BRISTOL, VA (LOOTPRESS) — Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol marked its highly anticipated grand opening on Thursday morning with the brand’s iconic guitar smash ceremony, officially launching Virginia’s first full-scale casino. The event, held at 500 Gate City Highway, was attended by Hard Rock executives, state and local officials, community leaders, and business partners.
The 620,000-square-foot resort boasts nearly 1,500 slot machines, over 50 table games, a sportsbook, more than 300 hotel rooms, and seven dining options, including the signature Hard Rock Cafe. Guests can also enjoy a 2,000-seat Hard Rock Live entertainment venue, a Rock Shop, and specialized gaming areas, along with a display of authentic music memorabilia.
“This is a monumental moment for the Bristol community and Hard Rock,” said Jon Lucas, COO of Hard Rock International. “As the ‘Birthplace of Country Music,’ Bristol is a natural fit for Hard Rock’s music heritage. We are excited to bring world-class gaming, dining, and entertainment to this vibrant region.”
Jim McGlothlin, chairman of The United Company, and Clyde Stacy, president of Par Ventures, highlighted the casino’s positive impact on the region. “Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol is creating well-paying jobs, generating new tax revenue, and boosting tourism and local business spending across Southwest Virginia,” they said. “This achievement would not have been possible without the support of Bristol’s residents and leaders.”
The resort’s journey began in July 2022 with the opening of the temporary Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock, which welcomed over 3 million guests, paid more than $68 million in gaming taxes to Virginia, donated over $960,000 to local nonprofits, and awarded $262 million in jackpots. The construction project created 900-1,000 jobs, and the new resort is expected to employ more than 1,400 people.
“This is an amazing day for Bristol,” said Allie Evangelista, president of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. “The community’s support has inspired our dedicated team, and we look forward to delivering Hard Rock’s world-renowned amenities paired with Bristol’s legendary hospitality.”
The opening weekend celebration includes a concert by Blake Shelton on Thursday night, followed by Soul Asylum on Saturday, Nov. 16, at the state-of-the-art Hard Rock Live venue. This 23,000-square-foot space is set to become a premier entertainment destination for the region.
For information about upcoming events, visit Hard Rock Live Bristol Events.
For more details about Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol or career opportunities, visit Hard Rock Hotel & CasinoBristol.
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