The United States continues to strengthen its land-based gaming industry with two of the country's most anticipated casino openings scheduled before the end of 2026. Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit, in Wisconsin, remains on schedule to welcome guests on September 26, 2026, while Cedar Crossing Casino & Entertainment Center, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is preparing for its grand opening around December 31, 2026.
Together, the two developments represent nearly US$980 million in combined investment and are expected to drive tourism, employment, and regional economic growth.
The largest project is Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit, developed by the Ho-Chunk Nation, led by President Jon Greendeer. The first construction phase represents an investment of approximately US$405 million, while the full integrated resort is valued at more than US$700 million. Located at the intersection of Willowbrook Road and Colley Road, adjacent to Interstate 39/90, the property will become the seventh casino operated by the Ho-Chunk Nation and one of Wisconsin's largest gaming destinations.
The casino will feature a gaming floor exceeding 240,000 square feet, 1,500 slot machines, 44 table games, sportsbook facilities, more than half a dozen dining venues, live entertainment, and a hotel expected to offer more than 200 and up to 312 guest rooms during its final development phase. The hotel and convention center are scheduled to open in 2027, while the casino itself is expected to create more than 1,000 permanent jobs, with hiring already more than halfway complete.
Meanwhile, Cedar Crossing Casino & Entertainment Center continues construction in Cedar Rapids after receiving approval from the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. Developed by Peninsula Pacific Entertainment (P2E), the project represents an investment of approximately US$275 million and is scheduled to open before the end of 2026. The entertainment complex will include a modern casino with slot machines, table games, restaurants, bars, live entertainment spaces, and event facilities. It is projected to generate more than 1,000 jobs during construction and operations while providing a major economic boost to downtown Cedar Rapids. Nearby businesses, including CR Midnight Smoker BBQ, are already expanding operations in anticipation of the expected increase in visitor traffic.
The upcoming openings of both properties underscore the continued confidence in the U.S. land-based gaming sector. Beyond expanding entertainment options, the two integrated resorts are expected to stimulate tourism, hotel development, and local business activity while reinforcing the long-term growth of regional casino markets across the American Midwest.
