PENN Entertainment Unveils $185M Hollywood Casino Joliet with 1,000 Slots, 43 Tables, and ESPN BET Sportsbook

PENN Entertainment has opened a new $185 million Hollywood Casino Joliet, replacing the previous riverboat location. The land-based casino features 1,000 slot machines, 43 table games, and an ESPN BET sportsbook. The venue offers premier dining options, including Sorellina by Giada, a restaurant led by celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis. The casino aims to attract visitors with its world-class gaming and dining experiences, boasting a 10,000 square foot event center and a PENN Play Rewards Program.

PENN Entertainment, Inc. (Nasdaq: PENN) has celebrated the grand opening of its new Hollywood Casino Joliet, marking a significant milestone in the company's expansion strategy. The $185 million land-based entertainment destination replaces the former riverboat property that operated on the shores of the Des Plaines River since 1992. The new casino, located at 1401 Gateway Blvd., Joliet, IL, features approximately 1,000 slot machines, 43 table games, and an ESPN BET sportsbook, among other amenities [1].

The casino's gaming floor is equipped with the latest video reel slot and video poker machines, along with traditional table games such as blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat. The ESPN BET sportsbook offers a large TV screen for sports viewing, sports betting tellers, and interactive games, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Additionally, the casino boasts a 10,000 square foot event center, which can be customized to host weddings, galas, community events, concerts, sports events, and meetings [1].

Dining options at Hollywood Casino Joliet are diverse and upscale. PENN partnered with celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis to create Sorellina by Giada, an Italian fusion restaurant. The venue also features Boulevard Food & Drink Hall, operated by McClain Camarota Hospitality, offering a variety of Chicago favorites. The casino's dining options cater to guests of all ages, with indoor and outdoor seating available [1].

PENN Play, PENN Entertainment's industry-leading loyalty program, is available at Hollywood Casino Joliet. The program offers exclusive access to events, experiences, and personalized rewards across gaming, dining, hotel stays, and entertainment. With five membership tiers, members can enjoy benefits such as priority access, premium partner perks, and personalized offers [1].

The opening of Hollywood Casino Joliet is expected to create approximately 600 new jobs and generate around 450 construction jobs. The casino will operate seven days a week and 24 hours a day, providing entertainment and gaming opportunities year-round. The new property is part of PENN's broader strategy to expand its footprint and grow its customer ecosystem through organic cross-sell opportunities [1].

References:
[1] https://www.morningstar.com/news/business-wire/20250808377461/penn-entertainment-celebrates-grand-opening-of-hollywood-casino-joliet