WYOMISSING, PA — PENN Entertainment, Inc. (Nasdaq: PENN) has announced that its new Hollywood Casino Joliet is set to open to the public on Monday, August 11, pending regulatory approval. The $185 million land-based entertainment facility is opening nearly six months ahead of schedule and will anchor the Rock Run Collection, a major new commercial and residential development near the Interstate 80 and Interstate 55 interchange, which sees an estimated 230,000 vehicles pass daily.
Featuring state-of-the-art amenities, the casino will house approximately 1,000 slot machines, 43 live table games, a dedicated baccarat room, and a retail ESPN BET sportsbook. It will also include an approximately 10,000-square-foot event center, meeting areas, and roughly 1,330 parking spaces. Additionally, PENN plans to employ about 600 team members at the new location, an increase of 200 jobs in the Joliet area.
“The countdown to the opening of our newest casino begins today,” said Jay Snowden, Chief Executive Officer and President of PENN. “The move from our existing riverboat significantly improves our offerings in the highly attractive Chicagoland market, and both our existing customers and new guests will be able to enjoy premier gaming, dining, and entertainment at this exceptionally accessible new location.”
The new casino will elevate the dining experience in the region through partnerships with celebrity chefs and prominent restauranteurs. Among its offerings is Sorellina by Giada, the Chicagoland debut of celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis, which will feature a fusion of Italian and California cuisine, approximately 170 seats for dining, and a contemporary bar with an extensive wine selection.
PENN has also collaborated with McClain Camarota Hospitality to spotlight local culinary talent. The venue will include the Boulevard Food & Drink Hall, featuring concepts like Lucky Goat by celebrity chef Stephanie Izard, Antique Taco, Pretty Cool Ice Cream, and Five50 Pizza.
“We’re thrilled to partner with these elite restauranteurs to bring amazing dining options to the new Hollywood Casino Joliet,” said Todd George, Executive Vice President of Operations for PENN. “These concepts will create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the property and provide our patrons with an array of food and beverage offerings that are unmatched in the market.”
Ahead of the launch, PENN will work closely with the Illinois Gaming Board to complete the transition from the current riverboat casino to the new landside facility. Funding for the project includes approximately $130 million from Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc.
With its mix of gaming, dining, and entertainment options, the Hollywood Casino Joliet is poised to become a leading destination in the Chicagoland area, offering a range of experiences for guests and contributing to the local economy.
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