Nebraska's First Poker Room Debuts at New Casino Resort

Nebraska's gaming landscape is about to change with the grand opening of a new casino resort, bringing poker and expanded gaming options to the Cornhusker State.

Key Takeaways:

• Grand Island Casino Resort opens April 10, operating 24/7 year-round
• Facility includes Nebraska's first poker room and 750 slot machines
• $185 million investment boosts local employment and horse racing industry

The Grand Island Casino Resort is set to shuffle up and deal on April 10 at 6 p.m., marking a significant milestone for Nebraska's gaming and tourism sectors. This $185 million venture, unanimously approved by the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission, promises to be a full house of entertainment operating around the clock.

The seven-story complex boasts 162 hotel rooms, multiple dining venues, and entertainment options, positioning itself as a premier destination for both locals and out-of-state visitors. Casino General Manager Vince Fiala emphasized the resort's broader appeal: "This is entertainment, this is a resort destination. It's not just to come and gamble. If you want to come here and eat, you want to come stay at the hotel; please do. I mean that's what we're here for. It is a getaway for the weekend."

For poker enthusiasts, the casino's offerings are particularly noteworthy. The facility will introduce 20 live table games, including Texas Hold'em in Nebraska's first dedicated poker room. This addition is sure to draw players looking for action beyond the virtual felt. Alongside the poker tables, the casino floor will feature 750 slot machines, with 650 on the main floor and the remainder in a smoking lounge.

The resort's amenities extend beyond gaming. Guests can enjoy live entertainment on weekends at the show lounge, dine at Ruthie's Steak and Seafood on the seventh floor, or catch the game at Draft Day Sports Bar, which offers sports betting. Additional features include a 200-seat banquet hall, indoor and outdoor pools, and spa facilities.

Since its temporary opening in December 2022, the casino has significantly boosted local employment, growing from 135 to nearly 400 staff members. The resort now offers 1,100 freshly paved parking spots, with shuttle services available during peak times.

The casino's impact extends to Nebraska's horse racing industry as well. Through its partnership with Fonner Park, the Nebraska Thoroughbred Breeders Association has received $700,000, while $2.5 million has been added to the track's purse money. Racing enthusiasts will appreciate the improved viewing experience, thanks to two large LED displays installed in the horse racing clubhouse.

As the cards are about to be dealt at Grand Island Casino Resort, it's clear that Nebraska's gaming scene is entering a new era, one that promises to shuffle up the state's entertainment and tourism industries.