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Hard Rock International Ottawa Casino Guide | LeoVegas

Hard Rock International Ottawa Casino

Hard Rock International Ottawa is set to open in May 2025. The legendary operator, which already runs 13 casinos, including the Mirage in Las Vegas and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, is bringing world-class gaming to Ottawa.

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Hard Rock International Ottawa took control over Rideau Carleton Casino in September 2017 and has invested $350 million in a grand-scale development project. The newly revamped casino will feature 1,500 slot machines, 40 table games, 150 hotel rooms, a sportsbook, fine dining options, and more.

Introduction to Hard Rock International

Hard Rock International is owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, which purchased the Hard Rock brand for $965 million in 2006. As a part of the deal, they acquired 124 cafes, four hotels, and two casinos.

Since 2006, Hard Rock International has embarked on an ambitious expansion plan and now owns 13 casinos, including the Mirage in Las Vegas, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. In 2023 alone, Hard Rock International generated $5.9 billion in revenue.

All of Hard Rock International's casinos are based in the United States except Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, so their move into Ottawa is noteworthy. Hard Rock views Canada as less competitive than the American market, and due to the strict regulations in place there, it hopes to leverage its reputation to get licensed and establish monopolies.

Currently, Hard Rock International owns the only licensed casino in Ottawa, a city with a population of more than one million. By turning the former Rideau Carleton Casino into a modern casino resort with fine dining options, luxury suites, slot machines and table games, Hard Rock International plans to capture the $60 million that is lost annually to casinos in Quebec from Ontario residents and tourists traveling across the border.

Hard Rock International's Presence in Canada

Hard Rock International Ottawa will be Hard Rock's first owned and operated casino in Canada. In 2013, they signed a licensing agreement with Great Canadian Entertainment, and the casino was known as Hard Rock Casino Vancouver until 2023. However, the stakes are different this time, with Hard Rock taking full control of the property and investing $350 million of its own money into the project.

Introduction to Hard Rock International Ottawa

The announcement in May 2017 that Hard Rock International had acquired Rideau Carleton Casino and successfully received a license from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) was met with enthusiasm.

Hard Rock is known for creating world-class gaming resorts with luxury hotels, great dining options, and top-of-the-line slot machines. The American operator has deep pockets, and politicians are happy about the nearly 4,500 jobs and the boost to the local economy the casino will provide.

Hard Rock International Ottawa will be located at 4837 Albion Rd Ottawa, ON K1X 1A3, the same address as Rideau Carleton Casino. Currently, the existing casino is still operating, but once the other Hard Rock International Ottawa buildings are completed, Rideau Carleton Casino will be closed and renovated.

Hard Rock International Ottawa is being designed by SOSH Architects, who did an amazing job turning the former Trump Taj Mahal into Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.

Design and Architecture of Hard Rock International Ottawa

Hard Rock International Ottawa's interior will look similar to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. There will be a grand circular foyer with glossy tiles, a huge staircase and an escalator taking center stage. Around the foyer, there will be access to gaming rooms, lounges and fine dining establishments.

The gaming rooms feature an Art Deco design with rich burgundy and gold elements. The plush high-back chairs, combined with the unique light fixtures and ceiling mouldings, create a luxurious atmosphere.

Facilities at Hard Rock International Ottawa

Hard Rock International Ottawa won't just have the classic rock-and-roll flair with a giant guitar and music memorabilia everywhere. It is committed to bringing world-class casino gaming to Canada with 1,500 slot machines and 40 table games, including roulette, poker and blackjack. There will even be a special high-limit room and a baccarat room, along with a retail sportsbook.

In addition to being a place to spin the reels, it will also have a five-star hotel with 150 rooms and 22 suites. All of the hotel rooms will have modern furnishings and amenities.

This casino resort will feature 10 restaurants, including a Hard Rock Cafe and Council Oak Steaks & Seafood. You can also grab a drink at one of the many lounges that will be serving delicious cocktails. You will also be able to shop at numerous retail stores, such as Rock Shop® and Unity Store.

Live music will be lifting the roof of the new casino as Hard Rock International Ottawa will have a 1,800-seat theatre with a total capacity of 4,000. Expect to see some big acts roll through the Hard Rock Live Theatre from May 2025.

FAQ

Is Hard Rock still coming to Ottawa?

Hard Rock is still coming to Ottawa. The construction was delayed due to COVID-19, but the resort is expected to open at the end of spring 2025.

Who owns Hard Rock Casino Ottawa?

Hard Rock Casino Ottawa is owned by Hard Rock International, which the Seminole Tribe of Florida owns.

When is Hard Rock Casino Ottawa's opening date?

There is no exact opening date for Hard Rock Casino Ottawa yet because the resort is still under construction. However, Hard Rock International plans to open the casino in May 2025.

How many casinos does Hard Rock International own?

Hard Rock International owns 13 casinos, 12 of which are in the US, with one in the Dominican Republic. Another four casinos, including Hard Rock Casino Ottawa, will be opened soon.

Learn more about different Canadian casinos