On Monday, the grand opening of Virginia’s inaugural full-service casino was commemorated with the presence of music, ribbon, and ceremonial scissors. Rivers Casino Portsmouth, hosted by Rush Street executives, warmly greeted guests at the event. Among the speakers was Tim Drehkoff, the CEO of Rush Street Gaming.
“We are thrilled to become part of such a dynamic community and reveal this exquisite entertainment venue, which promises enjoyment for all. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the community and our dedicated team members for their unwavering support. Moreover, we eagerly anticipate the launch of this robust economic powerhouse that will greatly benefit the region.”
Rush Street Gaming’s fifth gambling venue is the Hampton Roads casino, valued at $340 million. Additionally, the company operates casinos in:
- Philadelphia
- Pittsburgh
- Des Plaines, located close to Chicago, is…
- Schenectady, located in Upstate New York.
Virginia casino industry grows with Rush Street investment
Virginia’s first full-service casino, Rivers Casino Portsmouth, has recently opened. However, the state has already been generating revenue from casinos since July.
Bristol Casino, soon to be transformed into Hard Rock’s permanent establishment, has recently disclosed an impressive revenue of approximately $82 million to the state. Initially launched as a temporary casino located in close proximity to the Tennessee border.
Portsmouth is about to face competition in its region. The development of HeadWaters Casino in nearby Norfolk is also underway. Although the Pamunkey Tribe’s complete casino will take 18-24 months to be ready, operators are currently working on a temporary casino in the parking lot of the local minor league baseball stadium.
Customers were anxious to start gaming
As January conditions prevailed, confetti gracefully danced in the air while the grand opening of the casino in Portsmouth echoed with the chants of eager customers, beckoning to be let in, as reported by Natalie Anderson of the Norfolk Virginian-Pilot.
The music at the 2025 New Year’s Rose Parade was provided by Norfolk State University’s Spartan Legion Marching Band. The talented Spartan musicians showcased their skills during the event.
Accompanying Drehkoff were individuals making remarks.
- Roy Corby, the General Manager of Rivers Casino Portsmouth.
- Portsmouth Mayor Shannon Glover
- Virginia Lottery Director Kelly T. Gee, along with her team, are in charge of overseeing the operations of the Virginia Lottery.
- Brian Donahue serves as the Economic Development Director for Portsmouth.
The casino’s official operator’s license was presented to Rivers Casino Portsmouth executives by Gina Smith, the deputy director of gaming compliance for the Virginia Lottery.
According to Corby, it took only 412 days from the groundbreaking ceremony to the grand opening on Monday, as he informed the Virginian-Pilot staff and other attendees.
Within a span of fewer than 14 months, the collaboration between Rush Street Gaming and Rivers Casino witnessed a remarkable transformation. Initially equipped with merely 10 shovels and two backhoes, they swiftly expanded their offerings to include an impressive array of amenities. This expansion comprised over 1,446 slot machines, 57 tables, 24 poker tables, five distinct restaurants and bars, in addition to a spacious event area spanning more than 25,000 square feet.
Delay and a soft open for Rush Street in Portsmouth
The initial date for the grand opening ceremony of Rivers Casino Portsmouth was set for January 15th, but due to the necessary testing and verification of their new gaming equipment, both the casino staff and regulators required additional time.
Before the official opening, a few initial bets were placed. The earnings generated from the “gaming floor test events” held on January 19 and January 21 were directed towards charitable purposes. A total of $170,000 was donated to three organizations as a result of these trial events.
- The hospital for children belonging to The King’s Daughters is called Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters.
- USO of Hampton Roads and Central Virginia
- Wesley Community Service Center
The casino contributed a total amount of $510,000 in donations. During the test event on January 21, Mayor Glover, Senator L. Louise Lucas, and House Minority Leader Don Scott had the honor of placing the ceremonial first wagers at the BetRivers Sportsbook. Bettors can conveniently locate the sportsbook near the gaming floor.
No hotel yet, but Rivers Casino Portsmouth has plenty of offerings
According to the casino, the BetRivers retail sportsbook in Portsmouth offers various amenities such as club seating, a bar, betting windows, 27 self-service kiosks, and multiple high-definition screens for an enhanced viewing experience.
In his statement, Corby highlighted the presence of 1,446 slot machines, 57 table games, and 24 poker tables. Additionally, he pointed out the various dining options available at the establishment.
- Admiral’s Steak & Seafood offers a sophisticated dining experience for those seeking upscale cuisine.
- Relish in the laid-back cuisine offered at Crossings Café.
- Mian is a fast and convenient choice for Asian cuisine.
- Slice Pizzeria
- Starbucks; and
- Yard House, set to open in 2025, will boast an extensive range of draft beer, claiming to have the most extensive selection worldwide.
Other Rivers Casino Portsmouth features
To access the gaming floor, individuals must be at least 21 years old. Nonetheless, there are alternative choices available within the premises.
- The Topgolf Swing Suite offers a large screen with fairways and a bird’s-eye perspective of the gaming floor.
- The Sound Bar boasts an intimate stage and lounge area, specifically designed to accommodate local bands, DJs, and a variety of other performers.
- The Event Center boasts a grand hall, spanning 25,000 square feet, along with a dedicated reception area that caters to weddings, corporate events, and meetings.
- There is also a substation for the City of Portsmouth police.
Operators have decided to keep the doors open round the clock, every day of the week, now that they are open.
Corby expressed our commitment to serving the community, our valued guests, and our team members. He emphasized that our mission will be achieved through delivering an exceptional guest experience.
His goal is for the casino to be the preferred entertainment destination for Portsmouth, Hampton Roads, and all visitors to our region.
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