riverboat casino joliet illinois

• WEATHER ALERT Heat Advisory Full Story
• WEATHER ALERT Excessive Heat Watch Full Story

Hollywood Casinos in Aurora, Joliet move onto land near major interstates

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The owners of the Hollywood Casinos in Aurora and Joliet are moving their operations onto land.

Both casinos have operated as riverboat casinos. Now both sites will be moving onto land near major interstates.

The new casino in Aurora will be located near I-88 and Farnsworth Avenue.

The new casino in Joliet will be built on a site near I-80 and I-55.

"Since the change in law to permit land-side casino relocation in Illinois, we have been exploring the viability of relocating our aging riverboats in Aurora and Joliet. Thanks to the support of our local community leaders, in particular the visionary leadership of Mayor Richard Irvin and his staff in Aurora, we are very excited to be moving forward with these projects," said CEO and president of Penn Entertainment Jay Snowden.

A completion date for both casinos has not been announced.

Related Topics

• CONSTRUCTION

Bally's moving ahead with plans for permanent downtown casino

Woman says New Jersey Bally's casino refuses to pay 7-figure jackpot

Casino night fundraiser set in Chicago this Autism Awareness Month

Tropicana in Las Vegas shutting down Tuesday to make way for ballpark

Top stories.

Attempted car break-in caught on video in north suburb

Brookfield Zoo Chicago welcomes koalas Brumby and Willum

Teen pleads guilty in deadly shooting outside Benito Juarez HS

• 2 hours ago

K9 Officer 'Rush' hit by intoxicated driver, Gary PD says

• 9 minutes ago

Woman who died after boat capsized in Lake Michigan ID'd

New 'mysterious' monolith appears in Las Vegas desert, police say

Justin Timberlake arrested for DWI in New York, police tell ABC News

• 44 minutes ago

3 shot, including 14-year-old girl, at 63rd Street Beach: CPD

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Betting Tips
• Casino Tips

Harrah’s Joliet Riverboat Casino Review

Joint-owned by Caesars Entertainment and Missouri hotel developer, John Hammons, Harrah’s Joliet is a riverboat hotel and casino in Joliet, Illinois. With 80% of the shares, Caesars Entertainment is the dominant force behind Harrah’s Joliet.

Located on the Des Plaines riverfront on Joliet Street, Harrah’s Joliet is a modern Art-Deco-style resort with a 204-room hotel, 40 000 square feet of gaming space, 31 table games, over 1 000 slot machines, a poker room, a gift shop, and four restaurants.

The History of Harrah’s Joliet

Because Harrah’s Joliet opened in 1993, when land-based casinos were still illegal in Illinois, the venue was originally based on the Northern Star, a 210-foot yacht that cruised the Des Plaines River every two hours. The Northern Star featured 40 table games and 500 slot machines. In 1994, Harrah’s Joliet expanded onto a second vessel, the Southern Star, which, with its paddleboat look, was much better suited to the role aesthetically.

In 1999, the 11-floor Harrah’s Joliet Hotel was added on the banks of the Des Plaines River.

Harrah’s Joliet took its present form in 2001, when Illinois law was altered to allow riverboat casinos to remain docked. In response to this change the Northern Star and the Southern Star were replaced with two joined barges.

Staying Over at Harrah’s Joliet

There are four options to choose from when booking one of the 204 luxury rooms at the Harrah’s Joliet Hotel: Luxury King, Premium King, Luxury Double Queen, and Premium Double Queen.

Guests may opt for either one king-sized bed or two queen sets and highlights include pay-per-view movies, private voice mail, fully stocked bar fridges, hair dryers, and more. Premium rooms are located on a separate secured floor of the Harrah’s Joliet hotel. Room rates at Harrah’s Joliet range from US$ 71 to US$ 105.

Games to Play at Harrah’s Joliet

There are 1 138 slot machines, including over 200 video poker games, on the casino floor at Harrah’s Joliet. Popular slot machine titles include Reels of Wheels, Ripley’s Believe it or Not, Moby Dick, and The Walking Dead, whilst video poker players can choose from Double Bonus, Deuces Wild, and other variation found at CAD casino .

