Hard Rock Bristol opens July 2024

HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO BRISTOL

500 Gate City Hwy
Bristol, VA 24201-2372

(276) 696-3660
(888) 519-6683

Hard Rock Bristol will open in July 2024. The $550 million casino will feature 2,700 slot machines, 100 table game and a sportsbook, a 750-room hotel, 3,200-seat concert theater and an outdoor entertainment center. During construction, Hard Rock is operating a temporary casino named 'Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock'.

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Permanent Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol

A new Hard Rock Casino is located in Bristol, Virginia the birthplace of country music. The project is a partnership between Hard Rock International and Bristol Resort & Casino.

Hard Rock Casino Bristol is a $550 million construction project now underway at the site of the former Bristol Mall. The new casino will open in July 2024. (Details)

Hard Rock will feature a 90,000-square-foot gaming floor with 2.700 slot machines and 100 table games. There will be five restaurants and four bars. Entertainment venues include a 3,200-seat entertainment center and an outdoor venue for up to 20,000 guests. The Hard Rock hotel will open with 300 guest rooms and suites and later expand to 750 guest rooms.

Temporary Bristol Casino - Opened July 8, 2022
Hard Rock International opened a temporary casino named "Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock" on July 8, 2022 at the former Bristol Mall in Bristol, Virginia. Bristol Casino will operate until construction is completed on the final Hard Rock Hotel Casino Bristol. (Details)

News Headlines

Hard Rock Bristol on-schedule for July opening February 13, 2024 - The future Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Bristol is on-schedule to open its casino in July. The hotel will open before the end of the year with 300 rooms. The date has not been set ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol construction update - Jan. 2024 January 12, 2024 - Visitors near the building site of the Hard Rock Casino in Bristol can see plenty of construction workers, trucks, and heavy equipment moving about the property ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol construction passes mid-point | Update Oct. 2023 October 2, 2023 - Construction of the permanent Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Bristol continues on schedule for opening in July 2024. Construction began in early December 2022 ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol Construction Update - Aug 2023 August 1, 2023 - Construction of the permanent Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Bristol is on schedule for a grand opening in July 2024. Since the groundbreaking on Dec. 7, the estimated construction costs has risen ... Read more Bristol Casino Update - July 2023 July 5, 2023 - Since opening last July, the Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock has made a significant economic impact to the City of Bristol and the State of Virginia. In its first year, the casino has welcomed more than 1.2 million ... Read more Headlines continued...

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol Completed

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will include the following summary of features:

Location

Hard Rock Bristol is under construction at 500 Gate City Highway in Bristol, VA. This is the former site of the Bristol Mall, which operated from 1975 until 2017. The casino will be located inside the former Sears store.

Bristol Casino, a temporary casino, opened in July 2022 inside the former Belk women's store on that site.

Opening Dates

July 8, 2022
A temporary casino, named "Bristol Casino, Future Home of Hard Rock", opened July 8, 2022 and will operate 24/7 until the permanent Hard Rock Casino is completed.

July 2024
Construction on the permanent casino hotel began in January 2022 and is expected to take 18-24 months to complete. Completion is expected in July 2024.

Temporary Bristol Casino

Temporary Bristol Cssino

Bristol Casino, Future Home of Hard Rock is a temporary casino operating 24/7 until construction is finished on the permanent Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol in 2024

History of Hard Rock Casino Bristol

Bristol is one of four Virginia cities that approved a ballot measure in the 2020 election t0 authorize a casino in its city. The Virginia gambling law passed by the state general assembly in March 2019 and later signed by the governor granted the casino decision to Bristol residents.

The proposed casino was named Hard Rock Casino Bristol. See Press Release below.

Hard Rock Casino Bristol will be a partnership between Hard Rock International and the Bristol Resort & Casino. Hard Rock International is owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

The location for Hard Rock Casino Bristol is the site of the former Bristol Mall. Construction is expected to be completed by summer of 2024.

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Features of Hard Rock Casino Bristol

Gaming

Restaurants

Entertainment

Hotel

Convention and Conference Center

Retail

News Articles

Hard Rock Bristol on-schedule for July opening

February 13, 2024

The future Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Bristol is on-schedule to open its casino in July. The hotel will open before the end of the year with 300 rooms. The date has not been set.

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Hard Rock Hotel and Casino on track for summer opening - Courtesy of WJHL, Feb 11, 2024. Available from YouTube

Construction of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino at the site of the former Bristol Mall began in December 2022 and is now nearing the final stages of completion for this summer's opening.

"The building is all the way up now, so we have our hotel tower up. Rooms are being completed. We'll have 300 rooms by the end of the year, but we're on target to open the casino floor by July of this year."

- Allie Evangelista, Casino President

Evangelista said the construction still has a long way to go before the grand opening. Crews are currently building the restaurants including a Hard Rock Cafe, the Council Oak Steakhouse, the YouYu Noodle Bar, and a food hall. The hotel has been carpeted and is waiting for room furniture. The Hard Rock Live entertainment center will be finished this summer.

