Hard Rock International and the Tejon Indian Tribe confirmed that Hard Rock Casino Tejon will officially open its doors on November 13, 2025. Situated just south of Bakersfield off Highway 99 in Mettler, this project marks the first full-scale casino in Kern County and a transformative moment for both the tribe and the region.

Owned by the Tejon Indian Tribe and operated by Hard Rock International, the facility represents a $600 million investment. The location, at the southern edge of the San Joaquin Valley and near the historic Grapevine Pass, offers convenient access to both Central Valley and Southern California communities. With its proximity to Los Angeles, it will become the second-closest full casino destination to the city.

Jobs, Growth, and Tribal Progress

Beyond entertainment, the development has already generated thousands of construction jobs and will provide 1,000 permanent roles once the property is in operation. Project leaders emphasize that the initiative is entirely privately funded. It also includes commitments to enhance local infrastructure at no expense to taxpayers while offering long-term support for tribal programs in healthcare, education, housing, and community services.

“The opening represents not only a world-class hospitality and entertainment experience but also a transformational cultural and economic moment for the Tejon Indian Tribe and the broader Kern County community” stated Hard Rock International via PR Newswire.

Tejon Tribe Chairman Octavio Escobedo III reflected on the significance of the milestone, saying, “Today marks a historic moment for the Tejon Indian Tribe and the entire Kern County community. The opening of Hard Rock Casino Tejon is not only a celebration of our Tribe’s heritage and resilience but also a bold step forward in creating opportunity and prosperity for future generations. This project will bring thousands of jobs, fuel economic growth and serve as a gathering place where culture, entertainment and community come together. We are proud to share this milestone with our friends, neighbors and partners who helped make this vision a reality.”

Entertainment, Dining, and Gaming Experiences

Once complete, the casino will span 150,000 square feet of gaming space. Guests will find more than 2,000 slot machines, over 50 live table games such as blackjack, Ultimate Texas Hold ’em, and Three Card Poker, as well as private high-limit rooms for blackjack and baccarat.

In keeping with Hard Rock’s signature style, the property will display an extensive collection of authentic music memorabilia, weaving iconic stories of legendary artists throughout the venue.

Dining and nightlife options include the globally recognized Hard Rock Cafe, Deep Cut Steaks | Seafood, and YOUYU, complemented by a Marketplace Food Hall featuring diverse offerings from street tacos and wood-fired Italian fare to artisanal coffee and Southern comfort classics. Guests can also shop exclusive merchandise at the Rock Shop.

The venue will integrate Unity by Hard Rock, the company’s international loyalty program, allowing members to earn and redeem points across Hard Rock hotels, casinos, restaurants, and shops worldwide. Opening promotions, customized rewards, and VIP benefits—such as access to the Plum Lounge for Unity X members—will be available at the new property.

A Shared Vision for the Future

Hard Rock International executives underscored the broader importance of the launch. Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming, stated, “We are incredibly proud to bring our iconic brand to Kern County and are thankful for our partnership with the Tejon Indian Tribe. Hard Rock Casino Tejon will set a new standard for entertainment in the region, blending our world-class hospitality with the tribe’s inspiring vision for cultural and economic growth.”

Chris Kelley, president of Hard Rock Casino Tejon, added, “It is an honor to lead this incredible project as we prepare to welcome guests in Mid-November. Hard Rock Casino Tejon will combine the energy, flavor and excitement that our brand is known for with a uniquely local spirit that reflects the strength and heritage of the Tejon Indian Tribe. We look forward to creating unforgettable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.”

The casino was first proposed in June 2019, with groundbreaking taking place in December 2023. Its November 2025 opening will not only expand Hard Rock’s California presence but also serve as a cultural, economic, and entertainment hub for Kern County and beyond.