written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
03 Mar 2023
Journalist, Editorial Department
One of the leading casino operators in the United States, Caesars Entertainment, has provided an update on its plans for its first property in Nebraska, set to open next year in Columbus. According to the latest information, Harrah’s will feature a casino spanning approximately 26,000 square feet, equipped with over 500 slot machines and 14 table games. A sportsbook is also planned for the venue. Compared to the initial plans from 2021, the number of slot machines has increased, while the number of table games has decreased.
Visitors to Harrah’s will have access to a bar named Wishbones and a restaurant called Brew Brothers. Additionally, two Marriott hotels, Fairfield Inn and TownePlace Suites, will be constructed adjacent to the casino.
Todd Connelly, regional president of Caesars Entertainment, stated in a press release, “We are excited to launch a brand new destination in the great state of Nebraska.” Connelly also noted that the casino is expected to open in the first half of 2024, alongside a new one-mile racetrack, which will be the longest in Nebraska.
It is worth mentioning that the opening of casinos at licensed racetracks in the state became possible in 2020. However, it wasn't until two years later that the first temporary establishments began to emerge in Lincoln and Grand Island. WarHorse Gaming is currently building casinos in Lincoln and Omaha, with construction expected to take 18 months. At Fonner Park, Elite Casino Resorts will begin work on the Grand Island Casino Resort, but only after the Nebraska State Fair, which will take place this summer.
As a result, Harrah’s could become the first permanent casino in the region. While construction is underway, Caesars plans to establish a temporary Harrah’s venue with over 200 slot machines at the existing Ag Park in Columbus, aiming to open it this spring.
Notably, Full House Resorts is implementing the Synkros casino management system at American Place.
