If you like to get your kicks on Route 66, you're going to love this.
Route 66 Casino Hotel is preparing for the grand opening of its latest attraction, Stadium 66 Sports Bar. The debut will coincide with the start of the 2025 NFL season.
They're calling it a state-of-the-art sports and dining venue. It will open its doors on Thursday (September 4) to sports fans and visitors alike. Developers say it will provide an unmatched viewing experience complemented by a brand-new Caesars Sportsbook location.
"After months of new construction and attention to every detail, we are excited to introduce the all-new Stadium 66 as the premier Sports Bar in the Southwest,” said Adrian Fox, General Manager of Route 66 Casino Hotel.
The Caesars Sportsbook at Route 66 Casino Hotel will also provide a comprehensive wagering menu. There are five live betting windows and eight betting kiosks. Bettors have access to a wide array of wagering options.
In addition to having the new sportsbook, the casino hopes to see winners like the New Mexico woman who beat incredible odds and landed a slot machine jackpot not long ago.
A New Era of Sports Entertainment
Stadium 66 has room for 250 people and is equipped with high-definition televisions and a premier sound system.
The I-5 design team used the latest LED screen technology to create a space that makes guests feel like they're in the middle of each game. Big video walls are set up at the back of the bar, and there's a special overhead "jumbotron" with score tickers and large video displays.
The team took ideas from many different sports venues to make Stadium 66 feel fun and full of energy. There's also an upper deck with seating and a bar, making it a great spot for groups and larger parties to enjoy their favorite games together.
Foodies will also like what they see.
Stadium 66 is already known for its World-Famous Green Chile Stew, but there are other signature dishes, including:
- Wood-fired pizzas
- Saucy wings
- Pastas
The Centennial Burger stands out as a tribute to Route 66's rich heritage, celebrating its 100th anniversary.
"As football season gets underway, we’re proud to deliver a premier sports wagering destination to sports fans in New Mexico with our partners at Route 66," said Dan Shapiro, Chief Development Officer at Caesars Digital. "Whether you’re placing bets at the counter or on one of our best-in-class kiosks, Caesars Sportsbook at Route 66 Casino Hotel provides the ultimate game-day experience for sports fans,” he said.
Gambling in New Mexico Has a Storied History
New Mexico's relationship with gambling has evolved significantly over the years. Traditionally, gambling was frowned upon until the latter part of the 20th century. Efforts to legalize gambling began to gain momentum in the early 1990s, leading to significant legislative changes that shaped the gaming landscape in the state.
In 1995, New Mexico embraced the gaming industry with the signing of the Indian Gaming Compact, allowing Native American tribes to operate casinos on tribal land. This legislation marked a turning point, diversifying the state's economy and offering new recreational opportunities to both residents and tourists.
Casinos began to sprout across New Mexico, notably on Native American reservations, providing a boost to local economies. Today, the state is home to several renowned casinos, including Route 66 Casino Hotel, which has been a staple for both entertainment and gaming since its establishment.
Sports betting followed suit, albeit at a slower pace. It wasn't until 2018, with the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) by the U.S. Supreme Court, that New Mexico saw its first legal sports wager placed at Santa Ana Star Casino. The industry has gradually expanded since then, with venues like Route 66 Casino Hotel now leading the charge in providing exceptional sports betting experiences to eager fans.
Route 66 Casino Becomes Part of New Mexico History
As sports fans get ready for another exciting NFL season, the new Stadium 66 Sports Bar at Route 66 Casino Hotel is set to be a unique place for both watching games and eating out in New Mexico.
With its high-tech features and many betting options, it’s sure to become a favorite spot for sports fans in the Southwest, adding to New Mexico's lively gambling and entertainment scene.
It's just another way casinos and sportsbooks are finding ways to complement each other.
