Ready To Smash Some Guitars? Hard Rock Returns To Indiana
One of the most identifiable casino brands will soon be returning to the Hoosier State. Spectacle Entertainment is set to introduce an Indiana Hard Rock Casino to the lineup.
The decision of Spectacle to collaborate with Hard Rock has implications for the whole region of Chicago and northwest Indiana.
Details about Indiana Hard Rock Casino
Technically, the new Gary casino is a relocation of the Majestic Star casino boats owned by Spectacle. The estimated cost of the current construction is $400 million.
The legislation permits 2,764 gaming spots, a count that matches any other statewide. This will mark the return of Hard Rock Casinos in the state after the closure of Hard Rock Indianapolis in March.
Job creation estimates include 1,000 temporary jobs for the facility’s construction and 2,000 permanent jobs for casino operation.
The new facility, which will accommodate numerous bars, restaurants, and a concert venue, will not feature a hotel at this time. This omission could potentially put it at a disadvantage.
Hard Rock relying on brand recognition to appeal to Chicago residents
Upon completion, the newly authorized Chicago metro and Cook County casinos by the Illinois Legislature will instantly compete with the Gary Hard Rock. They may even provide more amenities.
Residents of Illinois will not have to travel a long distance to visit those casinos. The venue in Chicago will also boast 4,000 gaming positions.
Inclusion of gaming options to resort features such as a hotel and spa, intensifies the appeal for Illinois residents to remain within state lines. Without certain resort features that rival regional casinos offer, the Gary casino’s main attraction will be its brand name and the entertainment options it provides.
Most Chicagoans should recognize the brand due to the existence of a Hard Rock Cafe and hotel in the metro area. Although the hotel no longer operates under that name, the brand remains widely recognizable.
Expanded Indiana sports betting might be another method Hard Rock uses to attract Chicagoans.
An essential advantage for Indiana in sports betting
Individuals from Illinois might be eager to participate in sports betting in Indiana, as they are unable to do so in their home state.
Both states are set to provide legal sports betting well ahead of the Gary Hard Rock’s opening. However, Indiana permits betting on college sports, a practice still prohibited in Illinois.
Some Illinois residents might be compelled to cross the border into Gary and bring their sports betting money with them. Although Spectacle has not yet revealed plans to include a sportsbook at their Gary venue, it seems unlikely that they would construct a casino without one.
Hard Rock and Spectacle are investing $400 million in a new casino, betting on its success despite stiff competition. They believe that the renowned entertainment options of Hard Rock, the opportunity to bet on college sports, or simply the strong brand recognition will attract patrons.