Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Now Open, Hotel Next

HARD ROCK CASINO ROCKFORD IL

7801 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
(779) 269-9010

Hard Rock Casino Rockford is a $350 million casino, hotel and entertainment destination in Rockford, Illinois. The casino has a 65,000 square-foot gaming floor with 1,300 slot machines and 50 table games, a Hard Rock Cafe, Hard Rock Live concert venue, restaurants, and a Rock Shop retail store.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford

Rockford's Hard Rock Casino opened Aug. 29, 2024. A 250-room hotel will open in 2025.

When the hotel opens, the total size of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Rockford will be 180,000 square feet with a cost of $350 million. Rockford's Hard Rock is located just off the I-90 State Street Exit at 7801 East State Street, Rockford, Illinois 61108. This is the former site of the Clock Tower Resort.

During construction of the casino, a temporary casino named 'Rockford Casino - A Hard Rock Opening Act' opened on Nov. 10, 2021 and operated 24/7 until it closed on August 12, 2024.

Opening Date
The groundbreaking for construction of the Hard Rock Casino Rockford was held September 28, 2022. The opening date for the casino was August 29, 2024.

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News

Hard Rock Casino Rockford jumps to 2nd largest in Illinois casino revenue October 12, 2024 - Amazing! Hard Rock Rockford jumped from ninth to second in the number of visitors and Illinois gaming revenue in its first full month ... Read more Rockford's Hard Rock Casino Boosts Local Businesses September 24, 2024 - Since opening Aug. 29th, Rockford's Hard Rock Casino has been attracting large crowds of visitors and bringing more customers to local businesses ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Big Crowds September 12, 2024 - The Hard Rock Casino Rockford opened its doors two weeks ago today and has already attracted an impressive number of visitors and a significant amount of revenue ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Video Tour August 31, 2024 - A few hours before Hard Rock Casino Rockford opened its doors to the public on Friday afternoon, the casino invited local media to come inside and tour the casino and ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford Celebrates Grand Opening August 30, 2024 - Hard Rock Casino Rockford celebrated its grand opening yesterday beginning with speeches from casino executives and public officials ... Read more Headlines continued...

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Features | Hard Rock Casino Rockford

Hard Rock Casino Rockford
7801 East State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
(779) 269-9010

Gaming

Restaurants & Bars

Hard Rock Live

Rock Shop

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Hotel

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford 2024 Renderings

October 25, 2023

New artist renderings have been released showing how the permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford will look when it opens in late summer 2024. The images include several new external views, the center bar, cafe and restaurant.

All images are courtesy of Hard Rock Casino Rockford.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford Front View

Hard Rock Casino Rockford Front Left View

Hard Rock Casino Rockford Front Right View

Hard Rock Casino Rockford Front Night View

Hard Rock Casino Rockford Center Bar

Hard Rock Casino Rockford Center Bar

Hard Rock Casino Rockford Cafe

Hard Rock Casino Rockford Restaurant

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History | Hard Rock Casino Rockford

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Construction Plan | Hard Rock Casino Rockford

After the Illinois Gaming Board gave approval to the Hard Rock Rockford casino project, a three-phase construction program began on Sept. 28, 2022.

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Here's a glimpse at what the future Hard Rock Casino Rockford will look like - Courtesy of Rock River Current, Jun 15, 2023. Available from YouTube

PHASE 1 - TEMPORARY CASINO

The temporary casino opened Nov. 10, 2021. The casino was named Rockford Casino and used space from Giovanni's Restaurant and Convention Center. There were 700 slot machines and two restaurants. There were no live table games. The temporary casino operated 24/7 until it was shut down on Aug. 12, 2024.

PHASE 2 - 50

Construction of the permanent ard Rock Casino Rockford took two years to complete. The grand opening was August 29, 2024.

PHASE 3 - HOTEL

A 250-room hotel is planned to open in the last phase of construction.

In addition Hard Rock has committed to incorporate a music production studio at Washington Park Community Center, an outdoor amphitheater at Levings Lake, improvements to the Sinnisssippi Music Shell, and support to neighborhood youth programs.

Temporary Casino | Rockford Casino

ROCKFORD CASINO - A HARD ROCK OPENING ACT
610 N Bell School Road
Rockford, IL 61108

Opening Date: November 10, 2021
Closing Date: August 12, 2024

On Nov. 10, 2021 Hard Rock opened its Rockford Casino, a temporary casino operating 24/7 until the Hard Rock Casino Rockford construction was completed in 2024.

The temporary casino, named Rockford Casino, had 700 slot machines, Interblock Electronic Table Games and two restaurants. The location was inside the former Giovanni's Restaurant and Convention Center at 610 N Bell School Road in Rockford.

The Rockford temporary casino cost $8 million and included the following features:

• 700 slot machines

• 6 live table games - blackjack, 3-card poker, ultimate Texas hold'em

• Electronic table games

• Rock River Bar & Grill

• Midway Bar

• Rock Shop - retail

• 21,000 square foot facility

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Timeline | Hard Rock Casino Rockford

June 2019
The Rockford casino results from the Rebuild Illinois Act signed into law by Gov. Pritzker on June 29, 2019. The law authorizes the licensing of new casinos in Rockford and five other Illinois cities.

Oct 2019
On October 7, 2019 the Rockford City Council selected Hard Rock International as its sole choice from three casino proposals. The vote allows Hard Rock to submit its application to the Illinois Gaming Board for a casino license.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford was selected over the proposed Rock River West Casino, which would build a downtown casino with an entertainment district and aquarium (see plan), and the proposed Forest City Casino, which would build a $1B casino, hotel and entertainment complex south of Mercyhealth Javon Bea Hospital-Riverside. (see plan)

Feb 2021
The Illinois Gaming Board gave a preliminary approval to the Hard Rock Rockford project on Feb. 4, 2021, which effectively green lights the start for construction of the casino.

June 2021
In June 2021 the Illinois Gaming Board issued a Casino Supplier License to 815 Beltway Holdings, LLC, the owner of the Hard Rock's temporary and permanent locations in Rockford. The approval allows construction to start on both facilities pending board approval of the final building plans. The temporary casino was approved for construction in late June and will open in November 2021.

Nov 2021
A temporary casino, named Rockford Casino, opened Nov. 10, 2021 to operate during the construction phase of the Hard Rock Casino Rockford.

Jan 2022
The Illinois Gaming Board granted a final license to Hard Rock to build a 50 . News

Sep 2022
Hard Rock Casino Rockford officially broke ground for construction on Sept. 28, 2022. The grand opening is targeted to be before Labor Day 2024.

Aug 2024
Hard Rock Casino Rockford officially opened August 29, 2024. The temporary casino was shut down on August 12, 2024.

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News Articles

Hard Rock Casino Rockford jumps to 2nd largest in Illinois casino revenue

October 12, 2024

Amazing! Hard Rock Rockford jumped from ninth to second in the number of visitors and Illinois gaming revenue in its first full month of operation.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford is Illinois 2nd largest casino moneymaker - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF (MyStateline), Oct 8, 2024. Available from YouTube

Last month Hard Rock Rockford drew 157,000 visitors and made $13.7 million in adjusted gross receipts. These numbers exceeded every other casino in the state except for Rivers Casino Des Plaines.

"We had no expectations of jumping over Rivers - that's a pretty tall order. But to be honest, we fully expected to move into second place."

- Geno Iafrate, Pres. Hard Rock Casino Rockford

Hard Rock Rockford opened August 29, 2024. Hard Rock is a $300 million casino with 175,000-square-feet. A hotel tower is expected to start construction in 2025. The design has not been finished. There will be 200-250 rooms.

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Rockford's Hard Rock Casino Boosts Local Businesses

September 24, 2024

Since opening Aug. 29th, Rockford's Hard Rock Casino has been attracting large crowds of visitors and bringing more customers to local businesses.

