Though Rivers probably still doesn’t need my business, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a nicer spot to gamble in Illinois.

Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60611.Or at least it didn’t the day after its July 17 opening party, when the new gambling mecca just east of O’Hare Airport (3000 S River Road, Des Plaines, 88, ) was so crowded officials asked people to delay visiting. The temporary location will be at the Medinah Temple, at 600 N. Photo via BallysĬonstruction can take a while, though Bally’s has pledged to open a temporary casino in Spring 2023 with promises to finish a permanent one by late 2025 or early 2026. Bally’s has also committed to 60% minority hiring for the thousands of jobs it will bring to the city. While Chicago is already a happening city filled with endless adventure, this new undertaking promises to help the economy, by creating 3,000 construction jobs per year and 3,000 permanent casino jobs, according to the Mayor’s Office. Other plans include a Riverwalk extension and a brand new pedestrian bridge, along with a large outdoor music venue, and a series of incredible new restaurants. There will be a 3,000-seat theater on the property, along with a 500-room hotel, and a 2-acre park situated along the river. The casino will include 170 table games, and 3,400 slots. It will be a massive $1.7 billion undertaking. Here’s what we know about the project: Photo via Ballys The casino will be more than a place to test your luck, with plans also include a packed layout filled with restaurants, a park, sports bars, an exhibition hall, and various other attractions. Chicago Ave., the project is set to build on a portion of the Tribune Publishing Center at Tribune Publishing Plant.

If approved by the gaming board, it would be the first-ever casino in Chicago, drawing crowds to the prime River West location. The space, which was the Chicago Tribune’s former newsroom and printing plant, will sit on over 30 acres of land.

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