Penn to close Hollywood Casino Joliet riverboat ahead of August opening of new land-based venue

The $185m facility is scheduled to open August 11, 2025, pending final regulatory approvals, and will be part of the Rock Run Collection development.

Penn Entertainment has announced that the Hollywood Casino Joliet riverboat is expected to close its doors on Tuesday, July 29, in preparation for the opening of the renewed land-based property set to open on August 11, 2025.

The new venue, valued at $185m, is awaiting final regulatory approvals before opening is part of Rock Run Collection, a commercial and residential development located in downtown Chicago.

Jay Snowden, CEO and President of Penn Entertainment, said: “As we transition to our new state-of-the-art facility, we reflect on 30+ years of operating in Joliet.

“We look forward to continuing to create best-in-class experiences for our loyal customers, welcoming new guests and supporting this community for years to come.”

The upcoming facility will feature approximately 1,000 slot machines, 43 live table games, a baccarat room and an ESPN Bet-branded sportsbook.

It will also offer a range of dining options, including concepts developed by well-known chefs and local operators, as well as a food hall accessible to all ages.

Additional amenities include a 10,000-square-foot event center with meeting space and approximately 1,330 parking spaces.

Todd George, Executive VP of Operations for Penn Entertainment, said: “We are incredibly excited about our future at the new location, which enhances our ability to serve guests and creates a top entertainment, gaming and dining attraction in the region.”

Good to know: The opening is nearly six months ahead of the originally scheduled construction timeline, even though approvals are still pending

Ruben Warren, VP and General Manager of Hollywood Casino Joliet, encouraged customers to visit the nearby Hollywood Casino Aurora, which is part of the same Penn Play rewards program as Hollywood Casino Joliet, and Ameristar East Chicago during the transition period before the new Joliet facility opens. 

He also thanked guests, loyalty members, and staff for their support over the past 30 years at the riverboat location and invited them to visit one final time before its closure on July 29.

Carlos Mendez

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