Who owns Mount Airy Casino: An In-Depth Look into Its Ownership and History

Mount Airy Casino, nestled in the scenic mountains of Pennsylvania, has long been a staple of the region's entertainment scene. But have you ever wondered who owns this iconic venue? This article delves into the ownership history of Mount Airy Casino, its evolution, and its impact on the gaming industry.

1. Mount Airy Casino: A Brief Overview

Mount Airy Casino Resort, officially known as the Mount Airy Casino Resort, is a hotel and casino located in Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania. The casino opened its doors to the public in 1979, making it one of the first casinos in the state. The resort spans over 1,200,000 square feet and includes a 24-table poker room, a 1,200-seat showroom, and a 300-room hotel.

2. The Founders: The Pohlems

Mount Airy Casino was founded by the Pohlem family, a group of entrepreneurs with a passion for gaming. The family had a long history of success in the gaming industry, with ties to the Atlantic City casinos. The original founders were:

a. David Pohlem: A self-made businessman, David Pohlem was the driving force behind the creation of Mount Airy Casino. He had a vision for a resort that would cater to the needs of both gamblers and families.

b. John Pohlem: David's brother, John, played a significant role in the development of the casino. He brought his experience in the gaming industry to the project, ensuring its success.

c. Charles Pohlem: Another brother of David, Charles, was instrumental in the casino's construction and operations.

3. The Ownership History

Over the years, Mount Airy Casino has undergone several changes in ownership. Here's a timeline of its ownership history:

a. 1979-1990: Pohlem Family

During this period, the Pohlem family owned and operated the casino. They invested heavily in the resort, expanding its facilities and amenities.

b. 1990-2006: The Cordish Companies

In 1990, the Pohlem family sold Mount Airy Casino to The Cordish Companies, a leading developer and operator of entertainment, gaming, and real estate properties. The Cordish Companies continued to expand the resort, adding new gaming areas, dining options, and a spa.

c. 2006-Present: Gaming and Leisure Properties

In 2006, Gaming and Leisure Properties (GLP) acquired Mount Airy Casino from The Cordish Companies. GLP is a real estate investment trust (REIT) specializing in the gaming industry. Since then, they have continued to invest in the property, ensuring its competitive edge in the region.

4. The Evolution of Mount Airy Casino

Over the years, Mount Airy Casino has evolved to meet the changing demands of its customers. Here are some key milestones in its development:

a. 1979: The casino opened with 500 slot machines and 20 table games.

b. 1985: The resort added a hotel with 120 rooms.

c. 1990: The casino expanded, adding more slot machines and table games, as well as a showroom and poker room.

d. 2006: The resort was acquired by GLP, and they began a multi-year renovation project, including the addition of a spa and more dining options.

5. Impact on the Gaming Industry

Mount Airy Casino has had a significant impact on the gaming industry, particularly in the Northeastern United States. Here are some key contributions:

a. Setting a Benchmark: Mount Airy Casino was one of the first casinos to offer a comprehensive gaming experience, combining gaming, dining, and entertainment.

b. Job Creation: The resort has created thousands of jobs in the region, contributing to the local economy.

c. Community Engagement: Mount Airy Casino has been actively involved in community events and initiatives, supporting local charities and organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who owns Mount Airy Casino?

Mount Airy Casino is currently owned by Gaming and Leisure Properties (GLP), a real estate investment trust (REIT) specializing in the gaming industry.

2. How did Mount Airy Casino get its name?

The casino was named after Mount Airy, the town in which it is located. The name was chosen by the Pohlem family, who believed it represented the serene and picturesque surroundings of the resort.

3. How many slot machines does Mount Airy Casino have?

Mount Airy Casino has over 2,000 slot machines, offering a wide variety of games to its guests.

4. What types of table games are available at Mount Airy Casino?

Mount Airy Casino offers a variety of table games, including blackjack, roulette, craps, poker, and more.

5. How has Mount Airy Casino impacted the local economy?

Mount Airy Casino has had a significant impact on the local economy, creating thousands of jobs and contributing to community events and initiatives. The resort has also helped to attract tourists to the region, boosting the local tourism industry.