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.

The post Cedar Crossing Casino On Track for New Year’s Eve Opening first appeared on Online Iowa Casinos.

The acquisition involves the purchase of Great River Entertainment’s assets and operations, which currently owns those venues.

Elite Casino Resorts CEO Dan Kehl expressed a deep personal connection to the deal, describing it as a return to familiar ground. The Kehl family previously managed Catfish Bend Casino, according to company records.

“Our roots in Burlington and Southeast Iowa trace back to the early days of legalized gaming in the state,” Kehl shared. “Welcoming Catfish Bend and FunCity back into our portfolio is a way to celebrate that legacy while embracing new opportunities for expansion and collaboration.”

Kehl reflected on his early career, noting, “When Catfish Bend launched in 1994, I relocated my young family to Fort Madison to oversee the riverboat operations. Today, my sons are part of the business, and reclaiming this property feels like a true homecoming.” He also acknowledged the contributions of Randy Winegard and Gary Hoyer, praising their leadership and commitment to the community. “We’re excited to build upon the strong foundation they’ve established.”

Local Casinos In Iowa

Iowa is home to both riverboat-style casino venues and expansive resort gaming destinations. With over 20 licensed casinos spread across the state, Iowans and visitors alike can enjoy a diverse range of casino games, including slot machines, poker rooms, table games such as blackjack and roulette, and even sportsbooks.

Notable locations include Prairie Meadows in Altoona, which combines horse racing with casino gaming, and Grand Falls Casino Resort in Larchwood, known for its upscale amenities and scenic views near the South Dakota border.

Many of Iowa’s local casinos also serve as entertainment hubs and community landmarks. For example, Catfish Bend Casino in Burlington offers more than just gaming; it’s part of the FunCity Resort, which includes a water park, hotel, and arcade, making it a family-friendly destination.

In Council Bluffs, visitors can choose from three major casinos: Ameristar, Harrah’s, and Horseshoe, each offering unique atmospheres and gaming options.

Online Casinos In Iowa

As of 2025, Iowa does not permit domestic online casinos, meaning residents cannot legally access real-money casino games through state-regulated platforms. Instead, Iowans who wish to play at online casinos must turn to offshore operators that are licensed in other jurisdictions. These platforms operate outside of U.S. regulatory oversight but are accessible to Iowa residents due to the lack of specific enforcement mechanisms against individual players.

The state has shown interest in expanding its gambling laws to include online casinos. However, no legislation has successfully passed to legalize or regulate domestic iGaming. A notable setback occurred when State Representative Bobby Kaufmann, a key advocate for online casino legislation, withdrew his support for a 2025 bill, leaving the future of online casino legalization uncertain.

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