After three decades on the Des Plaines River, Hollywood Casino Joliet’s riverboat will cast off for the last time next week, clearing the deck for a $185 million on‑land replacement set to open August 11.
Fans of the floating casino have until 5:59 a.m. July 29 to try their luck, while hotel reservations are being accepted through July 26. PENN Entertainment, the property’s parent company, says normal gaming hours remain in place until the final whistle.
What guests need to know before the riverboat’s final spin on July 29
Ready to roll the dice one last time? Guests can keep playing slots and table games right up to closing. According to company officials, any chips left in your pocket can be redeemed at the new casino cage through the end of 2025, so there’s no rush to cash out. Here, the key dates at a glance:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 26 | Last night to check in at the riverboat hotel |
| 5:59 a.m. July 29 | Riverboat gaming shuts down |
| July 29 | New Hollywood Casino website goes live |
| August 11 | Land‑based casino officially opens* |
*Opening depends on customary regulatory approvals.
Inside the $185 million land‑based Hollywood casino Joliet set to open August 11
Why the big move ashore? Executives say the new venue, part of the Rock Run Collection near the I‑80/I‑55 interchange, will deliver a broader entertainment punch. Plans include roughly 1,000 slot machines, 43 live tables, a dedicated baccarat room and an ESPN BET sportsbook.
Families aren’t left out, either. An approximately 10,000‑square‑foot event center will host all‑ages shows, while about 1,330 parking spaces aim to ease weekend crunches. “This location lets us serve guests better and create a top regional attraction,” said Todd George, executive vice president of operations for PENN Entertainment. Here’s what’s new:
- Expanded gaming floor with modern layouts
- Diverse dining concepts (details coming on the July 29 website launch)
- Easy highway access and surface parking
- Larger event spaces for concerts, banquets and community gatherings
How to redeem unused chips and stay updated on dining and entertainment options
Wondering what to do with riverboat chips tucked in a drawer? Simply bring them to the new casino cage any time before December 31, 2025. For restaurant hours, menus and reservation tools, bookmark the upcoming Hollywood Casino Joliet website, scheduled to go live the same day the boat closes.
The riverboat’s farewell marks the end of an era, but the coming land‑based complex promises more games, bigger shows and easier access for guests across northern Illinois. If you plan to visit before the final bell, check room availability quickly—and keep an eye on August 11 for the grand opening celebration.