The Viejas Casino & Resort’s newly expanded section of gaming floor which officially opened at midnight on October 9, includes the addition of 1,000 new slot machines.

The casino located in Alpine, California about 30 minutes from downtown San Diego run by the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians greeted thousands at the opening of the 15,000 square foot expansion that includes a state-of-the-art promotion stage. The renovation includes a new hotel tower that can be accessed via an ultramodern escalator bank to be opened later this month.

Viejas Tribal Chairman Robert Welch said in a statement of the expansion, “This marks the first step in our most ambitious plan of growth to date,” adding that, “The ongoing development of Viejas continues to resonate in many positive ways for the San Diego area, both economically and in establishing a strong foundation for the future of our culture.”

Culminating from the year-long development, on October 30 the Viejas’ second luxury hotel tower will have a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony featuring a tightrope performance by Tino Wallenda of the circus act and daredevil stunt performing Flying Wallendas. At that time the hotel tower will be opened for guest tours.

Since opening its first hotel tower in 2013, the Viejas Casino & Resort has consistently been awarded AAA Four Diamond status. The casino and resort features 2,000 slot machines, off-track betting, table games including Baccarat, Blackjack, Pai Gow and Carnival Games, and bingo. Diners can choose from a variety of restaurants including The Buffet, The Café and the AAA Four Diamond Grove Steakhouse.

Those wishing to take a break from gambling can simply cross the street and visit the Viejas Outlets which has numerous eateries, highly acclaimed stores, Viejas Bowl and Southern California’s largest outdoor ice rink which can be used during the winter.

The new hotel tower will feature 203 deluxe rooms and 34 VIP suites adding to the existing 99 luxury rooms and 29 VIP suites.