Penn Entertainment will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the operator's new Hollywood Casino Hotel Council Bluffs property in Iowa on September 14, expected to cost $180-200m and officially debut in 2028.
“We are thrilled to be celebrating yet another transition from riverboat gaming to a new best-in-class entertainment destination,” Penn Entertainment President and CEO Jay Snowden said.
“Coupled with our recent announcement in New Orleans, we continue to prioritize organic growth opportunities with a disciplined approach to strengthening PENN’s competitive position in our markets across the country.”
Penn Entertainment plans to convert the former Ameristar Council Bluffs riverboat casino establishment into a new land-based facility, featuring approximately 1,000 slots and 25 live table games.
Hollywood Casino Hotel Council Bluffs VP and GM Paul Czak also spoke on the upcoming ceremony, having said, “We are incredibly excited for the future of Hollywood Casino Hotel Council Bluffs.
“This groundbreaking is a significant milestone on the road to a beautiful new facility that will create hundreds of jobs in the community and provide our guests with an even greater entertainment experience.”
Hollywood Casino Hotel Council Bluffs will represent the 20th Hollywood-branded gaming establishment in Penn Entertainment’s portfolio, with plans to offer 50 new permanent jobs in the local community once the full casino debuts.
Penn Entertainment’s land-based portfolio recently expanded with the launch of Hollywood Casino and Hotel Aurora in Illinois during June, as well as the unveiling of Hollywood Casino Joliet in 2025.
The operator also plans to relocate and rebrand its riverboat operations in New Orleans, as the new Hollywood Casino New Orleans property is expected to debut in 2029, pending regulatory approval.
Penn Entertainment reported its Q2 2026 results on August 6, highlighting $1.85bn in revenue – a 5.2% increase – as well as a positive $32.6m net income, compared with an $18.3m loss last year
