Delaware Park Casino Expands Gaming Experience with New Outdoor Patio
Delaware Park Casino, located in Wilmington, is set to enhance its gaming offerings by introducing a brand-new outdoor gaming patio, slated to open in spring 2024. This innovative expansion is part of a broader strategy to adapt to evolving customer preferences and regulatory changes in the state of Delaware.
A 10,000-Square-Foot Haven for Gamblers
The new outdoor gaming patio will span an impressive 10,000 square feet, strategically positioned trackside alongside the casino’s one-mile horse racing oval. With the capacity to host over 250 of the latest slot machines, the patio promises to deliver a unique gambling experience that combines the thrill of gaming with the fresh air of the outdoors.
This addition caters to guests who appreciate the option to smoke while playing, a consideration that has become increasingly relevant since Delaware’s Clean Indoor Air Act was enacted in November 2022. This legislation prohibits tobacco use inside numerous public spaces, including establishments like casinos.
Enhancing Customer Satisfaction
Delaware Park’s President and General Manager, Terry Glebocki, emphasized the importance of this expansion for guest satisfaction. "We look forward to offering Delaware’s largest outdoor slot patio. This spacious new patio is designed with our guests in mind. They will soon be able to enjoy the outdoors while playing the area’s best selection of slots, all without compromising comfort or excitement," he stated in an interview with Casino.org.
This focus on customer experience reflects a broader trend among casinos to adapt their facilities to meet the varying demands of their clientele, offering a more personalized and enjoyable gambling experience.
A Significant Investment in the Future
The patio project is part of a substantial $5 million investment in Delaware Park, which also follows a previous $10 million renovation of the casino floor. The renovation aimed to modernize the facility’s interiors and upgrade its gaming equipment to provide a visually appealing and technologically advanced environment.
Additionally, the updates introduced the "Link Lounge," where popular slot games like Buffalo Link and Dragon Link are now available. Furthermore, the establishment has reinstated its 24/7 operations for the first time since the pandemic, signaling a return to normalcy and a commitment to providing uninterrupted gaming opportunities for patrons.
A Competitive Landscape
Delaware Park remains a key player in the competitive casino landscape of Delaware. In the fiscal year 2024, the casino reported impressive figures, generating nearly $168.6 million in slot machine revenue from approximately $1.97 billion wagered. Furthermore, an additional $25.1 million was earned from table games, showcasing the casino’s robust performance in challenging market conditions.
Currently, Delaware Park operates around 1,900 slot-like video lottery terminals (VLTs) and 44 live dealer table games, retaining a significant portion of its earnings—around 43% from slot revenue and an impressive 80% of table game earnings.
Recent Changes in Ownership
In 2021, Delaware Park underwent a significant ownership change when it was acquired for $90 million by a partnership between Canadian private equity firm Clairvest and San Francisco-based Rubico Gaming, LLC. This acquisition brought together a wealth of experience in the gaming industry, particularly through Rubico’s leadership under Thomas Benninger, a former board member of Caesars Entertainment.
While the casino and racetrack were included in this acquisition, it is important to note that the nearby White Clay Creek Country Club remains under the ownership of the Rickman family and is managed by Kemper Sports.
Conclusion
The introduction of the new outdoor gaming patio at Delaware Park Casino represents a strategic move to adapt to changing regulations and customer desires. With a strong focus on enhancing the guest experience, significant financial investments, and a competitive gaming environment, Delaware Park continues to solidify its status as a premier entertainment destination in the region. The upcoming patio promises not only to attract more guests but also to provide a unique, enjoyable space that reflects the evolving landscape of casino gaming in Delaware.
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