It’s a major first—not just for Canada, but for Ottawa. While flashy developments like this usually head straight for Toronto, this time the spotlight’s on the capital. That’s right—Ottawa is shaking off its “city that fun forgot” label in style. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, in partnership with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG), is turning up the volume with a brand-new, world-class entertainment destination that’s set to electrify the city like never before.
“This is more than a launch — it’s the start of something incredible for our city; our capital!” says Christine Crump, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa. “July 3 will mark the beginning of festivities, infused with legendary Hard Rock energy and an Oh! Canada! feel.”
The state-of-the-art resort will feature a sleek hotel design with 150 rooms, including 22 suites. The expanded gaming floor will house 1,500 slot machines, up to 40 live-action table games, and exclusive high-limit gaming options. Culinary experiences will abound with more than 10 restaurants, bars, and lounges—including the iconic Hard Rock Cafe and the upscale Council Oak Steakhouse.
As the launch approaches, Hard Rock hosted hiring events to fill 700 new positions, marking a significant economic boost for Ottawa. Since the addition of gaming in February 2000, the city has received approximately $6 million annually—and more than $106 million in total payments—for hosting Rideau Carleton Casino.
“The economic benefits resulting from this expansion will help drive the local economy and will undoubtedly become a tourist hot spot,” said Duncan Hannay, President and CEO of Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). Rideau Carleton Casino is operated by Hard Rock International under the governance of OLG.
Ottawa’s nighttime economy has struggled in recent years, but the new Hard Rock Live venue—boasting a 2,200-person capacity, just above the NAC’s Southam Hall’s 2,065—aims to change that. The Grand Opening will feature a week of Canadian talent in a star-studded entertainment lineup, details of which will be announced soon.
“Hard Rock is more than just a brand—it’s an experience,” says Crump. And that experience extends far beyond gaming and music. Guests can look forward to curated memorabilia, nightlife, and ongoing live entertainment—anchoring the property as a cultural hub in the region.
Hard Rock International, known globally for its 300 locations in 80 countries, began with an Eric Clapton guitar. Today, it owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia, with more than 88,000 pieces displayed worldwide.
The community impact doesn’t end with jobs and tourism. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is also investing in the local community through nonprofit partnerships and sponsorships. It is already a proud sponsor of the Ottawa PWHL team, the Ottawa Charge, who made their first trip to the Walter Cup finals this past May.
Following the July opening, renovations will begin on the original Rideau Carleton building, with full completion and integration, including additional gaming areas and restaurants, anticipated by the end of 2025.
For more details on the resort and the July 3rd grand opening festivities, visit hardrockottawa.com and make sure to follow them on Instagram @hrhcottawa.
