Penn Entertainment to open new Hollywood Casino Joliet in August 2025
PENN Entertainment has announced the opening of its new Hollywood Casino Joliet in Illinois on 11 August, six months ahead of schedule. This new casino highlights PENN’s strategy to expand its presence in both land-based and regulated iGaming sectors across the U.S.
From traditional to land-based luxury
Illinois is transitioning from its traditional riverboat casinos to modern, land-based venues. The new Hollywood Casino Joliet represents this shift, moving from the traditional riverboat model to a contemporary entertainment complex.
Hollywood Casino Joliet is strategically located in the Rock Run Collection, a commercial and residential district at the intersection of Interstates 80 and 55. This prime location sees 230,000 vehicles passing by daily, ensuring high visibility and attracting a wide range of visitors.
What to expect inside the new casino
Inside the Hollywood Casino Joliet, visitors will find 1,000 slot machines featuring various titles and themes, along with 43 live table games catering to fans of roulette, blackjack, and poker. There is also a dedicated baccarat room for those who enjoy high-stakes elegance. Additionally, the casino features a retail ESPN BET sportsbook where guests can catch all the action, place their bets, and cheer on their favourite teams.
While gaming is the main attraction, Hollywood Casino Joliet also features a 10,000-square-foot event centre for meetings, performances, and community events. Additionally, there are approximately 1,330 parking spaces on-site, ensuring ample parking for visitors.
Boost to the local economy
The local economy will benefit from the anticipated increase in employment from 400 to 600 jobs brought about by the new Hollywood Casino Joliet. Additionally, PENN’s investment will boost economic activity in the Joliet area, generate construction opportunities, and support the growth of surrounding businesses.
The total cost of the new Hollywood Casino Joliet development is $185 million, with $130 million funded by Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. in the third quarter of 2024. Originally expected to finish later, PENN fast-tracked the project, ensuring it will open this summer ahead of schedule.
Statement from PENN’s leadership
Jay Snowden, Chief Executive Officer and President of PENN, shared his enthusiasm about the transition from the existing riverboat to the new state-of-the-art facility.
Snowden stated, “The countdown to the opening of our newest casino begins today. 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.”
In addition to thrilling entertainment and gaming possibilities, Hollywood Casino Joliet will also provide outstanding dining experiences. PENN’s Executive Vice President of Operations, Todd George, expressed his excitement about the new culinary collaborations.
George stated, “We’re thrilled to partner with these elite restauranteurs to bring amazing dining options to the new Hollywood Casino Joliet. 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.”
