Deadwood, SD, is getting a new casino this summer, and it’s sure to rock your socks off.
Hard Rock International’s new “Rocksino” in the historic Gold Rush town will have a grand opening on August 8. A legendary guitar smash will signify the casino’s opening.
Iowans looking to visit Mount Rushmore this summer may consider adding a 2-hour drive to the north to their plans to visit the first Hard Rock casino in South Dakota.
Hard Ordinary will have internet casinos in 10 states
Presented Deadwood’s location in southwest South Dakota, the new Rocksino should not affect Iowa’s casino industry. It is nearly 500 miles from the Iowa border. Furthermore, Iowa has its own established industry, with 23 casinos and a 35-year history. However, Iowa online casinos are still prohibited in the Hawkeye State, even though online sports betting has been a huge success since its launch in 2019.
The Rocksino simply gives Iowans another reason to visit its southwest neighbor.
South Dakota becomes the 12th state where Hard Rock operates casinos. Upon its launch, it will join the likes of casinos such as Iowa’s Hard Rock Sioux City, which has been open since September 2014.
Jon Lucas, Chief Operating Officer at Hard Rock International, said Deadwood’s Old West history attracted the company.
“Hard Rock prides itself on being able to provide authentic and memorable experiences for our guests embodied by music and rich cultural history. We are thrilled to be a part of one of the most celebrated historical places in the U.S. and provide an economic stimulus to the city of Deadwood.”
Rocksino General Manager Rich Turbiville echoed Lucas, saying Hard Rock officials felt drawn to the historic town.
“They just fell in love with the Black Hills, and they wanted to be a part of that. And with the history, the allure of Deadwood, the Gold Rush days, it just goes hand in hand with what they strive to promote worldwide.”
Fresh casino definitely will fit the positioning
Unlike some of Hard Rock’s renowned mega-resorts in Florida, Atlantic City, and Nevada, the Deadwood Rocksino will have a smaller footprint to fit its surroundings. Nestled in the heart of the iconic Black Hills, Deadwood has 20 casinos, all of which are on the smaller side. None have more than 350 slot machines.
The Rocksino will feature a boutique hotel and casino with 86 slot machines, luxury guest rooms, a full-service restaurant and bar, and a signature Hard Rock retail store.
With its entry into South Dakota, Hard Rock is taking steps to give back to the community. It announced a partnership with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which provides mortgage-free housing to injured veterans and first responders.
The partnership will benefit the Oglala Sioux Tribe Veterans Program. The company will announce further details about its involvement at the grand opening.
Hard Rock and roll brings immediate authority
Hard Rock will be the first major casino operator in Deadwood, bringing a new level of expertise as the 21st casino in the city. In addition to that, it offers a world-class experience in food, entertainment, and gambling. It will elevate the city’s standards for gaming and live shows.
Rocksino also provides additional incentives for Hard Rock gamblers from other states, including neighboring Iowa. Its loyalty program will be in effect, allowing members to earn and use points at Hard Rock properties worldwide.
While the property may not be the largest in the city, it will become a significant attraction. Some local gamblers may remain loyal to their current establishments, but most of Deadwood’s traffic comes from tourists visiting the area’s numerous attractions. Many casino-goers are familiar with and trust the Hard Rock brand, giving Rocksino an advantage from the start.
