In the upcoming years, gamblers in Louisiana are set to enjoy the addition of another land-based casino.
Boyd Gaming has revealed its plans to relocate the Amelia Belle Casino to a new, brick-and-mortar establishment. During the company’s second-quarter earnings discussion, officials from the Las Vegas-based gaming leader confirmed they are in the initial planning phase for a land-based version of Amelia Belle.
“We are preparing for our next expansion projects,” stated Boyd Gaming President and CEO Kevin Smith. “This includes our Amelia Belle property in Louisiana.”
Smith highlighted that, pending regulatory approval, the transformation of Amelia Belle into a land-based venue will feature a modern casino layout and improved dining options. Currently, Amelia Belle only provides a quick-service restaurant and a grab-and-go selection.
“Following the completion of design, we anticipate commencing construction on this venture in late 2027,” Smith elaborated.
Currently, the Amelia Belle Casino offers 600 slot machines, live dealer table games, and sports betting options. Situated in St. Mary Parish, the riverboat is located approximately 60 air miles west of New Orleans.
The Shift from Riverboats in Louisiana
After suffering damage from several hurricanes and tropical storms, Louisiana lawmakers enacted Senate Bill 316 in 2018, permitting gaming to migrate inland to more durable structures. A stipulation requires that the new land facility must be within 1,200 feet of its original riverboat location.
Since this legislative adjustment, a majority of Louisiana casinos have transitioned to land-based operations while maintaining their state-issued riverboat licenses. The era of authentic riverboat gaming on barges is steadily diminishing.
In recent developments, DiamondJacks in Bossier City was retired in favor of a new brick-and-mortar establishment named Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana. Bally’s Corp. has similarly relocated two riverboats in Baton Rouge, now operating as The Queen Baton Rouge and Bally’s Baton Rouge.
Amelia Belle will follow suit, with construction on its land-based facility beginning in 2027.
In addition to the Amelia Belle project, Boyd Gaming is advancing other developments, including a new land-based casino resort in Norfolk, Virginia, and a permanently moored barge expansion intended for its Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino in East Peoria, Illinois. Furthermore, Boyd recently launched Cadence Crossing Casino, rejuvenating the former Jokers Wild in Henderson, Nevada, southeast of the Las Vegas Strip.
A Journey to Higher Ground
Initially opened in 1995 as Bally’s New Orleans Casino, the Amelia Belle Casino was docked on Lake Pontchartrain and suffered significant damage during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
After undergoing repairs, St. Mary Parish voters approved the return of gambling, leading to the rebranding of the facility as Amelia Belle.