About Casino Queen in Illinois
Initially launched in 1993, Casino Queen graced the Mississippi as a riverboat casino in East St. Louis. Its license was among the ten granted by the Illinois Gaming Board, with hopes of generating tax revenue for the city.
In the year 2000, a splendid 157-bed hotel was constructed near the riverboat, which stands proudly to this day. However, in 2007, due to changes in the state's gambling regulations, the casino transitioned to a land-based venue located just beyond the riverboat's mooring. The riverboat itself, known as the White Star One, was eventually sold in 2014.
The shift to a brick-and-mortar casino allowed for a remarkable expansion of the gaming space available. Bill Koman, the casino's founder, later sold Casino Queen for a staggering $170 million in 2012 to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), effectively making it an employee-owned management company.
The ESOP, which leases the casino, ensures that all profits are channeled into the retirement accounts of participating employees. Gaming and Leisure Properties acquired the land from the ESOP.
In 2020, an exciting collaboration was announced with DraftKings, a prominent sports betting provider. Consequently, Casino Queen Illinois underwent a transformation and adopted the name DraftKings at Casino Queen.
As part of this rebranding endeavor, the casino underwent a massive renovation, introducing a state-of-the-art sportsbook, along with a new restaurant and a delightful food court.
Now, when you visit Casino Queen, you can play casino games, engage in sports betting, savor exquisite cuisine, unwind at the bar, and even extend your stay overnight. The newly renovated site promises a plethora of entertainment and relaxation options for its valued visitors.
