The Illinois Gaming Board voted April 23 to renew Hard Rock Casino Rockford’s operating license for four years, retroactive to January 2026.
Hard Rock Casino Rockford is the state’s 11th casino and was the first authorized under Illinois’ gaming expansion law approved by lawmakers in 2019.
Construction on the permanent casino began in September 2022 after receiving regulatory approval from the state.
The permanent Hard Rock Casino Rockford opened to the public Aug. 29, 2024, replacing a temporary casino that had operated during construction.