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Hard Rock Bristol construction update - Jan. 2024

January 12, 2024

Visitors near the building site of the Hard Rock Casino in Bristol can see plenty of construction workers, trucks, and heavy equipment moving about the property. The most visible feature is the raised steel framework for the six-story hotel.

Construction of the one-level casino is behind the hotel and difficult to see. Both the hotel and the casino remain on schedule for a grand opening this summer according to Hard Rock spokesman Andy Poarch.

"Our team is proud of all the progress we've made in 2023, and we look forward to continuing that momentum into 2024. For our guests who visit the property, they can witness the visible signs of our construction activity, which is wonderful for the entire community."

- Allie Evangelista, President of Hard Rock Bristol

Since July 2022, Hard Rock has been operating a temporary casino, Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock, the first casino in Virginia. The casino has 600 employees. That number is expected to increase to 1,300 for the opening of the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. Evangelista said new hiring events are planned over the coming months. Times and places will be announced later this quarter.

Since November 2019 the cost of building the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristo has doubled. The original estimate was $250 million. By the time construction began in December 2022, the cost had escalated to $400 million. The final cost is now expected to be $520 million.

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Hard Rock Bristol construction passes mid-point | Update Oct. 2023

October 2, 2023

Construction of the permanent Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Bristol continues on schedule for opening in July 2024. Construction began in early December 2022 and has achieved the halfway milestone.

New steel framework for the hotel and resort are now visible from the road. The steel beams arrived at the site last July and August.

"The construction at the Hard Rock Resort & Casino in Bristol is moving fast, with a shell of a large building visible from the road. This is incredibly exciting for our city."

- Neal Osborne, Bristol Mayor

Hard Rock is renovating the former Bristol Mall into a casino and entertainment complex, which will include a 90,000-square-foot casino, Hard Rock Cafe, Hard Rock Live with 3,200 seats, and an outdoor entertainment venue with capacity for 20,000 people. An adjacent six-story hotel will have 303 guest rooms and suites. A second hotel tower with 500 rooms will be constructed in a later stage.

In the meantime, Hard Rock Bristol has been operating a temporary casino at the former Bristol Mall named "Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock" since July 2022.

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

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Hard Rock Bristol Construction Update - Aug 2023

August 1, 2023

Construction of the permanent Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Bristol is on schedule for a grand opening in July 2024. Since the groundbreaking on Dec. 7, the estimated construction costs has risen from $400 million to $520 million due to increases in material and labor costs.

The underground utilities and foundation work have been completed. Construction dust and noise from heavy machinery and truck traffic can now be seen and heard in the front and middle areas of the construction site. Steel beams for the framework have been arriving and will soon be visible to travelers on Gate City Highway.

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Bristol Casino celebrates one-year anniversary - Courtesy of WJHL, Jul 7, 2023. Available from YouTube

Some changes have been made to the original plans. The former Sears and JCPenney buildings will not be used and have been demolished. The size of the Hard Rock casino floor will be slightly increased to 92,000 square-feet. The casino will have 1,500 slot machines, 75 gaming tables, and a poker room. By comparison, the temporary Bristol Casino has a 30,000 square feet casino floor with 900 slots and 29 tables.

Hard Rock dining options have been announced and will include a Hard Rock Cafe, Council Oak Steaks and Seafood (fine dining), an Asian noodle bar, and a multi-venue dining hall. The Hard Rock Hotel will have 303 rooms

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Bristol Casino Update - July 2023

July 5, 2023

Since opening last July, the Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock has made a significant economic impact to the City of Bristol and the State of Virginia. In its first year, the casino has welcomed more than 1.2 million visitors through its doors and paid out over $92 million in jackpots.

During this time Hard Rock paid over $25 million in taxes to the state. One third of the tax revenue was divided between the City of Bristol, the town of Norton, and 12 southwest counties. Hard Rock also donated $448,000 to nonprofits around the local area.

Bristol Casino operates 900 slot machines, 30 table games and a sportsbook. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino will open next summer and operate 2,700 slot machines, 100 table games, and a 25,000-square-foot sports betting lounge. Hard Rock will also feature a 3,200-seat concert center, a 20,000-people outdoor entertainment center, and a 750-room hotel.

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Bristol Casino adds slots, tables and 'party pit'

March 20, 2023

Last Friday, Bristol Casino announced that 20 new slot machines, 8 new table games, and a 'Party Pit' have been added to the Future Home of Hard Rock. The Party Pit includes wide-screen TV walls, 4 Blackjack tables and live music.

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Bristol Casino adds dozens of new slot machines
Courtesy of WJHL, Mar 17, 2023. Available from YouTube

This latest gaming expansion at Bristol Casino includes the following features:

• 2 new Blackjack tables to the High Limit area
• 1 new Blackjack table and a Mississippi Stud table have been added to the Non-Smoking area
• 8 new Dragon Link machines have been added to the High Limit area
• 20 new slot machines from Sega Sammy have been added to the main gaming floor
• A new 'Party Pit' has been added with wide-screen TV walls, 4 Blackjack tables and live music. The location is next to the Bristol Bar and across from the sportsbook.

With these new gaming additions, Bristol Casino now totals 890 slots and 29 table games.

