Hollywood Casino Aurora experienced significant growth during its first full month at a new $360 million land-based entertainment complex. The former riverboat operation registered $17.4 million in revenue and attracted nearly 156,000 visitors in this period. These numbers propelled it to third place among the state’s 17 casinos, according to data from the Illinois Gaming Board.
The shift to a land-based location doubled both revenue and admissions compared to the previous year, when it was still a riverboat on Fox River. Jay Snowden, CEO and president of Penn Entertainment, mentioned their satisfaction with this outcome during an earnings call, noting positive customer feedback.
Opened in late June, the new facility is strategically located near Interstate 88 and the Chicago Premium Outlets mall. It features 1,200 gaming positions, a 226-room hotel, a 12,000-square-foot event center, and various dining options such as Sorella by Giada and Boulevard Food & Drink. The casino has quickly become a popular destination in its first month.
Hollywood Casino Aurora ranked ninth in revenue when it was a riverboat during the first half of 2026. In July, it climbed to the third position, following Rivers Casino Des Plaines with $46.7 million and Wind Creek Chicago Southland with $19.7 million in revenue. Other top performers included Hard Rock Casino Rockford and Bally’s Chicago, each with $13.1 million, and Hollywood Casino Joliet with $12.2 million.
Penn Entertainment has invested significantly in converting their casinos from riverboats to land-based establishments. Hollywood Casino Joliet also made a similar transition last year, showing a sustained increase in revenue and attendance.
The Aurora complex offers amenities like a food hall and restaurants by celebrity chefs Giada De Laurentiis and Stephanie Izard. It aims to attract both gamblers and non-gamblers with diverse offerings. Its proximity to a regional outlet mall may increase casino patronage.
Snowden highlighted the higher spending from hotel guests, with a 21% increase in average daily worth. The location is also drawing new customers, with 20% of visitors being first-time guests since its opening.
Following recent changes in state gambling laws, Illinois casinos have been transitioning to land-based facilities, leading to a boom in new developments. Bally’s Chicago and American Place in Waukegan are among those in the development pipeline, with openings planned over the next few years.
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