By David Madden

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (CBS) — Atlantic City casinos are responding to regional competition in a number of ways, including taking games off the casino floor.  And in the case of one facility, going “al fresco,” so to speak.

The Marina section of Atlantic City is a busy place this weekend, hosting the boat show.

Meanwhile, the Golden Nugget casino is offering blackjack games on “The Deck,” a popular hangout with the locals.

Actually, they started the trend about three months ago at H2O, their pool bar which also overlooks the marina.

“We’ve made so many improvements here at the Golden Nugget,” says casino manager Karen Lew (back to camera in center of phot0).  “We just wanted to offer additional amenities to our guests, and outdoor gaming was the way to go.”

The tables are under cover, and there are restraints to hold the cards down should the wind pick up.

So, are these outdoor facilities getting used?  Absolutely.  In fact, some guests have even set up private parties to enjoy the action and the ambience.