Anticipation is mounting in northeastern Iowa as one of the premier casinos in Iowa, Bally’s Marquette, prepares for its grand opening.
This development marks a significant milestone for the former riverboat casino, Casino Queen Marquette, which is transitioning from its classic riverboat roots to a state-of-the-art land-based casino.
The journey has been steady, and with the grand opening on the horizon, everyone involved anticipates a new era of gaming in this city, celebrated for its scenic Mississippi River bluffs, outdoor activities like hiking near Effigy Mounds, and historic railroads.
It's just one of several riverboat casinos in Iowa that are transitioning to land-based locations. We're also getting closer to the opening of a new casino in Cedar Rapids
One of The Most Historic Iowa Casinos Moves Into a New Era
Historically one of the most iconic Iowa casinos, Casino Queen Marquette, known in the past as "Miss Marquette," has been a staple of the Iowa gaming scene for over 30 years.
Situated on the Mississippi River, this casino is now making waves with its modern shift onto solid ground. The $21 million project involves creating a brand-new land-side facility adjacent to the current riverboat location, setting a new standard for casinos in Iowa.
The rebranding to Bally’s Marquette marks the end of an era and the start of an exciting chapter in the state's casino industry.
This transformation aligns with Bally’s strategic plan to upgrade and modernize its properties, promising enhanced gaming experiences and amenities. As operations move to this new land-based venue, the riverboat will be put up for sale, leaving Iowa with only a few remaining true riverboat casinos.
Exciting Changes Ahead for Iowa Casinos
Bally’s Marquette is gearing up to improve the gaming experience as it moves to a new permanent location.
The new Iowa casino will have a huge 29,000-square-foot gaming floor, almost twice the size of the old riverboat space. It will feature 800 to 1,000 slot machines with the latest gaming technology and many popular games, making it one of the top casinos in Iowa.
Fans of table games will find plenty to enjoy with new live blackjack tables and more gaming options to choose from. The casino is also adding a second-floor sportsbook, which will have self-service kiosks, live betting windows, and a sports bar, offering an exciting experience for those who love sports betting.
The first floor of the new casino should be open to the public by the end of February. The second floor is likely to open the following week.
Beyond gaming, Bally’s Marquette will offer improved amenities, including enhanced dining options with potential local partnerships, and a refreshed arrival experience. The convenience of direct access from the parking lot makes this one of the most accessible casinos in Iowa for visitors.
“We’re proud to honor Casino Queen Marquette’s deep-rooted connection to the community while ushering in an exciting new era as Bally’s Marquette,” Robin Corbeil, general manager of Casino Queen Marquette, said in a recent press release. “This transformation brings the entertainment experience our guests love onto land – making it more accessible, more comfortable and more dynamic than ever before. With new dining, expanded gaming and a modern layout, Bally’s Marquette will continue to be a destination locals are proud of and visitors are excited to explore.”
Impact on the Iowa Community
The rebrand and upgrade are significant not just for casino-goers but also for the local community.
Bally’s plans to create nearly 80 new jobs, boosting employment in the region. The improvements in entertainment, year-round access, and modern amenities are expected to draw more tourists to Marquette, enhancing its appeal among Iowa casinos.
Regional reports herald this project as a pivotal step in modernizing northeastern Iowa, making Marquette a more attractive destination for both locals and visitors. With the grand opening targeted for early to mid-March, Bally’s Marquette is set to become a leading beacon of entertainment and economic growth in the Iowa casinos sector.
So, after 30 years docked on the banks of the Mississippi River, one of the most iconic casinos in Iowa, the picturesque riverboat casino, Casino Queen Marquette, will soon move to its permanent landside location. This will pave the way for a new era of gaming in Iowa. By blending tradition with modernity, it promises a stellar experience for all who visit Iowa casinos.
