Overview
- PENN announced that Hollywood Casino Aurora will open to the public and that the company closed its longtime downtown riverboat ahead of the move.
- The $360 million destination sits off Interstate 88 near Chicago Premium Outlets and includes a hotel, Drift Spa, an outdoor entertainment area and a 12,000-square-foot event center.
- The property features about 1,200 gaming positions and a sportsbook, expanding the company’s gaming footprint beyond the older riverboat model.
- Dining partners confirmed so far include Sorella by Giada from Giada De Laurentiis and a Boulevard food hall hosting Lucky Goat by Stephanie Izard plus local concepts such as Antique Taco and Pretty Cool Ice Cream.
- The opening follows PENN’s August 2025 land-based debut in Joliet and reflects a broader industry shift in Illinois toward larger integrated resorts that aim to attract non-gaming customers and regional visitors.