For a more traditional kind of poker, Harrah’s Joliet players can visit the resort’s World Series of Poker Room, which has multiple tables and hosts weekly poker Deep Stack, Mini-Deep, No-Limit Hold’Em, Limit and Bounty tournaments.

Other table games on offer at Harrah’s Joliet include blackjack, craps, roulette, mini-baccarat, and more.

Places to Eat at Harrah’s Joliet

There are several different restaurants at Harrah’s Joliet, which cover buffet, casual and upscale dining.

Flavours buffet, for example, offers a wide array of dishes from all over the world, including deep-dish pizza, stir fry, barbeque, and more, with the selection becoming even greater and more interesting on theme nights. The buffet also features 40 feet of desserts, including a wheel of cupcakes.

Aces Diner, meanwhile, serves up casual all-American fare like burgers, hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and more. Harrah’s Joliet also has its own Starbucks, where guests can enjoy a range of coffee-based beverages as well as light meals like pastries and sandwiches.

For a more formal setting and a fine-dining experience, Harrah’s Joliet guests can visit The Reserve, which serves pasta, rib-eye, tiramisu, fruit crepes, and other similar dishes.

Things to Do at Harrah’s Joliet

For night-time entertainment, Harrah’s Joliet guests can visit Sheer cocktail bar or travel into the city and attend a show at the Rialto Square Theatre.

Harrah’s Joliet also has its own gift shop, where guests can purchase Chicagoland souvenirs, apparel, and other items.

• casino games
• online casino

List Of Six-number Lottery Games

Fan-tan – a casino card game in detail, shane walden, recent posts.

• A Glance at Online Betting with Offers in the USA
• Get Familiarized With Jacks, Aka Video Poker
• Explaining Online Casino Bonuses to Beginners
• Try Out the popular No Deposit Online Bingo Game
• The Advantages of Tablets and E-readers when Gambling Online
• Getting the Best From Online Sports Betting In South Africa
• Betting Odds Explained
• A Guide to Playing Flux Online Slot for Beginners
• Players Cast Nets with Microgaming’s Wild Catch Online Slots
• Nektan Software’s Loaded PI Slot Game Introduced Online

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience and security.

• Real Money Casino Apps
• 18+ Online Casinos
• Safest Casinos
• Low Minimum Deposit
• Best Paying Slots
• Cafe Casino
• Wild Casino
• Red Dog Casino
• Bovada Casino
• BetUS Casino
• Cash App Casinos
• Matchpay Casinos
• Credit Card Casinos
• Debit Card Casinos
• Gift Card Casinos
• California Gambling
• Florida Gambling
• Texas Gambling
• Kentucky Gambling
• Oklahoma Gambling

Illinois Casinos - Best Gambling Locations in IL

Read reviews and compare the top casinos in the prairie state.

Illinois offers fully-legalized brick-and-mortar casino gaming. The state plays home to over a dozen legal casino locations, from riverboat casinos to brand-new resorts. The best news is that a full range of slots, table games, and jackpot games are available at all Illinois casinos. 

Most Popular Casinos in Illinois Reviewed 

IL casinos offer a mix of traditional gaming tables, slots, and now poker. Sports betting was legalized too as part of the state’s move to liberalize the land-based gaming scene. 

Many of the top resort operators now run B&M casinos in Illinois, with many more to come. Temporary casinos have sprung up recently as part of larger building developments. 

#1 Harrah’s Casino Joliet 

Harrah’s Casino Joliet, located in Joliet, Illinois, is a premier destination for gambling enthusiasts. Since its opening in 1993 as a small riverboat casino with just a few slots and table games, it has grown to become one of the biggest casinos in the state. 

The gaming floor space at Harrah’s Joliet is now around 40,000 square feet – enough room to accommodate over 1,000 slot machines and table games from the biggest manufacturers. 

In addition to the vast slot machine collection, Harrah’s Casino Joliet offers a variety of other table games, including blackjack, roulette, and craps. There’s also a dedicated poker room for the Hold’em enthusiasts to get their fill of cash games and tournaments.  

In addition to the poker room, Harrah’s Joliet offers a new sportsbook, allowing you to place bets on your favorite sports events and cheer for your team.

