PENN Entertainment announced the highly anticipated grand opening date for the new Hollywood Casino Aurora.
A company spokesperson says the plan is to open on June 24, 2026.
This project marks a significant transformation from the current riverboat casino experience to a modern, land-based resort that promises to elevate entertainment in the region.
The news comes less than a year after the Hollywood Casino opened in Joliet. Wind Creek is also one of Illinois' newer casinos, while construction continues on a Bally's Casino that is being built in Downtown Chicago.
Why the Move?
The new Hollywood Casino Aurora is strategically located across from the bustling Chicago Premium Outlets mall. This is considered a prime location with easy access and is expected to draw both locals and tourists.
It's replacing the existing riverboat casino that's been serving gamblers on the Fox River in downtown Aurora since the 1990s.
The switch from riverboat to land-based facilities aligns with PENN's vision to create a destination-style entertainment complex. This new development aims to harness synergies with nearby attractions, such as the outlet mall, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Key Features and Offerings
With a development cost of around $360 million, the new land-based casino will feature plenty of attractions:
- Gaming: With over 1,200 gaming positions, guests can enjoy a wide range of slots and table games.
- Hotel: An upscale hotel on the property will provide about 226 rooms, including standard rooms and plush suites for a comfortable stay.
- Retail Sportsbook: For the sports enthusiasts, a dedicated sportsbook will be available, offering a premium betting experience.
- Outdoor Entertainment: An outdoor entertainment area promises fun under the sun.
- Spa: Drift Spa, a full-service spa, will focus on beauty and wellness, providing relaxation escapes.
- Dining: The casino will host elegant bars and restaurants, including exciting collaborations like Sorella by Giada, from celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis, and the Boulevard Food & Drink Hall.
- Event Space: A 12,000-square-foot event center will cater to meetings and gatherings of all kinds.
- Parking: With approximately 1,700 parking spaces, convenience is a priority.
The construction focus is now on interior work, with the outdoor structure largely complete.
Feature | Hollywood Casino Joliet (Opened 2025) | Hollywood Casino Aurora (Opening June 2026) |
|---|---|---|
Development Cost | $185 million | $360 million |
Location | Rock Run Collection, near I-80/I-55 interchange (southwest suburbs) | Across from Chicago Premium Outlets, near I-88 Exit 119 (west suburbs) |
Gaming Floor | 50,000 sq ft | Larger (not fully specified, but supports more positions) |
Gaming Positions | Over 1,000 slots/video poker + 40+ live table games (including dedicated baccarat room) | More than 1,200 gaming positions (slots + tables) |
Sportsbook | State-of-the-art ESPN BET retail sportsbook with a massive 42-foot video wall (one of the largest in the Chicago area), lounge seating | Retail sportsbook (details similar, but integrated into broader resort) |
Hotel | On-site upscale hotel with 100 premier rooms | Upscale 226-room hotel (standard rooms + suites) |
Event Center | 10,000 sq ft event center for live entertainment, meetings, shows | 12,000 sq ft event center for events, meetings, gatherings |
Other Amenities | Celebrity chef restaurants/food hall, bars, ample parking (1,330 spaces noted in plans), fitness access | Full-service spa (Drift Spa/beauty & wellness), outdoor entertainment area, premium bars/restaurants (e.g., Sorella by Giada, Boulevard Food & Drink Hall), 1,700 parking spaces |
Economic Impact | Boosted revenue post-opening; supports jobs in the area | Expected to create 700 permanent jobs (nearly double current Aurora staffing); supports construction jobs |
Status | Fully operational for 7 months; positive feedback on upgrade, strong sports viewing draw | Under final construction/pre-opening; pending regulatory approvals for June 24 grand opening |
Economic and Community Impact
Building the Hollywood Casino Aurora has generated roughly 700 construction jobs. It will create approximately 700 permanent positions when it opens. This is nearly double the staffing of the current Aurora facility, signaling a significant boost to the local economy.
The new casino isn't just a standalone project. It mirrors PENN Entertainment's broader strategy of modernizing its facilities.
Following the successful launch of Hollywood Casino Joliet, this venture highlights the company's commitment to upgrading its properties in the competitive Chicagoland market.
As Aurora eagerly anticipates the grand opening of its new Hollywood Casino, the excitement continues to build. It is poised to become a premier destination for entertainment and leisure.