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Permanent Hard Rock Casino a boost for local businesses - Courtesy of WIFR TV, Sep 19, 2024. Available from YouTube

A few of these businesses, which are benefitting from Hard Rock Casino, were interviewed by WIFR TV:

Thunder Bay Grille is located within a mile of Hard Rock Casino. Manager Catherine Insley said: "Now that there are a lot of people traveling just to go to the casino, they hit us on the way up or the way out." The restaurant needs more staff for its Thursday through Sunday traffic.

Machine Shed Restaurant sees a similar impact from the casino. Guy Deserio, COO, says entertainers like Teddy Swims and Brad Paisley have increased his customers for breakfast and lunch. The restaurant has hiring signs on its store on its website.

Rockford Rides is a limo service in Rockford whose business has increased with transporting visitors to and from Hard Rock Casino. The company also shuttles casino employees between the casino and the remote parking lots.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Big Crowds!

September 12, 2024

The Hard Rock Casino Rockford opened its doors two weeks ago today and has already attracted an impressive number of visitors and a significant amount of revenue. Crowd levels have been high and reached full-capacity on two of those days during the opening weekend.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford says things are going well less than two weeks after opening - Courtesy of 13 WREX, Sep 10, 2024. Available from YouTube

Visitor levels are expected to remain high in the coming weeks as Hard Rock Casino Rockford continues with special promotions and a full concert schedule.

"Queen of Hearts" You win big when you draw a Queen of Hearts. Drawings are held every Saturday at 4, 6, 8 and 10 pm.

"All I Do Is Win" Jackpot winners of $1,200 or more on slot machines qualify for the "All I Do Is Win" Jackpots drawings.

"Be Iconic" All players with Icon tier in the previous month qualifies for an invitation to a drawing for $1,000 in free slot play.

"Be Legendary" All players with Legend tier in the previous month qualifies for an invitation to a drawing for $3,000 in free slot play.

"Be the MVP" All players with Legend tier in the previous month qualifies for an invitation to a drawing for $3,000 in free slot play.

"Be the MVP" All players who earn 200+ Tier Points in a single day in the previous month will qualify for an invitation to a drawing for $10,000 in free slot play.

Sign up for "Unity by Hard Rock Rewards" Receive $10 in free slot play and play a U-Spin game to when free slot amount after earning 25 tier credits. Also, receive a Hard Rock t-shirt.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Video Tour

August 31, 2024

A few hours before Hard Rock Casino Rockford opened its doors to the public on Friday afternoon, the casino invited local media to come inside and tour the casino, the restaurants, the Hard Rock Live concert venue, and the Rock Shop.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford pre-opening tour - Courtesy of Rock River Current, Aug 29, 2024. Available from YouTube

The 65,000 square-foot gaming floor features 1,300 slot machines, 50 table games, and the Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook. The casino also features a vast collection of rock 'n roll memorabilia including Mick Jagger's pants, Bob Dylan's harmonica, and John Lenin's keyboard.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford Celebrates Grand Opening

August 30, 2024

Hard Rock Casino Rockford celebrated its grand opening yesterday beginning with speeches from casino executives and public officials including Gov. JB Pritzker. The governor later joined Hard Rock's traditional guitar smash ceremony to christen the casino. Rockford is the fourth of six cities to open a casino under the 2019 gaming expansion bill signed by Gov. Pritzker.

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Permanent casino opens in Rockford - Courtesy of FOX 32 Chicago, Aug 29, 2024. Available from YouTube

Pritzker said Hard Rock is having a significant impact on Rockford's economy. He said "900 new jobs were created here at Hard Rock, and I know there are hundreds more that could come when you build the hotel here in just a couple of years."

"It's an incredible feeling to finally welcome guests to Hard Rock Casino Rockford. We've worked tirelessly to bring this world-class facility to life, and we're excited to offer guests a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience right here in Rockford."

- Geno Iafrate, President of Hard Rock Casino Rockford

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford finally opens, delay causes customer frustrations - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Aug 29, 2024. Available from YouTube

Hard Rock Casino Rockford is owned by Hard Rock International, a subsidiary of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford Opens Today!

August 29, 2024

Are you going to today's grand opening of the new Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, Illinois? If so, have a great time! This will be a major, memorable event!

Here are a few things to know to help you plan your visit to Hard Rock:

Parking
The main parking lot has 1,700 spaces near the front of the casino. A secondary lot with 342 parking spaces and shuttle service to the casino is located east of Lyford Road.

Opening Ceremony
The grand opening event will begin with brief speeches from the casino president, Geno Iafrate, and other casino and city officials. Their remarks are expected to review the past, praise the present, and forecast the future of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Rockford.

Guitar Smash
Before the doors open at 3 pm, the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony will be replaced by Hard Rock's classic Guitar Smash featuring several rock celebrities. The first casino wager will then be placed by an undisclosed honoree.

Doors Open 3 pm
Casino doors will open to the public for the first time at 3 pm today, Friday, August 29, 2024.

Gaming
Hard Rock Casino Rockford will open its 65,000 square-foot gaming floor featuring 1,300 slot machines, 50 live table games, a 6-table poker room, and a Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook.

Restaurants
Dining options will be open including the famous Hard Rock Cafe, the upscale Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, YOUYU Noodle Bar, the Brick'd Italian Kitchen pizzaria, and Street Tacos. Bars include Council Oak Bar and the Hard Rock Center Bar.

Weekend Concerts
Hard Rock's grand opening celebration will continue through the Labor Day weekend with special promtions, commemorative gifts and live concerts by Akon on Friday, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts on Saturday, and Brad Paisley on Sunday.

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Rockford's Hard Rock Lights Up 62-ft Guitar

August 23, 2024

The new Hard Rock Casino in Rockford held a 'pre-grand opening' event this week when its 62-foot checkerboard guitar was lit up for the first time. The iconic guitar is a giant replica of Rick Nielsen's classic 1978 guitar, which he played with Cheap Trick, a Rockford hometown band.

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Cheap Trick's Rick Nielsen lights up Hard Rock Casino guitar marquee - Courtesy of WIFR TV, Aug 22, 2024. Available from YouTube

Rick Nielsen attended the official lighting ceremony and will return to the casino on August 29th to welcome guests to the grand opening celebration.

Hard Rock's grand opening will include a "guitar smash" and live concerts at Hard Rock Live inside the casino. Scheduled performers are Akon on Friday Aug. 30, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts on Saturday Aug. 31, and Brad Paisley on Sunday Sep. 1. Tickets and information are available at Rockford's event calendar for Hard Rock Live.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford's 62-ft guitar monument is coming by truck

Updated - August 15, 2024

A 62-foot iconic guitar monument arrived today by truck from Maryland for mounting outside the entrance to the new Hard Rock Casino in Rockford. The guitar structure is a giant replica of the 1978 checkerboard guitar played by Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick. The band's hometown is Rockford, and Nielsen has always been an entusiastic advocate for bringing the Hard Rock brand to Rockford.

The 7-ton guitar replica was manufactured by Gable Company in Baltimore, Maryland, where it was wrapped and packaged in four sections on a flatbed truck and driven 800 miles to Rockford. The giant guitar, which is 62-feet tall and 38-feet wide, will be reassembled and erected in front of the Hard Rock casino.

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Hard Rock's 62-foot replica Cheap Trick guitar arrives at Rockford casino - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Aug 14, 2024. Available from YouTube

Hard Rock will celebrate an official unveiling of the iconic guitar during the grand opening on August 29th. The celebration will also include a "guitar smash" and performances from Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and Brad Paisley.

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Rockford Casino is Permanently Closed Today!

August 12, 2024

The temporary Rockford Casino was permanently shut down this morning at 5 AM Aug. 12. The closure comes 17 days before to the grand opening of the new Hard Rock Casino Rockford, which has been under construction for the past two years.

The 350 employees, who were working at the temporary casino, have been transferred to the new Hard Rock Casino for orientation and training in their new jobs prior to the grand opening. They will join 400 new workers who have been hired in for the new casino.

