December 22, 2025
Hard Rock Ottawa Celebrates a Landmark Year From Grand Opening to Phase 2 Expansion
2025 will forever be remembered as the year Ottawa’s entertainment scene was reimagined. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa opened its doors in July with a legendary guitar smash, introducing Canada’s capital to a world-class destination where music, hospitality, and gaming converge. That moment marked the beginning of an unforgettable journey—and now, we’ve taken it to the next level.
On December 17, we proudly unveiled Phase 2, a milestone expansion that elevates the Hard Rock experience for our guests and community. The celebration was nothing short of iconic: a VIP event where guests savoured bold flavours at YOUYU Noodle Bar, tested their luck in the elegant Baccarat Room, and explored our expanded gaming floor—all designed to deliver global energy with local soul.
The evening’s highlight was an official ribbon cutting, signifying the opening of YOUYU, the Baccarat Room, the renovated Rotunda entrance, and the enhanced gaming space. We were honoured to share this moment with Christine Crump, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, MPP George Darouze (Carleton), Erin Benjamin (Canadian Live Music Association), and Eric Stubbs, Ottawa Police Chief. Their presence underscored the deep partnership between Hard Rock and the city we proudly call home.
Immediately following the ribbon cutting, guests were treated to a traditional Chinese Lion Dance, a vibrant cultural performance symbolizing prosperity, good fortune, and the blessing of new beginnings. This time-honoured tradition was chosen to honour the launch of YOUYU Noodle Bar and celebrate the diversity and cultural authenticity that Phase 2 brings to our property.
Christine Crump shared:
“This milestone is a testament to the incredible collaboration between our team, the City of Ottawa, and our partners. We are deeply grateful for the support that made this vision a reality. Together, we’ve created a destination that celebrates culture, community, and unforgettable experiences.”
Phase 2 is more than an expansion—it’s a promise fulfilled. From the vibrant atmosphere of YOUYU’s Asian-inspired night market flavours to the sophistication of our new gaming experiences, every detail reflects our commitment to creating unforgettable moments.
As we close out this landmark year, we extend our sincere gratitude to the City of Ottawa, our partners, and our guests for making Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa a resounding success in 2025. Together, we’ve transformed the capital into a destination where excitement never sleeps.
Here’s to the next chapter—because at Hard Rock Ottawa, the energy never stops.
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About Hard Rock®
Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 74 countries spanning 313 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. Its Unity by Hard Rock™ global loyalty program rewards members for doing the things they love across participating properties around the world. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 89,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe.
Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 74 countries spanning 313 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. Its Unity by Hard Rock™ global loyalty program rewards members for doing the things they love across participating properties around the world. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 89,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe.
HRI became the first privately-owned gaming company designated a U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal in 2021 and has since been honored fourfold. Hard Rock was also honored by Forbes among the World's Best Employers, as well as Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming and Entertainment Industry. In the 2022 Global Gaming Awards, Hard Rock was named Land-Based Operator of the Year for the second time in four years.
Hard Rock International currently holds investment grades from primary investment-grade rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB-) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrockottawa.com or shop.hardrock.com.
About Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is a world-class entertainment destination in Canada’s capital, blending the iconic Hard Rock experience with the rich history of the Rideau Carleton Raceway. Originally opened in 1962 as Canada’s first-ever five-eighths mile harness racing oval, the site has been a staple in Ottawa’s gaming and entertainment community for over six decades.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is a world-class entertainment destination in Canada’s capital, blending the iconic Hard Rock experience with the rich history of the Rideau Carleton Raceway. Originally opened in 1962 as Canada’s first-ever five-eighths mile harness racing oval, the site has been a staple in Ottawa’s gaming and entertainment community for over six decades.
Now fully transformed into Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, the $350 million resort features a 150-room hotel, including 22 suites, an expanded gaming floor with up to 1,500 slot machines, 40 live-action table games, and high-limit gaming. Guests can enjoy six unique dining options, including the iconic Hard Rock Cafe and Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, alongside three bars, the Rock Shop®, and Hard Rock Live — a 23,000 square foot, 1,900-seat performance venue hosting world-class concerts and events. Authentic music memorabilia, with a special focus on Canadian music legends, is showcased throughout the property.
As a proud member of the Ottawa community, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa employs over 1000 team members and continues a long-standing tradition of community investment through partnerships, sponsorships, and charitable initiatives. Since February 2000, the City of Ottawa has received over $113 million in payments from the casino, contributing significantly to local programs and services.
Operated by Hard Rock International and governed by Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). With OLG partnership, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa demonstrates a daily commitment to responsible gambling with full implementation of OLG’s PlaySmart program and is recognized through the RG Check accreditation program.
For more information on Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, visit casino.hardrock.com/ottawa