- Learn all about the smoking policy at Hollywood Casino Aurora.
- Discover what restaurants are available at the casino.
- Find out the dress code for Hollywood Casino Aurora.
Illinois has taken big steps in recent years, legalizing gambling and becoming a state with dozens of casinos spread across it. One such example is Hollywood Casino Aurora, which is located just outside Chicago. In this blog, I will be going over everything you need to know before your trip to the casino. From the smoking policy to the best way to get there, I have you covered.
Best Bonus Poker Slots Online (and Where to Play Them)Smoking Policy at Hollywood Casino Auroria
Unfortunately, smoking is permitted throughout the entire casino. There is no segregated area for non-smokers or smokers, meaning that everyone will be breathing in second-hand smoke.
To make things worse, Illinois law states that casinos are not required to make reasonable accommodations for non-smokers unless they have a disability. This means that requesting a non-smoking area will fall on deaf ears.
If you’re a player who prefers side games and online casino alternatives to air, then Hollywood Casino might not be the place for you.
You can learn more about casinos that separate smokers from non-smokers in our guide to the best .
Gaming at Hollywood Casino
There are more than 500 games at Hollywood Casino, including hot drop jackpots and wide area progressives. Slot machines are scattered around the gaming floor, as well as table games and kiosks where you can play bingo, roulette, and other games.
Let’s take a closer look at each type of game.
Hollywood Casino Slots
As soon as you walk into the casino, you’ll notice rows upon rows of slot machines. There are 500 in total, ranging from penny slots to $25 machines.
All of the games come with , which allows players to earn points for playing and perks based on their level. As you climb the levels, you can enjoy benefits such as free plays, prizes, birthday gifts, and more.
Playing at Hollywood Casino via the mychoice app or card is great, but the games aren’t as good as . Head over to our guide to the for more information on the top sites and games.
Table Games
If you prefer table games to slots, don’t worry; there are plenty of options at Hollywood Casino Aurora. Blackjack, roulette, craps, and fortune spin are available, with wagers starting at just $5. The only downside is that table games are subject to availability, especially during peak times.
Some of the tables offer fun bonuses and incentives. For instance, Fortune spin offers a bonus for straight up bets. Craps players can earn $10 MGM Rewards for wagering $25 on any don’t pass or do not pass bets.
Poker at Hollywood Casino Aurora
The poker room at Hollywood Casino Aurora has 24 tables, making it one of the biggest in the state. It also features comfortable chairs, 80 HDTVs, and complimentary beverages and snacks.
Games offered include No Limit Hold ’em, Omaha, and Stud. Limits range from $1/ $2 to $3 /$6.
Caesars Slots Cheats 2023 - Hack Free Coins & ChipsThe casino also hosts several tournaments every month with buy-ins ranging from $75 to $125.
Holywood Casino Sportsbook
One of the greatest additions to Hollywood Casino Aurora was the opening of the William Hill sportsbook back in September 2019. Locals no longer have to travel to Sin City to experience the thrill of betting on their favorite teams.
The William Hill sportsbook spans 3,600 square feet, offering ample space for sports fans to watch their favorite teams. It includes eight large screen TVs, 25 high-definition flat panels, and a 14-foot HD live odds board.
Like most casinos in the state, Hollywood Casino does not allow in-house sports betting. Instead, you need to use the William Hill app or visit the dedicated sportsbook.
You can check out our guide to the for more information on the site and its offerings.
High Limit Room
If you’re looking to gamble big at Hollywood Casino, head to the high limit room. Here, you can enjoy all of the slot machines, with wagers starting at $1 and reaching up to $125.
There are around 30 machines in the room, featuring popular titles such as China Shores, Buffalo, and Dragon Spin.
Ways Gamcas Promote Addiction – Craig ReinyHollywood Casino’s Game Space
Game Space is an innovative new concept found at Hollywood Casino. It consists of banked carnival-style games usually played by multiple participants facing each other.
Examples include Buck Hunter, Centennial Speed, and Super Big Goblets. These games are a great deal of fun and provide a nice change of pace if you’ve been playing slots or table games for hours.
Hollywood Casino Aurora App
MyChoice is the official app and card for Hollywood Casino Aurora. It enables players to enhance their gaming experience through Mlife Rewards.
Tangible rewards for playing include things like free plays and prizes, but players can also use the app to check out the latest promotions and events.