For those looking to extend their stay, Harrah’s Casino Joliet provides a comfortable and luxurious hotel experience. The hotel offers a total of 200 rooms, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay for all guests. Additionally, the casino boasts several restaurants, including the acclaimed Flavors the Buffet and The Reserve Steakhouse where you can indulge in culinary delights.

Customer reviews for both the hotel and casino are consistently positive, highlighting the exceptional service, comfortable accommodations, and thrilling gaming experience. The staff at Harrah’s Casino Joliet go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels welcomed and satisfied.

To reward loyal patrons, Harrah’s Casino Joliet offers a comprehensive rewards and loyalty program. By participating in this program, you can earn points that can be redeemed for various perks, such as complimentary meals, discounted hotel stays, and exclusive access to special events. Additionally, the casino features happy hour deals, allowing you to enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers during specific hours.

#2 Rivers Casino Des Plaines 

Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, Illinois, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It opened its doors in 2011 and boasts a vast gaming floor spanning 144,000 square feet – certainly making it the biggest Illinois casino in terms of space. 

Inside Rivers Casino, you can find a wide array of gambling options. They include around 1,300 slot machines in total – one of the largest collections at an Illinois casino. 

Games range from classic favorites to the latest video slots. WMS, IGT, and Light & Wonder are some of the big-name developers who now grace the gaming floor at Rivers Casino Des Plaines.

In addition to slot machines, the casino offers various table games, such as blackjack, roulette, and poker. You can also enjoy video poker machines like Deuces Wild and Joker Poker.

Rivers Casino often provides a dedicated poker room for enthusiasts looking to participate in live poker games and tournaments. Additionally, there is a Penn National Gaming-powered sportsbook 

If you’re planning to stay overnight, Rivers Casino usually offers a luxurious hotel with around 300 rooms. 

Customer reviews for both the hotel and casino experience at Rivers Casino are generally positive. Visitors often praise the friendly staff, clean facilities, and enjoyable gaming atmosphere.

When it comes to rewards and loyalty programs, Rivers Casino has its own unique system. The Rush Rewards program will be familiar to you if you know about the best real-money casino apps . However, don’t dismiss the Happy Hour deals that run throughout Rivers Casino’s bars and restaurants.

#3 Argosy Casino Alton 

The Argosy started life as the Alton Belle, a small riverboat that launched in 1991 offering a few hundred slots and table games. The casino changed names as it became permanently moored in the late 1990s. 

Argosy Casino Alton now offers several hundred slot machines and table games, in addition to a new sportsbook that operates under the state’s new gambling laws. You can also take advantage of big-money promotions throughout the year, including $100,000 in Free SlotPlay, and the same amount in the casino’s pro football picks contest. 

You’ll love Argosy Casino if you like slots. There are now over 800 slot machines on board, including a range of progressives. Blackjack, roulette, and 21+3 round out the table game offerings, although the sportsbook is among Illinois’ best. There are over 35 HDTVs displaying the biggest sports. 

Monthly promotions are also the name of the game, thanks to the casino’s deal with Penn National Gaming. You can rack up PENN bonus dollars every time you play for real money at this Illinois casino. 

You may then redeem bonus bucks for real cash or SlotPlay to use on machines of your choice. It’s just like playing and winning at online casinos for real money . 

#4 Hollywood Casino & Hotel Joliet 

Billed as “the best Illinois casino near Chicago,” Hollywood Casino brings all the expertise of Penn National Gaming to the state. The casino overlooks the Des Plaines River, while Chicagoland Speedway is just a short car ride away.  

The gaming floor at Hollywood Casino spans a vast 50,000 square feet, providing ample space for excitement and entertainment. You’ll find yourself surrounded by a plethora of slot machines, including popular titles such as Raging Rhino and Buffalo Gold.

In addition to slot machines, the casino also boasts a variety of table games, including classics like blackjack and American Roulette. Though there are only around 20 table games, there is a high-limit section aimed at VIPs.

For poker enthusiasts, Hollywood Casino Hotel Joliet features a dedicated poker room where you can test your skills against fellow players. Additionally, if you’re interested in sports betting, the casino offers a state-of-the-art sportsbook where you can place wagers on your favorite teams and events.

