Hard Rock Wows Ottawa With Brand New $350 Million Resort & Casino

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is the company’s first integrated resort in Canada. Built for $350 million, it is a new tourist destination that is expected to revitalize the area, and its grand opening was held on July 3rd.

Striking All the Right Notes

The Seminole Tribe’s Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is the latest push by the company to expand its gaming footprint, and this time, its tentacles reached the Canadian province of Ottawa. Located at 4837 Albion Rd South, Gloucester, Ontario, it is on the grounds of the former Rideau Carleton Raceway.

In addition to a sparkling transformation that includes 1,500 slot machines, 40 table games, a baccarat room, and a VIP gaming area, the hotel will feature 150 rooms along with 22 suites. An entertainment venue has also been built that will accommodate 2200 patrons as well as 10 restaurants, bars, and lounges, including the world-renowned Hard Rock Cafe and the Council Oak Steakhouse.

“The soundcheck is almost over,” notes Christine Crump, president of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa. “As we prepare to welcome guests to Canada’s only fully integrated Hard Rock location, we are confident the hotel, casino, restaurants, and live entertainment options, including standardbred harness horse racing, are going to hit the correct notes.”

The company promises world-class acts and entertainment for those who enjoy a Vegas-like experience. In addition, from March to December, live harness horse racing will be available as a wink and a nod to its predecessor, the Rideau Carleton Raceway.

“The wait is over!” said Crump. “We are thrilled to share this exquisite facility with our community and tourists. At our core, we are an entertainment company, and we know that our guests will feel the vibe and energy the moment they walk in!”

Global Destination Comes to Ottawa

Getting the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to the finish line has been a long process, beginning in 2017 when the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation selected Hard Rock International to become the operator of the casino at Rideau Carleton Raceway.

The transformation to a fully integrated resort was riddled with delays, but the finishing touches are nearly done, and the public was warmly welcomed to the grand opening event on July 3rd. The Canadian Tenors did a rendition of “O Canada,” and many notable guests were also in attendance, like Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming, Stan Cho; Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe; and leaders of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

The company believes over 600 jobs will be created by the new facility, and it will create an economic boom for the entire area. Tourism is expected to grow, as well as attracting locals to a world-class destination for entertainment and gambling.

“Our new facility will attract Canadians from near and far, as well as guests from abroad. Upon arrival, all guests will find a classic Hard Rock experience – no detail has been overlooked. What we are building is unlike anything currently offered in the province. The atmosphere, memorabilia, food offerings, comfortable hotel rooms, live entertainment options – it’s all being prepared for opening day,” stated Crump.

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