New Hollywood Casino Resort Set to Open
The new Hollywood Casino resort in Aurora, which began construction in 2023, is scheduled to open on June 24, as announced by officials on Thursday.
Project Overview
With a budget of $360 million, the resort is situated at the intersection of Farnsworth Avenue and Bilter Road, directly across from the Chicago Premium Outlets mall and near the Interstate 88 interchange. This new location will replace the existing casino in downtown Aurora. Throughout the building phase, officials have confirmed that the project is on track.
Anticipated Grand Opening
The grand opening, revealed by PENN Entertainment, Hollywood Casino’s parent company, will occur less than a year after the launch of Joliet’s new land-based Hollywood Casino, which opened in August 2025.
Features of the New Casino
The upcoming land-based resort in Aurora will offer 1,200 gaming positions, approximately 220 hotel rooms, a retail sportsbook, an outdoor entertainment space, a full-service spa, and a 12,000-square-foot event center equipped for meetings and various gatherings, along with several bars and restaurants.
Unique Amenities and Dining Options
PENN Entertainment has disclosed various amenities planned for the casino during its construction. Notably, the Drift Spa will be the second location of a luxury wellness spa from Pennsylvania. Owned by entrepreneur Stacey Steffes, it will provide traditional spa services alongside hair and beauty treatments.
Culinary Highlights
A highlight of the dining options includes an Italian steakhouse named Sorella, curated by celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis. The restaurant will feature an outdoor seating area and an open kitchen, offering a menu of fresh pasta, steaks, Roman-style pizzas, and other Italian specialties.
Community Support and Financial Arrangements
The city of Aurora is backing the project with an upfront payment of $50 million, to be reimbursed through a tax increment financing district associated with the property. Although the establishment of the TIF district faced controversy, it was deemed necessary to retain the casino in Aurora. Aurora currently owes PENN Entertainment $21 million of the initial payment, which is expected to be settled by the year’s end.
