The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol announced on Wednesday that the grand opening of its permanent casino and resort space, initially slated for July, has been delayed until later this year. This decision was revealed in a news release from the casino, quoted by WJHL 11, highlighting a revised timeline for the completion of the expansive project.

The statement from Hard Rock Bristol indicated that instead of opening the casino in stages starting in July, the partnership team has decided to host a grand opening once the entire casino and its amenities are fully operational. “The partnership team prefers to have a grand opening with a fully operational casino and amenities for an overall better guest experience,” the release noted.

The delay comes in the wake of recent legislation granting casino operators in Virginia an additional six months to complete their projects, provided they have a temporary casino that will be integrated into the permanent structure and have met the required financial commitments.

Currently, more than 600 workers are on site each day, diligently working to bring the permanent casino to completion. Despite the pushback in the timeline, Hard Rock Bristol continues to hire for various positions, indicating ongoing growth and expansion efforts.

“The response to our temporary casino has been overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating the excitement for Hard Rock’s permanent presence in Bristol,” said Allie Evangelista, President of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. “While we are eager to unveil the new resort, this extension allows us time to ensure the finished product exceeds the expectations of our guests and the community.” However, no specific month or date has been provided for the new grand opening.

Interim Casino Opened Two Years Ago

In 2022, Hard Rock International opened a temporary space for guests in Bristol until the permanent structure could be completed. The interim casino, spanning 30,000 square feet, offered around 900 slot games. Players had 20 table games to choose from, along with a sportsbook. The temporary space featured a main game floor, a non-smoking area, and a high-limit space. Dining options within the smaller casino included a full-service restaurant at Mr. Lucky’s, a grab-and-go option, plus a lounge and sports bar. There was also a smoking sports lounge.

Once the permanent facility opens, visitors will be able to stay overnight in two hotel towers featuring quality guest spaces. The casino gaming floor will be expansive, housing 2,700 slot machines and 100 table games. The property will offer additional entertainment through an outdoor space with seating for 20,000 and an indoor venue for smaller, intimate gatherings. The venue will also include restaurants, bars, and shopping areas.