Hard Rock Hotel & Casino-Bristol: Grand Opening with Blake Shelton

Photo bycourtesy of Hard Rock Bristol

BRISTOL, Va. – The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol, Virginia’s first casino, is set to open the doors to its permanent facility on Nov. 14, 2024. The grand opening will feature a concert by country music superstar Blake Shelton, marking a milestone for the Tri-Cities region.

Located at 500 Gate City Highway, the new 620,000-square-foot resort will open to the public at noon, following a signature Hard Rock Guitar Smash ceremony. The resort will house nearly 1,500 slot machines, over 50 table games, a sportsbook, and a 303-room hotel. The venue will also offer dining options, including the Hard Rock Cafe, Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, and YOUYU Asian Dining, as well as a 2,000-plus-seat Hard Rock Live entertainment venue.

“We are thrilled to open Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol,” said Jon Lucas, COO of Hard Rock International. “Hard Rock’s rich history fits perfectly with Bristol’s distinction as the ‘Birthplace of Country Music.’ This new facility will serve as a major entertainment destination, offering world-class gaming, food, and live performances.”

The casino results from a partnership between The United Company and Par Ventures. Jim McGlothlin, chairman of The United Company, and Clyde Stacy, president of Par Ventures, celebrated the casino's impact on the region in a joint statement.

“The opening of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol is a pivotal milestone for the city of Bristol and the entire Tri-Cities region,” the statement read. “This project has created new jobs, generated tax revenue, and provided a much-needed economic boost.”

Since its temporary opening as the “Bristol Casino — Future Home of Hard Rock” in July 2022, the casino has welcomed over 3 million guests, paid over $66 million in gaming taxes, and donated nearly $1 million to local nonprofits. The facility has also spent over $260 million in jackpots and promoted over 600 team members.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will offer various entertainment options, with Blake Shelton’s grand opening performance underscoring the venue’s commitment to live music. Shelton, a Grand Ole Opry member and multiple award-winning artist, has sold over 52 million singles and won six ACM awards.

“I am so proud of everyone who has helped us prepare for this grand opening,” said Allie Evangelista, president of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. “Our team’s hard work and the community’s support have been incredible, and we look forward to offering the best in entertainment and dining for all visitors.”

Visit Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol's website for tickets to Shelton’s concert and more information about the new resort Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol’swebsite.