Caesars Virginia Temporary Casino Could Open Next Summer

Written By Russ Mitchell on November 4, 2022
Caesars Virginia Casino won't be ready until late 2025, but a temporary casino could be ready in the summer of 2025.

Danville, VA could potentially experience a summer filled with slot machines. During a quarterly update on Nov. 1, two casino executives subtly indicated the possibility of Caesars Virginia establishing a temporary casino in the area.

Anthony Carano, the President and CEO of Caesars, recently articulated the strategies of his company regarding the forthcoming temporary casino in Danville, Virginia. Situated in close proximity to Greensboro, NC, the city of Danville strategically positions itself along the North Carolina border, aiming to attract betting enthusiasts from the southern region.

In his investor update, Carano made reference to a comparable venture taking place in the Midwest. It is worth noting that Caesars has established a presence in both Virginia and Nebraska. Interestingly, these states, known for their horseracing activities, are simultaneously venturing into the realm of casinos.

Carano stated in a November 1 earnings call with investors that temporary casinos are anticipated to be opened in both Danville, VA, and Columbus, NE, by mid-year ’23.

The timeline was confirmed by Thomas Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment, during the conference call. Additionally, he mentioned

Next year, temporary casinos will be opening in Columbus, NE and Danville, VA.

There are over 50 casinos spread across the United States under the company’s ownership.

Temporary casinos are frequently established by casino developers, allowing them to generate income while construction progresses on their half-billion dollar resort projects in close proximity. Out of Virginia’s four casino developers, three will launch smaller-scale gaming operations at temporary locations.

Beyond the Caesars Virginia temporary casino

In Schoolfield, Danville organized a groundbreaking ceremony in August to mark the commencement of its $650 million project at the Dan River Inc. site.

The Caesars Virginia casino project is expected to be completed in late 2025, offering various exciting features:

  • A 2,500-seat theater
  • 500 hotel rooms
  • There is a total of 40,000 square feet available for meetings and conventions.
  • The establishment boasts a top-tier gaming area featuring an impressive array of amenities. These include 1,300 slot machines, 85 live table games, 24 electronic table games, a dedicated WSOP poker room, and a Caesars retail sportsbook.
  • full-service spa
  • swimming pool
  • in addition to top-notch bars and restaurants.

The project is a collaboration between Caesars Entertainment and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

The project was described as a crucial opportunity for his people by Principal Chief Richard Sneed of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

He added that we are thrilled about the opportunity to further develop and strengthen our longstanding and fruitful collaboration with Caesars Entertainment.

Out of the four Virginia casinos currently being constructed, the Danville casino is projected to be the costliest.

  • A temporary casino has been established in Bristol by the operators of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, allowing them to continue operations during the ongoing construction of their $400 million project.
  • The casino operators in Norfolk have announced plans to open a temporary casino called the Pamunkey Club. This temporary establishment will be located in the east side parking lot of Harbor Park Stadium. The anticipated opening for the Pamunkey Club is set for March 2025. Meanwhile, the HeadWaters Resort and Casino project in Norfolk is estimated to cost $500 million and is expected to be completed by late 2025.
  • Construction for Rivers Casino Portsmouth began in December 2021 and reached a significant milestone over the summer when the final steel beam was lifted. The completion of this $300 million resort is anticipated for early 2025.

In August, Carano expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, a long-standing and esteemed partner of Caesars Entertainment for over two decades, to establish a remarkable Caesars resort in Danville.

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Russ Mitchell

Russ Mitchell has been reporting on news and sports in Iowa for over two decades, with 11 years of experience as the managing editor for a highly esteemed community newspaper in the state. In 2021, he joined PlayIA as the lead writer and managing editor. He is excited and eager to delve into the flourishing gaming industry in Virginia.

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