When it’s time to unwind, the hotel offers comfortable and well-appointed rooms for a restful stay. With a range of room options to choose from, you’ll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. The hotel also features a variety of restaurants, catering to different culinary preferences, ensuring that every guest’s taste buds are satisfied.

Customer reviews for Hollywood Casino Hotel Joliet have been overwhelmingly positive, with guests praising the friendly staff, clean and spacious rooms, and exceptional service. The casino’s rewards and loyalty schemes provide additional perks and benefits for frequent visitors, allowing you to make the most out of your gaming experience.

#5 Grand Victoria Casino Elgin

The Grand Victoria Casino is one of Illinois’ original riverboat casinos, opening its doors back in 1994. It may have changed hands since then via several takeovers and mergers, but the Grand Victoria continues to provide excellent gaming across its 30,000-square-foot gaming floor. Plus, you get to enjoy the beautiful Fox River after a night’s gambling. 

One of the main attractions of the Grand Victoria Casino is its extensive gaming floor. Visitors can try their luck at a variety of table games, including blackjack, roulette, poker, and craps. 

For those who prefer slot machines, the casino boasts a vast selection of both classic and modern games, providing endless opportunities for fun and potential winnings.

In addition to the gaming options, the Grand Victoria Casino offers several dining choices to suit various tastes. From casual dining at the Indulge Show Kitchen Buffet to upscale experiences at Buckingham’s Steakhouse and Lounge, visitors can indulge in a diverse range of culinary delights. The casino also features a variety of bars and lounges, perfect for enjoying a drink and socializing with friends.

Furthermore, the Grand Victoria Casino hosts live entertainment events regularly, adding an extra layer of excitement to the overall experience. From live music performances to comedy shows, guests can enjoy a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere while taking a break from the gaming action.

The casino also takes pride in its commitment to responsible gaming. It offers resources and assistance for individuals who may need support in managing their gambling habits, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons. 

List of All Casinos in Illinois 

There are now over a dozen Illinois casinos spread around Chicago and further afield. New casinos now jostle for space with older riverboat casinos. 

Biggest Casinos in Illinois 

Smaller riverboat casinos in Illinois don’t cover a lot of ground. However, riverboat casinos that became permanently moored, and newer brick-and-mortar destinations, cover a lot more space. New temporary casinos, such as Bally’s at Medinah Temple and Hard Rock Casino Rockford, will be among Illinois’s largest gaming sites when they are completed. 

Illinois Casinos with the Most Games 

Most of the best Illinois casino sites offer over 500 slots and games. The big brands like Rivers Casino (Rush Street) and Harrah’s (Caesars) tend to spread the largest number. A total of 500–700 slot machines is a standard count, in addition to 20–40 table games per casino.

B&M Casinos in Illinois with Hotels 

Not all Illinois casinos have hotels attached, particularly some of the older riverboats that can accommodate gaming only. Here are some of the best options for casino-hotels in Illinois. 

Casino Games in Illinois 

Illinois casinos spread an enormous selection of slots, table games, and video poker across their floors. Sportsbooks are now legal in the state, as is poker. 

You can find Texas Hold’em games at all the top Illinois casino locations that have poker. It’s the next best thing to playing at Illinois poker sites . 

Slot Machines

Slots dominate the gaming floors at all Illinois casinos. It’s just like playing at Illinois online casinos but you get to see the lights and gameplay up close. Progressives are also offered by most of the top IL casinos. 

Look out for slot-themed promotions at some of the top casinos in the state. Daily drawings, prize giveaways, and loyalty points are offered at some casinos, such as Harrah’s Joliet. You can also pick up reward credits when you play the most popular slot machines.

• White Orchid
• Wheel of Fortune
• Siberian Storm

American Roulette is the main game at most Illinois casinos. You’ll know about the US gambling laws by state that list all permitted games in Illinois. Unlike some other states, it’s perfectly legal to try roulette for real money. However, you’ll find it hard to play lower-edge games like European Roulette in an Illinois casino.  

• American Roulette

Classic blackjack isn’t the only game in town at a good Illinois casino: you can choose between games with side bets (e.g. 21+3) and progressive games. It’s a little like playing against the house online live dealer casinos , except you will have to find space at the table before you play. 