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Hard Rock Casino Bristol: Construction Update - Jan. 2023

January 10, 2023

A few changes have been made to Hard Rock's original plans due to higher construction costs and material shortages. The total cost of construction has increased from $400 million to $520 million. As a result, the Sears building will be torn down rather than retrofitted, and the 30,000 square-foot temporary casino will be upgraded and added to the permanent casino. The temporary casino will continue to operate during the construction phase and remain a non-smoking area inside the Hard Rock Casino.

The casino plan is proceeding with 100 table games and a sportsbook. However, the 2,700 slot machines may be slightly reduced according to Jon Lucas, Hard Rock International Chief Operating Officer. Lucas also believes the construction will be completed on schedule.

"We are confident, and I think part of the delay in getting going here was to work through those issues and get confident on a date -- but we have a commitment to Virginia Lottery, and we will live up to that for sure."

- Jon Lucas, CEO Hard Rock Intl

The official groundbreaking ceremony for the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Bristol was held this past Dec. 7th. The first construction crews are expected to begin moving dirt in the next few weeks.

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Hard Rock Bristol groundbreaking Dec. 7, 2022

December 3, 2022

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol officials will break ground on the new $400M casino next Wednesday Dec. 7th. Construction is scheduled to take 18 months to complete. Hard Rock Bristol is expected to open in July 2024. At that time the temporary casino, "Bristol Casino, Future Home of Hard Rock", will shut down.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will feature a 90,000-square-foot casino, which will be three times larger than the temporary casino, a 750-room hotel, a 3,200-seat concert center and an outdoor event venue. The construction site is 500 Gate City Highway in Bristol, VA.

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Hard Rock Bristol prepares for groundbreaking

November 5, 2022

Hard Rock International officials visited Bristol last week and approved the final details for the casino prior to construction. Soon afterwards Bristol Casino President Allie Evangelista announced there will be a little more demolition work this week followed by an official groundbreaking in the next few weeks.

In a statement to the Bristol Herald Courier, Evangelista said:

"We are very excited. We will have a groundbreaking ceremony in the next few weeks. We should be starting some additional demo, potentially as early as next week. We are ready to move forward and will be opening spring-summer of 2024."

- Allie Evangelista, President

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Hard Rock's Bristol Casino 'hits jackpot' in first 90 days

October 9, 2022

Since opening three months ago, Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock is showing all signs of success! The temporary casino generated $40 million in gross profits to the end of September, and will now pay $7.2 million in taxes to the state.

One third of that tax will go to the Regional Improvement Commission to be divided between the City of Bristol, the town of Norton, and 12 Southwest Virginia Counties.

The local economy has also been boosted by Hard Rock's hiring of 600 employees and by the attraction of thousands tourists to the casino.

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Bristol Casino reaches employment milestone

August 31, 2022

Since officially opening July 8th, Hard Rock's temporary casino in Bristol has continued to hire workers. Last week, the casino's president announced a milestone has been reached in total employment.

Bristol Casino: Future Home of Hard Rock:

"We have been training team members for a long time, we have a good group of team members currently on site that have been with us since day one. We are past the 600 team members on duty already."

- Allie Evangelista, President

Additional employment opportunities are still available at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. If interested, you can find them posted here.

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Bristol Casino handles $37.5 million in first week

July 30, 2022

It was a big week for Bristol Casino during its first week of operation between July 5 and July 14. Players placed $37.5 million in bets, and the casino paid out $33.7 million in winnings. Over 90% of the gaming revenue came from slot machines.

More wagers were placed on slot machines than on table games. Slot players won back 90% of wagers. Players at table games won back 87% of wagers. Bristol Casino has 870 slot machines and 21 table games. It is the first casino to open in Virginia after the 2020 gambling law.

According to the Virginia Lottery, Bristol Casino earned $3.7 million in adjusted gross revenue (AGR), which generated $673,928 in taxes for the state (18% tax rate).

Bristol Casino is a temporary casino that will operate until Hard Rock Bristol is completed in 2024.

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Hard Rock's Bristol Casino celebrates grand opening today 2PM

July 8, 2022

Virginia's first casino will open today when the new "Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock" opens its doors to the public at 2 PM at the former Bristol Mall. People began lining up outside the casino before dawn.

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Bristol Casino hosts grand opening Friday - Courtesy of WJHL, Jul 8, 2022. Available from YouTube

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Watch now - It's opening weekend for the Bristol Casino - Courtesy of Bristol Herald Courier, Jul 7, 2022. Available from YouTube

Today's events will begin with a media walkthrough of the casino from 9 AM to 10 AM. An opening ceremony is scheduled for 11 AM, and the general public is invited inside at 2 PM.

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Hard Rock's Bristol Casino prepares for July 8 opening

June 29, 2022

Hard Rock will open a temporary casino on July 8, 2022 at the former Bristol Mall in Bristol, Virginia. The casino, named "Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock", will operate during the two-year construction of the permanent Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol.

Last week Hard Rock held its final hiring events last weekend before the July 8 opening. Jobs were still available for retail staff, security, and dealers.

