Cripple Creek, CO, Gets a New ‘Vegas-Style’ Casino

Article by : Erik Gibbs Dec 29, 2023

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Unveiling its new resort property in Cripple Creek, the Chamonix Casino Hotel, an addition to the casino and hospitality landscape of the area, celebrated the inauguration of its casino and the 300-room hotel this Tuesday.

With an investment of around $300 million, Full House Resorts CEO Daniel Lee led the creation of this project. However, the journey to completion faced challenges, including persistent construction delays.

Delays were mainly caused by a shortage of labor and a scarcity of skilled craftsmen. Despite these obstacles, the hotel project is set for further refinement in the coming months.

Lee recognizes the necessity of a phased opening, a strategic decision compelled by the circumstances. The Chamonix Casino Hotel is poised to gradually reveal its full glory, overcoming the hurdles of construction.

On Tuesday, various parts of the hotel were opened for the general public to access. These areas include lodging, the entire casino gaming area and much of the parking grounds.

However, certain amenities, such as the pool and spa, a hotel jewelry store and various restaurants, will not be immediately available to all guests.

Having wrapped up their work on the lodging and casino areas, construction workers and craftsmen are redirecting their efforts toward the upcoming grand opening of the hotel’s restaurant on February 1.

Simultaneously, plans are underway for the casino’s jewelry store to make its debut later in the same month. The ongoing construction endeavors are expected to reach their final stage with the finalization of the resort’s spa and pool area. These two are expected to be finished by April.

Positioned as a new concept of luxury, Chamonix, according to Lee, aims to attract clientele accustomed to the sophistication of high-end Las Vegas resorts. The idea is to offer a similar experience to clients from Colorado Springs, Denver and beyond.

Lee is proud of the vision, which materialized with the support of state and local legislation in 2020. The removal of betting limits in Cripple Creek was a strategic move that transformed the landscape into an enticing hub for investors, paving the way for high-dollar development.

The architectural charm of Chamonix seamlessly integrates into Cripple Creek’s historic mining district. The design, featuring 4-foot-tall, double-sided fireplaces and generously sized bathtubs, epitomizes a harmonious blend of tradition and modern luxury.

Beyond the casino and the luxurious hotel offerings, Lee envisions Chamonix as a premier conference venue. The 5,100-square-foot ballroom and additional meeting spaces are geared toward attracting business conferences and events.