After 10 Years, This Kansas Casino Finally Gets Its Hotel

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-09-27

You know that feeling when you've been waiting for something for so long that you almost forget it was ever supposed to happen? That's pretty much been the story at Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway. For over a decade, a hotel was promised. And for over a decade, nothing happened. Until now. On Friday, September 25, 2026, Kansas Entertainment finally broke ground on a hotel next to the casino in Kansas City, Kansas. It's a moment that's been a long time coming, and honestly, it comes with a twist. ### A Smaller Hotel Than Originally Planned Here's the thing: the original agreement called for a 250-room hotel. That never got built. Instead, what's going up now is a roughly 140-room boutique property called The Dotte. It's smaller, yes, but sometimes smaller means better. Boutique hotels tend to focus on personality, service, and a more intimate feel. So while it's not the massive hotel some might have expected, it could end up being exactly what the area needs. Kansas Entertainment is a joint venture between PENN Entertainment and NASCAR, and they hosted the groundbreaking ceremony. The hotel is expected to open in 2028. ### Why This Matters for Casino Visitors If you've ever been to Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway, you know the drill. You drive in, you play, you eat, and then you drive home. There's nothing wrong with that, but a hotel changes the whole experience. It turns a day trip into a weekend getaway. It gives out-of-town visitors a reason to stay longer and explore more. Think about it from a practical standpoint: - No more worrying about driving home after a long night - Easier access for visitors coming from out of state - More time to enjoy the casino, the racetrack, and everything else nearby - A boutique hotel adds a touch of style that a standard chain property might not The Dotte isn't just a place to sleep. It's a signal that this area is growing and evolving. And for anyone who loves casino gaming, that's a good thing. ### The Bigger Picture Kansas has been making moves in the casino and sports betting world for a while now. The state legalized sports betting back in 2022, and venues like Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway have been part of that wave. Adding a hotel is the next logical step. It's what successful casino destinations do. They create an ecosystem where people want to spend time, not just pass through. "Sometimes the best things take time," as the old saying goes. In this case, it took more than a decade. But 2028 isn't that far away, and when The Dotte opens its doors, it'll mark a new chapter for the casino and the surrounding community. ### What to Expect by 2028 We don't have all the details yet about what The Dotte will include. Boutique hotels often have unique amenities, maybe a rooftop bar, a cozy lobby, or a restaurant with a local flair. If you're planning a trip to the Kansas City area in a couple of years, this could be a spot worth checking out. For now, the groundbreaking is a promise kept, even if it's a smaller one than originally planned. And in a world where big promises often go unfulfilled, that counts for something. So keep an eye on Kansas City. The Dotte is coming, and it might just change how people experience Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway.