Hollywood Casino Joliet Reopens With $185M Upgrade

Joliet’s new Hollywood Casino opened its doors this week after a $185 million move and expansion, trading its old riverfront site for a prime spot near the I-55 and I-80 interchange. The relocation replaces the casino’s aging riverboat property on the Des Plaines River, where it had operated for more than three decades. Like other Illinois casinos that began on riverboats in the early 1990s, the venue is now entirely land-based, with a modern design and expanded amenities.

The opening day drew hundreds of visitors from across northern Illinois, some lining up hours before the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Early entry was granted to members of Penn Entertainment’s loyalty program, while the general public gained access later in the afternoon.

Bigger, Modern, and More Than Gambling

At nearly 200,000 square feet, the new venue holds about 1,000 slot machines, 43 live table games, and an ESPN BET sportsbook. A 10,000-square-foot event center offers space for concerts, weddings, and community gatherings, all accessible without entering the gaming floor.

Dining is now a major draw, with restaurants from celebrity chefs including Giada De Laurentiis and Stephanie Izard. Off-floor eateries welcome all ages, while two restaurants and bars sit within the casino area. This shift addresses long-standing feedback from patrons seeking more varied food options.

Economic and Community Impact

The project created roughly 450 construction jobs and now employs about 600 staff members. Penn Entertainment, which owns the property, has also taken on the role of official casino sponsor for the Chicago Bears. The move underscores its investment in the region, following over three decades of presence in Will County.

Local officials, including Joliet’s mayor, see the casino as a key piece of the city’s tourism and economic strategy. Positioned at what the city calls the “crossroads of Mid-America,” the venue aims to pull in both local guests and interstate travelers.

Part of a Larger Expansion Strategy

Hollywood Casino Joliet is one of several significant developments in Penn Entertainment’s portfolio. A new Hollywood Casino Aurora is under construction, featuring a hotel, spa, upscale dining, and expanded gaming, with an opening planned for late 2025 or early 2026.

The Joliet property is targeting $150 million in annual revenue, banking on its upgraded amenities, new location, and the appeal of in-person betting,  which in Illinois avoids new surcharges placed on online wagers.