Ellis Island Hotel-Casino Embarks on Major Expansion Project

In a bid to enhance its gaming offerings and entertainment experience, Ellis Island Hotel & Casino, situated off the bustling Las Vegas Strip, has commenced a significant expansion project. The family-owned establishment is set to undergo a transformation, knocking down walls to create more space for its patrons.

Planning Documents Reveal Ellis Island Casino’s 6,415 Square Feet Expansion

According to planning documents submitted to Clark County, the expansion plan outlines the addition of 6,415 square feet to the property, reported The Las Vegas Review-Journal. Among the features of the remodel are a larger casino floor, an audio/visual equipment area, a dedicated sportsbook back-of-house area, and a south service entrance vestibule.

Christina Ellis, vice president of development at Ellis Island Hotel & Casino, conveyed her excitement for the project, emphasizing that the renovation presents a chance to elevate the gaming and entertainment experience while also paying tribute to the establishment’s history and heritage.

As part of the expansion, the existing 2,800-square-foot microbrewery on the premises has been demolished to make room for the new structure. Once completed, the revamped establishment will boast closer proximity to the sidewalk and include rooftop access, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the Las Vegas skyline.

Ellis Island Hotel & Casino Eyes Winter 2025 for Completion

Officials at Ellis Island Hotel & Casino anticipate that the project will be finalized within eight to ten months, with an expected completion date in winter 2025. Anamarie Ellis, the vice president of operations, highlighted the significance of the endeavor, especially as the hotel-casino approaches its 56th anniversary. 

The site, nestled on Koval Lane near Flamingo Road, has been operated by the Ellis family since 1967, gradually expanding its operations over the years. Notable milestones include the acquisition of the adjacent hotel and the establishment of the Front Yard, a popular beer garden with on-site brewing facilities, which opened its doors in 2019.

The expansion project marks a strategic move by Ellis Island Hotel & Casino to stay competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of Las Vegas entertainment and hospitality. 

While some Las Vegas casinos are expanding, others are being demolished. Bally’s Corporation prepares to implode the Tropicana Casino Hotel in Las Vegas by the end of the year, pending necessary permits for implosion, including dust control and asbestos abatement. The iconic property, which opened in 1957 and closed in 2024, faces concerns over Bally’s financial position amidst plans for redevelopment.