The equipment from the temporary casino is also being transferred and installed into the new Hard Rock Casino. This includes 700 slot machines, 6 table games, food and beverage equipment, and retail fixtures.

The temporary casino, known as 'Rockford Casino, A Hard Rock Opening Act', has operated 24/7 since it opened on Nov. 10, 2021. There has been no decision on the future of the building; however, there have been discussions about converting it into a hospitality and culinary school.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford counts down to Aug. 29 opening!

August 3, 2024

Construction of Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, IL, reached an important milestone last Wednesday called "substantial completion". The term means the Hard Rock building is now functional enough to open it doors, with only minor details remaining for the final completion.

The city can now certify the construction site with a temporary occupancy permit to allow employees to begin training. Hard Rock is still looking for more employees. A listing of available jobs can be found online at hardrock.com.

In the meantime, construction crews will continue to work to finish the remaining exterior and interior work before opening day.

"They'll be working right up until the day of the guitar smashing. There's always that last-minute punch-list stuff that somehow magically ends up getting done."

- Geno Iafrate, Pres. Hard Rock Rockford

Remaining Exterior Work
The things-to-finish list includes the installation of a 90-foot replica of a Rick Nielsen guitar, which will arrive from its Maryland contractor in mid-August. Additional signage also remains to be installed. Paving the parking lots is nearly completed including a newly added parking lot on the east side of Lyford Road.

Remaining Interior Work
Painting is underway, and furnishings are being installed. This will include memorabilia displays and a huge guitar chandelier running through the main floor. Equipment installation is also under way. Crews will be setting up the gaming machines, and installing the restaurant and bar equipment.

Temporary Casino Future
Hard Rock Casino Rockford will close its temporary casino at 5 AM Monday Aug. 12th. The casino, known as 'Rockford Casino, A Hard Rock Opening Act', has operated 24/7 at 610 N. Bell School Road since Nov. 10, 2021.

Hard Rock International is owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

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Hard Rock Rockford will close its temporary casino on Aug. 12

August 2, 2024

Hard Rock Casino Rockford announced today it will permanently close its temporary casino at 610 N. Bell School Road on Monday, Aug. 12 and transfer the employees and equipment to the new Hard Rock Casino to prepare for the grand opening on Aug. 29.

The temporary casino, named Rockford Casino, A Hard Rock Opening Act, has operated 24/7 at 610 N Bell School Road since Nov. 10, 2021. The casino will close at 5 AM Monday, Aug. 12.

The future use of the facility has not been decided; however, there has been talk about using it as a hospitality and culinary school.

"Once we get the permanent opened and as the second half of the year progresses, we'll have much better clarity into what happens at the temporary. I think we can come to a final conclusion on that by the end of the year."

- Geno Iafrate, Pres. Hard Rock Rockford

In the meantime, as the Aug. 29 grand opening approaches, Hard Rock will train the employees from the temporary casino for their new positions in the new casino. The gaming equipment from the temporary casino will also be moved and installed into new locations inside the new casino.

The new Hard Rock Casino will open with 1,300 slot machines, 50 live table games, poker, a sports book, multiple restaurants and bars, and a Hard Rock Live entertainment venue.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Hiring Event

July 7, 2024

Hard Rock Casino Rockford has held two hiring events in July in preparation for the grand opening of its permanent casino on August 29th. Hard Rock is seeking new employees to staff six new restaurants which will open that day.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford holds hiring event - Courtesy of , . Available from YouTube

Hard Rock has openings in food and beverage positions, and is offering a $1,000 sign-on bonus to new hires.

"Food and beverage specifically, we have a little over 100 employees currently and we're building to just over 400, and of that number we have about 45 left to go. Our biggest need still is in our culinary department.

- Ken Juneau, VP Food and Beverage

Job Listings
A full listing of all available jobs can be found online at hardrock.com.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford | New Restaurants & Bars

June 23, 2024

Hard Rock Casino Rockford will debut nine restaurants and bars when the casino opens its doors for the first time at 3 pm April 29th. The venues include four restaurants, three quick-service eateries, and two bars.

Here is the list:

NOTE: The grand opening date of August 29 , 2024 remains subject to final approval from the Illinois Gaming Board.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford announces concerts for grand opening

June 16, 2024

Hard Rock Casino Rockford has announced a weekend of concerts during its 4-day grand opening celebration that kicks off at 3 pm Thursday Aug. 29th.

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Hard Rock Casino announces Joan Jett, Brad Paisley for grand opening weekend - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Jun 14, 2024. Available from YouTube

The Hard Rock concerts are scheduled Friday through Sunday nights. Doors Open at 7:00 PM.

TBA
Friday August 30

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts
Saturday August 31
Tickets are available at the casino and at Ticketmaster.

Brad Paisley
Sunday September 1
Tickets are available at the casino and at Ticketmaster.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford Opens Aug. 29, 2024

June 12, 2024

Hard Rock International announced yesterday the grand opening of Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, Illinois will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2024. The date is subject to final approval by the Illinois Gaming Board. The grand opening ceremony will include rock stars and a traditional Hard Rock "guitar smash" before the doors are opened to the public at 3 pm.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford announces grand opening date - Courtesy of 23 WIFR, Jun 12, 2024. Available from YouTube

"It's been 30 years in the making for Rockford and the wait is over. We are excited to welcome guests to our house to showcase and expand the legendary Hard Rock brand."

- Geno Iafrate, President of Hard Rock Casino Rockford.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford will open in August without the hotel. Construction of the 250-room Hard Rock Hotel will be completed later this year. When done, the total size of the Hard Rock Casino Rockford will be 180,000-square-feet.

This permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockford will replace the temporary Rockford Casino - A Hard Rock Opening Act, which has operated 24/7 since Nov. 10, 2021.

The full press release "Hard Rock Casino Rockford Reveals Grand Opening Date for Permanent Facility" can be read here,

---

NOTES

Hard Rock | Employment Opportunities

Hard Rock Casino Rockford is currently hiring more than 400 new employees prior to the August opening. If you are interested, you can review the job openings at GoToWorkHappy.com.

Hard Rock | Additional Parking

Hard Rock is seeking a special-use permit from the Cherry Valley Village Board to build a 3-acre parking lot in Cherry Valley east of Lyford Road along East State Street. This auxiliary parking lot will provide 342 parking spaces with shuttle bus service to the casino.

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Hard Rock Rockford on-schedule for August opening

April 22, 2024

Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, IL, continues on-schedule for an opening in August. The official date is "no later than Labor Day". With four months to go, the priorities are shifting to the new HR manager and the hiring of 400 new employees.

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Rockford's Hard Rock Casino prepares for hiring spree with new HR manager - Courtesy of 13 WREX, Apr 19, 2024. Available from YouTube

The August opening will unveil the new Hard Rock casino with180,000-square-feet, 1,300 slot machines and 50 table games. Restaurants include a Hard Rock Cafe, Rock River Bar & Grill, and the Midway Sports Bar. Hard Rock is seeking full-time and part-time employees for each of these venues.

The Rockford career page shows job opportunities available in the categories of Accounting/Finance, Cash Operations, Entertainment & Event Management, EVS, Engineering & Facilities, and Food & Beverage - Culinary.

The Hard Rock hotel will be the third phase of construction in Rockford and begin in early 2025.

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Hard Rock Rockford | First Look Inside

March 14, 2024

Hard Rock casino officials in Rockford took media outlets on a tour this week to see the inside progress of this $350 million construction project. The casino opening is expected by Labor Day. However, according to the President of Hard Rock Casino Rockford, Geno Iafrate, the $370 million construction project is ahead of schedule.

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First look inside the Hard Rock Casino Rockford’s construction process - Courtesy of 23 WIFR, Mar 12, 2024. Available from YouTube

Hard Rock International is a coporation owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford Construction | March 2024 Update

March 8, 2024

The permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, Illinois, is still on-schedule to open by Labor Day 2024, according to Geno Iafrate, the President of Hard Rock Casino Rockford.