• Classic Blackjack
• 21+3 side bets

Dice games like classic American craps are permitted in Illinois. You can play the game at some of the larger Illinois casinos. 

Be the shooter and set the point, then bet against the dice to win a payout. Always be aware of responsible gambling before you hit the tables. 

Video Poker

Anyone who’s of the right gambling age will know all about video poker. It’s the easy-to-play version of Five-Card Draw that you play on an electronic gaming terminal. Make a royal flush and you will win the set jackpot according to the paytable. Variants include Deuces Wild and Bonus Poker, each carrying a range of different prizes. 

• Deuces Wild
• Jacks or Better
• Bonus Poker

Casino Poker Games

Of the 40–50 table games offered by the largest IL casinos, roulette and blackjack form the bulk of the options available. However, you can still try your hand at some interesting table games that pit you against the house. Three-Card Poker and Four-Card Poker are generally offered alongside at least one variant of baccarat. Mississippi Stud is available at many of the riverboat casinos too. 

• Three-Card Poker
• Four-Card Poker
• EZ Baccarat
• Mississippi Stud
• Casino Hold’em

Riverboat Casinos in Illinois 

The law on riverboat Illinois casinos only changed in 1999, a few years after the Riverboat Gambling Act was passed. Where before they had to keep moving constantly along a waterway, the rule change meant that casinos could become permanently moored. Some of the 11 IL land-based casinos on rivers merely resemble the old steamer boats but are now firmly on land. 

Indian Gaming Tribes in Illinois

There are currently no Indian casinos in the state of Illinois. However, several Native American tribes in Illinois have been vying for contracts on new casinos since the Rebuild Illinois Act of 2019 was passed. 

Up to six new Illinois land-based casinos were slated to be built in locations like Chicago, Rockford, and Waukegan. So far, a new Golden Nugget casino in Danville and a Hard Rock in Rockford (owned by the Seminole Tribe) have opened their doors with temporary structures. 

• Ho-Chunk Nation
• Poarch Band of Creek Indians
• Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
• Seminole Tribe

Gambling Taxes in Illinois 

Casino gambling in Illinois is tightly regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board . They ensure that all casino games are fair across the state, but that also covers the way that taxes are enforced. 

The Illinois tax rate on gambling winnings is around 4.95%. However, it’s important to note that you can’t usually write off gambling losses when you complete your tax return. That’s an important difference with some other states. 

So, whether you’re playing casino games, or betting at Illinois online sportsbooks , you’ll need to keep accurate records. Don’t forget that casinos will withhold larger winnings too for federal tax if you win over $600 (or 300x your stake). That applies when playing the Illinois State Lottery.  

Illinois Gambling FAQ 

When was casino gambling legalized in illinois.

Riverboat casino gaming has been legal since the 1990s. In 1999, floating casinos were allowed to be permanently moored. Some of the largest Illinois casino sites are now riverside properties that have been recently expanded. 

What is the legal gambling age for casinos in Illinois?

You must be 21 or over to enter IL land-based casinos to place bets. Since UIGEA , most online gambling has been illegal, but you can now place bets at regulated online sportsbooks. 

Can I smoke in Illinois casinos?

No. Illinois is one of a handful of US states that has restricted smoking at casinos. Illinois is also smoke-free at charitable gambling facilities that provide bingo games.  

Are there horse racing betting facilities in Illinois?

Yes, pari-mutuel wagering is permitted in The Prairie State. It’s overseen by the Illinois Racing Board, and betting is allowed in person at racetracks like Hawthorne Racecourse or at OTB (Off-Track Betting) facilities spread across Illinois. 

Is there dog racing and betting in Illinois?

No. There are no greyhound racetracks in Illinois, nor is simulcast betting permitted at OTBs around the state. 

What other legal restrictions are there for gambling in Illinois?

Illinois has legalized sports betting in recent years, and that covers online and mobile play, too. You can also access Illinois betting apps wherever you are in the state. 

How many B&M casinos are there in Illinois?

There are over a dozen brick-and-mortar casinos and riverboat casinos in Illinois. New B&M casinos are being built, with some temporary locations now up and running. Major operators include Harrah’s and Hollywood Casino. 

