Accel Entertainment has officially opened its first casino in Illinois, making its debut in the racino sector with Fairmount Park Casino & Racing. The new facility opened to the public on Friday, April 18, 2025, bringing a mix of casino gaming and horse racing to the Metro East area.
Good to know
- Fairmount Park Casino & Racing is now open, combining casino games with live horse racing in Illinois.
- Accel completed the project in under five months, adding hospitality upgrades and new concessions.
- The racetrack celebrates its 100th anniversary with skydivers and a full season of events starting April 22.
Located at 9301 Collinsville Road, the 12,000-square-foot venue, which got acquired by Accel last year, combines slot machines and electronic table games with a live racing schedule. The launch aligns with Fairmount Park’s 100th racing season, which kicks off on April 22. The anniversary celebration begins with gates opening at 9 a.m. and a skydiving demonstration before the first race at 1:30 p.m.
Vince Gabbert, Senior Vice President of U.S. Gaming and General Manager at Fairmount Park Casino & Racing, said the new venue reflects months of work and collaboration. “We are thrilled to open our casino and showcase our park improvements, highlighting the hard work and dedication of our employees and partners,” he said.
The transformation of Fairmount Park was completed in less than five months. CEO Andy Rubenstein acknowledged the support that helped make it happen. “I would like to thank the Illinois Racing Board, the Illinois Gaming Board, the City of Collinsville, and our local elected officials for their guidance and partnership throughout our development of this historic property,” he said. He also credited Gabbert and his team for getting the project across the finish line.
Beyond the gaming floor, Accel is focusing on hospitality. A new partnership with the Fifty/50 Hospitality Group is set to enhance food and beverage offerings, with three new concessions already operating. A full-service restaurant and bar are on track to open in June.
The company says Fairmount will host a variety of events moving forward, from private parties to corporate gatherings. The goal is to position the site as a key entertainment hub in the region.
With the launch, Accel steps into the locals racino space, combining gaming, racing, and hospitality while leaning on its background in regulatory operations, player experience, and cash logistics.
Gabbert summed it up simply: “This year also marks the 100th anniversary of our racetrack, giving us the opportunity to celebrate Fairmount Park’s rich history while looking ahead to an exciting new chapter.”
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