A NEW ERA FOR GRAND ISLAND CASINO RESORT DRIVES GROWTH, TOURISM, AND OPPORTUNITY The grand opening of the Grand Island Casino Resort in April 2025 marks a defining moment for Grand Island and the greater Nebraska region. Developed through a partnership between Elite Casino Resorts and Fonner Park, the $185 million destination resort represents one of the most significant private investments in the area in recent decades, delivering both immediate and longterm economic benefits. Rising seven stories, the resort brings together gaming, hospitality, dining, wellness, and entertainment in a single destination.The full-service casino features 750 slot machines, 20 table games, and Nebraska’s first live poker room. Guests can also enjoy a 162-room hotel with luxury suites, multiple dining options including a premier steak and seafood restaurant, a show lounge highlighting regional entertainment, and a spa with indoor and outdoor pools. A banquet facility capable of accommodating up to 200 guests and an outdoor entertainment space overlooking the Fonner Park horse track further position the resort as a hub for leisure travel, meetings, and special events. The project’s economic impact extends well beyond its amenities. Construction supported 877 workers across 77 contractors and vendors, generating significant local economic activity. Now fully operational, the resort provides 425 permanent jobs and an estimated annual payroll of $13.6 million, strengthening the regional workforce and contributing to long-term economic stability. The resort also builds on the success of the temporary casino that opened two years earlier, which generated millions for Fonner Park racing purses and the Nebraska Thoroughbred Breeders Association. This continued investment reinforces gaming’s role in supporting and sustaining Nebraska’s historic horse racing industry while expanding tourism and entertainment opportunities. Equally important is the resort’s impact on the broader Fonner Park campus, including major events such as the Nebraska State Fair and other major agricultural and livestock shows. Onsite lodging, dining, entertainment, and meeting space significantly enhance the experience for fairgoers, exhibitors, performers, and event staff. These amenities encourage longer stays, support larger crowds, and improve Grand Island’s ability to attract national acts and multi-day events, increasing overall economic impact during the fair and throughout the year. As a year-round destination, the Grand Island Casino Resort is expected to draw visitors from across Nebraska and neighboring states, boosting tourism, regional spending, and community visibility. More than an entertainment venue, the resort represents a lasting investment in people, place, and possibility - positioning Grand Island for sustained growth, opportunity, and regional pride.
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