Is charitable gambling allowed in Illinois?

Yes, charitable games like gin rummy are legal in Illinois. You must pay a $400 license fee to run a non-profit charity game. 14 games are allowed, including poker, keno, and roulette.

What was the first Illinois casino to open?

A riverboat casino in Alton, IL, was the first legal casino to go live following the Riverboat Gambling Act of 1990. Under the law, riverboat casinos had to move up and down waterways, though the rules were relaxed in 1999. 

Do casinos in Illinois have free parking?

Yes, parking is free at most Illinois casino locations. Valet parking is also offered by the larger Illinois B&M casinos.  

What’s the tax revenue for Illinois casinos?

The State of Illinois collected nearly $2B in total revenue for gambling for the year 2022. Casinos added around $360M in tax to the state coffers. 

Are any new casinos coming to Illinois?

Yes. Up to six new casinos are due to be built and completed by 2026. Some temporary new casinos have already been constructed in Danville, Chicago, and Rockford. 

Is there help for problem gambling in Illinois?

Yes. There are a variety of charities in IL that assist problem gamblers. These include the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling , which has a problem gambling screener on its website. It’s a self-administered test to evaluate your gambling behavior.  

Stay Ahead of the Game

Are you ready to take your online gambling experience to the next level? Sign up for the LetsGambleUSA newsletter and get the latest news, exclusive offers, and expert tips delivered straight to your inbox.

Hollywood Casino in Aurora and Joliet to Build Land-Based Facilities

Construction of both properties is expected to begin in 2023, published october 10, 2022 • updated on october 10, 2022 at 8:03 pm.

Hollywood Casino plans to relocate its casinos in Aurora and Joliet, moving both from riverboat sites to land-based properties near major interstates, the entertainment facilities' parent company announced Monday.

The proposed $360 million casino and hotel development in Aurora would be located adjacent to the Chicago Premium Outlets, near Exit 119 off of Interstate 88. Featuring approximately 900 slots and 50 live table games, the development will also include a baccarat room and a poker room, a Barstool Sportsbook, approximately 200 hotel rooms as well as restaurants and bars, according to Penn Entertainment.

Watch NBC Chicago local news and weather without login

Construction of the property, which will also feature a full-service spa, meeting space and an event center, will begin in late 2023. The project is subject to regulatory approval.

Plans call for the Joliet casino to be constructed as part of the Rock Run Crossings development project near the Interstate 80 and 55 interchange, several miles from its current site along the Des Plaines River.

Similar to the proposed casino in Aurora, the Joliet facility will include approximately 800 slots and 45 live table games, a Barstool Sportsbook, meeting space and an event center. Construction is slated to start in late 2023, and it's also subject to regulatory approval.

Penn Entertainment on Monday also announced the construction of a new hotel at the Hollywood Casino in Columbus, Ohio, and a second hotel tower at its M Resort in Henderson, Nevada.

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter here.

This article tagged under:

• All News Stories
• Focus on Partners
• From the Floor
• Women Rising in Gaming
• Black Execs on the Rise

Illinois: PENN Entertainment breaks ground for Hollywood Casino Joliet

• Commercial Casinos
• Penn Entertainment

PENN Entertainment held a groundbreaking ceremony for Hollywood Casino Joliet in Illinois on Wednesday, replacing the company’s riverboat casino, with members of the Illinois Gaming Board, the Illinois General Assembly, local government, labor organizations and other local stakeholders in attendance.

This move from riverboat to land-based operations follows a 2019 law allowing riverboat casinos in Illinois to move onshore. The existing Hollywood Casino Joliet on the Des Plaines River will continue to operate during the construction period, which is anticipated to last about two years.

“We are very excited to be moving forward with construction on a new, state-of-the-art Hollywood Casino Joliet in an ideal location,” Jay Snowden, CEO and president of PENN Entertainment, said in a press release , “Our close proximity to two interstates and surrounding mixed-use development will offer our modern facility with exceptional visibility and accessibility in the highly attractive Chicagoland market.”