New members get 500 points and can climb the levels to enjoy even bigger perks and benefits. It’s completely free to join and enhances the overall experience of visiting Hollywood Casino.
Restaurants at Hollywood Casino Aurora
There are four main dining establishments at Hollywood Casino. Here’s a brief overview of each option.
Hanabi
Hanabi translates to “fireworks” in Japanese, and the restaurant certainly lives up to its name. It offers hibachi cuisine, with chefs preparing food right in front of you on a large hot hibachi grill. Some of the popular dishes include chicken teriyaki, filet mignon, and seafood feasts.
Hours of operation are as follows.
- Sunday to Thursday: 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Coast Line Seafood & Barbeque
Coast Line is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It focuses on two key cuisines: seafood and barbeque.
Popular dishes include snow crab legs, fried shrimp, and catfish and baby back ribs, alongside potato wedges and coleslaw. Vegetarian options are limited, so this isn’t the ideal spot for non-meat eaters.
Here are the operating hours.
- Sunday to Thursday: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm
El Charro Cantina
El Charro Cantina serves authentic Mexican dishes made with fresh ingredients. Popular items include chips and salsa, queso dip, tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas.
It’s open seven days a week, from noon until 10:00 pm.
Fares Diner
Fares Diner is open 24/7 and serves classic American dishes. Examples include cheeseburgers, pulled pork sandwiches, grilled cheese and tomato soup, and milkshakes. It’s a great spot to grab a quick bite to eat while playing at the casino.
Now that we have covered the dining options at the casino, let’s talk about the top nearby.
Bars Near Hollywood Casino Aurora
Although you can enjoy alcohol at Hollywood Casino’s bars, sometimes it’s nice to mix things up. If you’ve had enough of the same old drinks, consider heading to one of these excellent bars near the casino.
casinos in prescott arizonaKitty O’Sheas
Kitty O’Sheas is an authentic Irish pub that serves a range of delicious drinks. The interior design is stunning, complete with brick walls, wooden fixtures, and green decorations.
Don’t miss their happy hour specials, which run from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm, seven days a week. During these times, you can enjoy discounted appetizers and drink specials.
Finn McCool’s
Finn McCool’s is another Irish bar worth checking out. Like Kitty O’Sheas, it has a fantastic atmosphere and serves traditional dishes and drinks.
There are several big-screen TVs, showing all of the latest sports action. They also have regular live music acts playing traditional Irish music.
Craft Beagle
Craft Beagle is a craft beer paradise with more than 40 different beers on tap. Whether you love IPAs, stouts, lagers, wheat beers, or anything else, you’re sure to find a drink to satisfy your taste buds.
They also serve a selection of tasty bar bites, such as buffalo cauliflower, loaded fries, and artisan flatbreads.
Best Hotels Near Hollywood Casino Aurora
If you’re planning on staying overnight after a long night of gambling, here are some of the best hotels near Hollywood Casino Aurora.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Naperville
- Hilton Points Required: 50,000 – 70,000
- Price on Average: $180
Embassy Suites is one of the highest-rated hotels near Hollywood Casino Aurora. All rooms are two-room suites, providing ample space for families or those who want extra room. Other amenities include a heated indoor pool, free cooked-to-order breakfast, and a fitness center.
Guests can earn points for the stay or use Hilton Honors points to reduce the cost of the room. There is also a bar and grill on the premises, making it easy to enjoy a few drinks without having to travel far.
Fairfield by Marriott Naperville
- Marriott Points Required: 30,000 – 60,000
- Price on Average: $150
This hotel features clean and modern rooms, an indoor pool, fitness center, business center, and free hot breakfast. It’s located less than five miles from Hollywood Casino, making it a convenient base for your gambling adventure.
Points can be used to pay all or part of the stay at Fairfield by Marriott. Alternatively, guests can take advantage of exclusive Marriott Bonvoy promotions to reduce the cost of the room.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Naperville
- Hilton Points Required: 32,000 – 50,000
- Price on Average: $170
Home2 Suites is perfect for anyone traveling with family or friends. Each room is a studio or one-bedroom suite, providing between 290 and 474 square feet of living space. Amenities include an indoor saline pool, outdoor patio, and 24/7 fitness center.
A complimentary breakfast is served every morning, and there is a convenience store for purchasing drinks and snacks later in the day.
