URGENT UPDATE: The highly anticipated temporary casino by Live! Casino & Hotel in Petersburg, Virginia, is set to officially open its doors on January 22, 2026. Despite initial plans for a year-end launch, unforeseen circumstances have led to this delay, but excitement is building as preparations ramp up.
The temporary casino will feature a spacious 75,000-square-foot air-conditioned pavilion tent, equipped with approximately 900 slot machines and 33 live dealer table games. This venue aims to offer a sneak peek into the future of gaming in Virginia while the permanent facility is under construction.
Situated adjacent to the permanent casino site near Interstate 95 at Wagner Road, the temporary establishment will serve as a vital entertainment hub for gamers eager to experience the Live! Casino & Hotel brand ahead of the grand opening of the permanent venue scheduled for 2027.
The permanent facility promises an expansive gaming experience, featuring an impressive 1,600 slots, 60 gaming tables, and a sportsbook. In addition, the resort will boast eight dining and beverage options, a pool complex, a fitness center, a convention space, and a 4,000-seat theater. Depending on demand, the Cordish Companies are considering future expansions to include residences, office spaces, additional retail shops, and parks.
This initiative follows a successful campaign in 2024, when the Cordish Companies and NFL Hall of Famer Bruce Smith gained approval from Petersburg voters to establish gaming in the area. Virginia will become the fourth state where Cordish operates a casino, joining Louisiana, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.
Rob Norton, president of Cordish Gaming, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that the Virginia casino “is finally becoming a reality.” He emphasized the importance of creating a memorable experience for visitors as the region’s first full-scale casino.
As anticipation builds for the January opening, local officials and residents alike are eager to see how the temporary casino will enhance the area’s entertainment landscape. This development not only symbolizes growth for Petersburg but also marks a pivotal moment for gaming in Virginia.
Stay tuned for more updates as the countdown to the opening day begins—this is just the start of what promises to be an exciting new chapter for gaming in the region!