Big changes are on the horizon in Council Bluffs. PENN Entertainment has announced a major $200 million investment to transform Ameristar Casino Hotel into a brand-new, land-based destination: Hollywood Casino Council Bluffs.
A Landmark Investment in Local Entertainment
The project, approved by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission in April 2025, will relocate casino operations from the current three-level riverboat to a spacious, modern facility on land. When complete, the new Hollywood Casino will offer:
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58,000 square feet of gaming space
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More than 1,000 gaming positions
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A streamlined, single-level layout for easier guest access
This state-of-the-art facility is designed to create a smoother, more immersive visitor experience while bringing a bold new look to the Council Bluffs riverfront.
Building on a Strong Entertainment Foundation
In addition to expanded gaming space, the new property will enhance existing offerings like:
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The 160-room hotel
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Popular on-site dining options
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The ESPN BET Sportsbook, already a major draw for sports fans
Together, these features aim to boost Council Bluffs’ appeal as a regional entertainment destination.
“This project will enhance the quality and efficiency of our Council Bluffs location and significantly improve the property’s competitive positioning in the greater Omaha market,” said Todd George, Executive VP of Operations at PENN.
Continued Commitment to Community
The redevelopment comes alongside a 15-year extension of PENN’s partnership with the Iowa West Racing Association, a local nonprofit that has supported Council Bluffs through philanthropic initiatives and job creation for nearly 30 years.
“We are thrilled with the exciting development plans for the new Hollywood Casino Council Bluffs,” said Brenda Mainwaring, President & CEO of the Iowa West Racing Association. “Ameristar has been providing not only dining and entertainment, but thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in support of our community.”
What’s Next for the Riverboat?
Once construction is complete—expected to take 18 to 24 months following final design and permitting—the existing Ameristar riverboat casino will be retired. The new Hollywood Casino will take its place as a cornerstone of the Council Bluffs entertainment landscape.
A New Era for Council Bluffs
This isn’t just a name change—it’s a bold reimagining of a major local attraction, with the kind of investment that signals real confidence in the future of the area.
Information in this article is based on a press release issued by PENN Entertainment on April 24, 2025.
