Revealing the New Caesars Hotel and Casino: A $435 Million Transformation
For almost four years, the streets at the foot of Canal Street have been partially blocked by a construction fence adorned with the phrase “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” While the fence hinted at the ambitious undertaking taking place behind it, the long wait is finally over. This Tuesday, the Seahawks will unveil a stunning $435 million transformation of the Caesars Hotel and Casino—an endeavor completed just months ahead of the 2025 Super Bowl, which is set to attract thousands of big spenders to New Orleans.
A Herculean Task: Renovation Amidst Challenges
The journey to modernize the old Harrah’s, which stood on the site for nearly 25 years, has been anything but straightforward. Samir Mowad, the general manager of Caesars, likened the renovation process to “changing the tires on a moving bus.” The project faced numerous hurdles, including a staggering increase in costs—over $100 million—due to post-pandemic inflation and inevitable delays. However, the dedication and hard work behind the scenes have finally borne fruit, marking a new chapter in the revitalization of New Orleans’ hospitality district.
Impact on the Local Landscape
Mowad reflected on the transformation of this small corner of New Orleans over the last five to six years, emphasizing the significant changes that have taken place. The reconstruction of Caesars Hotel and Casino is one of many developments shaping the city’s hospitality sector and signifies a broader investment in the area.
A Modern Gaming Experience
The renovation boasts significant upgrades to the sprawling 115,000-square-foot gaming area, which now includes a state-of-the-art World Series of Poker Room and a revamped Caesars Sportsbook, featuring a 147-foot wall of television screens that will captivate even the most distracted customers. Visitors can expect an immersive experience that combines luxury with the thrill of gaming.
Luxury Accommodations and Exclusive Dining Options
One of the most exciting features of the upgraded property is the new 340-room hotel annex. Standing 15 stories tall, it is set to redefine luxury in the area, complete with a covered carport, known as a "valet porte cochère," at the entrance.
The lower two floors of this annex showcase a "hotel within a hotel" concept under the renowned Nobu brand, which is emblematic of exclusivity in the casino business. Boasting 54 rooms, including 12 luxurious suites, the accommodations reinforce the hierarchy of hospitality, where the stakes are as high as the luxurious offerings.
In keeping with this theme, a mix of dining options caters to different tastes and preferences. Patrons will discover a Nobu restaurant on the casino level, accessible by crossing a stunning new marble foyer adorned with a 15-foot statue of Julius Caesar. For those craving a taste of local cuisine, there is an Emeril’s Brasserie at the Canal Street end of the casino, along with a new food court boasting offerings from renowned chefs, including Nina Compton and Bobby Flay.
Exclusive High Stakes Gaming
On the gaming floor, the Caesars Hotel and Casino caters to players of varying budgets. An exclusive High Limit area allows for minimum bets starting at $100, while high rollers can enjoy the privacy of Salon rooms, where they are less likely to encounter autograph seekers or gawkers. Stacy Dorsey, the director of security and facilities, noted, "At the point you’re in the Salon, everyone is a celebrity."
Transformative Investments in New Orleans
The renovation of the Caesars Hotel and Casino is part of a broader effort that has seen billions of dollars funneled into New Orleans’ hospitality sector. This includes the $530 million Four Seasons Hotel and Condominiums, completed in 2021, and a $570 million upgrade to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center—which recently commenced the development of a $1 billion River District designed to enhance the city’s entertainment and residential offerings.
As these projects come to fruition, Mowad highlighted the luxury brand repositioning of Caesars, which now finds itself surrounded by high-end neighbors like the Windsor Court and the Four Seasons.
Looking Forward: A Bright Future for the Casino and City
The hope is that the newly upgraded Caesars can finally achieve the potential envisioned in the 1990s when Harrah’s first opened as Louisiana’s sole land-based casino. After navigating through various economic challenges, Caesars recently secured a deal to extend its exclusive gaming license for an additional 30 years beginning 2024. This agreement is expected to generate an estimated $130 million for the city and state while creating more than 500 new jobs.
With the Super Bowl and numerous events ahead, Mowad believes the recent upgrades to the Caesars Hotel and Casino will be pivotal for attracting players and reviving revenue, which had seen a downturn after the city banned smoking in 2015.
In essence, the Caesars Hotel and Casino is not just a spectacular new destination; it’s a testament to the resilience and revitalization of New Orleans as a premier gambling and entertainment hub, welcoming visitors to experience both its luxurious accommodations and rich cultural heritage.
