Hard Rock Casino Rockford: An Opening Act now offers live table games, in addition to more than 600 slot machines.
When An Opening Act first welcomed guests late in 2021, it only offered slot machines and electronic table games – no live table games. This was done so Hard Rock could open its doors as quickly as possible. Once dealers were trained and permission was granted by the Illinois Gaming Board, live table games would be added.
After the long wait, six live table games are now available at the Illinois casino. Here’s what guests now have access to:
- One Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em table
- One Three-Card Poker table
- Four Blackjack tables
Hard Rock’s live table games will be open from 10 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
Hard Rock listened to its guests
Hard Rock Rockford president Geno Iafrate said the casino was getting lots of requests to add table games. So they listened to which ones were most commonly asked about and used that information to decide which games to add.
“It’s probably the number one most requested amenity here,” Iafrate told 23 WIFR. “People come here from all over the place and they’re like, ‘Oh, no table games.’ But that wait’s over. You may have friends that want to play table games. You may want to play slots. Both of you can come here now.”
The gaming expansion created 20 job opportunities at An Opening Act. This raises its total number of employees to roughly 300. Plus, more positions could be added soon as Iafrate and Hard Rock continue listening to what other game types guests are looking for.
Iafrate told 13 WREX:
“As demand grows, more table games, game types and team members are inevitable. Our second Table Games Dealer School will begin soon with more to follow as we continue to add to our team”
Update on Hard Rock’s permanent casino
In the first week of April, vertical steel beams went vertical at the construction site of Hard Rock’s $310 million permanent casino. It will be located just off I-90 and State St at the former location of the Clock Tower Resort.
The project broke ground in September 2022, but experienced delays due to skyrocketing construction costs and supply chain troubles. But Iafrate said Illinois’ mild winter helped construction workers through most of the cold season.
Hard Rock officials are hoping to open the 180,000-square-foot casino as early as possible. Though, no official timetable has been announced.
Whenever it does open, patrons will be welcomed to the following amenities:
- 1,000 slot machines
- Dozens of table games
- A sportsbook
- Hard Rock Cafe along with other restaurants
- 1,800 seat entertainment venue
- A hotel
