Just last month, construction workers and technicians were putting the final touches on the Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino. All the hard work has paid off as the casino is set to open this Monday, September 28th. From the slot machines to the food court, the venue will open its doors next week, offering hotel stays and casino gaming.
The $110 million project began construction on October 2013, taking almost two years to complete. The Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel will not only provide locals with an outlet for gaming, but is also situated only two hours from Atlanta. This places the venue in the perfect spot for visitors from Atlanta as well as other neighboring cities.
The new casino in Murphy, North Carolina gives Atlanta residents an outlet for gaming. Lawmakers in Georgia are currently contemplating legalizing gambling in the state but while they make decisions, North Carolina will already be offering an option for their neighbors.
The Valley River General Manager, Lumpy Lambert, stated that the fact Georgia is considering gambling is concerning, so the casino will keep a pulse on things and try to be as good as they can. As the sister property of the Harrah’s Cherokee Resort & Casino located in Cherokee, North Carolina, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians own the property, which is operated by Caesars Entertainment.
Harrah’s in Cherokee is significantly larger, leaving the Valley River as more of a day trip destination. Lambert stated that Valley River should be looked at more as a quick getaway spot rather than a full-blown resort option. The resort offers more amenities such as a spa and spacious suites but the Valley River destination, in Murphy, is close to Atlanta which is a plus.
A top feature of the new property is the Diamond Lounge which is offered to Diamond and Seven Stars Level players on the Total Rewards Program. In this area, light dining and discounted alcohol are available. This venue will provide nonalcoholic beverages complimentary during a visit to the gaming floor but alcohol has a charge.
Once the casino is open on Monday, 300 guest rooms will be available in the hotel with 800 to 900 individuals employed across the hotel and casino. The casino expects to see 1 to 1.5 million visitors each year after opening.