffet restaurant. However, the majority of visitors come here to participate in the programs at Dolphin Cay, such as swimming with the dolphins. To reach the entrance, just follow the footpath east from the Cove. The bellmen can point out the direction, if you’re uncertain.

See The Atlantis Resort for more information about visiting Atlantis.
   By MG Crocco
Published: 8/20/2009
 
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