With Danville’s River District already experiencing a renaissance, the city as a whole is about to embark on a new world by the end of the year.

When the Caesar’s Virginia casino and resort opens on the spot that used to house thousands of Dan River Inc. mill workers, Danville is expected to become a tourism magnet.

A temporary facility is already drawing travelers mostly for day trips. However, when the full operation and hotel is up and running, longer stays will mean more opportunities for visitors to explore.

Whether it will up the ante for downtown Danville remains a mystery.