Start spreading the news: the first of New York City's three downstate casinos is set to begin operations soon.
Resorts World New York City will become the Big Apple’s first-ever full-fledged casino offering live table games when it opens next Tuesday. This marks a significant milestone for the city as it will provide a full casino experience for the first time.
It's also expected to create an economic boom for the area and support the mass-transit system there.
Strategic Location and Ownership
Resorts World began in 2011 with only slot machines and electronic games, but it's now an important part of New York City’s lively scene..
Located next to the Aqueduct Racetrack in South Ozone Park, Queens, Resorts World NYC is a favorite spot for people who love gaming. It’s owned by the Genting Group from Malaysia.
Even with just slots and electronic games before, it generated millions in revenue and attracted visitors from all over.
Overview of New York City Casino Projects
The transformation began in December 2025, when Resorts World obtained one of the three special licenses to operate a full-scale casino in the region.
The license allows them to offer live table games like blackjack, craps, baccarat, and roulette with actual dealers. Soon, the casino will feature about 200-250 live table games alongside its slot machines.
All three projects have received licenses, meaning New York City will eventually host three full-scale casinos (two in Queens and one in the Bronx). Here’s a breakdown:
1. Resorts World New York City (Genting Group, Malaysia-based)
- Location: Adjacent to Aqueduct Racetrack in South Ozone Park/Jamaica, Queens.
- Scale: An expansion of an existing facility with thousands of slots, planning a $5.5–7.5 billion integrated resort with up to 6,000 slots, 800 table games, 2,000 hotel rooms, a 7,000-seat arena, conference space, dining, and more.
- Timeline Advantage: Fastest to market, with live table games launching in late April 2026 and full completion targeted for 2030-2031.
- Strengths: Immediate revenue generation, high performance, and local celebrity involvement (Nas).
2. Hard Rock Metropolitan Park (Hard Rock International and New York Mets Owner Steve Cohen)
- Location: Willets Point area near Citi Field in Flushing, Queens.
- Scale: A new $5–8 billion mixed-use development, including a casino, hotels, a music venue, retail, and significant public park space.
- Timeline: Single-phase opening projected for 2030.
- Strengths: Entertainment focus, ties to local sports, and community amenities like green space.
3. Bally’s Bronx (Bally’s Corporation)
- Location: Ferry Point in the Bronx.
- Scale: A $2–4 billion integrated resort featuring a casino, hotel, and shuttle connections.
- Timeline: Targeted opening in 2030.
- Note: Involves a significant financial arrangement benefiting the Trump Organization.
While Resorts World is set to unveil its table games, the other two downstate casino projects are also making headway. All three will be fully operational by the start of the next decade.
Resorts World New York City Opening Day
The grand opening for Resorts World NYC is on April 28 , and it is expected to be memorable. There will be a special event featuring rapper Nas from Queens, who will roll the first dice.
Looking ahead, Resorts World plans to become a huge entertainment center by 2030-2031. The goal is to add up to 6,000 slot machines and 800 table games, with a large gaming area bigger than 500,000 square feet. They also want to include more hotel rooms, entertainment spots, and places to eat.
These expansions could make Resorts World one of the biggest casinos in the U.S.
Economic and Community Impact
Beyond gaming, the new casino is set to create jobs and bolster Queens' local economy, aligning with New York's strategy to amplify its gambling sector and rival cities like Atlantic City.
The casino is also projected to generate substantial tax revenue, aiding public services like education and transportation.
While some concerns about traffic and community impact persist, the rapid introduction of new games underscores the potential for immediate financial gains. The involvement of celebrities enhances its appeal, particularly for Queens.
With Resorts World NYC leading the charge, New York City is embracing the allure of Vegas-style entertainment. Offering an exciting era for The Big Apple's entertainment and tourism landscape.
