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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa officially opens
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa has officially opened.
The hotel opened on July 3. Located in the heart of the National Capital Region, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa offers guests an experience with a full-service hotel, reimagined gaming floor, multiple dining destinations, Hard Rock Live entertainment venue, and signature Hard Rock amenities.
The new destination features 150 guest rooms, including 22 luxury suites, more than 150,000 sq. ft. of entertainment and gaming space, 1,500 slot machines, up to 40 table games, a high-limit gaming area and 10 restaurants and bars—including the iconic Hard Rock Cafe and the award-winning Council Oak Steaks & Seafood. The property will also include the Rock Shop/Unity Store where customers can purchase Hard Rock branded merchandise using their Unity loyalty points.
The grand opening festivities kicked off with the Canadian Tenors' rendition of “O Canada,” followed by the brand's signature Guitar Smash—a modern take on the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony. Executives, dignitaries, and community leaders took the stage to ceremoniously smash guitars, signaling the official opening of the entertainment destination.
"Ottawa is a milestone moment for us. It's our first fully integrated resort in Canada and a key step in our global growth strategy," says Jim Allen, chairman, Hard Rock International. "This property will not only attract international visitors but also support the local economy and enhance the region's entertainment offerings."
The property also continues to operate as the Rideau Carleton Casino, and renovations will begin on the original building—with full completion and integration to be expected by the end of 2025, including additional gaming areas and restaurants.
In addition to top-tier amenities, the property will serve as a cultural anchor in the region. It will create 700 local jobs, and support community initiatives through nonprofit partnerships and local sponsorships.
"At OLG, we are proud of the partnership that we have with Hard Rock International and the City of Ottawa. We have been working closely with them to unveil this premier destination, including a newly designed, full-service PlaySmart Centre. The economic benefits resulting from this expansion will help drive the local economy and will undoubtedly become a tourist hot spot,” says Duncan Hannay, OLG president and CEO.
