The Rise of Casino Gaming in Virginia: A Spotlight on Bristol and Beyond

Casino gaming in Virginia has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, fueled by voter approval, investments from major gaming companies, and the establishment of cutting-edge facilities. As the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol prepares to open its doors on November 14, it marks a pivotal moment in the state’s economic landscape and entertainment offerings. This article delves into the latest developments in Virginia’s casino scene, highlighting the burgeoning cities of Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth.

A New Era Begins in Bristol

When the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol opens next month, it will be the second of Virginia’s four permanent casinos approved by state voters in 2020. This highly anticipated venue is not just another casino; it is the first in the state with an attached hotel, offering a comprehensive hospitality experience alongside gaming.

In November 2020, residents of Bristol and three other Virginia cities—Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth—voted to establish a single casino in each location, aiming to create jobs and stimulate local economies. The Bristol venture is notable not only for its investment of $500 million but also for its size, encompassing 620,000 square feet of gaming space. Set to replace the temporary Bristol Casino, which began operations in July 2022, the new development will feature nearly 1,500 slot machines and over 50 table games.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Since its inception, the Bristol Casino has welcomed over three million guests, contributing significantly to local employment and economic growth. Current estimates suggest the new facility will provide approximately 1,200 jobs, boosting the local labor market. Financially, the Bristol Casino has surpassed expectations, paying out more than $260 million in jackpots and contributing over $66 million in gaming taxes to the Commonwealth.

Given the anticipated increase in gaming offerings at the new Hard Rock facility, local officials are optimistic about further economic stimuli for the city and surrounding regions. With the expected influx of tourists and gaming enthusiasts, businesses in the area are likely to benefit tremendously.

The Expanding Casino Landscape: Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth

Danville: Home to Caesars Virginia

Just down the road in Danville, the Caesars Virginia Resort is making impressive strides as it heads toward a grand opening in late December. This ambitious project includes a $750 million casino complex with a luxury hotel, conference center, and entertainment venues. The temporary casino that opened in May 2023 already demonstrated its potential, generating $222 million in its first year.

Noteworthy is the decision to bring celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay into the fold with the opening of Ramsay’s Kitchen, a full-service dining option designed to elevate the culinary experience for visitors.

Norfolk: Breaking Ground Soon

Norfolk’s casino development, backed by the Pamunkey Indian Tribe in collaboration with Boyd Gaming, is set to break ground soon. Scheduled to feature a 65,000-square-foot gaming area complete with 1,500 slot machines and numerous dining options, the Norfolk casino promises to be a major entertainment hub. Norfolk city officials expect the facility could generate substantial tax revenues and create hundreds of new jobs once operational.

Portsmouth: The First Permanent Casino

Portsmouth holds the distinction of being Virginia’s first permanent casino, with the Rivers Casino opening its doors in January 2023. Although still in the early stages, it has reported impressive adjusted gaming revenues of $329 million. The operators have plans to include hotel accommodations but have yet to announce a timeline for construction.

Petersburg: A Potential New Gaming Destination

Staying on the cutting edge of Virginia’s casino revolution, Petersburg is poised to vote on its fifth and final casino license. The PPE Casino Resorts Petersburg LLC has been designated as the preferred operator for a proposed $600 million development. Plans include a temporary casino followed by a luxury hotel and extensive gaming options, along with projections of significant economic impact on the region.

The Rose: A New Project in Prince William County

Adding to Virginia’s gaming landscape is The Rose Gaming Resort, located just off I-95 in Dumfries. This $460 million project will operate mainly historical racing machines, a new form of gaming that has gained traction in the state. The Rose promises not only to diversify Virginia’s gaming offerings but also to create jobs and drive tax revenue for local authorities.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Casino Gaming in Virginia

As Virginia gears up for a gaming boom, the openings of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol, Caesars Virginia, and ongoing projects in Norfolk and Portsmouth underscore the state’s commitment to tapping into the economic potential of casino gaming. With emerging sites like Petersburg and The Rose enriching the landscape, it is clear that the Commonwealth stands on the brink of a transformative era in entertainment—a development that promises substantial benefits for communities, from job creation to economic revitalization. As the dust settles and the lights of these new casinos shine bright, Virginia could well become a premier destination for gaming enthusiasts on the East Coast.