Harrah's Columbus: Nebraska's First Permanent Casino Opens Its Doors

Key Takeaways:

• Grand Opening: Harrah’s Columbus marks a milestone as Nebraska's first permanent casino, launching this Friday.
• Gaming Variety: Offering live dealer tables for blackjack, electronic gaming machines, and a sportsbook, it's a big win for local gamblers.
• Beyond Gaming: The venue also features a Caesars Sportsbook, a one-mile horse racing track, a sports bar, and a brewpub restaurant.

COLUMBUS, Neb. – This Friday, Nebraska's gaming landscape will forever change with the grand opening of Harrah's Columbus, the state's first permanent casino. Set to offer a wide range of gaming options including slots, blackjack, roulette, and more table games, this venue promises to be a haven for both seasoned and casual gamblers alike.

For years, Nebraskans have had access to legal online blackjack, but the demand for a brick-and-mortar casino experience has finally been met. Alongside the thrill of the games, visitors can also enjoy the Caesars Sportsbook, a one-mile horse racing track, a sports bar, and a brewpub restaurant, making it more than just a place to gamble.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Set For 9:50 a.m. ET On Friday

The official opening of Harrah's Columbus, NE Racing & Casino is scheduled for 10 a.m. ET this Friday. The anticipation will peak with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:50 a.m. ET, signaling the start of a new era in Nebraska's gaming and entertainment scene.

Tom Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment, expressed his excitement about the launch, emphasizing the synergy between Caesars' vast experience in the casino industry and their commitment to horse racing. "When Nebraska voters opened up gaming at racetracks, we knew that Harrah's was a perfect fit," Reeg stated. The integration into the Caesars Rewards network is also expected to enhance the gaming experience for visitors.

The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission has shown its support by selecting Caesars for the state's first permanent casino venture. With 17,000 square feet of gaming space, approximately 500 slot machines, and 14 live dealer tables offering a variety of games including blackjack, craps, poker, and roulette, the Harrah's Columbus is set to become a landmark destination.

Adjacent to the casino, construction of a Marriott hotel is underway, expanding the entertainment complex. Although Harrah’s Columbus has clarified that they do not own the hotel, its proximity will undoubtedly serve as a convenient lodging option for visitors.

As Nebraska welcomes its first permanent casino, Harrah's Columbus is poised to become a cornerstone of entertainment in the state, offering a unique blend of gaming excitement and leisure amenities. The anticipation is high as the community and future visitors await the opening of what promises to be a game-changer in Nebraska's entertainment landscape.