Bally’s Baton Rouge Casino Opens Following $140 Million Transformation

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Bally's Baton Rouge, new casino opens

Bally’s has repositioned the former Belle of Baton Rouge in Louisiana as a 25,000-square-foot, land-based casino after a $140 million redevelopment. The casino reopens with plans to revive the riverfront entertainment district and broaden its appeal, according to Action Network.

Key Takeaways

  • Bally’s Baton Rouge transforms from riverboat to a 25,000-square-foot, land-based casino with a $140 million investment
  • The redevelopment includes new gaming floors, dining options and hotel upgrades
  • Community and local officials see the reopening as a catalyst for downtown revitalization

The shift continues the company’s broader rebranding and modernization strategy for the property, which began when Bally’s first moved to retire the Belle name and bring the site fully under the Bally’s banner. 

The project moved gaming from the riverboat to a permanent footprint, added a 500-space parking structure and fully renovated the attached hotel, now offering about 240 rooms and upgraded amenities.

New Entertainment Lineup Drives Economic Lift

Bally’s reports that the gaming floor hosts more than 700 slot machines, multiple table games, a sportsbook and expanded F&B options including an oyster bar, wine bar and open-air terrace. The venue also includes a luxury gaming lounge and a designated smoking bar. 

The operator projects significant revenue upside given recent local precedents, with similar casino openings in the region having delivered strong post-investment uplift. The redevelopment has generated roughly 350 new jobs, bringing the workforce to more than 500 and contributing over $250 million in combined local investment.

Locals Welcome Casino Opening Amid Hopes for Economic Momentum

Local staff and officials welcomed the redevelopment and casino reopening. Speaking to WAFB, longtime employee Wendie Green said, “This is a totally different atmosphere, this is beautiful, I was just waiting for a company to come in and do just what Bally’s has done.” 

City leaders are treating the launch as a catalyst for downtown revitalization.