Being the first land-side casino in the Shreveport-Bossier region, the Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana marked a major milestone last Thursday when it formally opened. The Cordish Companies owns this $270 million facility, which is expected to boost the local economy and provide a new source of entertainment.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony, a breathtaking fireworks show, and a Mardi Gras-style parade led by Louisiana Mardi Gras Krewes and the Northwestern State University band were all part of the grand opening celebration. Hundreds of guests were waiting impatiently outside for the doors to open.
A New Entertainment Hub in Louisiana
The venue, located along the scenic Red River, features a sprawling 47,000-square-foot gaming floor, equipped with over 1,000 slots and electronic table games, alongside more than 40 live-action table games. It also boasts a state-of-the-art DraftKings Sportsbook. Notably, before the official opening, Ed Reed, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and Super Bowl Champion, placed the first sports bet at the DraftKings Sportsbook, wagering on the New Orleans Pelicans versus the Sacramento Kings.
Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler was excited about the new addition, remarking, “You walk in and think, ‘Am I in Vegas?’ It does look like we’re in Vegas. It’s going to bring so many people here to Bossier City. We’re ready for it.”
The resort features a 549-room luxury hotel, a resort-style pool, and a fitness center, providing top-tier accommodations for both local and out-of-state guests. For those who prefer outdoor experiences, the venue offers a 31-site RV park with full hookups. The Live! Event Center provides 25,000 square feet of multipurpose space for concerts, conventions, and private events, with performances from Walker Hayes, The Commodores, and Clint Black lined up in the coming months.
Dining enthusiasts will enjoy a variety of options, including Sports & Social, the PBR Cowboy Bar, The Prime Rib, and Luk Fu, offering everything from steaks and seafood to Asian-inspired dishes.
The opening of the casino is expected to generate over $35 million in gaming tax revenue for Bossier City and $168 million for the state within the first five years. Moreover, the development has created more than 1,550 jobs, including 750 construction positions and 800 permanent roles, with a focus on local hiring and vendor partnerships.
Chris Hebert, Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “It’s been some time since a new casino planted roots in our state, and already we are seeing the economic benefits with hundreds of job seekers finding employment.”
The post Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana Opens in Shreveport-Bossier Market appeared first on iGaming.org.