Accel Entertainment, a prominent gaming solutions provider, marked a significant milestone with the soft opening of its inaugural Illinois casino, Fairmount Park Casino & Racing. The grand unveiling on April 18th showcased a state-of-the-art 12,000 sq. ft. facility featuring a range of cutting-edge slots and electronic table games.
Located at 9301 Collinsville Rd., Fairmount Park offers more than just gaming amenities. The venue boasts new concessions, a FanDuel Sportsbook, and a one-mile dirt oval horse-racing track, alongside substantial upgrades to the racing infrastructure. This venture represents a convergence of entertainment options that cater to diverse preferences.
Vince Gabbert, Senior VP of US Gaming and General Manager at Fairmount Park Casino & Racing, expressed enthusiasm for the opening, emphasizing the dedication of the team in realizing this project. The unveiling coincides with the racetrack’s centennial celebrations, underscoring the rich history of Fairmount Park while paving the way for an exciting future.
Furthermore, Fairmount Park has forged a partnership with the esteemed Fifty/50 Hospitality Group to enhance its culinary offerings. Guests can now enjoy an expanded food and beverage selection, with three new concessions and a full-service restaurant and bar slated to open in June. This collaboration underscores a commitment to providing a holistic entertainment experience for patrons.
As the racing season kicks off on April 22, Fairmount Park anticipates a vibrant start with gates opening to the public at 9 am and the first race scheduled for 1:30 pm. The festivities are set to commence with a thrilling display by skydivers, adding an extra element of excitement to the event.
Andy Rubenstein, CEO of Accel, acknowledged the collaborative effort that brought the project to fruition in under five months, attributing its success to the guidance and support of regulatory bodies and local authorities. The seamless execution of the casino and park enhancements underscores the commitment to creating a premier entertainment destination in the Metro East Area.
With a focus on enhancing the overall guest experience, the partnership with Fifty/50 Hospitality Group not only expands culinary offerings but also positions Fairmount Park as a venue capable of hosting corporate events and casual gatherings. This strategic move aligns with the evolving demands of the entertainment industry, catering to a diverse clientele.
Jose Del Pozo, an iGaming analyst with extensive industry experience, commended the developments at Fairmount Park, highlighting the significance of this launch within the iGaming market. His insights underscore the transformative impact of such initiatives on the broader gaming landscape, signaling a shift towards more immersive and integrated entertainment experiences.