PENN Entertainment has confirmed that the grand opening for its new physical location, Hollywood Casino Joliet in Illinois, is set for Monday, August 11. Subject to routine regulatory approvals, this new facility is expected to launch nearly six months earlier than initially planned.
The casino will serve as a centerpiece for the Rock Run Collection, a newly developed commercial and residential hub in Chicagoland, conveniently located by the interchange of Interstate 80 and Interstate 55, which sees an estimated 230,000 vehicles daily.
This new venue will include around 1,000 slot machines and 43 live table games, along with a dedicated baccarat room and a retail ESPN BET sportsbook. Additionally, it will host a spacious 10,000 square foot event center featuring meeting facilities, alongside approximately 1,330 parking spaces. PENN anticipates staffing about 600 employees, increasing its workforce in Joliet by 200.
Further information regarding the grand opening will be released leading up to August 11. The company plans to collaborate with the Illinois Gaming Board for the transition from the existing Hollywood Casino Joliet, which is currently situated on the Des Plaines River, to the new land-based property as the opening date approaches.
“Today marks the beginning of the countdown to our latest casino opening,” stated Jay Snowden, CEO and President of PENN. “Relocating from our older riverboat significantly enhances our offerings in the appealing Chicagoland market, allowing both our current customers and newcomers to experience superior gaming, dining, and entertainment at this highly accessible venue.”
In addition to rich gaming options, Hollywood Casino Joliet will introduce several dining experiences. PENN has teamed up with celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis to launch Sorellina by Giada. This restaurant will represent her unique blend of traditional Italian cooking and contemporary Californian influences in the Chicagoland area, featuring around 170 dining seats and a modern bar with an extensive wine list set in a relaxed atmosphere.
PENN has also collaborated with McClain Camarota Hospitality to feature a selection of renowned Chicago chefs and their restaurants at Hollywood Casino Joliet. This initiative will introduce the Boulevard Food & Drink Hall, offering a diverse culinary experience including Lucky Goat, a new burger venture from celebrity chef Stephanie Izard; Antique Taco, marking the first suburban outlet of this popular taco restaurant; Pretty Cool Ice Cream, a beloved Chicago establishment with locations in Logan Square and Lincoln Park; plus Five50 Pizza, which integrates New York-style with Neapolitan pizza offerings.
“We are excited to collaborate with these esteemed culinary talents to provide extraordinary dining options at the new Hollywood Casino Joliet,” said Todd George, Executive VP of Operations for PENN. “These concepts will infuse a lively ambiance across the property and offer our guests unmatched food and beverage choices.”
In the third quarter, PENN expects to secure around $130 million in funding from Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. for this $185 million initiative, as announced by the company.