Hollywood Casino Joliet set to open at new location with Penn Entertainment

The existing riverboat casino will be replaced by a new land-based facility.

A new land-based Hollywood Casino Joliet is set to open in partnership with Penn Entertainment, marking the relocation from its current site on the Des Plaines River.

Nearly six months ahead of the company’s originally scheduled construction timeline, the opening is set for Monday, August 11, but is pending customary regulatory approvals. 

The company expects to employ approximately 600 team members at the new casino, expanding Penn’s workforce in Joliet by 200. It will feature approximately 1,000 slot machines and 43 live table games, including a dedicated baccarat room. It will also house a retail ESPN Bet sportsbook and a 10,000-square-foot event center with meeting spaces. 

Besides, it will anchor Rock Run Collection, a commercial and residential development.

Jay Snowden, Penn President & CEO, said: “The countdown to the opening of our newest casino begins today. The move from our existing riverboat significantly improves our offerings in the highly attractive Chicagoland market, and both our existing customers and new guests will be able to enjoy premier gaming, dining, and entertainment at this exceptionally accessible new location.”

Good to know: Penn’s revenue reached $1.4bn for the first quarter of 2025

PENN has partnered with chef and entrepreneur Giada De Laurentiis, as well as with McClain Camarota Hospitality (MCH), to bring a diverse range of dining concepts and culinary talent to the casino.

Todd George, EVP of Operations for Penn, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with these elite restaurateurs to bring amazing dining options to the new Hollywood Casino Joliet. These concepts will create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the property and provide our patrons with an array of food and beverage offerings that are unmatched in the market.”

Carlos Mendez

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