Illinois has witnessed significant growth in its casino industry, becoming a prominent player in the gambling landscape of the United States. In this article, we will explore the biggest casinos in Illinois, their features, and the potential impact they have on the state. From the growth of the casino industry to the development of new casinos, we will delve into the vibrant gambling scene that has emerged in Illinois. So let’s uncover the allure of the biggest casinos in Illinois and discover the exciting world they offer.
Casino in Illinois
| Casino | City | County | State | Comments | Interesting Information |
| American Place | Waukegan | Lake | Illinois | Temporary casino open; permanent casino planned to open in 2026 | Attracting other businesses to the area1 |
| Argosy Casino Alton | Alton | Madison | Illinois | ||
| Bally’s Chicago | Chicago | Cook | Illinois | Under development, planned to open in 2026 | |
| Bally’s Quad Cities | Rock Island | Rock Island | Illinois | ||
| DraftKings at Casino Queen | East St. Louis | St. Clair | Illinois | ||
| Golden Nugget Danville | Danville | Vermilion | Illinois | Opened in May 2023 | |
| Grand Victoria Casino Elgin | Elgin | Kane | Illinois | ||
| Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Rockford | Winnebago | Illinois | Temporary casino open; permanent casino under construction4 | Construction above ground has begun |
| Harrah’s Joliet | Joliet | Will | Illinois | ||
| Harrah’s Metropolis | Metropolis | Massac | Illinois | ||
| Hollywood Casino Aurora | Aurora | Kane | Illinois | ||
| Hollywood Casino Joliet | Joliet | Will | Illinois | ||
| Par-A-Dice Casino | East Peoria | Tazewell | Illinois | ||
| Rivers Casino | Des Plaines | Cook | Illinois | ||
| Wind Creek Chicago Southland | East Hazel Crest | Cook | Illinois | Under construction, planned to open in 2023 or 2024] | Reached a partnership deal with the Chicago Bulls |
The Growth of Illinois’ Casino Industry
The gambling industry in Illinois has grown remarkably over the past few years, thanks to favorable legislation and robust investment. The number of casinos has seen an upswing, with numerous venues dotting the state’s landscape. This development, spurred by the Gambling Act of 2019, has paved the way for the establishment of six new casinos, injecting life into the state’s economic vein.
New Casinos on the Horizon
Illinois is set to welcome new casinos that will further enrich its gambling landscape. One of the most anticipated projects is the Bally’s Chicago casino. This ambitious endeavor aims to establish a premier casino and entertainment complex, strategically located in downtown Chicago. The Bally’s Chicago casino project holds great significance due to its size, expected economic impact, and the transformation it can bring to the area. Let’s explore this upcoming casino and what it means for Illinois.
The Impact of the Casino Industry on Illinois
The thriving casino industry in Illinois has had a profound impact on the state’s economy and society. The influx of casinos has resulted in job creation, attracting both direct and indirect employment opportunities. Additionally, the tax revenue generated by the industry has contributed to funding vital public services and infrastructure development. However, it is crucial to analyze both the positive and potential negative social impacts that accompany the expansion of the casino industry. Let’s delve into the multifaceted impact of casinos on Illinois.
Biggest Casinos in Illinois
Among the most prominent casinos in Illinois are the Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel, Grand Victoria Casino Elgin, and Rivers Casino Des Plaines. These establishments distinguish themselves through their extensive square footage, exceptional amenities, and consistent commitment to providing a high-quality gambling and entertainment experience.
Rivers Casino Des Plaines
- Rivers Casino Des Plaines is one of the top casinos in Illinois. Located just minutes from O’Hare International Airport, it offers an exceptional gaming and entertainment experience.
Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel
- Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel is a popular destination for gamers in the state of Illinois. It is known for its well-rounded hospitality and gaming services.
Grand Victoria Casino Elgin
- The Grand Victoria Casino Elgin is one of the largest casinos in the state, offering a vibrant and exciting gaming experience.
Features of Illinois Casinos
Casinos in Illinois offer a diverse blend of gaming and non-gaming amenities, delivering a comprehensive entertainment experience for guests.
