Pennsylvania officially opened Happy Valley Casino in May 2026, reinforcing the state’s strategy of expanding regional gaming properties and strengthening its position as one of the largest regulated gambling markets in the United States. The new land-based casino represents an investment of approximately US$120 million and is located inside the former Macy’s property at the Nittany Mall in State College, near Penn State University and Beaver Stadium.
The official grand opening was on May 8, 2026. The property operates under a Category 4 Mini-Casino license authorized through the Pennsylvania Gaming Expansion Act of 2017 and supervised by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB). The PGCB is chaired in 2026 by Denise J. Smyler, while its Executive Director is Kevin O’Toole.
The project was initially developed by SC Gaming, led by Penn State alumnus and investor Ira Lubert, before Saratoga Casino Holdings acquired majority operational control in 2025 after Bally’s Corporation exited the partnership. Saratoga Casino Holdings is led by CEO Sam Gerrity, who described the Pennsylvania expansion as a strategic milestone for the company’s long-term gaming footprint in the United States.
Casino’s construction
Happy Valley Casino spans approximately 94,000 square feet and launched with more than 600 slot machines and 30 live table games, with authorization to expand up to 750 slots. The gaming floor includes blackjack, roulette, craps, mini baccarat, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, Pai Gow Poker, Mississippi Stud and high-limit gaming areas. The property also features the sports-themed Aces Social Bar & Restaurant, the Lucky Break Café, non-smoking gaming areas and infrastructure prepared for future sportsbook integration.
The casino enters a competitive Pennsylvania market alongside operators such as Live! Casino Pittsburgh, Hollywood Casino York, Hollywood Casino Morgantown and Parx Casino Shippensburg. Analysts expect the property to strengthen tourism, retail revitalization and sports-driven entertainment around the Penn State region while supporting Pennsylvania’s continued expansion in land-based gaming, sports books and omnichannel gambling operations.
