Hard Rock International is coming to Canada for the first time!
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Ottawa is set to open its doors on July 3 and become the iconic brand’s first land-based casino in Canada.
With the growth of gambling in Ontario, especially Ontario online casinos, there’s lots of opportunties for new operators to cash in – in both land-based and online casinos.
In a press release released by Hard Rock International, the company announced the news with the promise of “turning up the volume in the Canadian Capital.”
Doors will open at 1pm for a venue located in the heart of the National Capital Region, with a capacity of up to 2,200 people.
Jim Allen, who is the chairman of Hard Rock International, said: “Ottawa is a milestone moment for us. It’s our first fully integrated resort in Canada and a key step in our global strategy.
“This property will not only attract international visitors but also the local economy and enhance the region’s entertainment offerings.”
The site will boast more than 150,000 square feet of entertainment and gaming space which will host 1,500 slot machines and up to 40 table games.
Visitors that will want to stay overnight can enjoy one of the 150 hotel rooms or 22 luxury suites on site, as well as having the choice to grab refreshments at one of the 10 bars or restaurants.
Before then, the site will host a grand opening party with a star-studded line-up at its performance venue that can host 1,800 seated visitors and 400 standing.
“Hard Rock knows how to throw a grand opening party!” stated Christine Crump, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa.
“July 3 will mark the beginning of festivities, infused with legendary Hard Rock energy and an Oh! Canada! Feel, this is more than a launch – it’s the start of something incredible for our city which is our capital!”
Growing gambling popularity in Ontario
It’s a jurisdiction that is rapidly growing in popularity when it comes to gambling. Ontario’s online gambling revenue in April 2025 saw figures increase by 25.3% year-on-year to CA$313.3m.
Online casino gaming was shown to be an even greater increase, up 35.6% from last year to CA$242.8m in April this year.
With evidence of the gambling market growing in Ontario, it’s no wonder one of the world’s biggest and most-loved land-based casino brands is coming to the Canadian province.
Hard Rock International also stated that the new site will employ up to 700 people once completed. In addition, they will ‘continue the tradition of community investment through local sponsorships and nonprofit partnerships, enhancing the lives of residents and visitors alike.’
As well as the job creation and charitable donations, the first land-based Hard Rock casino in Canada shows the importance of offline iGaming and the opportunities the established brand sees in the country.
With revenues growing, it’s sure to be a popular destination for casino enthusiasts all over the world. And who better to host the party than Hard Rock!