Mike Thoma, vice president & general manager of Hollywood Casino Joliet, added, “from our day-one team members to the hundreds of individuals that will be joining us in the months ahead, this is an incredibly exciting milestone for all of us with the property and local community. We can’t wait to provide our guests with an even greater customer experience at the future Hollywood Casino Joliet.”

The project, estimated to cost $185 million, will feature 850 slot machines, 44 table games, sportsbook, bars and restaurants, and a 10,000-square-foot event center. The site will have about 1,330 parking spaces.

The commercial and residential development is next to the intersection of Interstate 80 and Interstate 55 in Joliet. The location is notable for its high traffic, with an estimated 230,000 vehicles passing by daily.

This new Hollywood Casino Joliet is part of PENN Entertainment’s broader expansion strategy, which includes new projects in Aurora, Ill.; Columbus, Ohio; and Henderson, Nev. Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. has committed up to $575 million toward the $850 million budget for the growth initiatives.

• Illinois: Groundbreaking for Hollywood Casino Aurora set 11/28/23 3:55 PM
• Ohio: Groundbreaking for new hotel at Penn’s Hollywood Casino Columbus set for Nov. 28 11/27/23 4:10 PM

© 2024 CDC Gaming Reports Inc.

Penn Entertainment to bring Illinois riverboat casinos ashore; add hotel towers to Ohio's Hollywood Columbus and Nevada's M Resort

Penn Entertainment announced Monday that the company is set to pursue four new projects with an overall $850 million budget, including the relocation of its riverboat casinos in Aurora and Joliet, Illinois , to new land-based facilities. Additionally, the business is set to build a new hotel at Hollywood Columbus in Ohio, and a second hotel tower at the M Resort in Henderson , Nevada.

Jay Snowden , Chief Executive Officer and President, said: “We are delighted to announce these exciting new growth projects, which we expect will generate strong free cash flow returns and create long-term value for our shareholders. Our casino properties remain at the core of our omni-channel approach to entertainment , which combines best-in-class retail operations and a database of more than 26 million myChoice members with a rapidly growing interactive and media footprint.”

The company has been exploring the viability of relocating its aging riverboats in Aurora and Joliet since the change in the law to permit land-side casino relocation in Illinois was passed. “Thanks to the support of our local community leaders, in particular the visionary leadership of Mayor Richard Irvin and his staff in Aurora, we are very excited to be moving forward with these projects,” added Snowden.

The plan for Aurora is to construct “a modern, best-in-class” casino and hotel in a location off I-88 that would allow the company to serve “the millions of visitors” to the adjacent Simon Premium Outlet Mall. The development will include the transfer of certain parcels of land from the city, and up to $50 million of the project will be funded by the city through a new bond issuance, all of which is subject to final approval by the Aurora City Council.

In Joliet, the planned casino will be located in the Rock Run Crossings development mixed-use project in close proximity to the I-80 and I-55 interchange , which the company notes offers “exceptional visibility and accessibility.” These two projects are expected to significantly improve Penn’s offerings in the attractive Chicagoland market “while creating hundreds of new full-time jobs for the local communities.”

As for Hollywood Casino Columbus in Ohio and the M Resort in Henderson, Nevada, the projects are subject to municipal approvals and would see the expansion of the company’s offerings at two of its best-performing properties . “Since opening in 2012, our Columbus property has experienced tremendous growth, and the addition of a hotel at the property will create a true regional destination,” noted Snowden.

When it comes to the M Resort, the addition of a second tower “will benefit from the strong demand in the Henderson locals market while providing additional capacity for the group business that is drawn to our market-leading resort and amenities, including our highly successful partnership with the Las Vegas Raiders,” the executive added.

In connection with these projects, Penn has entered into an agreement with real estate investment trust (REIT) Gaming and Leisure Properties to create a new master lease that would include the two new facilities in Aurora and Joliet, in addition to Hollywood Columbus (OH), Hollywood Toledo (OH), the M Resort (NV), the Meadows (PA) and Hollywood Perryville (MD). The amended agreement will facilitate and fund up to $575 million of the approximately $850 million overall project budget .

GLPI will provide up to $225 million at a 7.75% cap rate for the Aurora project. With respect to the Columbus, Joliet and M Resort projects, Penn may elect to receive up to $350 million of funding in the aggregate from GLPI for real property improvements at then-current market rates, which will incorporate a spread to GLPI’s cost of capital. The new master lease will be effective on January 1, 2023 .

