Operator News
Hard Rock Casino Rockford reveals grand opening date for permanent facility
By Phil - 13 June 2024
The highly anticipated opening of Rockford’s long-desired casino is almost here. Hard Rock International has revealed the grand opening date for Hard Rock Casino Rockford’s permanent facility will be Thursday, August 29, 2024, with a star-studded Guitar Smash, in Hard Rock tradition.
“I’d like to thank the Rockford community and State of Illinois for welcoming Hard Rock and our unique brand of world-class entertainment to the greater region,” said Jon Lucas, Chief Operating Officer at Hard Rock International. “The economic impact of this casino will provide hundreds of new jobs and boost the entertainment options for anyone living near or visiting Rockford. We are thrilled to welcome this new property to our global portfolio of over 300 Hard Rock venues.”
The new casino, located immediately off the I-90 State Street exit at 7801 E. State Street in Rockford, boasts more than 175,000 square feet of gaming, entertainment, and hospitality space, featuring a diverse array of attractions including nearly 1,300 slot machines, 50 live table games including a poker room, a state-of-the-art sportsbook, six unique restaurants, and a Rock Shop offering authentic Hard Rock merchandise and more.
“We are extremely proud of our team members who helped make our initial Opening Act location a success, and we welcome all those new to the team who have worked so hard preparing for this long-awaited day,” says Geno Iafrate, President of Hard Rock Casino Rockford. “It’s been 30 years in the making for Rockford and the wait is over. We are excited to welcome guests to our house to showcase and expand the legendary Hard Rock brand.”
One of the highlights of the new casino is the Hard Rock Live entertainment venue, spanning 23,000 square feet, accommodating up to 2,000 guests for concerts and performances.
The operator added: “From the outset, it was our intention to open key elements of the facility later in the year. However, to ensure a comprehensive and memorable debut, instead of staggering the opening of key amenities, we have decided to do a Grand Opening with all elements of the project including Hard Rock Live, an array of diverse dining options and our signature Hard Rock Hotel all at once. We understand the significance of first impressions and are committed to making a spectacular entrance into the Bristol community. We appreciate the community’s enthusiasm and patience as we finalize preparations for what promises to be a landmark opening later this year.”
