Hard Rock Opens in Ottawa

Hard Rock Intl. (Davie, Fla.) has opened its first fully integrated casino/resort in Canada, in Ottawa. The $350 million complex officially opened its doors July 3 with the brand’s signature “guitar smash” ceremony.

“Bringing Hard Rock to Canada’s capital is an iconic milestone for our brand,” said CEO Jim Allen in a news release. “We’re proud to expand our global footprint and create a destination where locals and visitors can experience world-class gaming, hospitality, and entertainment all in one place.”

On-site amenities at the 150,000-square-foot Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa include:
• A contemporary, music-inspired hotel with 150 guest rooms, including 22 luxury suites;
• Several dining options, including a Council Oak Steakhouse & Seafood and a Hard Rock Cafe;
• The Rock Shop, offering Hard Rock merchandise and music memorabilia from Canadian and international musicians;
• Hard Rock LIVE, a performance venue for up to 2200 guests;
• An expanded casino floor featuring slots, live table games and high-limit gaming areas.

The site housing the Hard Rock complex opened in 1962 as a harness racing oval, followed by the addition of a casino in 2000. Hard Rock began converting the site to its brand in 2023. Owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Hard Rock Intl. operates 300-plus venues in a variety of configurations in nearly 80 countries.