The Bristol Casino is also issuing players cards for its Hard Rock Casino's loyalty program. Members receive free play and free meals benefits. When the permanent Hard Rock Bristol opens, the loyalty program will add free hotel rooms and concert tickets.

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Hard Rock Sportsbook comes to Virginia

May 21, 2022

Hard Rock's mobile sports betting app has launched in Virginia and is available for download by fans across the state. In July the Hard Rock Sportsbook will open a retail location inside the Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock.

"We're excited to expand Hard Rock Sportsbook to Virginia and proud to offer more gaming options on the sports Virginians love on our easy-to-use mobile platform."

- Marlon Goldstein, CEO Hard Rock Digital

"We can't wait to welcome sports fans from across the region to our retail sportsbook location in Bristol."

-Allie Evangelista, President Hard Rock Bristol

Virginia follows Arizona as the second state to license the enhanced Hard Rock Sportsbook. The Navajo Nation partnered with Hard Rock last month to operate the new mobile app in Arizona. (See news story)

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Hard Rock Casino Bristol is opening July 2024

May 8, 2022

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will officially open in Summer of 2024. In a slide presentation to the Virginia Lottery Board in April, Hard Rock announced the "Grand Opening Summer of 2024".

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Bristol Casino set to open July 2024 - Courtesy of WJHL, Apr 27, 2022. Available from YouTube

When Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol opens in Summer of 2024 the casino will feature 1,500 slot machines and 75 table games. A second phase of construction is planned that will later expand the casino to 2,700 slots and 100 table games.

The Hard Rock Hotel will open with 300 guest rooms and suites. A second hotel will built in a later phase that will increase the total number of rooms to 750.

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Hard Rock Bristol approved for first Virginia casino license

April 30, 2022

Hard Rock Bristol has been licensed by the Lottery Board to become the first casino in Virginia. Hard Rock will open a temporary casino named 'Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock' on July 8, 2022, and open a permanent casino next summer.

The Virgina Lottery Board voted 7-0 on Wednesday to issue a facility operator's license to Hard Rock Bristol. This is the first license issued in the state. The lottery board continues to review the applications for Danville, Norfolk and Portsmouth.

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Hard Rock Bristol's temporary casino opens July 8

April 1, 2022

Hard Rock International announced July 8th will be the official opening date for its temporary Bristol Casino. The 30,000-square-foot casino will be branded "Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock", and operate 24/7 until construction is completed on the permanent Hard Rock Hotel Casino Bristol.

Bristol Casino will feature 900 slot machines, 20 tables and a sportsbook. In addition to the main casino floor there will be high-limit gaming and non-smoking areas. There will also be a sports bar with a lounge area, a restaurant and a grab-and-go food outlet.

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Hard Rock Bristol shows sign of progress

March 26, 2022

There is a new sign in town announcing the coming Bristol Casino, which is expected to open by July. The sign stands in front of the former Bristol Mall, which will be the home of the new casino, and reads: "Bristol Casino. Future Home of Hard Rock".

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Signs of life: Hard Rock erects sign for new casino outside of former Bristol, Va. mall - Courtesy of WJHL, Mar 18, 2022. Available from YouTube

In preparation of the Bristol Casino opening, Hard Rock has held several hiring events and vendor session over the last month.

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Hard Rock Bristol president describes future with community

March 20, 2022

News Channel 11 interviewed Allie Evangelista, the new president of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol, earlier this month. Evangelista is enthusiastic about the future relationships between Hard Rock and the community.>/p> [No Ads]

Hard Rock director describes vision for Bristol community - Courtesy of WJHL, Mar 7, 2022. Available from YouTube

Information meetings were held last month by Hard Rock to kickoff the recruitment process for casino workers and for local contractors. Evangelista expects Hard Rock to hire 600-1,000 employees for its operation.

"I think the brand speaks for itself, you know? Hard Rock is a company that doesn't just theme; we don't just theme ourselves as far as casinos, hotels, restaurants as part of the music. Music is in the core of everything we do, and I think it speaks to Bristol. It's a great connection with the location we're opening just because of being the Birthplace of Country Music. I think that alone is going to be a success."

- Allie Evangelista, President Hard Rock Bristol

Evangelista also said the casino's tax payments will be a huge benefit to the community and making eveything better "not just tomorrow but two years from now, five years from now."

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UPDATE: Hard Rock Casino Bristol is "On Schedule"

February 8, 2022

The Hard Rock International CEO confirmed Friday that construction is "on schedule" for both the temporary Bristol Casino and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol.

Opening Dates
John Lucas, Hard Rock CEO, said the temporary casino is on schedule to open around Memorial Day Weekend, and the permanent Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol wis on schedule to open sometime in July 2024. The opening date will be determined by the Virginia Lottery's timeline for issuing the final casino license, certifying management personel, and qualifying vendors.

