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Local Spotlight: The All-New Hollywood Casino & Hotel Aurora

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Saturday, July 25, 2026 5:33PM
Local Spotlight: The All-New Hollywood Casino & Hotel Aurora
The all-new Hollywood Casino & Hotel Aurora is now open.
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AURORA, Ill. (WLS) -- A new era of entertainment has arrived in Aurora.

For decades, Hollywood Casino Aurora has been part of the region's entertainment story. Now, that story enters an exciting new chapter with the opening of the all-new Hollywood Casino & Hotel Aurora - a modern destination designed to bring together luxury accommodations, celebrity-driven dining, premier entertainment, wellness experiences, and exciting gaming all under one roof. Conveniently located just off Interstate 88 near Chicago Premium Outlets, the all-new experience offers guests a fresh way to play, stay, dine, and unwind.

Stay in the Spotlight: A Brand-New Hotel Experience

At the heart of the new destination is the stunning seven-story hotel featuring 226 guest rooms, including 200 modern rooms and 26 stylish suites designed with comfort, convenience, and contemporary luxury in mind. Guests can enjoy oversized windows, premium bedding, spa-inspired amenities, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and seamless access to the destinations many amenities.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a staycation close to home, the hotel delivers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. From room service and premium amenities to gaming, dining, and entertainment just steps away, every stay feels like a VIP experience.

Drift Spa: Your Escape to Hollywood Glamour

Adding a completely new dimension to the Aurora experience is Drift Spa Aurora, a full-service wellness destination where beauty, relaxation, and self-care take center stage. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating facials, soothing massages, professional hair styling, flawless makeup applications, nail services, waxing treatments, and more.

Designed as a tranquil retreat from everyday life, Drift Spa combines luxurious surroundings with personalized service to help guests look and feel their best. Whether preparing for a special evening or simply taking time to recharge, Drift Spa brings a touch of Hollywood glamour to every visit.

Year-Round Entertainment & Event Venue

The excitement extends well beyond the gaming floor. Guests can enjoy live performances at &Vine, one of the property's premier entertainment venues, featuring an ever-changing lineup of live music and performances throughout the year.

For larger events, the Event Center offers more than 12,350 square feet of flexible event space and can accommodate up to 1,200 guests. Designed to host everything from concerts and comedy shows to weddings, galas, meetings, and corporate events, the venue features a built-in stage, soaring ceilings, a private entrance, pre-function space, and a dedicated green room for talent and VIPs.

In addition to the main event space, the Event Center includes four private breakout rooms, providing added flexibility for conferences, training sessions, board meetings, and executive gatherings. For those looking to host an event outdoors, the Courtyard offers a vibrant open-air setting that regularly features free live entertainment and is also available to rent for private celebrations, receptions, and special events. Together, these versatile spaces make Hollywood Casino & Hotel Aurora one of the western suburbs' premier destinations for meetings, events, and entertainment.

A Dining Destination Unlike Anything in Aurora

With nine dining and beverage experiences across the property, Hollywood Casino & Hotel Aurora offers something for every craving.

Sorella by Giada

Leading the culinary lineup is Sorella by Giada, the highly anticipated restaurant from celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis. Blending authentic Italian traditions with fresh California influences, Sorella delivers an elevated dining experience featuring handcrafted pastas, premium steaks, fresh seafood, artisan pizzas, and signature cocktails in a beautifully designed setting. The restaurant's warm atmosphere and sophisticated menu make it a must-visit destination for food lovers throughout Chicagoland.

Red Lotus Asian Kitchen

For guests seeking bold Asian-inspired flavors, Red Lotus Asian Kitchen offers a menu of favorites served in a stylish, contemporary atmosphere. Conveniently located on the casino floor, Red Lotus provides an ideal stop for lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite.

The Sportsbook Restaurant

Sports fans can catch every major game while enjoying elevated food and beverage offerings at The Sportsbook Restaurant. Combining the energy of game day with a comfortable dining atmosphere, it's the perfect place to cheer on your favorite team, enjoy great food, and stay connected to all the action.

The Boulevard Food & Drink Hall

The Boulevard Food & Drink Hall serves as the property's vibrant social dining destination, bringing together some of Chicagoland's most celebrated culinary brands and chef-driven concepts under one roof. Designed as an all-ages gathering space, Boulevard offers guests a variety of dining experiences ranging from quick bites and casual meals to chef-inspired creations and handcrafted cocktails.

Featured concepts within The Boulevard include:

- Lucky Goat - A signature burger concept from James Beard Award-winning chef Stephanie Izard, featuring gourmet burgers, chicken sandwiches, loaded fries, and elevated comfort food favorites.
- Antique Taco - The beloved Chicago favorite known for its fresh ingredients, inventive tacos, and chef-inspired street food creations.
- Urbanbelly - Originally opened in Chicago by renowned Chef Bill Kim and his wife Yvonne Cádiz
- Kim in 2008, features a creative, yet familiar menu of dumplings, noodles and more Korean-American dishes
- Tabu Sushi - Brings back the popular counter-service restaurant by James Beard Award-winning chef Takashi Yagihashi, formerly located in the Wells Street Market downtown Chicago.
- Five50 Pizza - Handcrafted pizzas, shareable plates, and casual favorites served fresh throughout the day.
-Pretty Cool Ice Cream - A cult-favorite Chicago dessert destination serving handcrafted frozen treats and imaginative ice cream novelties.
- Dailies - Sip on expertly brewed, rich coffee sourced from our coffee partner Big Shoulders Coffee, savor a variety of fresh-from-the-oven pastries, and enjoy the perfect blend of cozy ambiance and delicious flavors.
- The Boulevard Bar - The centerpiece of the hall, featuring craft cocktails, local brews, wine selections, and a lively social atmosphere.

Together, these concepts create one of the most exciting culinary destinations in the western suburbs, blending celebrity-chef talent, iconic Chicago brands, international flavors, and casual favorites into a single dynamic experience. Whether guests are craving sushi, tacos, noodles, burgers, pizza, handcrafted desserts, or cocktails, The Boulevard delivers a world of flavor that perfectly complements the all-new Hollywood Casino & Hotel Aurora experience.

An All-New Gaming Experience

Built from the ground up as a modern entertainment destination, the new property delivers a dramatically enhanced gaming experience. Guests will find approximately 1,000 slot machines, live table games, a sportsbook, and exciting gaming action available 24 hours a day. Designed with contemporary finishes, improved sightlines, and a spacious layout, the casino floor creates an energetic atmosphere that elevates every visit.

Conveniently Located for Chicagoland and Beyond

Located at 2500 N. Farnsworth Ave., just off Interstate 88, Hollywood Casino & Hotel Aurora offers unparalleled accessibility for guests from across the western suburbs, Chicagoland, and surrounding Midwest communities. Positioned adjacent to Chicago Premium Outlets and within easy reach of major transportation routes, this entertainment destination makes it easy to turn an ordinary night out into an unforgettable getaway.

The New Hollywood Has Arrived

From luxurious overnight stays and indulgent spa experiences to celebrity chef dining, live entertainment, exciting gaming, and unforgettable events, the all-new Hollywood Casino & Hotel Aurora is redefining entertainment in the region.

Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a concert night with friends, a memorable dinner, or your next big celebration, one thing is certain-Aurora's premiere destination was built to put every guest in the spotlight.

The all-new Hollywood Casino & Hotel Aurora is now open and ready to welcome guests 24/7. Book your stay today!

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