Regional gaming hub and gastronomic attraction, Hollywood Casino Joliet officially opens its land-based doors.
Hollywood Casino Joliet Reopens After Major Relocation and Renovation
After undergoing a significant transformation, the Hollywood Casino Joliet has reopened its doors to the public, marking a new chapter for the popular entertainment destination. Owned by Penn Entertainment since 2005, the casino has moved from its original riverboat location on the Des Plaines River to a modern, state-of-the-art land-based facility near the intersection of interstates 55 and 80.
The new casino boasts numerous improvements, including approximately 1,000 slot machines, 43 table games including a baccarat room, a high-limit gaming area, and a retail ESPN BET sportsbook. The new site also features upscale dining options, such as restaurants led by celebrity chefs like Giada De Laurentiis and Stephanie Izard, a large all-ages event center, and expanded parking (about 1,330 spaces).
The relocation has not only modernized the casino's operations but also strengthened its ties to the Joliet community. As part of a broader commercial and residential development called Rock Run Collection, the casino is poised to have a positive regional economic impact and increase its appeal as a regional destination.
Penn Entertainment, the current owner of the Hollywood Casino Joliet, has emphasized its commitment to the Joliet community, aiming to create new jobs, provide important tax revenue, and enhance entertainment offerings. This commitment was evident during the grand opening ceremony, which included a traditional Chinese lion dance and an acknowledgement of the casino's Joliet roots.
In addition to its new land-based location, the Hollywood Casino Joliet has also established a direct relationship with the Chicago Bears through sponsorship. The NFL team's executives were present at the grand opening, and the partnership was highlighted by the attendance of Joliet native and NFL legend, Tom Thayer. This sponsorship not only strengthens local branding but also cements the casino's ties to the Joliet area.
Seven employees have been with the casino since its original opening in 1992, demonstrating a strong connection between the casino and the community it serves. The move from the riverboat to the new land-based venue has been a significant event for these dedicated employees, as well as for the thousands of visitors who frequent the casino each year.
In conclusion, the Hollywood Casino Joliet, under the ownership of Penn Entertainment, has relocated to a new land-based facility, enhancing its footprint and operational capacity. The sponsorship of the Chicago Bears strengthens local branding and ties to Joliet. The relocation has modernized and expanded casino operations, increasing its appeal and economic contributions to the Joliet area.
[1] Penn Entertainment Press Release: Hollywood Casino Joliet Relocation Announcement [2] Chicago Tribune: Hollywood Casino Joliet to reopen after major renovation [3] Joliet Patch: Hollywood Casino Joliet Reopens After $185 Million Renovation [4] Shaw Local Northern Illinois: Hollywood Casino Joliet Reopens After Major Transformation [5] Chicago Bears Press Release: Hollywood Casino Joliet Becomes Official Casino Sponsor of Chicago Bears
- The Hollywood Casino Joliet, after its relocation and renovation, now offers a variety of casino-games such as approximately 1,000 slot machines, 43 table games including a baccarat room, and a high-limit gaming area.
- The revamped casino also hosts an ESPN BET sportsbook, aligning it with the sports-culture, particularly American-football, given the presence of NFL partnerships like the one with the Chicago Bears.
- Despite the shift towards more contemporary casino-and-gambling facilities, the Hollywood Casino Joliet remains connected to its roots in the Joliet community, as evident by its long-term employees who have been with the casino since its initial opening.
- The casino's cultural appeal extends beyond traditional casino-culture, with the hosting of events at its large all-ages event center and the inclusion of celebrity chefs like Giada De Laurentiis and Stephanie Izard in its dining options.