WJHL Newscast

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Hard Rock Casino making progress towards opening of temporary casino, hiring of staff - Courtesy of WJHL, Feb 5. 2022. Available from YouTube

On Feb 4-5 Hard Rock International hosted two community events at the Foundation Event Facility on State Street. The purpose was to provide information to the public, vendors and job seekers regarding opportunities coming at Hard Rock Casino Bristol.:

Hard Rock Vendor Information Meeting
Two hundred business owners attended this meeting to learn what local businesses and services will be needed by Hard Rock. Hard Rock will be seeking contractors to provide products and services, such as fresh food, transportation, repair and maintenance services, dry cleaning, etc.

Employee Information meeting
Hard Rock hosted an employee information meeting on Saturday to preview the employment opportunities needed at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Bristol. The temporary casino will hire about 700 employees, and the permanent casino will need 1,200 employees.

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Hard Rock Bristol will open temporary casino by June 2022

December 16, 2021

Hard Rock International announced on Thursday that construction is starting on a temporary casino at the former Bristol Mall and will open in late second quarter of 2022. The construction site is the former Women's Belk store in the former Bristol Mall.

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Plans for Hard Rock temporary casino in Bristol, Va. taking shap - Courtesy of WJHL, Dec 9, 2021. Available from YouTube

Details of Hard Rock Bristol's temporary casino are found here. This will be a 30,000-square-foot casino with 900 slot machines, 20 table games, a sportsbook, sports bar and lounge, a restaurant and a grab-and-go food outlet.

For additional information, read Hard Rock's Press Release (Dec 09, 2021).

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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol prepares for construction

December 3, 2021

The City of Bristol, Virginia has received and approved plans for the Hard Rock Hotel Casino project to begin demolition of the former Bristol Mall and preliminary site evaluation for the final design of a temporary casino. The temporary casino will operate during construction of the Hard Rock Hotel Casino Bristol.

Hard Rock Bristol LLC released this statement:

"We continue to work closely with the Virginia Lottery on next steps for construction of the temporary gaming facility and planning for the permanent one. We appreciate the ongoing cooperation and assistance from local and state officials for all necessary permitting and licensing requirements."

- Hard Rock Bristol LLC

All construction contractors and subcontractors must be approved by the Virginia Lottery. Lotter officials have approved the first five casino vendors for the Hard Rock casino project. They include a contractors and consultants for construction management, architectural and interior services, structural engineering, specifications, forensic services and other related services. Additional approvals are pending.

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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Bristol, VA Project Details - Courtesy of Vote Yes For Bristol, Sep 30, 2020. Available from YouTube

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Hard Rock Bristol's temporary gaming casino slips to early 2022

May 3, 2021

It is highly unlikely the Hard Rock Bristol will open its temporary gaming casino this year according to the Virginia Lottery Board. Although state legislation allows temporary gaming facilities to open during construction of a licensed casino, the Virginia Lottery said in a meeting last week that the vetting and licensing process would not be finished in time for temporary gaming to operate this year.

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Virginia Lottery Board: 'Temporary gaming as soon as this December is highly unlikely' - Courtesy of WJHL, Apr 23, 2021. Available from YouTube

In late 2020 Hard Rock Bristol announced plans for a temporary casino to operate during construction of the Hard Rock casino. The temporary casino would feature up to 700 slot machines, 24 gaming table and a sportsbook. The timeframe to open this facility is now delayed pending the final actions of the Lottery Board.

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2020 Election: Hard Rock Casino in Bristol, VA is approved by voters

November 4, 2020

Voters in Bristol, Virginia yesterday approved a ballot referendum to build a $400 million Hard Rock Hotel & Casino at the former Bristol Mall. The vote was 71% in favor.

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will feature 1,500 slot machines, table games, five restaurants and bars, a convention center and a hotel with 600-1000 guest rooms. There will also be a live entertainment venue and a family entertainment arcade.

The next step is for Hard Rock to apply for a casino license from the Virginia Lottery Board after the state gaming regulations are completed.

The Seminole Tribe of Florida owns Hard Rock International, which is a parner in the Hard Rock Casino Bristol and will manage the all operations of the casino and the hotel.

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Hard Rock Bristol plans temporary casino during main construction

November 2, 2020

If the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino planned for Bristol, Virginia is approved by voters tomorrow, Hard Rock will build a temporary casino to operate until construction is finished on the main facilities in late 2022.

The temporary casino will feature 600-700 slot machines, 24 gaming table and a sportsbook. There will also be a restaurant, coffee shop and 2-3 bars.

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Hard Rock plans 'temporary casino' while main resort is under construction in Bristol - Courtesy of WJHL, Oct 29, 2020. Available from YouTube

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Hard Rock Bristol forecasts employment opportunities

October 22, 2020

As the Nov. 3 election approaches, a job information event supporting the proposed Hard Rock Casino in Bristol was held by executives of Hard Rock International and the Bristol Chamber of Commerces.

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Hard Rock International, Bristol Chamber of Commerce host job information session for proposed casino - Courtesy of WJHL, Oct 7, 2020. Available from YouTube

Hard Rock International is projecting 2,000 employees are needed to operate the Hard Rock Casino & Resort in Bristol after all construction is completed. Employment areas include hospitality, administration, and food services, security and maintenance. Hard Rock promotes its Women in Leadership program and its policy of promoting from within.

