Bally’s is on the verge of opening its temporary casino in Chicago, with plans for a Saturday launch contingent on the results of supervised practice gaming sessions at the historic Medinah Temple venue. The Illinois Gaming Board will assess the readiness of the casino based on these sessions. Ameet Patel, Bally’s regional general manager, expressed confidence in the casino’s readiness, emphasizing the significance of this moment for Chicago. The 111-year-old temple, now equipped with 750 slot machines and 50 table games, is a precursor to Bally’s ambitious $1.7 billion permanent Chicago venue, scheduled for completion in late 2025 or early 2026.
Supervised Practice Gaming Sessions:
Bally’s is conducting supervised practice gaming sessions at the Medinah Temple venue to showcase its readiness for the Chicago casino launch. The Illinois Gaming Board will evaluate the results of these sessions before granting approval for the official opening.
Preparation and Confidence:
Ameet Patel, Bally’s regional general manager, expressed confidence in the casino’s preparedness, stating that the team is eager to demonstrate that they are “110 per cent ready.” The opening is anticipated to be a source of pride for the city of Chicago and the surrounding area.
Temporary Casino Details:
The temporary casino, housed in the 111-year-old Medinah Temple, features 750 slot machines and 50 table games. Bally’s has hired approximately 700 employees, with around 300 receiving dealer training. While Chicago residents were given priority, employees are not restricted to city limits for residence.
Permanent Bally’s Chicago Venue:
The permanent Bally’s Chicago venue is slated to open in late 2025 or early 2026. Located at the 30-acre Chicago Tribune Publishing Center, it will boast 3,400 slots, 170 table games, and 10 food and beverage venues. The $1.7 billion resort will also include a 500-room hotel tower with a rooftop bar and a 65,000-square-foot entertainment center.
Community Impact and Employment:
Bally’s hiring efforts have had a significant impact on the local community, with approximately 700 employees joining the workforce. The company’s commitment to providing dealer training underscores its focus on creating employment opportunities.
Ambitious Chicago Venue Details:
The permanent Chicago venue promises to be a comprehensive entertainment destination, featuring a vast array of amenities. With 3,400 slots, 170 table games, and diverse dining options, the resort aims to cater to a wide range of preferences. The inclusion of a hotel tower, rooftop bar, and expansive entertainment center further solidifies its status as a multifaceted destination.
Bally’s impending Chicago casino opening marks a pivotal moment for the renowned gaming company and the city itself. As the Illinois Gaming Board evaluates the outcomes of practice gaming sessions, the anticipation for the temporary casino launch builds. This development is a precursor to the grand vision of Bally’s permanent Chicago venue, set to redefine entertainment with its extensive offerings. The investment in employment, community impact, and the creation of a multifaceted resort underscores Bally’s commitment to making a lasting impression on the vibrant Chicago landscape.