The Cedar Crossing Casino in Cedar Rapids is getting closer to being finished. Developers report that construction is on schedule. During a media tour in November 2025, representatives from Peninsula Pacific Entertainment (P2E) shared updates on the $275 million project. When it opens on December 31, 2026, it will be Iowa’s 20th licensed casino.
The casino is located next to the Cedar River and will be the main feature of a larger entertainment complex designed to draw both residents and visitors. It will include gaming areas, restaurants, and spaces for events. Cedar Crossing is the biggest gaming project Iowa has seen in more than ten years.
Online Casino Games in Iowa
Cedar Crossing is a big development for in-person gaming, but Iowa’s gambling scene is also changing online. Online casino games are not yet legal across the state, but the popularity of regulated online sports betting has started conversations about allowing digital casino games too.
Right now, people in Iowa play online casino games using offshore sites that are not regulated by the state. Experts say that if Iowa allows online casino games, it could see similar success to states like Michigan and New Jersey, where online and in-person casinos work well together.
Online casino gaming in Iowa presents both challenges and opportunities for Cedar Crossing. Digital platforms compete for people’s attention, but they can also help promote the casino. As Iowa considers new rules for online casinos, Cedar Crossing’s opening might signal a new era where traditional and digital gaming come together.
Economic and Community Impact
Supporters of the Cedar Crossing project argue that the development represents more than just a casino; it is a catalyst for economic revitalization in Cedar Rapids. They believe the venue will create hundreds of new jobs, ranging from hospitality and entertainment positions to long-term careers in management and operations.
In addition to employment opportunities, advocates highlight Cedar Crossing’s potential to attract a steady stream of tourists, drawing visitors from across Iowa and neighboring states. This influx of tourism is expected to boost local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to retail shops, creating a ripple effect throughout the regional economy.
Beyond economic growth, Cedar Crossing is positioned as a hub for fresh entertainment options, offering concerts, dining experiences, and cultural events that broaden the city’s appeal. The casino is projected to generate millions of dollars in tax revenue, with a significant portion earmarked for nonprofits, community programs, and local infrastructure projects. Developers emphasize that this reinvestment model ensures Cedar Crossing will serve as a community partner rather than a standalone enterprise.
Regulatory Journey
Getting approval for the casino took time. Cedar Rapids was turned down for licenses in 2014 and 2017, and a statewide casino moratorium in 2022 caused more delays. In February 2025, the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission approved the project because it promised benefits for the community beyond gambling. This decision let construction start and was a big win for supporters.