The construction of the highly-anticipated Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is officially underway, marking a significant milestone for the entertainment landscape in Canada’s capital. A groundbreaking ceremony, featuring the iconic guitar-handled shovels, was held at Rideau Carleton Casino, attended by Hard Rock International representatives, elected officials, and prominent business and community leaders. This ambitious $350 million project is set to create nearly 1,900 direct and indirect job opportunities during construction and beyond, shaping the city of Ottawa’s future.
Completion Date and Uninterrupted Casino Operations:
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is projected to be completed by the spring of 2025, and to ensure continuity for patrons, Rideau Carleton Casino, Future Hard Rock, will remain open 24/7 throughout the construction period.
Highlights of Canada’s First Hard Rock Hotel & Casino:
This groundbreaking project will introduce Canada’s first Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, featuring:
A 150-room Hard Rock Hotel, including 22 suites, providing a luxurious and immersive stay experience.
An expanded Hard Rock Casino equipped with 1,500 slot machines, 40 live action table games, a Sportsbook, high-limit gaming, and an exclusive Baccarat room.
A 1,800-seat Hard Rock Live theatre with standing room for 2,200, set to host world-class entertainment acts.
More than 10 diverse dining options, bars, and lounges, including the iconic Hard Rock Café and the upscale Council Oak Steakhouse.
Key Remarks from Industry Leaders:
Jon Lucas, Chief Operating Officer of Hard Rock International, expressed his excitement about this momentous project, stating, “We are excited to be one step closer to bringing our iconic brand and rich music history to the people of Ottawa and the surrounding region. We appreciate our partnership with provincial and municipal elected officials who helped make this possible.”
Helen MacMillan, General Manager of Rideau Carleton Casino, Future Hard Rock, conveyed the team’s enthusiasm, saying, “It’s finally happening! After years of delays due to the pandemic, we are extremely excited to be making concrete progress on our plans to bring this amazing facility to life for our guests and employees, and for Ottawa’s residents and visitors!”
Support from the Community and Local Officials:
Mark Sutcliffe, Mayor of Ottawa, emphasized the significance of this project for the city, stating, “The new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino represents a significant investment in the south end of our city. It will create new jobs and build on the existing attraction at Rideau Carleton Casino. I know many residents of the city are looking forward to enjoying this space, and it will also be another great tourist attraction in Ottawa.”
The commencement of construction on the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is a testament to the resilience and determination of all involved, particularly in light of pandemic-related challenges. This transformative project promises to not only offer an unparalleled entertainment experience but also boost the local economy by creating jobs and attracting visitors from across Ottawa and beyond. As the construction progresses, the anticipation for the grand opening in 2025 continues to grow, promising a vibrant future for the city’s entertainment scene.