"We have not officially announced an opening date, but Labor Day has been our target. We still feel good about it."

- Geno Iafrate, President Hard Rock Rockford

Hard Rock Rockford has been under construction since Sep. 2022. Iafrate reiterated there remains thousands of construction variables at this time that can still affect the actual opening date.

In the meantime Hard Rock continues to operate the Rockford Casino, a temporary casino at 610 N. Bell School Road, which is open 24/7. This temporary casino will operate until the permanent Hard Rock opens this summer.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford | February 2024 Update

February 21, 2024

Construction of the Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, Illinois continues on-scheduled for a grand opening in August 2024. The hotel will open a few months later. In preparation for these openings, Hard Rock is planning to hire about 400 new employees.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford hosting upcoming employee workshops - Courtesy of 13 WREX, Feb 18, 2024. Available from YouTube

Hard Rock Rockford plans to host a series of workshops to prepare interested candidates for the new casino job opportunites. The purpose of the workshops is to give participants an insight into Hard Rock's interview process and prepare them for various job positions.

Workshops will be held at NUI Rockfod, 9500 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61108. The first workshop was held on Monday of this week. The next workshop will be March 22 from 9am to 11am. If interested you can register or submit your resume online

Rockford's Hard Rock Casino will feature 1,300 slot machines, 50 table games, a Hard Rock Cafe, Hard Rock Live concert venue, restaurants, retail stores and a 250-room hotel.

The Hard Rock casinos are owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

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Rockford's Hard Rock construction is 60% complete

December 24, 2023

In a news video released by WREX, the construction of the permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford is now 60% complete. This update is from Brent Johnson, Chairman and CEO of Ringland Johnson, the construction company.

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Construction at the Hard Rock Casino continues - Courtesy of 13 WREX, Dec 22, 2023. Available from YouTube

In other Hard Rock Rockford news:

New Craps Table Introduced at Temporary Casino
The first craps table was introduced Friday at the Rockford Casino. This is the first of ten crap tables to be installed at the temporary casino.

Employment Opportunities
Hard Rock currently employs about 350 workers at Rockford Casino at 610 N. Bell School Road. That number will increase to 750 employees when the new Hard Rock casino opens in August next year.

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Rockford Hard Rock Casino Construction Update - Dec. 2023

December 13, 2023

Construction of the Rockford Hard Rock Casino has been progressing on schedule since the groundbreaking September 28, 2022. The work is about 60% finished according to Ringland Johnson, the construction company. The completion is scheduled for August 2024. The grand opening of Hard Rock Casino Rockford will be celebrated in late August or by Labor Day 2024.

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Rockford Hard Rock Casino Update - Courtesy of 13 WREX, Dec 6, 2023. Available from YouTube

This construction project is very complicated and described by the construction company this way:

"It is very complex and more than I would have imagined intricate. There are so many moving parts. It is quite large. The sound systems for example that are involved in the music throughout the casino are unique."

- Brent Johnson, Chairman CEO Ringland Johnson

The Hard Rock Rockford building site is at the former Clock Tower Resort location on East State Street and I-90.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford Construction Update - Nov. 2023

November 6, 2023

Hard Rock officials recently confirmed the construction of the Rockford casino has passed its halfway point and continues on-schedule for a grand opening in August-September 2024.

The City of Rockford has been evaluating road access to new Hard Rock Casino Rockford to facilitate public traffic when the casino opens. The city has identified road improvements needed for East State Street that include widening the casino entrance to six turn lanes, adding new streetlights, and adding a multi-use path across the front of the casino for bicycles, pedestrians, and mass transit. The design work will be contracted to Arc Design Resources Inc. for a cost of $325,735.

The total cost of the roadway improvement is estimated to be $2.5 million. Rockford is seeking a $2 million economic development grant from the state. All costs above that amount will be paid by Hard Rock.

The permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockford began construction on Sept, 28, 2022 with expectations to open in late 2023. However, major delays have moved the opening to around Labor Day 2024. The casino will have a 60,000-square-foot gaming floor featuring 1,300 slot machines, 50 table games, and a Hard Rock sportsbook.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford IL celebrates construction milestone

July 15, 2023

Construction crews at the Hard Rock Casino building site in Rockford, Illinois, hoisted the final steel beam into place Wednesday marking the completion of the outer structure. Officials from Hard Rock, the city, and the county attended the topping-off event, and each signed the beam prior to its placement.

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Hard Rock Casino reaches new heights with final beam placement - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Jul 12, 2023. Available from YouTube

Hard Rock Casino Rockford will be a 180.000 square-foot casino with 1,300 slot machines, 50 live table games, Hard Rock Cafe, Hard Rock Live concert center, restaurants, and retail stores.

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Hard Rock Rockford: Construction Updates - April 2023

April 14, 2023

The earth work is nearly finished and the foundation work continues to move forward at the new Hard Rock Casino site in Rockford, Illinois. Now the first vertical steel beams are rising as construction enters its next phase.

Hard Rock Rockford Construction Site April 10, 2023

Construction began on the 180,000-square-foot Hard Rock casino and entertainment venue last September. Since then, crews have worked nonstop, and the weather has been generally favorable. The completion was previously estimated for late 2023 or early 2024; however, a firm opening date has not yet been announced.

Hard Rock Rockford President Geno Iafrate said: "It's still too early to give a definitive date or even a loose date. Let's see how much we get done over the course of this spring and this summer and maybe we'll be able to get to a date not too far from now."

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford adds live table games

April 11, 2023

Live table games have come to Hard Rock's temporary casino in Rockford, Illinois. Six new tables have been added for players to enjoy Blackjack, Three-card Poker and Ultimate Texas Hold 'em.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford introduces three new live table games
Courtesy of 13 WREX, Apr 5, 2023. Available from YouTube

Table game hours are 10 AM to midnight Sunday through Thursday and 10 AM to 2 AM Friday and Saturday.

Hard Rock has plans to add more table for craps and roulette. There are also plans to add sports betting.

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Hard Rock Rockford: Construction Update Feb 2023

February 11, 2023

When will the permanent Hard Rock Casino open in Rockford, Illinois? Hard Rock executives have been tight-lipped about their forecast.

The groundbreaking for the future 180,000-square-foot casino resort on East State Street was held Sep. 28, 2022. Since then, Hard Rock has released few updates. Last week Geno Iafrate, CEO and president of Hard Rock Rockford, said he is not able to predict an opening date at this time.

Casino Construction

Currently the construction crews are completing the underground work and pouring the foundations. The structural steel will arrive at the site in March.

"At that point you're going to see stuff change. The goal is to be completely closed in by the end of the summer, and then we start doing the monotonous internal work."

- Geno Iafrate, Hard Rock Rockford CEO

Hotel Delayed

Iafrate said the 250-room Hard Rock Hotel will be added later due to supply chain delays and inflationary costs.

"We tried very hard to get the hotel tower in Phase 1. What used to cost $50 million now costs $85 million. So in Phase 1 we're just not going to be able to get that hotel built, but it's going to come as soon as feasibly possible."

- Geno Iafrate, Hard Rock Rockford CEO

Additions to Temporary Casino

Hard Rock is seeking permission from the Illinois Gaming Board to add six live table games, including blackjack, Ultimate Texas Hold 'Em and Three Card Poker. A decision is expected soon, and Hard Rock has begun training dealers. The temporary casino is also hoping to add sports betting sometime this year.

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Rockford Casino: A Hard Rock Opening Act made $55M in 2022

February 1, 2023

Hard Rock's temporary casino in Rockford, Illinois hit the jackpot in 2022. Over 463,000 people visited the casino, which received $54.7 million in revenues last year. Hard Rock paid $8 million in taxes to the state and $3 million that was split between Rockford, Winnebago County, Loves Park, and Machesney Park.

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Rockford's Hard Rock Casino made $55M in 2022
Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, . Available from YouTube

Rockford Casino: A Hard Rock Opening Act opened on Nov. 10, 2021 at the former Giovanni's restaurant located at 610 N Bell School Rd. The permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockford is under construction at the site of the former Clock Tower Resort, 7801 E. State Street. The grand opening is expected by late 2023 or early 2024.

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Rockford Casino celebrates 1st-year anniversary

November 15, 2022

Rockford Casino: A Hard Rock Opening Act celebrated its one-year anniversary Thursday. The special event featured musical entertainment, free giveaways, player promos, and restaurant specials. There was also appreciation and special recognition extended to military veterans.

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Hard Rock celebrates 1-year milestone with Rockford Casino
Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Nov 11, 2022. Available from YouTube

The Rockford Casino will continue to operate until the permanent Hard Rock Casino opens in Nov. 2023. That casino is under construction at 7801 East State Street near Interstate 90.

"We are attracting more visitors and greater tax revenue to the state of Illinois and the city of Rockford than we anticipated. From attendance numbers to community relationships, it's a winner."

- Geno Iafrate, Rockford Casino President

In the first year of operation the Rockford Casino achieved $53.2 million in revenue and paid $10.8 million in gaming taxes. There was more than 458,000 visitors to the casino.

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Update: Hard Rock Casino Rockford officially breaks ground

October 1, 2022

The official groundbreaking ceremony for the permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford was held Wednesday afternoon Sept. 28th. The casino site is 7801 East State Street near the Interstate 90 exit. City officials and Hard Rock executives attended the celebration along with guest Rick Nielsen, guitarist of Cheap Trick.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford officially breaks ground
Courtesy of 13 WREX, Sep 28, 2022. Available from YouTube

Geno Iafrate, President of Hard Rock Rockford, made this statement during the celebration:

"It's a very extensive construction process, it's a 300 plus million dollar project, 180 plus thousand square feet. You have a casino, table games, slots, multiple restaurants, Hard Rock live venue. There's a lot of work, there was a lot of work to get to today, so you think ground breaking is really day one but its not, there's months of planning to get to do today."

- Geno Iafrate, Hard Rock Rockford

The completion date for the casino was not disclosed. The completion of the 250-room hotel is now planned for the second phase of construction.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford officially breaks ground Sept. 28, 2022

September 23, 2022

Construction of Hard Rock Casino Rockford will begin Wednesday Sept. 28 with a private ground-breaking ceremony. The event is invitation-only due to open field conditions at the 25-acre building site. Attendees will include Hard Rock executives, local officials and Cheap Trick guitarist Rick Nielsen.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford announces official groundbreaking
Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Sep 21, 2022. Available from YouTube

The $350 million Hard Rock project includes a 65,000-square-foot casino, a 250-room hotel, a Hard Rock Cafe, a Hard Rock Live concert venue, multiple restaurants and retail stores.

The temporary Rockford Casino, A Hard Rock Opening Act, opened in November last year and will continue operating until the permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockford is completed and opens to the public

A news release from Hard Rock International states:

"Our opening act in Rockford has been fantastic, but I know the entire Rockford community is just as excited as we are for the main show. From the very start, Rockford's energy has surpassed expectations and it's no secret they are really ready to rock. Building on that momentum and with the incredible support from the Illinois Gaming Board and the Rockford community, we're ready to begin the next chapter."

- - Jon Lucas, COO Hard Rock Intl

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Hard Rock Rockford construction status - Sep 2022

September 10, 2022

Construction Status
Last week the Illinois Gaming Board gave Hard Rock the approval to begin site work for construction of the permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford. The City of Rockford has issued a permit to support that work.

A spokesman for Hard Rock Casino Rockford said the full construction schedule will be announced in the coming weeks. The casino has a deadline to be completed and opened by November 2023.

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Construction can begin on Rockford's Hard Rock Casino
Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Sep 7, 2022. Available from YouTube

Construction of the hotel will be completed around the same time as the casino according to a statement last May by Geno Iafrate, Hard Rock Casino Rockford President.

Temporary Casino Status
In July a record-setting 45,000 guests visited the temporary casino in July. Rockford Casino: A Hard Rock Opening Act opened last November.

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Rockford Casino sets highest visitor record in July

August 17, 2022

Hard Rock's Rockford Casino continues to grow more business since first opening in July 2021. Statistics from the Illinois Gaming Board show 44,873 people visited the temporary casino last month. This compares to nearly 34,772 in June. Gaming revenues in July were just under $5 million.

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Rockford Casino breaks visitor record in July
Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Aug 10, 2022. Available from YouTube

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Rockford Casino wants to add sportsbook and table games

August 10, 2022

Hard Rock is seeking approval from state regulators to add a sportsbook and a small number of table games to its temporary casino in Rockford, Illinois.

Sportsbook
Rockford Casino president, Geno Iafrate, told media Hard Rock wants a retail sportsbook and a mobile sportsbook covering Illinois.

"The end goal is a physical brick-and-mortar sports book in the casino, and the Hard Rock digital sports book application that would be able to be used throughout the entire state of Illinois."

- Geno Iafrate, President of Rockford Casino

The goal is to have the Hard Rock sports book operation by the end of this year.

Live Table Games
Iafrate also envisions adding a few live table games to Rockford Casino. The total would be about six and could include blackjack, poker, craps and roulette. Table games were not included at the grand opening of Rockford Casino last November because the schedule was too tight and there was little time available to train dealers.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford prepares for groundbreaking

May 26, 2022

Hard Rock Casino Rockford is preparing to break ground on a 50 soon at the site of the old Clock Tower. The new construction will include a 65,000-square-foot casino, a Hard Rock Cafe restaurant with rock 'n roll memorabilia, Hard Rock Live concert venue with 1,600 seats, and a 250-room hotel.

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Rockford's Hard Rock Casino ready to break ground - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, May 23, 2022. Available from YouTube

A temporary casino named "Rockford Casino - A Hard Rock Opening Act" opened last November and will continue to operate to the grand opening of the 50 in 2024. The Rockford Casino is open 24/7 at 610 N Bell School Road in Rockford.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford expedites hotel build

May 15, 2022

Hard Rock now plans to build a 250-room hotel concurrently with the construction of its casino. The original plan was to build the hotel a few years after opening the casino. The first phase was to build only the casino, a Hard Rock Cafe and a Hard Rock Live concert center. The change to build the hotel with the casino was revealed last week by Geno Iafrate, the President of Hard Rock Rockford.

Iafrate confirmed that site work is underway to complete the property design and to prepare for the construction phase. Design details are still pending for the casino floor's layout, the types of restaurants, the square footage of each venue, and the design of Hard Rock Live. When finished, the final design package must be submitted to the Illinois Gaming Board. The board's approval is required before breaking ground this summer.

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Rockford Casino Status Report - March 2022

March 24, 2022

Although the temporary Rockford Casino has been operating since November, construction of the permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford has not started and a groundbreaking date has not been set.

"Hard Rock Casino Rockford cannot commence construction on or begin gaming at the proposed facility without first submitting the required disclosures and receiving the request and receiving the appropriate IGB approval."

- Illinois Gaming Board, Mar 10, 2022

The gaming board granted a casino license to Hard Rock Casino in January. Now Hard Rock has until January 2024 to complete construction.

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Rockford's temporary Hard Rock Casino brings in $3.6M in February - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Mar 9, 2022. Available from YouTube

Meanwhile the Rockford temporary casino continues to bring in revenue and pay state and city taxes. Since opening the casino generated over $15 million through February.

To date Rockford Casino has paid $1,812,951 in taxes to the state and $906,475 to the City of Rockford.

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Rockford Casino adds Sunday Jazz Brunch, WINESdays in March

March 4, 2022

Rock Hard's temporary casino ion Rockford, A Hard Rock Opening Act, has added two weekly events for March.

