Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Start of Construction for Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa

With the formal start of construction of the highly anticipated Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, is prepared to welcome a new and exciting gaming destination. On June 6, the Rideau Carleton Raceway Casino, where the future “state-of-the-art” complex would be created, held a groundbreaking ceremony. Distinguished visitors, including Hard Rock International personnel, government officials, and business and community leaders, assembled for the historic event, clutching iconic Hard Rock guitar-handled shovels. The project is expected to be completed in the spring of 2025.

Rebranding and Expansion

In September 2017, Hard Rock International assumed day-to-day operations of the Rideau Carleton Casino under a service agreement with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLGC). The renowned brand now intends to rebrand the hotel as part of its bigger strategy. Despite delays caused by the pandemic, construction plans are finally set to move forward, bringing the idea to life.

Exciting features of The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa

The first Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Canada will have a variety of world-class amenities and entertainment alternatives. There will be 1,500 slot machines, 40 live-action table games, a Hard Rock Sportsbook, a high-limit gaming area, and a dedicated Baccarat room in the expanded casino. The complex will also contain a magnificent 150-room Hard Rock Hotel with 22 suites for an improved visitor experience. The 1,800-seat Hard Rock Live theatre, built to accommodate 2,200 guests, is a feature of the complex, providing an unparalleled location for live events. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa promises an unrivalled entertainment experience, with over ten restaurants, bars, and lounges, as well as shopping businesses.

Community Support and Economic Impact

During the groundbreaking event, Hard Rock presented a $20,000 grant to Minwaashin Lodge, a local Indigenous women’s refuge, emphasizing the company’s commitment to the community. Helen MacMillan, General Manager of Rideau Carleton Casino and the forthcoming Hard Rock location, expressed excitement about the development and its good impact on residents, visitors, and local businesses in Ottawa. The new facility is expected to generate significant tax revenue for the City of Ottawa, the Province of Ontario, and the federal government, both during construction and after it is fully functioning.

Mayor Mark Sutcliffe emphasized the importance of the investment in the city’s south end, noting that the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino will provide new job opportunities, complement the existing attractions at Rideau Carleton Casino, and serve as a compelling tourism destination in Ottawa. Duncan Hannay, OLG’s CEO and President, praised the combined efforts of OLG, Hard Rock, and the City of Ottawa, emphasizing the long-term benefits that these plans will bring to the local gaming sector.

Looking Ahead

With the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa under construction, the community is eagerly awaiting the completion of this major venture. Residents and visitors to Ottawa will soon be able to immerse themselves in a world-class gaming and entertainment experience, enhanced by the legendary Hard Rock brand’s rich music legacy. Hard Rock International remains committed to contributing to the economic growth and social well-being of the Ottawa community as the project advances, fostering collaborations with local businesses and community organizations.

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