Penn Entertainment to deliver new casino six months ahead of schedule

Penn Entertainment has announced it expects the new land-based Hollywood Casino Joliet to open its doors to the public on Monday, August 11. 

Subject to the relevant regulatory approvals, the newest casino complex to be added to Penn’s portfolio will be delivered six months ahead of schedule. 

The state-of-the-art entertainment facility will be the headline anchor attraction at the mega development at Rock Run Collection, Chicagoland in Illinois. 

Conveniently located adjacent to the Interstate 80 and Interstate 55 interchange, Hollywood Casino Joliet will have exposure to the estimated 230,000 vehicles that pass the vicinity daily.

Penn Entertainment’s latest major venture is expected to provide a best-in-class experience, with around 1000 slots, 43 live table games, including a dedicated baccarat room, and an ESPN Bet sportsbook outlet. 

To support the significant footfall anticipated at the venue, 1300 parking spaces will be provided, with 600 new team members to be recruited.

Jay Snowden, Chief Executive Officer and President of Penn Entertainment, stated: “The countdown to the opening of our newest casino begins today.”

He continued, “The move from our existing riverboat significantly improves our offerings in the highly attractive Chicagoland market, and both our existing customers and new guests will be able to enjoy premier gaming, dining, and entertainment at this exceptionally accessible new location.”

Further information on the opening of the new casino will be provided ahead of the August 11 reveal. 

Major News: The countdown is on for the grand opening of the all-new @HollywoodJoliet! We expect to open the new best in class property to the public on August 11, pending customary regulatory approvals. pic.twitter.com/ijMoaquaHd

— PENNEntertainment (@PENNEntertain) May 28, 2025

As the curtain rises on this venue, it will mean the fall of another, with Penn Entertainment in dialogue with the Illinois Gaming Board over the transfer of operations from the existing Hollywood Casino Joliet, based at the Des Plaines River.

The hospitality credentials of the new casino will be enhanced with the introduction of several dining concepts for guests. 

One of those sees Penn collaborate with renowned chef and entrepreneur Giada De Laurentiis for the opening of Sorellina by Giada.

Another partnership with McClain Camarota Hospitality will bring various recognized Chicago chefs to the site as part of the Boulevard Food and Drink Hall.

“We’re thrilled to partner with these elite restaurateurs to bring amazing dining options to the new Hollywood Casino Joliet,” said Todd George, Executive Vice President of Operations for Penn Entertainment. 

“These concepts will create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the property and provide our patrons with an array of food and beverage offerings that are unmatched in the market,” he added.

Image credit: @PennEntertain/X

The post Penn Entertainment to deliver new casino six months ahead of schedule appeared first on ReadWrite.