Illinois: Penn opens new $185 million land-based Hollywood Casino Joliet

PENN Entertainment officially opened the doors Monday to its new $185 million Hollywood Casino Joliet in Illinois, replacing the city’s long-standing riverboat casino along the Des Plaines River.

Spanning roughly 189,000 square feet, the new casino features 1,000 slot machines, 43 table games, an ESPN BET retail sportsbook, and multiple high-profile dining venues. The facility employs about 600 people and created approximately 450 construction jobs.

“After approximately 20 months of construction, we are thrilled to open the doors to this land-based entertainment destination,” said Jay Snowden, CEO and President of PENN. “We are proud of our 30-year history in Will County and are committed to continuing our investment in the community by creating new jobs, providing important tax revenue, and serving as a new attraction to bring even more visitors to the area.”

The gaming floor offers blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat, and other table games, alongside the ESPN BET sportsbook, featuring one of Chicagoland’s largest TV screens. In addition to its massive video wall, the sportsbook includes wagering kiosks and full-service dining for 185 guests.

The grand opening ceremony brought together state legislators, Illinois Gaming Board officials, local dignitaries, Chicago Bears executives, and NFL legend — and Joliet native — Tom Thayer. Following a ribbon-cutting event in the morning, the property opened to the public at 4 p.m.

Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy highlighted the casino’s location and potential to attract new customers at the opening ceremony, according to a report by Shaw Local.

He called it “a major attraction for our residents and the region,” adding that its position at the intersection of I-55 and I-80 — known as the “crossroads of Mid-America” — could draw visitors from across the country.

But the new Hollywood Casino Joliet offers more than gambling, with six restaurants outside the gaming floor open to all ages.

Notable additions include Sorellina by Giada, an upscale Italian-California fusion restaurant by celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis; Boulevard Food & Drink Hall, featuring Chicago favorites Antique Taco and Pretty Cool Ice Cream along with concepts from James Beard Award-winning chefs Shawn McClain and Stephanie Izard; Red Lotus Asian Kitchen, specializing in made-to-order Asian cuisine; and &Vine, a 100-seat bar and entertainment lounge.

The property also houses a 10,000-square-foot event center for concerts, weddings, and community gatherings.

Moreover, the casino integrates PENN Entertainment’s nationwide loyalty program, offering members exclusive rewards, tier benefits, and promotions, with special perks for military personnel, veterans, and first responders.

Hollywood Casino Joliet is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.