Joliet, Illinois—a Chicago suburb about 50 miles from the city—is getting a new casino. The new Hollywood Casino will replace PENN Entertainment’s long-running property on the Des Plaines River. The August 11 grand opening is earlier than originally anticipated; PENN expected to open its new property nearly six months later, in early 2026.
Ruben Warren, VP and General Manager of Hollywood Casino Joliet, said:
“Hollywood Joliet has built a 30-year reputation serving our community as a leader in the gaming industry. The new property elevates this experience into a complete entertainment destination outfitted with state-of-the-art gaming alongside world class dining options, a brand-new sportsbook experience at ESPN BET and a multifunctional event space for concerts, comedy, weddings and community events. I am so impressed with the hard work done by my fellow team members and hundreds of Illinoisans who are building this magnificent casino, and we’re very excited to open our doors to our valued guests and new visitors this August.”
Joliet’s New Entertainment District Anchored By Hollywood Casino
Casino-goers will be able to do a lot more than just gamble at Hollywood upon the site’s opening. Hollywood Casino Joliet will anchor Rock Run Collection, a massive development with residential and commercial space. Nestled in the Interstate 80 and 55 interchange, it will be a go-to destination for travelers and locals alike.
The casino itself will boast approximately 1,000 slots, 43 table games, a baccarat room, and an ESPN Bet sportsbook. There will be 1,330 parking spaces and an event center complete with meeting areas. PENN partnered with renowned chef Giada De Laurentiis to bring her unique blend of Italian cuisine and fine dining to Sorellina by Giada, a 170-seat restaurant and bar.
“The countdown to the opening of our newest casino begins today,” said Jay Snowden, Chief Executive Officer and President for PENN. “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.”
The Road To A New Hollywood Began in 2019
PENN Entertainment’s move came, in part, as a result of 2019 gambling expansion signed by Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. The expansion allowed for six new land-based casinos, building on Illinois’ existing riverboat casinos made possible in 1990. Through the 2019 legislation, riverboat casinos could seek to transition to fully land-based operations with approval from the Illinois Gaming Board and a $250,000 fee. PENN Entertainment took full advantage. In addition to the new Joliet casino, PENN Entertainment expects to relocate its Hollywood Casino in Aurora to a land-based locale as well.
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