Illinois: Full House Resorts' temporary Waukegan casino opens today

Full House Resorts announced it is opening its temporary Waukegan casino The Temporary by American Place today, February 17. The opening activities are expected to begin with a private VIP reception at 5 pm. At approximately 8 pm, Chicagoland’s newest gaming destination will be open to the public.

Located approximately 30 minutes north of O’Hare International Airport, The Temporary by American Place is the only casino in Lake County, Illinois. Its interior design draws inspiration from “a day at the lake,” with greenery and boat paddles above the 1,000 slot machines and 50 table games on the property. 

At the Canoe Bar, located at the center of the casino, guests can enjoy signature cocktails under a chandelier fashioned from actual canoes. The Temporary also features L’Américain, a restaurant that celebrates the traditions of American cooking; and Asia-Azteca, offering Asian and Latin Cuisine.

North Shore Steaks & Seafood, opening in April, will offer a high-end dining experience. Within the casino, two modified Airstream trailers will offer craft beer brewed locally, salads, sandwiches and more. And at night, projection mapping equipment will transform The Temporary’s exterior into a large-scale art display. 

Daniel R. Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer of Full House Resorts, stated: “We thank the Illinois Gaming Board and its staff for their assistance throughout The Temporary’s construction and preparation. We are eager to welcome Chicagoland residents to The Temporary beginning on February 17."

The permanent American Place casino is expected to cost about $400 million, with the first phase of the property expected to complete in about three years.