American Place Casino Breaks Ground on Permanent Site

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-06-02

Full House Resorts and American Place Casino are officially launching construction on their permanent casino in Waukegan, Illinois. The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM. The event will take place on the 42-acre site east of the temporary facility. It will feature remarks from key leadership and local officials, including Daniel Lee, CEO of Full House Resorts; Jeff Babinski, Vice President and General Manager of American Place Casino; and Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham. ### What This Means for Waukegan This project is a big deal for the local community. The permanent casino will bring hundreds of jobs to the area. Construction alone will create work for local contractors and laborers. Once open, the casino will need dealers, waitstaff, security, and management. That means steady employment for many families. Beyond jobs, the casino will generate tax revenue for the city. Waukegan can use that money to improve schools, roads, and public services. It's a win-win for everyone involved.  ### The Design and Features The new facility will be a modern, full-service casino. It will span over 100,000 square feet. That's about the size of two football fields. Inside, you'll find slot machines, table games, and a poker room. There will also be a restaurant and bar for guests to enjoy. The design focuses on comfort and convenience. Wide aisles, good lighting, and plenty of seating make it easy to relax. The layout is meant to feel open and inviting, not cramped or confusing. ### A Look at the Timeline Construction is expected to take about 18 months. That puts the grand opening sometime in late 2027. The temporary casino will stay open during construction. So players won't miss a beat. - Groundbreaking: June 3, 2026 - Construction phase: 18 months - Expected opening: Late 2027 ### What Makes This Casino Special American Place Casino isn't just another gaming spot. It's part of a larger trend in the industry. More casinos are focusing on creating a complete experience. That means good food, entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere. The permanent facility will also have more space for events. That could mean concerts, comedy shows, or private parties. It's about giving people a reason to visit beyond just gambling. ### The Bigger Picture This project is a sign of growth for the region. Illinois has been expanding its gaming options in recent years. New casinos are popping up in places like Chicago and Rockford. American Place Casino is part of that wave. For Waukegan, this is a chance to revitalize the lakefront area. The 42-acre site has been empty for years. Now it will become a destination for entertainment and tourism. ### What Players Can Expect If you've visited the temporary casino, you know the vibe. Friendly staff, clean facilities, and a fun atmosphere. The permanent casino will take that to the next level. - More slot machines and table games - A dedicated poker room - Better dining options - Improved parking and access It's all about making the experience better for guests. ### Final Thoughts The groundbreaking is just the beginning. This project will take time, but the result will be worth it. American Place Casino is investing in Waukegan. And that investment will pay off for years to come. Stay tuned for updates as construction progresses. This is one of the most exciting developments in Illinois gaming right now.