Hollywood Casino Aurora opened its new $360 million entertainment complex, according to the Chicago Tribune. The facility debuted on June 23, 2026, near Interstate 88, aiming to attract both gamblers and nongamblers alike in the west suburbs of Chicago.
What happened
The new Hollywood Casino Aurora launched amid rain, transitioning from a riverboat venue to a land-based facility designed to draw a broader audience. Located adjacent to the Chicago Premium Outlets, the complex includes 1,200 gaming positions, a 226-room hotel, and a 12,000-square-foot event space. “Our previous venue was designed to be a casino that happened to have some food and beverage options,” said Greg Moore, the casino’s general manager. “Our new venue is a full-on entertainment facility.”
The Illinois Gaming Board granted final approval for the casino after a successful test run on June 22. Guests were invited to a private session before the public opening at 8:30 p.m. A ribbon-cutting ceremony featured casino executives, local politicians, and celebrities, although the celebration was moved indoors due to weather.
A traditional Chinese lion dance entertained attendees, with performers emphasizing blessings for prosperity. Alex Wong, from a Chicago-based dance group, noted the significance of the celebration, stating, “We do dances to bring blessings, prosperity, and good luck to everyone here.”
Why it matters
The opening signifies a shift in Illinois gambling, where casinos are moving from riverboats to land-based facilities in pursuit of higher revenues. Hollywood Casino Aurora follows a trend that has reshaped the state’s gambling landscape, aiming to capture a diverse array of visitors.
The transition from riverboat to land-based casinos comes in light of a 2019 state law change that paved the way for new developments. As more casinos enter the market, this could reshape local economies by creating jobs and driving tourism.
Background
On May 20, 2026, the former riverboat venue closed after 30 years of operation on the Fox River. The state legalized riverboat gambling 36 years ago, with the Joliet and Aurora boats among the first to launch. Recent changes in Illinois gambling laws have encouraged these venues to move ashore.
The move by Hollywood Casino Aurora reflects broader changes in the casino industry, previously exemplified by the August 2025 transition of Hollywood Casino Joliet to a land-based venue. This change reinvigorated attendance and revenue at Joliet, demonstrating the potential success of the Aurora location.
What’s next
Moving forward, Hollywood Casino Aurora executives expect revenue growth, particularly with the opening of its extensive restaurant offerings and proximity to a major outlet mall. The facility aims to enhance its appeal to both gamers and casual visitors in the coming months.
