Delaware Park Casino Expands Outdoor Gaming Options: A New Era of Entertainment in Wilmington
Delaware Park Casino in Wilmington is making headlines with its exciting expansion plans as it prepares to unveil a state-of-the-art outdoor gaming patio. Set to open in spring, this new feature will significantly enhance the gaming experience for visitors, seamlessly blending the thrill of gambling with the beauty of the great outdoors.
A 10,000-Square-Foot Outdoor Gaming Paradise
The new patio, an expansive 10,000 square feet, is strategically located trackside to the casino’s one-mile horse racing oval. This prime position allows guests not only to enjoy their favorite gaming activities but also to catch all the action of live horse races, thereby intensifying the overall entertainment experience at the casino. With over 250 of the latest slot machines available, this outdoor venue is perfectly designed for guests who want to take in fresh air while enjoying a game, offering a novel approach to gaming that those in Delaware have yet to experience.
Catering to All Guests
One of the standout features of the outdoor patio is its accommodation for smokers, a crucial consideration in light of Delaware’s Clean Indoor Air Act that was implemented in November 2022. This law prohibits tobacco use inside most workplaces, including casinos, leaving many smokers wondering where they could indulge in their habit while enjoying gaming. Delaware Park’s President and General Manager Terry Glebocki emphasized that the outdoor patio is all about enhancing customer satisfaction, highlighting how the new space will allow for a seamless gaming experience without sacrificing comfort.
“We look forward to offering Delaware’s largest outdoor slot patio. This spacious new patio is designed with our guests in mind,” Glebocki told Casino.org, illustrating the casino’s commitment to deliver an exceptional environment that meets varying guest preferences.
Major Investments and Upgrades
This expansion is part of a larger $5 million investment aimed at elevating the casino’s appeal. The new outdoor gaming area follows the completion of a substantial $10 million renovation of the casino floor. This renovation has reinvigorated the interiors with a modern touch and upgraded slot machines, positioning Delaware Park as a contemporary entertainment hub that attracts both casual gamers and high rollers.
Additionally, the renovation introduced the "Link Lounge," featuring popular games such as Buffalo Link and Dragon Link, along with an upscale high-limit room and revamped Player Rewards Club. This investment not only enhances the customer experience but also supports the casino’s return to 24/7 operations for the first time since the pandemic, reflecting a strong rebound in the gaming industry.
Delaware Park’s Market Position
Continuing to be a cornerstone in Delaware’s gaming landscape, Delaware Park generated nearly $168.6 million in slot machine revenue during fiscal year 2024, bringing in a staggering $1.97 billion in wagers. The establishment also reported an additional $25.1 million from table games, further solidifying its status as a leading player in the state’s casino market.
Delaware Park operates around 1,900 slot-like video lottery terminals (VLTs) and 44 live dealer table games, providing a diverse range of gaming options for a wide audience. The casino retains approximately 43% of its slot revenue and 80% of its table game earnings, showcasing a robust operational structure that proves beneficial for both guests and investors alike.
A Bright Future Ahead
In 2021, Delaware Park was acquired by a partnership between the Canadian private equity firm Clairvest and San Francisco-based Rubico Gaming, LLC, for $90 million. Under this new ownership, the casino has seen significant upgrades and expansions as both companies have extensive experience and interest in gaming and racing investments across the country.
While the casino and racetrack were included in the acquisition, the nearby White Clay Creek Country Club remained with the Rickman family, continuing to operate independently.
Conclusion
Delaware Park Casino’s ambitious plans for a new outdoor gaming patio signify a bold step forward in enhancing the entertainment experience in Wilmington. By catering to a wide range of guests and investing substantially in upgrading facilities, the casino is not just keeping up with industry trends; it’s setting new standards for what’s possible in the gaming world. With its prime location and modernized offerings, Delaware Park is poised to remain at the forefront of Delaware’s competitive casino market, ready to welcome back visitors with open arms in the spring.
