DraftKings Sportsbook Set to Ignite Louisiana Gaming with $270 Million Live! Casino & Hotel

Louisiana is on the cusp of a major expansion in its gaming and entertainment landscape with the upcoming opening of Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana, a $270 million project by The Cordish Companies. Scheduled to welcome guests on February 13, 2025, this new destination in Bossier City promises to be a significant draw for both locals and visitors across the Ark-La-Tex region.

DraftKings, the leading name in online sports betting, is taking a major step into the physical world with the integration of its sportsbook within Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana. Starting next week, patrons will be able to place bets in person at the casino’s Sports & Social bar and restaurant. The facility will feature convenient self-wagering kiosks alongside a staffed window for personalized assistance. This strategic partnership elevates the sports viewing and betting experience for fans.

A New Era of Entertainment in Louisiana

“With the addition of the DraftKings Sportsbook, we are elevating the experience for sports fans, connecting them to a new level of engagement across some of America’s most popular leagues, including the NFL, NBA, and more,” said John Chaszar, general manager of Live! Louisiana. “From cheering on the Dallas Cowboys to the LSU Tigers and every team in between, the new retail DraftKings Sportsbook will be an incredibly popular entertainment option for the entire Ark-La-Tex region.”

This $270 million investment has transformed a former riverboat and hotel into a state-of-the-art gaming and entertainment complex. The expanded gaming floor boasts over 47,000 square feet, offering more than 1,000 slot machines and 40 live-dealer table games. The renovation extends beyond the casino floor, encompassing 550 updated hotel rooms, a 25,000-square-foot event space, and a resort-style outdoor pool. The development also includes amenities such as The Prime Rib, a renowned steakhouse with a history dating back to 1965, and a PBR Cowboy Bar featuring live music and a mechanical bull.

Dining and Relaxation at Live! Louisiana

Guests can indulge in diverse culinary experiences at Live! Louisiana. Options include Luk Fu, an Asian-inspired restaurant, and Ridotto Grand Café, serving authentic Italian cuisine. For those planning extended stays, the casino also features an RV park with full hookups, catering to visitors from neighboring Texas.

DraftKings’ Expansion in Louisiana

Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana builds upon DraftKings’ existing presence in the state through a partnership with the Golden Nugget in Lake Charles. This expansion signifies DraftKings’ commitment to providing accessible and engaging sports betting options across Louisiana.

The Future of iGaming vs. Brick-and-Mortar

Cordish Companies, the developer behind Live! Louisiana, has publicly voiced concerns regarding the impact of online gaming (iGaming) on traditional brick-and-mortar casinos. During legislative hearings, Cordish representatives argued that iGaming can lead to reduced foot traffic and diminished revenue for physical casinos, ultimately hindering reinvestment in their properties.

However, not all industry stakeholders share this perspective. Many gaming operators, including Penn Entertainment and Boyd Gaming, believe that online gaming complements the traditional casino experience. Light & Wonder, a major supplier of gaming products, also views iGaming as an additive force, enhancing the overall gaming ecosystem.

The debate surrounding the role of online gaming in the casino industry is ongoing. For land-based casinos, a key question is how to effectively participate in the growing online market or mitigate the potential threats it poses to their businesses. The integration of DraftKings Sportsbook within Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana represents one approach to navigating this evolving landscape.

Image: The Cordish Companies

Conclusion

The opening of Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana marks a significant milestone for the gaming industry in Louisiana. With a substantial investment, diverse amenities, and the integration of DraftKings Sportsbook, this new destination promises to attract a wide range of visitors and solidify Louisiana’s position as a vibrant gaming market. While the debate surrounding iGaming continues, Live! Louisiana’s strategic move demonstrates an adaptation to the evolving landscape, offering a comprehensive entertainment experience for sports enthusiasts and casino patrons alike.