The first is "Sunday Jazz Brunch" at the Rock River Bar & Grill every Sunday 10 AM to 2 PM. The brunch will include live performances by Stateline Jazz Quartet (March 6), Groove Hotel Quartet (March 13), and the Evon Sams Quartet (March 20).

The second event is "WINESday" on Wednesdays 5-8 PM at the Rock River Bar & Grill. Wine bottles are half price and music is provided by Mario Duenas Electric Duet (March 2), Tristan Sheedlo (March 9), and the Evon Sams Quartet (March 16).

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford partners with IceHogs

February 11, 2022

This week Hard Rock Casino Rockford announced a five-year sponsorship deal with the Rockford IceHogs, the AHL affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks.

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Icehogs, Hard Rock Casino teaming up - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Feb 8, 2022. Available from YouTube

The deal includes a Hard Rock VIP suite inside the BMO Harris Bank Center at center ice. The suite will be named "The Stage" and feature 56 seats, a bar, private buffet, restrooms and Hard Rock decor including memorabilia from Cheap Trick guitarist Rick Nielsen.

Hard Rock will also sponsor a new game intro, in-game entertainment and a larger video scoreboard.

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Hard Rock Rockford is granted final license for construction

January 29, 2022

This week the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) voted 4 to 1 to license the Hard Rock Casino Rockford to build a $350 million casino on the site of the former Clock Tower Resort at 7801 E. State Street at the I-90 exit ramp.

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Rockford's Hard Rock Casino gets license approval - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Jan 27, 2022. Available from YouTube

The license gives Hard Rock two years to complete the construction of the casino; however, construction cannot begin until the required disclosures are submitted and approved by the board. Construction is expected this spring and take 18-24 month to complete.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford is the first to be licensed of the six new casinos authorized in the 2019 Illinois casino bill.

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Rockford Casino earns $8.4M in first two months

January 13, 2022

Since opening Nov. 10, Rockford's Hard Rock casino has generated $8.4 million in revenues. Of that amount the casino will pay 511,000 to state taxes and $255,400 to local taxes. According to the Illinois Gaming Board, Rockford Casino earned $4.1 million In November and $4.3 million in December.

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Rockford's Hard Rock casino earns $8.4 million in first two months - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Jan 11, 2022. Available from YouTube

Rockford Casino is a temporary casino that will operate until the opening of the permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockford in 2024.

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Hard Rock's Rockford Casino brings $4.1M in first month

December 9, 2021

Hard Rock's temporary casino in Rockford, Illinois pulled $4.1 million in revenue in November. The number of casino visitors was 41,637. The Rockford casino opened November 10, 2021 and will operate 24/7 during the two-year construction period of the Hard Rock Casino Rockford.

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Hard Rock's Rockford Casino rakes in $4.1M in first month - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Dec 8, 2021. Available from YouTube

The Rockford Casino revenues in November have generated $497,000 in state taxes and $249,000 in taxes for the Rockford area.

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Hard Rock opens temporary casino in Rockford, IL

November 11, 2021

Yesterday Hard Rock International opened a temporary casino named Rockford Casino to operate during the construction phase of the $350 million Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, IL. The doors were opened to the public at 11 AM.

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Rockford temporary casino opens to the public - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Nov 10, 2021. Available from YouTube

Hard Rock has branded its Rockford temporary casino, "Rockford Casino, A Hard Rock Opening Act". The casino is open 24/7 and will continue operating until the opening of the permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockland.

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Video Tour of Hard Rock's Rockford Casino

October 18, 2021

Take a preview walk through Rockford's temporary Hard Rock Casino, which opens in a few weeks. The 21,000 square foot facility is ready to open with over 700 slot machines, a players club, a bar and a restaurant.

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Take a look inside A Hard Rock Opening Act, Rockford's interim casino - Courtesy of Rock River Current, Oct 14, 2021. Available from YouTube

The Rockford Casino will open in November and operate during the construction of the Hard Rock Casino Rockford.

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Rockford's Hard Rock Casino Delays Opening Date

October 14, 2021

The opening of the temporary Rockford Casino will now likely be in November. An exact date has not been announced. This is a slight delay from the late October date expected after completing the renovation of the former Giovanni's Restaurant & Convention Center as the new home for the Rockford temporary slots casino.

A Hard Rock International official explained:

"We want to make sure that when we open that everything is ready. There's the regulatory side and we want to make sure we are doing everything in compliance. We want to make sure all our new band members (250 employees) have the opportunity to be onboarded and trained, so when we open it's the best experience for our guests and the best experience for our team members."

- Dawn Reynolds-Pettit, Hard Rock Regional VP, HR

The temporary Rockford Casino will open at 610 N. Bell School Road in Rockford. The 21,000-square-foot facility will include 700 slot machines, a restaurant, snack bar and casino bar. The casino is expected to operate until the permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockford opens in 2024.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford prepares to open temporary casino

September 20, 2021

Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, IL is preparing to open a temporary slots casino inside the former Giovanni's Restaurant & Convention Center within the next few weeks. During the past two months Hard Rock has interviewed and hired hundreds of new employees for the casino.

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Hard Rock Casino to open temporary casino in November, hiring hundreds of positions - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Sep 8, 2021. Available from YouTube

Many jobs at Hard Rock are still not filled. If your are interested, check out the current Hard Rock Job Listings.

Hard Rock Rockford job opportunites include cage operations, slot operations, facilities, finance, food and beverage, restaurant services, IT, security, surveillance, and administration.

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Rockford's Hard Rock Casino will open temporary casino in November

July 30, 2021

The Hard Rock casino project in Rockford, Illinois will open a temporary slots casino in October 2021 to operate during the construction a permanent facility. The date was announced during a vendor fair on Wednesday.

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Rockford's temporary Hard Rock Casino to open in October - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Jul 28, 2021. Available from YouTube

The Illinois Gaming Board approved the Hard Rock temporary casino in a meeting last June. The temporary casino be a 21,000 square foot facility with 700 slot machines, a restaurant. a snack concession and a bar.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford advances with key IGB approvals

July 18, 2021

Hard Rock Casino Rockford made a major advance this week in its long approval process with the Illinois Gaming Board. The board approved the list of owners, executives, managers and associated companies that will operate the Rockford casino.

Hard Rock Chief Operating Officer Jon Lucas said, "This is a giant step forward. We're excited to get this project up and running beginning with the construction of the temporary casino."

The temporary casino is expected to open within three to four months inside the former Giovanni's Restaurant at 610 N. Bell School Road. Details.

This week's approvals by the Illinois Gaming Board included eleven management and executive personnel, six additional owner investors and five associated businesses.

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford gets OK for temp casino

June 28, 2021

The Illinois Gaming Board has approved construction of a temporary Hard Rock Casino in Rockford inside the former Giovanni's Restaurant and Convention Center. The temporary casino will open this Fall and operated for 18-24 months as the permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockford is under construction.

The temporary Hard Rock building will have 37,790 square feet. After an $8.8 million renovation, this casino will feature 700 slot machines and two restaurants. There will be no table games in this facility.

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Construction can begin on Rockford's temporary Hard Rock Casino - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Jun 25, 2021. Available from YouTube

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford takes major steps forward

June 14, 2021

The Hard Rock Casino Rockford project took several major steps forward in last week's Illinois Gaming Board meeting. The Board approved a list of casino executives and investors and issued a Casino Supplier License to the property owner of the temporary and 50 sites. The actions allow Hard Rock to now seek approvals of construction plans for both casinos.

"Now that the owner of the proposed temporary site and the proposed permanent site for the casino in Rockford has been licensed, that project can move forward with requesting approval to commence construction on the temporary and permanent facility." - Marcus Fruchter, Illinois Gaming Board

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Rockford casino moves forward - Courtesy of 13 WREX, Jun 9, 2021. Available from YouTube

Construction of the temporary casino can now begin once the construction plans are approved. At that point it will take 90-120 days to open the facility for gambling. The gaming license must still be issued before then. The 50 is expected to takwe 24-30 months to complete.

