Land-based establishment Hollywood Casino Joliet in Illinois resumes operations on August 11
Hollywood Casino Joliet, based in Illinois, has announced a significant transformation with the closure of its current riverboat property and the opening of a new $185 million land-based facility on August 11, 2025, six months ahead of the originally planned January 2026 date. The riverboat casino will close on July 29, 2025.
The expansion includes a variety of key features designed to enhance the gaming experience. Approximately 1,000 slot machines and 43 live table games, including high-limit options and a dedicated baccarat room, will be available. For sports betting enthusiasts, an ESPN BET sportsbook will be introduced. Additionally, a 10,000 square foot all-ages event center with meeting spaces and live entertainment will be added. The new casino will also boast about 1,330 parking spaces, improving accessibility for visitors.
Dining options at the new casino will be diverse and enticing. Sorellina by Giada De Laurentiis, a restaurant bringing Giada’s signature Italian culinary style in a light and casual atmosphere, open to all ages, will be among the establishments. Boulevard Food & Drink Hall will include local favourites like Antique Taco, Pretty Cool Ice Cream, and a new burger concept called Lucky Goat by Stephanie Izard.
The site is part of the Rock Run Collection, a super-regional commercial and residential development near the Interstate 80 and Interstate 55 interchange. This location aims to serve suburban residents and travelers with convenient access.
In preparation for the grand opening, Hollywood Casino Joliet will launch a new website on July 29 to provide information on restaurant hours, menus, and reservation systems. Furthermore, a ticketed event opportunity to dine with celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis at the new Hollywood Casino Joliet is planned for mid-August.
Jay Snowden, CEO and President of Penn Entertainment, expressed excitement about the new location. He noted that Hollywood Casino Aurora and Ameristar East Chicago are part of the Penn Play rewards program, along with the new Hollywood Casino Joliet. Unused chips from the Hollywood Casino Joliet riverboat location can be cashed in at the new Hollywood Casino Joliet cage until the end of the year.
Todd George, Executive Vice President of Operations at Penn Entertainment, expressed enthusiasm about the closure, which is to prepare for the grand opening of the new land-based property. All gaming operations at the riverboat property will maintain normal operating hours until closing. The new casino is expected to open on August 11, pending regulatory approvals.
The new Hollywood Casino Joliet is set to offer a modernized gaming experience combined with diverse dining options, including the Giada De Laurentiis restaurant, all opening August 11, 2025.
[1] Hollywood Casino Joliet Press Release, [link to press release] [2] Chicago Tribune, "Hollywood Casino Joliet to open new $185 million land-based casino six months early", [link to article] [3] Chicago Business Journal, "Hollywood Casino Joliet announces new event center", [link to article] [4] Rock Run Collection Website, [link to website] [5] Casino Player Magazine, "Hollywood Casino Joliet to feature dedicated baccarat room", [link to article]
The new land-based Hollywood Casino Joliet, set to open on August 11, 2025, will offer an expanded casino-and-gambling experience with 1,000 slot machines, 43 live table games, and a dedicated baccarat room.
For sports betting enthusiasts, an ESPN BET sportsbook will be introduced at the modernized casino, enhancing the gaming experience.
