Caesars Entertainment’s Temporary Columbus Casino Begins Operations

With a swift snip of the ceremonial ribbon, a new chapter in Nebraska’s gaming history began this Monday. The Harrah’s Columbus Casino, a temporary gaming facility under the management of Caesars Entertainment, officially opened its doors in Columbus, Nebraska, at the Platte County Ag Society Park.

Top brass from Caesars Entertainment was present at the park to welcome the inaugural players at the temporary casino. The grand ceremony signaled not just the arrival of the interim gaming house, but also a significant leap in the ongoing Harrah’s Columbus project.

“As we open Columbus Casino, we acknowledge this major milestone in our Harrah’s Columbus journey,” expressed Don Ostert, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Harrah’s Columbus, NE Racing & Casino. He commended the supportive community of Columbus for their contribution and warmly invited guests to experience the temporary facility.

Despite its temporary status, Columbus Casino still offers an impressive collection of over 250 slot machines. Punters can also bet on horse racing at the Ag Park’s existing simulcast. Moreover, the Columbus Casino will be part of Caesars Entertainment’s robust rewards network, ensuring players earn valuable points during their gaming sessions.

Under construction in collaboration with Columbus Exposition and Racing, Harrah’s Columbus promises to host the longest thoroughbred racetrack in the state. The full-fledged casino, set for completion in the first half of 2024, is expected to house a vast 28,000-square-foot gaming floor. The plans include over 500 slot machines, 14 table games, and a cutting-edge sportsbook. However, no mention of a poker room has been made yet.

Nebraska’s Gaming Landscape and Regulations

Nebraska’s entry into commercial casino gambling is still fresh. The Nebraska State Racing & Gaming Commission, which released its final draft of casino gaming regulations in November 2021, has been diligently overseeing the nascent industry. With the final sports wagering regulations unveiled in October 2022, the Commission continues its relentless pursuit to uphold a regulated and legalized gaming environment in the state.

Convenience for gamers extends beyond the casino with plans to construct a Marriot Fairfield Inn and Townplace Suites right next door. The accommodation facilities will be directly connected to the new Caesars casino via a walkway, making it easy for guests to enjoy gaming and comfortable stay in the same vicinity.

In compliance with Nebraska law, the upcoming racetrack casinos, including Columbus Casino, will only allow individuals aged 21 and above to participate in any games of chance or use any gaming device.

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