Concerts in Hollywood Casino Joliet

Experience Hollywood Casino Joliet

Hollywood Casino Joliet, originally the Empress River Casino, opened in 1994 as a permanently docked riverboat casino on the Des Plaines River. Built to resemble a 19th-century paddlewheeler, though lacking actual propulsion, its Victorian-inspired architecture initially drew significant attention. Penn National Gaming acquired the casino in 2018 and rebranded it as Hollywood Casino Joliet.

Beyond gaming, the venue is a prominent entertainment destination featuring a 1,100-seat showroom regularly hosting nationally touring acts. The space leans heavily towards classic rock, country, and tribute bands, but also accommodates comedy shows and Latin music performances. It’s become a key stop for artists bypassing Chicago’s larger arenas for more intimate performances.

Unique to the area, the casino's location offers river views alongside entertainment. While not historically significant as a *music* venue prior to its casino iteration, it has quickly established itself as a consistent provider of live music within the Joliet area’s cultural landscape, offering an alternative to venues in nearby cities. Amenities include multiple dining options and a hotel connected to the casino floor.