Great Canadian's new $758M casino resort in Toronto has opened its doors

Great Canadian Entertainment has now opened its brand-new CAD 1 billion ($758.5 million) "Las Vegas-style" casino, Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto. Situated adjacent to Woodbine Racetrack, the property becomes "Canada's largest casino resort" and one of the largest in North America. 

The brand-new gaming floor and multiple dining venues at the property opened Tuesday for the public to experience at 5 p.m. ET. Canadian-American country pop artist Lindsay Ell placed the first bet.

The resort has a vast 328,000 square feet of gaming space, offering an array of gaming options including 4,800 slot machines, 145 live table games, VIP rooms, and sports betting kiosks. 

Spanning 33 acres, officials for the resort in Toronto stated that the property “redefines” entertainment in Canada. A 400-room hotel is set to open later this summer, offering rooms and suites across 11 floors. 

"We are thrilled to finally unveil Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto to the world," said Matthew Anfinson, Chief Executive Officer of Great Canadian Entertainment. "Our team has worked tirelessly for several years to create an entertainment experience that will leave a lasting impression on our guests."

Lindsay Ell placed the first bet

"The opening of this first phase of Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto is exciting for all of us, and we are eager to reveal the next phases, including the hotel and The Theatre, in the coming weeks and months."

A wellness center featuring an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and fitness equipment is slated to open later this year. Meanwhile, a 5,000-person entertainment venue will be unveiled in the coming months, providing "a destination for live music, comedy, sports, and special events." The Theatre at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, through an exclusive booking partnership with Live Nation, will feature "world-class artists."

The company also said that art enthusiasts will appreciate the resort's dedication to public art, with CAD 5 million invested in artworks displayed throughout the property. The selection process involved a jury of artists and community stakeholders, ensuring "equitable representation of diverse and underrepresented communities."

Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto also showcases a 250,000 square feet green roof, the second largest in Canada. Solar panel canopies contribute to reducing the site's carbon footprint, while electric vehicle parking spots cater to eco-conscious guests.

"The resort is creating a significant economic impact, with an investment of approximately CAD 1 billion ($758.5 million) and an estimated CAD 500 million ($379.2 million) in economic benefit for Ontario," said Great Canadian. "Moreover, nearly 2,000 team members will be employed, contributing to job growth and prosperity in the region. The City of Toronto has received more than CAD 357 million ($270.8 million) as its share of gaming revenue since the introduction of Casino Woodbine."

Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto offers a range of dining and shopping experiences with 15 retail locations, encompassing a combined 35,000 square feet of retail space, featuring renowned brands. Culinary options include Copperhorn Meet House, CA.SU.AL gastropub, and The Eatery, offering grab-and-go salads and sandwiches.

The Food Hall, operated by Woodbine Entertainment Group, presents favorites such as Tim Hortons, Big Smoke Burger, Noodlebox, MB Express, and Pizzaiolo. Additional dining experiences will be announced in the near future.

For the convenience of visitors, a well-lit parkade with 3,800 covered parking spaces offers 24-hour security and multiple entrances, ensuring easy access to the resort.

Great Canadian Entertainment said that along with its partner the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, it remains committed to responsible gaming. The destination features a PlaySmart Centre on the gaming floor, providing interactive tools and responsible gambling resources for all players.