Hollywood Casino Aurora, a new $360 million entertainment destination, is set to open its doors on June 24, 2026. Developed by PENN Entertainment, this major casino and resort will be located across from the Chicago Premium Outlets, near the Interstate 88 interchange in Aurora, Illinois. This project is a significant upgrade from the existing downtown Aurora casino and is expected to draw increased tourism and gaming activity to the greater Chicago area.

New Features for the Aurora Resort

The land-based resort will feature a range of modern amenities. With over 1,200 gaming positions, a 226-room upscale hotel, a full-service Drift Spa, and a 12,000-square-foot event center, the property will serve as a premium destination. The event center is designed to host a wide variety of events, including meetings, conferences, weddings, and entertainment, which will diversify the resort’s offerings beyond traditional casino gaming.

A major highlight of the new facility is the inclusion of Sorella by Giada, a restaurant by celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis. Known for her Italian-inspired cuisine, De Laurentiis’ restaurant will offer a mix of Roman-style pizza, steaks, and fresh pasta dishes, along with an open kitchen and outdoor seating. The Boulevard Food & Drink Hall will feature an array of dining options, including Lucky Goat by renowned chef Stephanie Izard, Antique Taco, Pretty Cool Ice Cream, and Five50 Pizza, all of which will provide a variety of casual dining experiences.

The new casino will also include a retail sportsbook, offering visitors the opportunity to bet on their favorite sports events in a dedicated area. This addition follows the success of other land-based sportsbooks in the region, with PENN Entertainment expanding its retail offerings to meet growing demand in Illinois.

The Drift Spa, another signature element of the resort, will bring its second location to Aurora, following its success in Pennsylvania. It will provide classic spa treatments, hair and beauty services, and a new “Drift Drybar” for additional relaxation and wellness options. This addition will cater to visitors seeking both leisure and luxury during their stay.

A Boost for the Local Economy

The development of Hollywood Casino Aurora is expected to create approximately 700 jobs in the region, significantly increasing employment in the area. The project is also poised to generate substantial economic benefits for the city of Aurora, which has been working closely with PENN Entertainment to ensure the project’s success. The City of Aurora has committed $50 million in upfront payments through a tax increment financing district, which is a key incentive to keep the casino in the area.

Despite some controversy surrounding the TIF district, city officials argue that the incentive is crucial for retaining the casino in Aurora. While the city still owes PENN Entertainment $21 million of the original $50 million commitment, the full payment is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

This will be the second new land-based property launched by PENN Entertainment in the greater Chicago region, following the successful opening of Hollywood Casino Joliet in 2025. Both projects are part of a broader strategy to expand the company’s presence in Illinois and strengthen its retail gaming portfolio in the Midwest.

Jay Snowden, CEO and President of PENN Entertainment, expressed excitement about the upcoming opening, noting in the company’s press release, “We are thrilled to follow the successful rollout of Hollywood Casino Joliet with another new land-based property, deepening our roots in the community and offering a premium entertainment experience in the Chicagoland area.”

The Hollywood Casino Aurora project also aligns with PENN Entertainment’s larger strategy to cater to both traditional casino enthusiasts and those seeking integrated entertainment and luxury experiences. The company’s ability to combine gaming, dining, and wellness options in one expansive resort is expected to attract a diverse range of visitors, further enhancing its competitive edge in the region’s gaming market.