Penn Entertainment has proposed relocating Boomtown Casino and Hotel New Orleans to a new land-based site, pending Louisiana Gaming Control Board approval, with a targeted opening in 2029 and a $195 million investment
Penn Entertainment has announced a proposal to relocate its Boomtown Casino and Hotel New Orleans from its current riverboat operation to a new land-based facility on adjacent property. The move, which would require approval from the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, is part of a $195 million investment plan and would see the property rebranded as Hollywood Casino New Orleans. If approved, the new casino is expected to open in 2029.
Regulatory Approval and State Law
The proposed relocation is not yet final. Under Louisiana law, riverboat casinos may move onto land within 1,200 feet of their original mooring if they can demonstrate economic development benefits. The Louisiana Gaming Control Board has previously approved similar moves for five other licensees, but each application is reviewed individually. As of June 2026, Penn Entertainment's plan for Boomtown Casino and Hotel New Orleans remains under regulatory review, with no final decision or construction start date confirmed.
Project Details and Market Impact
The planned Hollywood Casino New Orleans would feature approximately 140,000 square feet of new development, according to Penn Entertainment. The company expects to fund the project primarily with cash on hand, though it may consider other financing options if needed. This would be Penn's fourth land-based relocation in recent years, following similar projects in Illinois and Iowa. The company has stated that the new facility is intended to improve the customer experience and strengthen its competitive position in the New Orleans market, but actual player-facing changes will depend on final regulatory approval and the eventual design of the property.
Current Status and Next Steps
At present, Boomtown Casino and Hotel New Orleans continues to operate as a riverboat casino. The Louisiana Gaming Control Board has not yet issued a public timeline for reviewing or deciding on Penn Entertainment's relocation request. If the project is approved, construction would begin at a later date, with the company targeting a 2029 opening. Until regulatory approval is granted, no changes to the casino's operations or player offerings are expected.
In Louisiana, the distinction between riverboat and land-based casinos is governed by state law and regulatory oversight. Riverboat casinos were originally authorized under the Louisiana Riverboat Economic Development and Gaming Control Act of 1991, with later amendments allowing limited land-based relocations. Regulatory approval is required for any move, and the process involves demonstrating economic benefits and compliance with location restrictions. For players, the main difference between riverboat and land-based casinos typically involves facility design, amenities, and accessibility, rather than changes to available games or betting limits.
