The Northwest’s Newest Casino Opening Soon for Entertainment and Events
A mid-April opening is scheduled for Ridgefield, Washington’s ilani Casino and Resort. Located along I-5, just 20 minutes from Vancouver, Washington, the casino will offer new opportunities for entertainment and meetings with easy access from Portland and Seattle. “This is a large project, and we will be opening in phases,” says Kara Fox-LaRose, president of ilani. “We are committed to developing a world-class facility that is warm and welcoming. Modern designs reflecting the indigenous traditions will complement views of Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams and Mount Hood,” Fox-LaRose adds.
The initial phase includes a 100,000 square-foot gaming space along with the amenities to compliment the gaming experience. With a mix of 15 restaurants, bars and retail shops, the resort will attract non-gamblers as well. Shoppers will find a selection of national brands and local retailers. Restaurants will offer everything from quick-serve and casual to fine dining. Walkways are designed so that visitors do not have to enter the casino floor to reach the retail and dining.
An entertainment facility with a large stage and seating for 350 is part of the initial opening. The entertainment area opens to the casino floor but movable walls provide the opportunity for a private function. With comfortable seating in plush furniture, the space is very flexible. “We will be offering live entertainment, but the facility will be perfect for a dinner function, a reception or private show.”
For meeting and event planners, the best is yet to come. The convention center is scheduled to open in the fall of 2017. “This event space will accommodate 1,000 guests for a banquet and as many as 2,500 for a concert or performance. The space will be great for conventions and conferences, but we will have the flexibility to accommodate meetings and retreats of any size,” says Fox-LaRose.
Further in the future, a full-service hotel is planned. For now, easy access to Vancouver and Portland offers visitors an abundance of overnight options.
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