Ontario: Pickering Casino Resort opens its doors 

January 17, 2023 10:43 AM
  • Mark Keast, CDC Gaming Reports
January 17, 2023 10:43 AM
  • Mark Keast, CDC Gaming Reports

With the news today that the 275-room hotel is now officially open for business, the last chapter in the new $500 million Pickering Casino Resort has been written.

Story continues below

The announcement comes from Great Canadian Entertainment, the gaming and hospitality company with 25 facilities in Ontario, British Columbia, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.  

The resort, just east of downtown Toronto, features a 96,000-square-foot casino, along with a Great Canadian Sportsbook, including a dedicated lounge where people can watch the Leafs, Raptors, and other live domestic and international sporting events, have a meal or drinks, and place live bets at one of the several kiosks.  

Sports betting is a key part of the experience for guests, but the casino also has 2,200 slot machines, over 90 live table games and 140 live-dealer stadium gaming terminals. 

The 2,500-seat entertainment venue will host concerts, special events, and sports; its first live event will take place on Jan. 28. The guest rooms range from 388 to 775 square feet, including 33 suites. 

“We are committed to offering the very best in entertainment to destinations across Canada and continually heightening the experience for our guests, while investing in the communities in which we operate,” said Matthew Anfinson, chief executive officer, Great Canadian Entertainment. “Pickering Casino Resort is a great example of our vision to introduce multi-venue attractions that anchor the very best in hospitality, dining, and entertainment, while allowing us to create over 1,000 meaningful jobs and provide significant economic benefit for Durham region.” 

The target? People looking for a full-on luxury experience. Dining options include Sun Sui Wah, a Chinese seafood restaurant; Rock House Grill, a casual spot serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner; CASUAL, which features local craft beer; and fresh Italian food at ZIOs.  

Next up is the opening of the company’s largest project in its history, the 400-room 5,000-seat entertainment venue, new parkade, multiple food and beverage venues that will comprise the new Casino Woodbine in Toronto.