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Bristol Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Preview Video

September 22, 2020

Developers of the planned Bristol Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Bristol, Virginia discuss the features and amenities designed for the property.

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Developers talk proposed amenities for Hard Rock Bristol Resort & Casino - Courtesy of WJHL, Sep 17, 2020. Available from YouTube

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Bristol Hard Rock Hotel & Casino unveils new 3D model

September 22, 2020

A 3D model of the planned Hard Rock Bristol Hotel and Casino in Bristol went on public display last Thursday at the former Bristol Mall. The model shows the 90,000-square-foot casino, the live entertainment venue, the hotel, five restaurants and four bars.

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Bristol Hard Rock Hotel & Casino unveils new 3D model of resort Thursday morning - Courtesy of WJHL, Sep 17, 2020. Available from YouTube

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TV ads seeks voter support for Hard Rock Bristol

September 11, 2020

The 'Vote Yes For Bristol' campaign launched its first TV ads this week in a major effort to win voter approval in the Nov. 3 election to build the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Bristol, Virginia.

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First TV ad runs for 'Vote Yes For Bristol' campaign to bring casino to region - Courtesy of WJHL News Channel 11, Sep 9, 2020. Available from YouTube

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Hard Rock Casino Bristol receives local business support

September 6, 2020

A coalition of Bristol businesses has announced support for the Hard Rock Casino project and the 'Vote Yes For Bristol' ballot referendum. The coalition is named "Small Businesses for Bristol" and includes 25 local businesses and the Bristol Chamber of Commerce.

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Bristol small business owners rally behind Hard Rock Hotel & Casino project - Courtesy of News Channel 11 WJHL, Sep 1, 2020. Available from YouTube

The 'Vote Yes For Bristol' ballot measure will ask voters the following question:

"Shall casino gaming be permitted at a casino gaming establishment in the City of Bristol, Virginia, at 500 Gate City Highway, Bristol, Virginia 24201 (former Bristol Mall) as may be approved by the Virginia Lottery Board?"

The Hard Rock casino project is expected to create 2,000 full-time jobs and another 1,500 indirect jobs. Hard Rock employees will earn an average compensation of $46,500. The casino is also expected to draw 4 million tourists to Bristol each year.

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Hard Rock Bristol Nov 3 election ballot update

July 21, 2020

The Bristol City Council unanimously approved a resolution last week seeking to add a voter referendum on the Hard Rock Casino plan for Bristol on the ballot for the upcoming Nov 3 general election.

Per the council's resolution the election ballot will read

"Shall casino gaming be permitted at a casino gaming establishment in the City of Bristol, Virginia at 500 Gate City Highway, Bristol, Virginia 24201 (former Bristol Mall) as may be approved by the Virginia Lottery Board?"

The Bristol city attorney has filed this resolution of the city council with the Bristol Virginia Circuit Court, which is responsible for placing local referendums on the election ballot.

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Hard Rock Bristol plan is pre-certified by VA Lottery Board

July 17, 2020

The Virginia Lottery Board has OK'd plans for the proposed Hard Rock Casino in Bristol. The board's action paves the way for a November 3 ballot referendum to allow Bristol residents to vote for or against the casino plan.

The next step will be for the Bristol City Council to pass a resolution requesting the Circuit Court add a voter referendum on the casino to the Nov 3 ballot.

If the ballot referendum is approved by voters, Hard Rock Bristol plans to build a casino with 2,700 slot machines, 100 table games, and a sportsbook. The plan includes a 750-room hotel, 7 restaurants, four bars, retail space and a 50,000-sq-ft convention space. An outdoor entertainment venue will accommodate 20,000 guests, and an indoor entertainment venue will seat 3,200 guests.

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Hard Rock Bristol will build a temporary casino

July 4, 2020

Hard Rock Bristol will apply for a gaming license to operate a temporary casino inside the former Bristol Mall adjacent to the future site of the permanent Hard Rock Casino Bristol.

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Hard Rock Casino Bristol is approved by City Council

May 26, 2020

The City Council of Bristol, Virginia voted 5-0 to approve the casino proposal from Hard Rock International. Next steps are approval by the Virginia Lottery Board followed by voter approval on Nov 3, 2020.

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Hard Rock Casino planned for Bristol VA

December 19, 2019

PRESS RELEASE
Hard Rock International
Nov 25, 2019

Hard Rock International Announces Plans For Hard Rock Casino Bristol

HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Nov. 25, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Hard Rock International, a global leader in the entertainment and hospitality industry, is pleased to announce a partnership with the Bristol Resort & Casino team to create Hard Rock Casino Bristol. Once final approval is received from the Commonwealth of Virginia and the citizens of Bristol, Virginia, Hard Rock, working with the local ownership group, will operate the proposed resort and casino.

"We are excited to collaborate with Hard Rock, a well-respected and legendary entertainment brand with legions of devoted customers across the country and around the world," said Jim McGlothlin, CEO of The United Company and partner on the project. "Hard Rock is known for its 31 award winning hotels and 12 casinos, in addition to 218 cafes and Rock Shops^® which offer a wide range of amenities that appeal to many different audiences. Hard Rock's iconic brand speaks to its deep roots in live music entertainment and world-class memorabilia collection, which will play a prominent role at Hard Rock Casino Bristol. This focus on music will complement our region's country music heritage and dynamic music scene in the Twin City."

