Gamblers can anticipate the opening of the first Virginia casino in just three months, as a temporary Bristol gaming facility is set to welcome visitors on July 8th.
The facility’s debut date has been officially announced by officials as the future home of Hard Rock: “Bristol Casino.”
The partial yet comprehensive version will come before the grand opening of the complete resort. Consequently, the fully finished Hard Rock Casino and Resort Bristol is anticipated to welcome guests in 2025.
First Virginia casino opening is long time in making
Bristol is set to outpace Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth, emerging as the foremost Virginia casino to open its doors.
In late 2020, voters in all four cities showed strong support for the establishment of casinos. Virginia lawmakers had previously authorized each city to hold a casino referendum, and the residents ultimately expressed their approval. (Although voters in Richmond rejected their referendum in 2021, it is probable they will have another chance to vote on it during this year’s Election Day.)
The forthcoming casino-resorts will mark the first of its kind in the commonwealth’s history. From the beginning, Bristol casino executives set their sights on being the pioneers in accepting bets.
The date is finalized: Friday, July 8th. This falls right after the Fourth of July holiday.
The former Bristol Mall site will now house the Bristol casino. Officials have recently revealed the first Hard Rock Bristol signage, marking its location at 500 Gate City Highway.
Jon Lucas, the COO of Hard Rock International, expressed:
“We are thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of Bristol Casino, Future Home of Hard Rock, proudly becoming Virginia’s first casino. This remarkable addition to the Hard Rock global portfolio of dining, hotel, and entertainment properties will undoubtedly enhance our offerings. I am delighted by the remarkable achievements made by Allie Evangelista and her team, as they diligently work towards the highly anticipated grand opening celebration on July 8th for Bristol.”
Evangelista, a gaming executive with both recent and extensive experience, has been appointed as the new president of Hard Rock Bristol. Authorities anticipate hiring a total of 600 employees to join the team before the casino’s grand opening on July 8th. Currently, approximately 100 job vacancies have been posted as of Thursday.
What to expect at Bristol Casino, future home of Hard Rock
Ultimately, the Hard Rock Casino Resort Bristol, with a whopping investment of $400 million, is destined to become a prominent and highly sought-after destination on the border of Virginia and Tennessee.
Officials have shared that the ultimate version of the property will consist of various features and attractions. These will include 100,000 square feet of gaming space, a sportsbook, 350 hotel rooms, live music venues, and numerous additional amenities.
However, what about the temporary casino? When it opens on July 8, Bristol Casino, which will be the future location of Hard Rock, will showcase:
- There is a gaming area that spans 30,000 square feet.
- Sportsbook
- 900 slot machines
- 20 table games
- Restaurant
- Food court
- Sports bars, both smoking and non-smoking, are available.
- High-limit gaming areas
The Bristol opening of Hard Rock cannot arrive soon enough. Right from the start, authorities expressed their eagerness to establish a temporary casino in order to kickstart casino gambling in Virginia.
It seems that the concept has gained popularity, as officials involved with the forthcoming Norfolk casino are considering the possibility of launching a temporary venue by the end of the year.
Related Articles
