Hard Rock Bristol Casino Helps Virginia See Gaming Revenue Spike

Article by : Erik Gibbs Dec 16, 2024

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Virginia has seen a significant spike in gaming revenue, thanks largely to the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. The company seems to be closing 2024 on a high note, which is a clear example of how the industry has performed this year.

In November, the casino recorded over $18.07 million in adjusted gaming revenue, breaking the previous high of $16.27 million set in March 2024. This milestone came during a transitional period when the temporary Bristol Casino operated for the first 10 days of November before the full Hard Rock casino officially opened on November 14.

The Hard Rock Bristol’s grand opening was a major event, drawing 58,000 visitors during its first four days and over 100,000 guests in total by the end of the month. The casino, now equipped with 1,408 slot machines, generated $15.5 million in revenue from slots alone, surpassing the prior record of $13.28 million set in August 2024.

Table games also contributed to November’s success, bringing in $2.56 million. While this figure did not surpass the table game revenue record of $3.15 million from July 2024, it added significantly to the month’s overall performance.

The combined operations at the Bristol site generated $3.25 million in gaming taxes, marking a record high. Of this, $1.08 million was directed to the Regional Improvement Commission, benefiting Southwest Virginia communities.

Virginia’s gaming industry as a whole performed well in November, with the state’s three operational casinos reporting a combined adjusted gaming revenue of $63.57 million. Nearly $48 million came from slot machines, while table games accounted for $15.69 million.

Rivers Casino Portsmouth led with $25.7 million in revenue, followed by the temporary Caesars casino in Danville with $19.77 million.

The Hard Rock Bristol is also undergoing further developments. Its former space is being renovated into a non-smoking gaming area and poker room, set to open in early 2025. This expansion signals ongoing growth and investment in the region’s gaming sector.

With the addition of these facilities and the upcoming Caesars Virginia Casino, expected to open in Danville soon, Virginia’s gaming market is on track to see even greater revenue figures in the months ahead. The success of the Hard Rock Bristol is a promising indicator of the economic benefits casinos can bring to the state and local communities.