"We're excited to bring our legendary Hard Rock brand of hospitality and entertainment to Bristol, the birth place of country music, just as we have done in other locations all around the world," said Jim Allen, Chairman and CEO, Hard Rock International. "As a brand, we serve more than 120 million guests a year across 75 countries and we are committed to becoming an integral part of the community and driver of jobs and visitation."

Hard Rock has extensive experience making projects an integral part of the local community. Hard Rock's reputation will make the property a major draw for visitors from across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. With the resort as a gateway to the region, the partners will use their resources to introduce visitors to the many other wonderful tourism, cultural and recreational opportunities available in the Tri-Cities and across Southwest Virginia.

"After vetting multiple leaders in the industry, we are convinced that Hard Rock is the best fit for our project and our community," said Mr. McGlothlin "The Hard Rock team understands the significant economic development impact the Hard Rock Casino Bristol will have on the city and the entire surrounding region, in terms of new jobs and additional tax revenue. As seasoned casino resort operators, they are committed to working closely with us to maximize the benefits of this project for local residents while highlighting the many opportunities this region has to offer to all."

About Hard Rock^®
Hard Rock International (HRI) is owned by parent entity The Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Source: Hard Rock International

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Hard Rock will operate Bristol VA casino

November 22, 2019

Project developers for a proposed casino at the former Bristol Mall have named Hard Rock International as the casino operator. The casino name will be Hard Rock Casino Bristol.

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Resort Casino Proposal Summary

December 21, 2019

The Bristol Resort and Casino includes a 90,000 square foot casino with a 25,000 square feet for sports betting, a hotel with 600-1,000 guest rooms, and retail space for 50 stores and restaurants.

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News Headlines Continued

2023

Bristol Casino adds slots, tables and 'party pit' March 20, 2023 - Last Friday, Bristol Casino announced that 20 new slot machines, 8 new table games, and a 'Party Pit' have been added to the Future Home of Hard Rock. The Party Pit includes wide-screen TV walls ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Bristol: Construction Update - Jan. 2023 January 10, 2023 - A few changes have been made to the original plans due to higher construction costs and material shortages. The cost of construction has increased from $400 million to $520 million ... Read more

2022

Hard Rock Bristol groundbreaking Dec. 7, 2022 December 3, 2022 - Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol officials will break ground on its new $400M casino next Wednesday Dec. 7th. Construction is scheduled to take 18 months to complete. Hard Rock Bristol is expected to open in ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol prepares for groundbreaking November 5, 2022 - Hard Rock International officials visited Bristol last week and approved the final details for the casino prior to construction. Soon afterwards Bristol Casino President Allie Evangelista announced there will be a ... Read more Hard Rock's Bristol Casino 'hits jackpot' in first 90 days October 9, 2022 - Since opening three months ago, Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock is showing all signs of success! The temporary casino generated $40M in gross profits to the end of Sept., and will pay ... Read more Hard Rock's Bristol Casino celebrates grand opening today 2PM July 8, 2022 - Virginia's first casino will open today when the new "Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock" opens its doors to the public at 2 PM at the former Bristol Mall. ... Read more Bristol Casino reaches employment milestone August 31, 2022 - Since officially opening July 8th, Hard Rock's temporary casino in Bristol has continued to hire workers. Last week, the casino's president announced a milestone has been reached in total employment. ... Read more Bristol Casino handles $37.5 million in first week July 30, 2022 - It was a big week for Bristol Casino during its first week of operation between July 5 and July 14. Players placed $37.5 million in bets and paid back $33.7 million in winnings. Over 90% of the gaming ... Read more Hard Rock Sportsbook comes to Virginia May 21, 2022 - Hard Rock's mobile sports betting app has launched in Virginia and is available for download by fans across the state. In July the Hard Rock Sportsbook will open a retail location inside the Bristol Casino ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Bristol is opening July 2024 May 8, 2022 - Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will officially open in Summer of 2024. In a slide presentation to the Virginia Lottery Board in April, Hard Rock announced the "Grand Opening Summer of 2024". ... Read more Hard Rock's Bristol Casino prepares for July 8 opening June 29, 2022 - Hard Rock will open a temporary casino on July 8, 2022 at the former Bristol Mall in Bristol, Virginia. The casino, named "Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock", will operate during the 2-year construction ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol approved for first Virginia casino license April 30, 2022 - Hard Rock Bristol has been licensed by the Lottery Board to become the first casino in Virginia. Hard Rock will open a temporary casino named 'Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock' on ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol's temporary casino opens July 8 April 1, 2022 - Hard Rock International announced July 8th will be the official opening date for its temporary Bristol Casino. The 30,000-square-foot casino will be branded "Bristol Casino - Future Home of Hard Rock" and feature ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol shows sign of progress March 26, 2022 - There is a new sign in town announcing the coming Bristol Casino, which is expected to open by July. The sign stands in front of the former Bristol Mall, which will be the home of the new casino, and reads:" ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol president describes future with community March 20, 2022 - News Channel 11 interviewed Allie Evangelista, the new president of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol, earlier this month. Evangelista is enthusiastic about the future relationships ... Read more UPDATE: Hard Rock Casino Bristol is "On Schedule" February 8, 2022 - The Hard Rock International CEO confirmed this week that construction is "on schedule" for both the temporary Bristol Casino and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. The temporary casino opens ... Read more

