ROCKFORD, Illinois — The long-awaited opening of Rockford’s casino has come; Hard Rock International held a grand opening for Hard Rock Casino Rockford’s permanent facility on August 29. In Hard Rock tradition, the opening ceremony featured a star-studded guitar smash, performances by aerialists, musicians and dancers, and appearances by state and local officials, Hard Rock executives and Seminole Tribe of Florida leaders, as well as Rockford native and lead guitarist of Cheap Trick, Rick Nielsen.
“I’d like to thank the Rockford community and state of Illinois for welcoming Hard Rock and our unique brand of world-class entertainment to the greater region,” said Jon Lucas, Chief Operating Officer at Hard Rock International. “The economic impact of this casino will provide hundreds of new jobs and boost the entertainment options for anyone living near or visiting Rockford. We are thrilled to welcome this new property to our global portfolio of over 300 Hard Rock venues.”
Hard Rock Casino Rockford previously operated at its temporary site since November 2021. The casino’s new, permanent facility is located immediately off the I-90 State Street exit at 7801 E. State Street in Rockford. It boasts more than 175,000 square feet of gaming, entertainment and hospitality space and features a diverse array of attractions, including nearly 1,300 slot machines, 50 live table games and a poker room, a state-of-the-art sportsbook, six unique restaurants, a Rock Shop offering authentic Hard Rock merchandise and more.
“We are extremely proud of our team members who helped make our initial Opening Act location a success, and we welcome all those new to the team who have worked so hard preparing for this long-awaited day,” says Geno Iafrate, president of Hard Rock Casino Rockford. “It’s been 30 years in the making for Rockford, and the wait is over. We are excited to welcome guests to our house to showcase and expand the legendary Hard Rock brand.”
One of the highlights of the new casino is the Hard Rock Live entertainment venue, a 23,000-square-foot, multi-use venue with the latest in advanced audiovisual technology and technical capabilities. The showroom seats up to 2,000 guests for concerts, and the seating is configurable to allow for conventions, trade shows, special events and seated banquets for up to 800 guests.
For more information, visit casino.hardrock.com/rockford.
