Virginia’s gaming industry set a new benchmark in May 2025, as casinos in the state collectively reported adjusted gaming revenues (AGR) totaling $85.39 million, a significant increase from April’s $78.76 million. This marks a continued upward trajectory, with Hard Rock Bristol leading the charge with its exceptional performance across both slots and table games.

Virginia casinos achieve record-breaking revenue in May 2025:

According to the Virginia Lottery’s report released on June 13, 2025, the state’s gaming industry enjoyed a 9.4% increase in AGR at Hard Rock Bristol, totaling $23.03 million for the month. This performance marks the second record-breaking month for the casino in just three months, with slots contributing $18.74 million and table games bringing in $4.28 million. These figures represent a nearly 8% rise from March’s previous record, underscoring the ongoing success of the casino since its opening in November 2024.

“Hard Rock Bristol has performed exceptionally well, setting new records for AGR in both slots and table games,” said a Virginia Lottery representative. “The casino’s continued growth is a strong indication of the sector’s potential in Virginia.”

Rivers Casino Portsmouth, another key player in Virginia’s expanding casino sector, also reported a record month, generating $28.31 million in AGR for May. This performance was slightly above its previous high of $27.8 million in March, signaling continued growth since the casino’s permanent opening in January 2023. The casino’s 1,419 slots accounted for $20 million of its AGR, while its 84 table games contributed approximately $8.3 million.

Meanwhile, Caesars Virginia, the state’s largest casino, reported a more modest 5% decline in AGR compared to March, with a total of $34.06 million for May. This slight dip was attributed to a temporary slowdown in player activity at the 100-table game operation, but the casino’s continued dominance in Virginia’s gaming landscape is undisputed.

In total, the three operating casinos—Hard Rock Bristol, Rivers Casino Portsmouth, and Caesars Virginia—generated a combined AGR of $85.39 million, surpassing the previous record of $85.19 million set in March 2025. The state’s casinos continue to show robust growth, with Hard Rock Bristol and Rivers Casino Portsmouth leading the way.

Tax contributions and future growth prospects:

The gaming industry’s strong performance in May not only benefited the operators but also resulted in significant tax contributions. The total taxes generated from Virginia casinos amounted to $15.37 million for the month, with funds directed to various programs aimed at supporting public health and local communities.

Virginia’s graduated tax system assesses a percentage of a casino’s AGR, with 6% allocated to host cities, and a further 0.8% directed to the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund. For May, Bristol received $1.38 million, with $1.7 million allocated to Portsmouth from Rivers Casino’s AGR. Caesars Virginia’s host city, Danville, received $2.04 million, marking an essential boost to local development.

Additionally, the state’s Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund received a total of $122,958, a critical resource for addressing gambling addiction issues, as reported by Virginia Business. Another $30,739 was allocated to the Family and Children’s Trust Fund, which supports family violence prevention programs.

Looking ahead, Virginia’s gaming market is poised for continued growth, with two more casinos in the pipeline. The Pamunkey Indian Tribe’s $750 million Norfolk casino is currently under construction, with a temporary facility expected to open by the end of 2025. Similarly, the $1.4 billion casino development in Petersburg, backed by The Cordish Companies and Bruce Smith Enterprise, is scheduled to open in 2026, further expanding the state’s gaming offerings.

As the state’s gaming market expands, industry observers are optimistic about the potential for sustained growth, particularly in light of the strong performances seen across the current crop of casinos. Furthermore, the launch of a $65 million hotel at Rivers Casino Portsmouth in the summer of 2025 will enhance its appeal to out-of-town visitors and further cement its position as a regional hub for entertainment.