The land-based venue cost $185 million and sits at 1401 Gateway Blvd. near the I-55/I-80 interchange. Inside, guests will find 1,000 slots and 43 table games, plus a modern sportsbook and several new dining options.
The new Hollywood Casino Joliet project brings hundreds of jobs to Will County and adds a new entertainment hub on Joliet’s west side.
What’s Inside the New Property
Sports bettors will notice the ESPN BET retail sportsbook just off the main gaming floor. It’s built for game days, with wall-to-wall screens, staffed windows, and self-service kiosks for quick betting.
The casino also includes a 10,000-square-foot event center for concerts and gatherings. The venue is open 24/7, and the full complex spans nearly 190,000 square feet, giving it room to host large crowds without feeling cramped.
Dining and entertainment got a big upgrade, too. Guests can try Sorellina by Giada (from chef Giada De Laurentiis) for Italian-California fare, or grab fast-casual bites at Boulevard Food & Drink Hall.
The mix features Chicago-area names like Antique Taco and Pretty Cool Ice Cream, along with new bars and lounges. Family-friendly options away from the gaming floor make the property more flexible for group outings and events.
What It Means for Illinois Gamblers and Sports Bettors
Moving off the water ends Hollywood Joliet’s riverboat era that stretched since 1992. The new spot, steps from I-55/I-80, improves access, parking, and visibility for travelers. As Illinois continues to expand land-based casinos, Joliet now offers a modern option in the competitive Chicago area market.
Early reactions from industry analysts have been positive, pointing to stronger amenities, a better location, and a more efficient layout than the old site.
For bettors, the timing is helpful. The ESPN BET Illinois book offers a central place for pre-game and in-game bets, plus easy viewing for big matchups. If you prefer in-person tickets to using an app, the counter and kiosks make retail wagering straightforward.
With the property opening at 4 p.m. on day one and now operating around the clock, fans can drop in for baseball, preseason football, or futures bets as the fall calendar heats up.
Parking is plentiful, and the address is simple to plug into maps if you’re driving from Chicago’s southwest suburbs or along the interstates.
