Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol celebrated its grand opening Thursday morning with Hard Rock’s iconic guitar smash ceremony. The casino operated from its temporary facility, “Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock,” from July 2022 until Nov. 11, 2024. The facility was Virginia’s first casino.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol features nearly 1,500 slot machines, over 50 table games, a sportsbook, and 300-plus hotel rooms
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol’s temporary casino welcomed more than 3 million guests, paid over $68 million in gaming taxes to the Commonwealth of Virginia, donated more than $960,000 to support local community nonprofit organizations, and paid over $262 million in jackpots.
The casino officially opened its doors to the public Thursday at noon, following the event which featured Hard Rock executives and partners, state and local officials, local community members, and business and civic leaders.
The 620,000-square-foot resort features nearly 1,500 slot machines, more than 50 table games, and a sportsbook. Other features include 300-plus hotel rooms and seven dining options, such as the signature Hard Rock Cafe.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol also offers a 2,000-plus seat Hard Rock Live and Rock Shop. Designated non-smoking and high limit gaming areas and authentic music memorabilia are available as well.
Concert performance by Soul Asylum is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m.
“This is such a monumental moment for the Bristol community and Hard Rock,” said Jon Lucas, COO of Hard Rock International. “Hard Rock’s music heritage is a natural fit for Bristol, the ‘Birthplace of Country Music.’ We look forward to serving Bristol and the surrounding region with world-class gaming, dining and entertainment offerings.”
“This milestone brings great pride to Bristol,” said Jim McGlothlin, chairman of The United Company, and Clyde Stacy, president of Par Ventures.
“Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol is creating well-paying jobs and generating new tax revenue across Southwest Virginia. … Local businesses in the Tri-Cities region are already seeing increased tourism and spending. None of this would have been realized without the support of Bristol’s residents and leaders.”
The opening weekend celebration continues with a concert performance by Soul Asylum on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m. The concert will take place in the new 23,000-square-foot Hard Rock Live entertainment venue.
