Key Highlights
- On April 28, Genting’s Resorts World launched NYC’s inaugural full-service casino featuring live table games at its Queens location beside Aqueduct Racetrack
- The venue expanded beyond its slots-only format from 2011 to now include Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and Poker tables
- Among three approved casino licenses, Resorts World became the first operational site, while Bally’s Bronx and Hard Rock Metropolitan target 2030 launches
- This launch represents the initial stage of an ambitious $5.5 billion transformation plan featuring 6,000 slot machines, 800 gaming tables, over 30 dining venues, and 2,000 hotel accommodations
- Queens native rapper Nas headlined the launch celebration following extensive lobbying campaigns and regulatory proceedings that culminated in December 2024 license awards
For the first time, New York City residents can enjoy authentic casino table gaming without venturing beyond city limits. Genting’s Resorts World unveiled the metropolis’s maiden full-service casino in Queens on April 28.
Situated adjacent to Aqueduct Racetrack—a facility slated for closure—Resorts World has maintained a slot machine-exclusive venue at this location since 2011.
The expanded operation now features live dealer action across multiple gaming categories: Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and Poker. Professional dealers staff the gaming floor, delivering an authentic casino atmosphere.
Resorts World Queens claims the distinction of being the inaugural venue among three recently licensed establishments approved by New York’s Gaming Commission. These authorizations were granted in December of the previous year.
The remaining two licensed properties—Bally’s facility in the Bronx and Steve Cohen’s Hard Rock Metropolitan, also situated in Queens—anticipate 2030 opening dates.
Massive $5.5 Billion Transformation Underway
The present launch constitutes merely the opening phase of an extensive development initiative. The comprehensive redevelopment of the Aqueduct location represents a $5.5 billion investment.
Upon completion, the entertainment complex will house 6,000 slot machines alongside 800 table games. The development will also incorporate more than 30 restaurant concepts and accommodate 2,000 hotel guests.
Queens-native hip-hop artist Nas headlined the inaugural ceremony, delivering his classic track “If I Ruled The World (Imagine That)” for attendees.
Patrons present at the debut expressed enthusiasm about accessing legitimate casino gaming within city boundaries. One participant shared with the New York Times that the energy surpassed other gambling venues due to the authentic New York City vibe.
Another visitor noted the lengthy anticipation for this moment, emphasizing that residents prefer avoiding two-hour drives to distant casinos.
Extended Campaign and Regulatory Challenges
The journey toward authorized casino operations in New York City proved lengthy and complex. State regulators initially approved full-scale casino development within city limits in 2013.
What ensued were years of advocacy campaigns, litigation, and public debate. Gaming industry titans competed intensely for the limited trio of available authorizations.
Wynn Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and MGM Resorts International numbered among the corporate contenders. These organizations invested tens of millions in lobbying expenditures.
High-profile endorsements influenced the selection process significantly. Nas, Jay-Z, and civil rights advocate Rev. Al Sharpton represented some of the prominent personalities supporting different proposals.
The rivalry intensified due to the restriction of just three licenses for the entire New York City market. Each applicant recognized the city as an enormous untapped gambling territory.
Community members and elected officials debated the advantages and concerns of introducing casinos to the city throughout this extended period. The proceedings attracted international gambling industry attention.
New York’s Gaming Commission ultimately granted the three authorizations in December 2024. Resorts World executed the fastest timeline, launching live table gaming operations on April 28.
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