When Will Live Casino Philadelphia Open: An In-Depth Look at the Future of Gaming in the City of Brotherly Love

The anticipation for the opening of a live casino in Philadelphia has been building for years. As the city continues to evolve and embrace new forms of entertainment, the question on everyone's mind is: when will the live casino open? This article delves into the history, current status, and future prospects of the live casino project in Philadelphia, providing an in-depth look at what the city can expect once the doors open.

History of Live Casino Philadelphia

The idea of bringing a live casino to Philadelphia has been in the works for over a decade. The project was first proposed in 2006, when the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) began considering bids for the state's first live casino license. After a lengthy bidding process, the SugarHouse Casino, located on the Delaware River waterfront, was awarded the license in 2007.

SugarHouse Casino, owned by Philadelphia-based developer Tower Investments, opened its doors in January 2010, becoming the first live casino in the city. The casino quickly became a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of games, dining options, and entertainment.

The success of SugarHouse Casino led to renewed interest in the possibility of adding a second live casino to the city. This time, the focus was on the former Bally's Park Place Casino, located on the north side of the city. The property was purchased by a consortium of investors, including the Cordish Companies, who had a vision for a new, state-of-the-art live casino that would complement the existing SugarHouse Casino.

Current Status of Live Casino Philadelphia

The proposed live casino project at the former Bally's Park Place Casino has faced numerous challenges over the years. In 2013, the project was approved by the PGCB, but the developers faced opposition from local residents and businesses, who were concerned about the impact on the neighborhood and the city's reputation.

Despite the opposition, the developers pushed forward with the project, which was renamed Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia. Construction began in 2016, and the casino was scheduled to open in 2018. However, the project faced delays due to a variety of factors, including financial issues and regulatory hurdles.

As of early 2021, the casino is still under construction, with an estimated opening date of late 2021 or early 2022. The developers have been working closely with the PGCB and local officials to ensure that the project complies with all regulations and meets the city's standards for quality and safety.

Future Prospects of Live Casino Philadelphia

Once the Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia opens, it is expected to have a significant impact on the city's economy and entertainment scene. The new casino will feature over 2,000 slot machines, 100 table games, and a variety of dining and entertainment options, making it one of the largest and most sophisticated casinos in the region.

The addition of the live casino is also expected to create hundreds of new jobs for Philadelphians, providing opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers. The casino will also generate millions in tax revenue for the city, which can be used to fund public services and infrastructure improvements.

Additionally, the live casino is expected to attract visitors from across the region and beyond, boosting the local tourism industry. The casino's proximity to other popular attractions, such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Liberty Bell, and Independence Hall, makes it an ideal destination for tourists looking to experience everything that the city has to offer.

5 Questions and Answers about Live Casino Philadelphia

1. Question: Will the Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia have a hotel?

Answer: Yes, the casino will feature a 300-room hotel, offering guests a convenient and luxurious place to stay while visiting the property.

2. Question: How will the live casino impact local traffic?

Answer: The developers have plans in place to address traffic concerns, including improved transportation options and expanded parking facilities.

3. Question: Will the live casino offer transportation services to and from the casino?

Answer: Yes, the casino will offer shuttle services to and from nearby public transportation hubs, as well as private limousine and taxi services.

4. Question: Will the live casino have a restaurant?

Answer: Yes, the casino will feature a variety of dining options, including a full-service restaurant, a steakhouse, and a café.

5. Question: Will the live casino be open to non-gamblers?

Answer: Yes, the casino will offer a variety of entertainment and dining options for non-gamblers, making it a great destination for families and groups of friends.

In conclusion, the opening of the Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia is eagerly anticipated by both residents and visitors. As the city continues to grow and evolve, the addition of a new live casino is sure to have a positive impact on the local economy and entertainment scene. With an estimated opening date of late 2021 or early 2022, the future of gaming in Philadelphia is bright.