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Hard Rock Rockford clears casino site

March 15, 2021

Construction crews are clearing the site for the Hard Rock Casino planned for Rockford, IL following preliminary approval from the Illinois Gaming Board to begin construction. Crews are removing the former Coco Key Water Resort, which closed in 2015, and the Forest City Tennis Center, which burned down in 2020.

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Crews clear way for future Hard Rock Casino site - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Mar 10, 2021. Available from YouTube

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Hard Rock Casino Rockford gets green light for construction

February 11, 2021

The Illinois Gaming Board voted unanimously last week to allow construction of the Hard Rock Casino Rockford to move forward. The board found "preliminary suitability" for the casino project although questions remain unanswered concerning the video gambling endeavors of the key investor.

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Hard Rock can begin construction on temporary Rockford casino - Courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF, Feb 4, 2021. Available from YouTube

The Gaming Board's action is an important step for the Rockford casino, howevedr, it is only another preliminary step. After further investigations are completed by the board, the final step will be the issuance of a casino license for the Hard Rock Casino Rockford.

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Hard Rock Casino is approved by Rockford City Council

October 12, 2019

The Rockford City Council voted 11-1 last week to certify Hard Rock International's $350 million casino proposal as the city's single choice for a casino. The vote allows Hard Rock to submit its casino application to the Illinois Gaming Board, which has up to one year to review, process and approve their license.

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Video courtesy of Rockford Register Star

The Rockford City Council selected Hard Rock International over two other proposals. Rockford. Gorman & Co. proposed building a casino in the downtown Rockford and Forest City Partners proposed building a casino at I-90 and Spring Creek Road.

Hard Rock has guaranteed payments to the city. The temporary casino will begin operations upon state licensing. At that time the city will receive 15% of net income but no less than $1,820,000 in the first year. Afterwards it will receive 5% of net income but no less than $1,070,000 per year.

When the 50 opens the city will receive 1% of net income in the first two years and 0.5% of net income afterwards.

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Forest City Casino Proposal

September 23, 2019

Proposed Forest City Casino Site

The third applicant for a Rockford casino license is Forest City Partners. The company proposes a $500M casino complex off Lyford Road in Forest City.

The Forest City proposal includes a casino, hotel, golf comples, waterpark and senior housing. The proposed site is 136 acres. The casino and hotel would reuire 52 acres. Senior housing would be allocated 7 acres.

The Rockford City Council will recommend one of more of the applicants to the Illinois Gaming Board by September 30.

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Second Proposal for Rockford Casino

DOWNTOWN CASINO, ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT, AQUARIUM

July 29, 2019

The Hard Rock Casino proposal for Rockford now has serious competition from Rock River West Casino Group, a local partnership with developer Gorman & Company. This group is proposing a downtown casino with an entertainment district including an aquarium.

Artist rendering of a downtown Rockford casino with entertainment district

Gorman & Company is building the Embassy Suites Hotel and Rockford Conference Center in downtown Rockford and has an option to buy 13 acres south of the hotel.

The company proposes building a downtown casino and entertainment complex on that site with pedestrian walkways to the hotel and adjacent train station. The project includes and aquarium.

This casino proposal will be submitted to the city by the August 16 deadline.

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Hard Rock Casino Proposed for Rockford IL

July 17, 2019

The first announced proposal to build a casino in Rockford came from Hard Rock International. On Tuesday Hard Rock CEO Jim Allen hosted a news event at the former site of the Clock Tower Resort. This property is the proposed location for the Hard Rock Casino Rockford. Hard Rock introduced the casino plan it will submit to the Rockford City Council before the deadline Aug 16th.

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Video courtesy of Eyewitness News WTVO WQRF

The Hard Rock plan includes a casino, a music and entertainment venue, rstaurants, retail stores and a hotel. The first phase of construction is estimated to take 12-14 months to complete.

Artist rendering of the proposed Hard Rock Casino Rockford

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News Headlines Continued

2024

Hard Rock Casino Rockford Opens Today! August 29, 2024 - Are you going to today's grand opening of the new Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, Illinois? If so, have a great time! This will be a major, memorable event! Here are a few things ... Read more Rockford's Hard Rock Lights Up 62-ft Guitar August 23, 2024 - The new Hard Rock Casino in Rockford held a 'pre-grand opening' event this week when its 62-foot checkerboard guitar was lit up for the first time ... Read more Rockford Casino is Permanently Closed Today! August 12, 2024 - The temporary Rockford Casino was permanently shut down this morning at 5 AM Aug. 12. The closure comes 17 days before to the grand opening of the new Hard Rock Casino Rockford ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford's 62-ft guitar monument arrives by truck Updated - August 15, 2024 - A 62-foot iconic guitar monument arrived today by truck from Maryland for mounting outside the entrance to the new Hard Rock Casino in Rockford Hard Rock Casino Rockford counts down to Aug. 29 opening! August 3, 2024 - Construction of Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, IL, reached an important milestone last Wednesday called "substantial completion". The term means the ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Hiring Event July 7, 2024 - Hard Rock Casino Rockford has held two hiring events in July in preparation for the grand opening of its permanent casino on August 29th. Hard Rock is seeking new employees ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford | New Restaurants & Bars June 23, 2024 - Hard Rock Casino Rockford will debut nine restaurants and bars when the casino opens its doors for the first time at 3 pm April 29th. The venues include four ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford announces concerts for grand opening June 16, 2024 - Hard Rock Casino Rockford has announced a weekend of concerts during its 4-day grand opening celebration that kicks off at 3 pm Thursday Aug. 29th ... Read more Hard Rock Rockford will close its temporary casino on Aug. 12 August 2, 2024 - Hard Rock Casino Rockford announced today it will permanently close its temporary casino on Monday, Aug. 12 and transfer the employees to the new ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford Opens Aug. 29, 2024 June 12, 2024 - Hard Rock International announced yesterday the grand opening of Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, Illinois will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2024. The date is subject to final ... Read more Hard Rock Rockford on-schedule for August opening April 22, 2024 - Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, IL, continues on-schedule for an opening in August. The official date is "no later than Labor Day". With four months to go, the priorities are shifting to the ... Read more Hard Rock Rockford | First Look Inside March 14, 2024 - Hard Rock casino officials in Rockford took media outlets on a tour this week to see the inside progress of this $350 million construction project. The casino opening is expected by Labor Day ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford Construction | March 2024 Update March 8, 2024 - The permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, Illinois, is still on-schedule to open by Labor Day 2024, according to a news article last week in the ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford | February 2024 Update February 21, 2024 - Construction of the Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, Illinois continues on-scheduled for a grand opening in August 2024. The hotel will open a few months later. In preparation for ... Read more

2023

Rockford's Hard Rock construction is 60% complete December 24, 2023 - In a news video released by WREX, the construction of the permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford is now 60% complete. This update is from the construction company ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford Construction Update - Nov. 2023 November 6, 2023 - Hard Rock officials recently confirmed the construction of the Rockford casino has passed its halfway point and continues on-schedule for a grand opening in Aug.-Sept. 2024 ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford releases more 2024 renderings October 25, 2023 - New artist renderings have been released showing how the permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford will look when it opens in late summer 2024 ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford IL celebrates construction milestone July 15, 2023 - Construction crews at the Hard Rock Casino building site in Rockford, Illinois, hoisted the final steel beam into place Wednesday marking the completion of the outer structure ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford adds live table games April 11, 2023 - Live table games have come to Hard Rock's temporary casino in Rockford, Illinois. Six new tables have been added for players to enjoy Blackjack, Three-card Poker and Ultimate Texas Hold 'em. ... Read more Rockford Hard Rock Casino Construction Update - Dec. 2023 December 13, 2023 - Construction of the Rockford Hard Rock Casino has been progressing on schedule since the groundbreaking September 28, 2022. The work is about 60% finished according to. ... Read more Hard Rock Rockford: Construction Updates - April 2023 April 14, 2023 - The earth work is nearly finished and the foundation work continues to move forward at the new Hard Rock Casino site in Rockford, Illinois. Now the first vertical steel beams are rising as the next ... Read more Hard Rock Rockford: Construction Update Feb 2023 February 11, 2023 - When will the permanent Hard Rock Casino open in Rockford, Illinois? Hard Rock executives have been tight-lipped about their forecast. Currently the construction crews are preparing the ... Read more Rockford Casino: A Hard Rock Opening Act made $55M in 2022 February 1, 2023 - Hard Rock's temporary casino in Rockford, Illinois hit the jackpot in 2022. Over 463,000 people visited the casino, which received $54.7 million in revenues last year. ... Read more