Gaming Options
These casinos cater to a wide array of tastes, boasting thousands of slot machines and an extensive selection of table games such as poker, blackjack, and roulette. Their state-of-the-art facilities ensure that guests enjoy a high-quality gaming experience.
Non-Gaming Amenities
In addition to an impressive gaming catalog, these casinos offer non-gaming amenities such as luxury hotels, world-class restaurants, and top-notch entertainment venues. These features aim to provide a holistic entertainment experience that extends beyond gambling.
The Future of Illinois’ Casino Industry
Given the current trajectory and upcoming projects, the future of Illinois’ casino industry looks promising. New projects are in the pipeline, poised to further elevate the state’s gambling landscape.
Pending Projects
Expected Impact
Role of the Illinois Gaming Board
The Illinois Gaming Board plays a significant role in shaping the casino industry within the state. This government agency is responsible for regulating all forms of legal gambling within Illinois, which includes oversight of casinos, riverboats, and more recently, legalized sports betting. The Board ensures all gaming activities are conducted fairly, lawfully, and securely, ensuring the protection of players and maintaining the integrity of the gaming industry. They are also in charge of issuing licenses and conducting investigations into potential violations of gaming laws.
In order for new casinos to open or existing ones to expand, they must receive approval from the Illinois Gaming Board. This includes the upcoming Bally’s Chicago casino project, which has received its green light from the Board, emphasizing its commitment to growing the industry while ensuring fair and responsible gaming.
Understanding Illinois Gambling Laws
Understanding Illinois’ gambling laws is critical to exploring its vibrant casino industry. The state has relatively liberal laws when it comes to gambling, and this legal framework has allowed the casino industry to thrive.
The Illinois Gambling Act was amended in 2019, leading to a significant expansion of the state’s gaming industry. This amendment allowed for six new casino licenses, as well as the legalization of sports betting. With betting recently being legalized, Illinois has joined a growing list of states allowing both online and retail sports betting, thus diversifying the gambling opportunities available in the state.
Given the continuous amendments and adjustments to Illinois’ gambling laws, players are advised to stay updated on the latest legislation affecting casinos and other forms of gambling. This ensures that they engage in activities that are legal and regulated, protecting them from potential fraudulent practices.
Conclusion
Illinois has emerged as a thriving hub for casino enthusiasts, with an ever-expanding industry that attracts visitors from far and wide. From the anticipated Bally’s Chicago casino project to the established giants in the state, Illinois offers a diverse array of gambling options. These casinos contribute to the state’s economy, create employment opportunities, and provide entertainment for locals and tourists alike. As the industry continues to evolve, Illinois cements its place among the top gambling destinations in the United States.
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FAQs
The Illinois Gaming Board is the regulatory authority in charge of overseeing the gambling industry in Illinois. It regulates all legal gambling activities, grants licenses, and ensures fair and responsible gaming.
Betting has recently been legalized in Illinois. As of now, both online and retail sports betting are legal and regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board.
Yes, several new casino projects are under development, including Bally's Chicago, which is expected to open in 2026.
Illinois Gambling laws were amended in 2019 to allow for an expansion of the gaming industry. The new laws include provisions for six additional casino licenses and the legalization of sports betting.
The Illinois Gaming Board is responsible for approving new casinos and expansions, and ensuring fair and responsible gaming practices. Any new project or expansion in the industry must receive the Board's approval.
Yes, online sports betting is legal in Illinois. However, online casino gaming is not currently legal, although this may change in the future due to the evolving gambling landscape.
Casinos in Illinois offer a diverse array of gaming options including slot machines, table games like poker, blackjack, and roulette. Many casinos also offer sports betting.
Some upcoming projects include Bally's Chicago, which is expected to open in 2026, and the permanent American Place casino in Waukegan which is planned to open in the same year.
In Illinois, you must be at least 21 years old to gamble at casinos or participate in sports betting. This includes both retail locations and online platforms. However, there are exceptions for certain types of gambling. For example, individuals 18 years or older can participate in pari-mutuel (horse) betting, lottery games, and bingo.
