I attended the HQ2 Beachclub at Ocean Casino Resort with a group of friends to see Afrojack. The…read moreevent ran from 11 AM to 6 PM, and we arrived around 12:30 PM.
The first issue was simply finding the venue. Coming from the self-parking garage, there was very little signage directing guests to the Beachclub. We eventually found our way by following another group headed there, but better directions and signs would make a huge difference.
The biggest problem, however, was the security screening. My friends and I carefully reviewed the venue rules beforehand and followed the bag and dress code requirements. Despite that, security went through our belongings in an extremely invasive manner. They opened wallets, flipped through personal items, and thoroughly searched small bags that were well within the approved size limits. They were looking at how much money and credit cards I had! When I questioned why they were looking through things like my wallet, noting that even airport security doesn't typically inspect belongings that way, the response I received was rude and dismissive. The entire interaction felt uncomfortable and unnecessarily intrusive.
Once inside, it became clear that unless you're planning to spend hundreds of dollars on bottle service, there aren't many places where you can simply sit, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere. Shortly after we found seats, we were approached and made to feel unwelcome unless we were spending money. The overall vibe felt very pretentious and exclusive rather than welcoming.
What made this even more frustrating was the inconsistency in enforcement. The venue rules clearly state that smoking is prohibited, yet multiple people were openly smoking throughout the event while numerous security staff stood nearby and did nothing. Meanwhile, security had spent so much effort scrutinizing our belongings at the entrance. It gave the impression that certain guests were being targeted while others were allowed to ignore the rules.
Exiting the venue was also confusing. We attempted to leave through the same area where we entered and followed visible exit signs, only to be told to turn around and walk all the way to the opposite side of the venue. Once again, clearer signage would help avoid unnecessary confusion.
To be fair, the bathrooms were clean throughout the day, and there were attendants making sure they stayed that way. The bartenders were also friendly and professional. I was only drinking water, and every time I ordered one, they were polite and helpful.
Unfortunately, those positives weren't enough to outweigh the overall experience. Between the confusing layout, invasive security procedures, inconsistent rule enforcement, and constant pressure to spend money, this venue simply isn't for me. No matter which DJ is performing, I won't be returning. I'd much rather attend events at venues in Philadelphia that offer a more relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