Details unveiled

The Aurora development will see Penn develop a new land-based casino and hotel adjacent to the Chicago Premium Outlets mal l, near Exit 119 off I-88 in Aurora, which would replace the current Hollywood Casino Aurora riverboat property. The development, with an estimated budget of $360 million, is expected to include a modern casino and hotel with approximately 900 slots and 50 live table games (including a baccarat room and a poker room).

Additionally, the property will feature a Barstool Sportsbook “with the ability to host popular Barstool personalities” and approximately 200 hotel rooms . Moreover, the property will include a full-service spa, high-quality bars and restaurants, approximately 10,000 square feet of meeting areas and an event center. Construction of the new property is expected to begin in late 2023 , subject to city and regulatory approval.

For the Joliet project, Penn intends to build a new land-based casino as part of the Rock Run Crossings development in Joliet , which is adjacent to the I-80 and I-55 interchange and several miles from the current Hollywood Casino Joliet riverboat property which it would replace. With an estimated budget of $185 million , the venue is expected to include a modern casino with approximately 800 slots and 45 live table games (including a baccarat room).

Similarly to the Aurora development, the Joliet project will include a Barstool Sportsbook and high-quality bars and restaurants. It will also feature approximately 10,000 square feet of meeting areas and an event center. Construction is expected to begin in late 2023 .

The Hollywood Columbus development calls for a new hotel with an estimated budget of approximately $100 million , expected to include 180 rooms and new food and beverage offerings. The hotel will be attached to the existing property and will add approximately 100 permanent new jobs, “along with hundreds of temporary construction jobs.” Construction of the new property is also expected in late 2023 .

Lastly, Penn is planning the addition of a second hotel tower at M Resort in Henderson, Nevada . This project, with an estimated budget of $206 million , would add approximately 384 rooms to the company’s property south of the Las Vegas Strip, bringing its total to 774 rooms and suites. Along with the rooms, there will be expanded meeting space, updated amenities and additional local partnerships “that will be announced at a later date.”

New Jersey gaming revenue grows 8.3% to $510 million for May 2024

Daniel Maor wins Las Vegas' BetMGM Poker Championship at ARIA Resort

US Supreme Court declines to hear Florida sports betting case

EGT announces Gods & Kings Link debut in Bulgarian market

Dafabet inks multi-year deal as Worcestershire Cricket Club's Official Live Stream Partner

Play'n GO celebrates record performance of latest Dead series title Rich Wilde and the Tome of Insanity

Stake seals collaboration with safer gambling charity BetBlocker

Australian ban on credit card and crypto payments for online betting comes into force

Slotegrator: how do online casinos make money, arkansas' saracen casino resort seeks rule change to introduce online gambling.

Pennsylvania senator introduces bill to shield self-excluded gamblers from direct advertising

Macau's new law on combating illegal gambling crimes excludes illicit money exchange, mavericks' new owners advocate long-term vision amid texas gambling uncertainty.

FanDuel warns of terminating D.C. partnership after FY2025 budget moves to expand sports betting market

Softswiss sportsbook shares tips for maximizing uefa euro 2024 profits, d.c. council votes on 2025 budget with amendment to open sports betting market.

Hipther Agency announces dates for iGaming and TECH Summer Run-Off on Strava

1XBet wins Best Affiliate Program recognition at SiGMA Asia Awards 2024

iGB L!VE to introduce new LaunchPad feature for start-ups in its July edition

25 Cent Gaming Token - Empress River Casino Joliet, Illinois

© gringo.l

The logo of the Empress River Casino

Script: Latin

Lettering: TVENTY FIVE CENT GAMING TOKEN EMPRESS RIVER CASINO NOT LEGAL TENDER

The value in the centre

Lettering: ACCEPTABLE ONLY AT EMPRESS RIVER CASINO 25 CENT gd JOLIET, ILLINOIS

© purinqui ( CC BY-NC )

Manage my collection

Please sign in or create an account to manage your collection.

Get this item

A member of this site wants to exchange it: SteveV

Discuss or ask a question

Contribute to the catalog