Published on: June 2, 2026, at 10:35 AM.
Updated on: June 2, 2026, at 10:35 AM.
- Full House Resorts set to commence construction on American Place this week
- The casino faced years of delays due to legal disputes
- Full House has been operating a temporary casino in Waukegan for three years
Full House Resorts is officially starting the construction of American Place Casino in Waukegan, Illinois.
After prolonged delays caused by legal challenges from a Wisconsin tribe, Full House Resorts has confirmed that construction on American Place will kick off this Wednesday, June 3. The state-of-the-art $302 million facility is to be developed on a 42-acre site situated near Chicago’s North Shore.
Located roughly 30 minutes north of O’Hare International Airport and an hour south of Milwaukee, Full House asserts that American Place will deliver jobs, entertainment, and economic stimulation to Waukegan. The Las Vegas-based casino operator is moving ahead with construction even as full financing details are being finalized.
“We have made significant progress in arranging long-term financing for American Place. We’re starting construction now while we complete the necessary legal and financial arrangements. Initial construction phases can be funded through our existing resources and cash flow,” stated Daniel Lee, CEO of Full House.
Lee expressed optimism that the permanent American Place Casino could open its doors within two years.
Extensive Journey to Development
Waukegan was granted a casino development opportunity through state legislation in 2019. Full House Resorts won the casino license through a competitive bidding process. However, the project was delayed due to legal disputes initiated by the Forest County Potawatomi Tribe of Wisconsin, alleging that their bid was not duly considered.
Ultimately, the case reached the Illinois Supreme Court, which ruled unanimously against the tribe in January 2025. Full House has been running a temporary casino in Waukegan since February 2023.
“Three years ago, we opened in a temporary space with a promise to the Waukegan community for something larger. Today, we are on track to fulfill that promise,” noted Jeff Babinski, general manager of American Place Casino. “The permanent American Place will enhance our offerings, generate hundreds of job opportunities, and serve as a proud destination for our guests and community.”
The temporary American Place Casino currently features about 900 slot machines, 40 table games, a poker area, and a sportsbook.
While specific figures were not disclosed, the Full House announcement indicated that the permanent casino will feature “40% more slot machines and 85% more table games.” The new facility will also include additional dining and bar options. Furthermore, the development plan includes a 150-room hotel with 20 exclusive VIP villas, dubbed The Mansion.
“The Mansion is designed to mirror the exclusive accommodations found in Las Vegas, providing private villa options ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet,” as stated on the American Place Casino website.
Casino Landscape in Chicago
Chicago is establishing itself as a major gaming hub. American Place will complement six other established casinos in the Chicago suburbs, including Rivers Casino Des Plaines, Hard Rock Rockford, Wind Creek Chicago Southland, Hollywood Casino Aurora, Harrah’s Joliet, and Grand Victoria Casino. Several casinos also exist in Northwest Indiana.
In addition, Bally’s is in the process of developing its permanent integrated resort in downtown Chicago, an ambitious project exceeding $1.7 billion, which is expected to open next year.