Hyatt Place Naperville/I-88
- World of Hyatt Points Required: 17,000 – 27,000
- Price on Average: $190
Hyatt Place Naperville boasts elegant rooms, an indoor pool, 24/7 fitness center, and free hot breakfast. It’s situated off Interstate 88, making it easy to access from Hollywood Casino Aurora.
Casino Jobs You Might Not Know Existed (That Pay Well)Members of the World of Hyatt program can redeem points for a free stay or reduce the cost of the room. Alternatively, take a look at our to learn how to save money on future bookings.
Naperville Marriott
- Marriott Points Required: 35,000 – 70,000
- Price on Average: $200
Naperville Marriott has recently undergone renovations to provide guests with the very best experience possible. Accommodations range from classic rooms to suites, all of which are equipped with plush bedding and modern amenities.
Other features include a full gym, outdoor pool, lounge, and free shuttle service within a five-mile radius. Guests can use Marriott Bonvoy points to pay for their room or receive discounts during special promotions.
How to Get to Hollywood Casino Aurora
Hollywood Casino Aurora is easily accessible from downtown Chicago. The two main transport links are I-88 and Route 52.
If you’re driving from Chicago, take I-294 southbound to I-88 westbound. Exit onto Route 52 northbound and follow signs for the casino. Free valet parking and self-parking are provided for all visitors.
The following list provides additional details on how to get to Hollywood Casino Aurora from various locations.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport
- Time: 40 minutes
- Distance: 28 miles
- Transfer: Take I-294 S to IL-53 S/S Randall Road. Take exit 26B from I-88 W
Chicago Midway International Airport
- Time: 35 minutes
- Distance: 24 miles
- Transfer: Get on I-55 N from Mannheim Rd and S Cicero Ave
- Continue on I-55 N to IL-53 S/S Randall Rd. Take exit 26B from I-88 W
Rockford
- Time: 55 minutes
- Distance: 37 miles
- Transport: Get on I-90 W from E State St and S 7th St
- Continue on I-90 W to IL-53 S/S Randall Rd. Take exit 26B from I-88 W
Joliet
- Time: 35 minutes
- Distance: 25 miles
- Transport: Get on I-55 N from W Jefferson St and Northbridge Dr
- Continue on I-55 N to IL-53 S/S Randall Rd. Take exit 26B from I-88 W
Wheaton
- Time: 25 minutes
- Distance: 17 miles
- Transport: Get on I-355 N from Naperville Wheaton Rd and Prince Crossing Rd
- Continue on I-355 N to IL-53 S/S Randall Rd. Take exit 26B from I-88 W
History of Hollywood Casino Aurora
Hollywood Casino Aurora opened its doors on December 18, 2018. It is owned by Delaware North Companies Inc. And operated by the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood, Florida.
The property cost $173 million to develop and covers 57,000 square feet. It creates hundreds of jobs and generates significant income through taxes and employment opportunities.
Mayor Steve Chambers said, “It’s a great day for the city of Aurora. We have worked for many years to bring gaming and entertainment to our community, and today we achieve that.”
The grand opening ceremony featured speeches from local officials, live music, giveaways, and free play for the first 173 guests.
Since then, Hollywood Casino Aurora has become one of the top entertainment destinations in the region.
Is the Hollywood Casino in Aurora Worth Visiting?
No. Simply put, there are too many negatives to make a trip to Hollywood Casino Aurora worthwhile.
Firstly, the smoking situation is unacceptable. Not only is smoke wafting through the air, but there are no seats or areas for non-smokers to escape to.
If you don’t mind breathing in second-hand smoke all night, the next issue is the poor game selection. Table game players will be frustrated to learn that popular options like blackjack, roulette, and craps all have high minimum bets of $5 or more.
Slots players have almost 600 games to choose from, but none have progressive jackpots. In Illinois, you can play at , such as , which offer thousands of games and excellent jackpots.
Finally, the dress code should be relaxed considering there is no dress code. It makes no sense, but you aren’t allowed to enter if you are smoking as a form of protest.
In my opinion, it’s time for Illinois to introduce non-smoking casinos similar to those found in other states. Until then, I would avoid Hollywood Casino Aurora and drive to Iowa or another bordering state with superior gaming venues.
Footnotes:
- Information on the seminole hard rock hotel and casino hollywood provided by .
Kevin Roberts, previously a lawyer and college professor, has since discovered his passion for writing after collaborating on a variety of fascinating topics. When he isn’t working on an article or trying out a new cooking recipe, he picks up new skills such as lighting candid photos and brewing the perfect coffee.
