WYOMISSING, PA — PENN Entertainment (Nasdaq: PENN) has opened a $100 million hotel tower at Hollywood Casino Columbus in Ohio, expanding the property’s hospitality capacity and advancing a broader retail growth strategy that includes multiple casino and hotel development projects across the United States.
The 203-room hotel began operations following a June 11 grand opening ceremony, adding accommodations, meeting space, dining amenities, and additional gaming offerings to the Columbus property. PENN estimates the overall expansion will create approximately 150 jobs.
The 150,000-square-foot tower includes 183 standard guest rooms, 20 luxury suites, conference facilities, a fitness center, outdoor terrace, and a full-service restaurant and bar known as The Hill Eatery & Lounge.
The company also plans to add an expanded high-limit table games area and a speakeasy-style bar during the third quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approval.
The Columbus project represents the third of four previously announced retail development initiatives completed by PENN within the past year.
“We’re delighted to officially open our new hotel in Columbus,” Chief Executive Officer and President Jay Snowden said, adding that the project further strengthens the property’s position in the regional gaming and entertainment market.
Snowden noted that PENN expects to open its new Hollywood Casino Aurora property in Illinois later this month, marking another milestone in the company’s development pipeline.
The company opened a new land-based casino in Joliet, Illinois, and a hotel tower at M Resort Spa Casino in Las Vegas during 2025. PENN also plans to open Hollywood Casino Aurora on June 24, pending regulatory approvals.
Another relocation project in Council Bluffs, Iowa, is expected to open in 2028, subject to regulatory review.
Hollywood Casino Columbus marked the hotel’s debut with a public celebration that included a performance by the Ohio State University Alumni Band, a concert by Bret Michaels, a fireworks display and promotional giveaways.
PENN Entertainment operates gaming and racing properties across North America and has been investing in retail casino developments as it seeks to expand its regional gaming footprint and diversify customer offerings beyond gaming.
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