2021

Hard Rock Bristol will open temporary casino by June 2022 December 16, 2021 - Hard Rock International announced on Thursday that construction is starting on a temporary casino at the former Bristol Mall and will open in late second quarter of 2022. The ... Read more Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol prepares for construction December 3, 2021 - The City of Bristol, Virginia has received and approved plans for the Hard Rock Hotel Casino project to begin demolition of the former Bristol Mall and preliminary site evaluation for the ... Read more When will Virginia Casinos Open? May 29, 2021 - Virginia General Assembly approved legislation in 2019 for five cities to accept or reject a state-licensed casino. Here is the casino status for each of these five cities and the steps needed to complete construction and open the doors ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol's temporary gaming casino slips to early 2022 May 3, 2021 - It is highly unlikely the Hard Rock Bristol will open its temporary gaming casino this year according to the Virginia Lottery Board. Although state legislation allows temporary gaming ... Read more Virginia Lottery Board approves state casino regulations February 13, 2021 - Last week the Virginia State Lottery Board approved its initial set of casino regulations to govern state-approved casino gambling operations. The provisions include slot machine payout percentages ... Read more

2020

Timeline for opening new Virginia Casinos November 29, 2020 - he Virginia Lottery Board has begun the long process towards licensing and opening the first Vegas-style casinos in Virgnia after voters in Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth approved casino referendums ... Read more 2020 Election: Hard Rock Casino in Bristol, VA is approved by voters November 4, 2020 - Voters in Bristol, Virginia yesterday approved a ballot referendum to build a $400 million Hard Rock Hotel & Casino at the former Bristol Mall. The vote was 71% in favor. ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol plans temporary casino during main construction November 2, 2020 - If the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino planned for Bristol, Virginia is approved by voters tomorrow, Hard Rock will build a temporary casino to operate until construction is finished on ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol forecasts employment opportunities October 22, 2020 - As the Nov. 3 election approaches, a job information event supporting the proposed Hard Rock Casino in Bristol was held by executives of Hard Rock International and Bristol's Chamber ... Read more Bristol Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Preview Video September 22, 2020 - Developers of the planned Bristol Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Bristol, Virginia discuss the features and amenities designed for the property. ... Read more Bristol Hard Rock Hotel & Casino unveils new 3D model September 22, 2020 - A 3D model of the planned Hard Rock Bristol Hotel and Casino in Bristol went on public display last Thursday at the former Bristol Mall. The model shows the casino, entertainment venue ... Read more TV ads seeks voter support for Hard Rock Bristol September 11, 2020 - The 'Vote Yes For Bristol' campaign launched its first TV ads this week in a major effort to win voter approval in the Nov. 3 election to build the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Bristol, Virginia. ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Bristol receives local business support September 6, 2020 - A coalition of Bristol businesses has announced support for the Hard Rock Casino project and the 'Vote Yes For Bristol' ballot referendum. The coalition is named "Small Businesses for Bristol" ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol Nov 3 election ballot update July 21, 2020 - The Bristol City Council unanimously approved a resolution last week seeking to add a voter referendum on the Hard Rock Casino plan for Bristol on the ballot for the upcoming Nov 3 general election. ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol plan is pre-certified by VA Lottery Board July 17, 2020 - The Virginia Lottery Board has OK'd plans for the proposed Hard Rock Casino in Bristol. The board's action paves the way for a Nov 3 ballot referendum to allow Bristol residents to approve ... Read more Hard Rock Bristol will build a temporary casino July 4, 2020 - Hard Rock Bristol will apply for a gaming license to operate a temporary casino inside the former Bristol Mall adjacent to the future site of the permanent Hard Rock Casino Bristol. ... Read more Hard Rock Casino Bristol is approved by City Council May 26, 2020 - The City Council of Bristol, Virginia voted 5-0 to approve the casino proposal from Hard Rock International. Next steps are approval by the Virginia Lottery Board followed by voter approval on ... Read more

2019

Hard Rock Casino planned for Bristol VA December 19, 2019 - Hard Rock International has partnered with Bristol Resort & Casino to build the Hard Rock Casino Bristol in Virginia near the Tennesse border. The $150M casiino is subject to local voter approval in 2020. ... Read more Hard Rock will operate Bristol VA casino November 22, 2019 - Project developers for a proposed casino at the former Bristol Mall have named Hard Rock International as the casino operator. The casino name will be Hard Rock Casino Bristol. ... Read more

2018

Resort Casino Proposal Summary September 7, 2018 - [VIDEO] The initial proposal for the Hard Rock Casino Bistol was presented by Bristol Resort and Casino. It defines a 90,000-sq-ft casino, 1,000-room hotel, ... Read more