2022

Rockford Casino celebrates 1st-year anniversary November 15, 2022 - Rockford Casino: A Hard Rock Opening Act celebrated its one-year anniversary Thursday. The special event featured musical entertainment, free giveaways, player promos, and restaurant ... Read more Update: Hard Rock Casino Rockford officially breaks ground October 1, 2022 - The official groundbreaking ceremony for the permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford was held Wednesday afternoon Sept. 28th. The casino site is 7801 East State Street near the I-90 exit ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford officially breaks ground Sept. 28, 2022 September 23, 2022 - Construction of Hard Rock Casino Rockford will begin Wednesday Sept. 28 with a private ground-breaking ceremony. The event is invitation-only due to open field conditions ... Read more Hard Rock Rockford construction status - Sep 2022 September 10, 2022 - Last week the Illinois Gaming Board gave Hard Rock the approval to begin site work for construction of the permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford. The City of Rockford has issued ... Read more Rockford Casino sets highest visitor record in July August 17, 2022 - Hard Rock's Rockford Casino continues to grow more business since first opening in July 2021. Statistics from the Illinois Gaming Board show 44,873 people visited the temporary casino last month. ... Read more Rockford Casino wants to add sportsbook and table games August 10, 2022 - Hard Rock is seeking approval from state regulators to add a sportsbook and a small number of table games to its temporary casino in Rockford, Illinois. ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford prepares for groundbreaking May 26, 2022 - Hard Rock Casino Rockford is preparing to break ground on a 50 soon at the site of the old Clock Tower. The new construction will include a casino and a 250-room hotel. ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford expedites hotel build May 15, 2022 - Hard Rock now plans to build a 250-room hotel concurrently with the construction of its casino. The original plan was to build the hotel a few years after opening the casino. The first phase was to build only ... Read more Rockford Casino Status Report - March 2022 March 24, 2022 - Although the temporary Rockford Casino has been operating since November, construction of the permanent Hard Rock Casino in Rockford has not started and a groundbreaking date has not been ... Read more Rockford Casino adds Sunday Jazz Brunch, WINESdays in March March 4, 2022 - Rock Hard's temporary casino ion Rockford, A Hard Rock Opening Act, has added two weekly events for March. The first is "Sunday Jazz Brunch" at the Rock River Bar & Grill every Sunday ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford partners with IceHogs February 11, 2022 - This week Hard Rock Casino Rockford announced a five-year sponsorship deal with the Rockford IceHogs, the AHL affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks. The deal includes a Hard Rock VIP suite inside. ... Read more Hard Rock Rockford is granted final license for construction January 29, 2022 - This week the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) voted 4 to 1 to license the Hard Rock Casino Rockford to build a $350 million casino on the site of the former Clock Tower Resort at ... Read more Hard Rock introduces new "Messi Burger" March 9, 2022 - Hard Rock Cafe has partnered with soccer legend Lionel Messi to introduce a new burger to all Hard Rock Cafe menus worldwide. The new "Messi Burger" is the latest addition to Hard Rock International's "LIVE ... Read more

2021

Hard Rock opens temporary casino in Rockford, IL November 11, 2021 - Yesterday Hard Rock International opened a temporary casino named Rockford Casino to operate during the construction phase of the $350 million Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, IL. ... Read more Video Tour of Hard Rock's Rockford Casino October 18, 2021 - Take a preview walk through Rockford's temporary Hard Rock Casino, which opens in a few weeks. The 21,000 square foot facility is ready to open with over 700 slot machines, a bar and grill and a casino bar. ... Read more Rockford Casino earns $8.4M in first two months January 13, 2022 - Since opening Nov. 10, Rockford's Hard Rock casino has generated $8.4 million in revenues. Of that amount the casino will pay 511,000 to state taxes and $255,400 to local taxes. According to the ... Read more Hard Rock's Rockford Casino brings $4.1M in first month December 9, 2021 - Hard Rock's temporary casino in Rockford, Illinois pulled $4.1 million in revenue in November. The number of casino visitors was 41,637. The Rockford casino opened November 10, 2021 and ... Read more Rockford's Hard Rock Casino Delays Opening Date October 14, 2021 - The opening of the temporary Rockford Casino will now likely be in November. An exact date has not been announced. This is a slight delay from the late October date expected after completing the ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford prepares to open temporary casino September 20, 2021 - Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, IL is preparing to open a temporary slots casino within the next few weeks. During the past two months Hard Rock has hired hundreds of new employees ... Read more Rockford's Hard Rock Casino will open temporary casino in November July 30, 2021 - The Hard Rock casino project in Rockford, Illinois will open a temporary slots casino in October 2021 to operate during the construction a permanent facility. The date was ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford advances with key IGB approvals July 18, 2021 - Hard Rock Casino Rockford made a major advance this week in its long approval process with the Illinois Gaming Board. The board approved the list of owners, executives, managers and assoc ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford gets OK for temp casino June 28, 2021 - The Illinois Gaming Board has approved construction of a temporary Hard Rock Casino in Rockford inside the former Giovanni's Restaurant and Convention Center. The temporary casino ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford takes major steps forward June 14, 2021 - The Hard Rock Casino Rockford project took several major steps forward in last week's Illinois Gaming Board meeting. The Board approved a list of casino executives and investors and issued a ... Read more Hard Rock Rockford clears casino site March 15, 2021 - Construction crews are clearing the site for the Hard Rock Casino planned for Rockford, IL following preliminary approval from the Illinois Gaming Board to begin construction. Crews are removing the ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Rockford gets green light for construction February 11, 2021 - The Illinois Gaming Board voted unanimously last week to allow construction of the Hard Rock Casino Rockford to move forward. The board found "preliminary suitability" for the ... Read more

2019

Hard Rock Casino is approved by Rockford City Council October 12, 2019 - Rockford City Council selected Hard Rock International over two other proposals as Rockford's single applicant for state licensing. Hard Rock will build a $350M casino with 65,000-sq-ft ... Read more Ho-Chunk Nation responds to Hard Rock Rockford application July 18, 2019 - Ho-Chunk Nation has responded to Hard Rock's application to build a casino in Rockford, IL and says it will "make the region a powerhouse." ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Proposed for Rockford IL July 17, 2019 - Hard Rock International is the first to announce their plan to build a casino in Rockford, IL. It includes a casino, an entertainment and music venue, restaurants, retail stores and a hotel. ... Read more Forest City Casino Proposal September 23, 2019 - The third applicant for a Rockford casino license proposes a $500M casino, hotel and entertainment complex in Forest City. It would include a golf entertainment center, waterpark and family fun center. ... Read more Second Proposal for Rockford Casino July 29, 2019 - A downtown casino and entertainment complex including an aquarium is proposed by Rock River West Casino Group, a local partnership with developer Gorman & Company, ... Read more Ho-Chunk Nation's casino plan for Beloit gets challenge from Rockford IL July 5, 2019 - As the Beloit tribal casino awaits a federal go-ahead decision, Illinois has enacted a massive gambling expansion bill that will bring a casino to Rockford, IL. ... Read more