Canada has launched its first large-scale Hard Rock resort. In signature fashion, dignitaries, community leaders and business executives marked the launch of the new Hard Rock Hotel & Resort Ottawa with the traditional Guitar Smash. The resort, costing around $350 million to construct, promises the full Hard Rock experience - an all-in-one destination for music, dining, gaming and other kinds of gala hospitality events.
The July 2 launch began with a performance of "O Canada", performed by the Canadian Tenors. Hard Rock marked its grand opening with a unique twist on the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony—acoustic guitars were smashed onto a row of electric guitars lined up on stands. Among those who participated in the event were Stan Cho, Canada’s minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming; Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe; Fire Chief Paul Hutt; and Police Chief Eric Stubbs.
The Seminole Tribe of Florida leaders also participated, along with Hard Rock COO Jeff Hook and Jon Lucas, the company's executive operations advisor. Ottawa Senators part-owner Michael Andlauer also attended. Celebrity invites included Sara Bailey, the current WBA women's flyweight world champion and the captain of the Ottawa Charge who play in the Professional Women's Hockey League, Brianne Jenner.
The festivities continued through the following days. The night after the opening gala featured a live concert by Katharine McPhee and David Foster. On July 5, Avril Lavigne closed the celebrations with a headline concert at the Hard Rock LIVE music venue.
The new Hard Rock will highlight the combination that made it a well-known destination. Its mix of live music, music history, top-class entertainment shows, and diverse dining options will take center stage. The on-site gaming facilities are expected to attract many visitors who prefer this immersive environment over online options, now available locally. Opening promotions may include offers similar to those found online, such as cashback bonuses. These bonuses refund a percentage of losses and are commonly offered by online casinos like Instant Casino.
Comments from Hard Rock executives and government leaders carry a very optimistic tone. Jim Allen, CEO of Hard Rock International, commented on how proud the brand is of bringing world-class entertainment and hospitality to Ottawa under one roof. The aforementioned Stan Cho predicted that the new complex would attract more visitors to the city, with the knock-on effect of creating sustainable jobs and generating state revenue for community programs and infrastructure projects.
The music-themed resort has 150 guest rooms, 22 of which are luxury suites. The centerpiece is Hard Rock LIVE. This is a cutting-edge performance space that can hold up to 2,200 spectators in a 23,000 square foot arena. The casino has all the favorite games, from about 40 table games to around 1,500 slot machines. There's also a high-limit area for the high rollers. Of course, there's a vibey Hard Rock Café, plus a more enhanced dining experience at the resort's Council Oak Steakhouse & Seafood restaurant. There are another five restaurants, plus three separate bars.
Similar to other locations, a Rock Shop has also opened at the resort, featuring exclusive brand merchandise. The museum part of the shop showcases memorabilia from some of Canada's biggest music stars, continuing the company's long-held tradition, one of its strongest drawcards when the franchise was established.
The provincial government hopes to see a significant return on investment on the project, with around 600 new jobs expected to be created. The aim is to more strongly position Ottawa as an entertainment and lifestyle destination, thus boosting its tourism sector. Christine Crump, president of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, believes that visitors will be absorbed by the energy and vibe as soon as they walk through the doors.
It's also no coincidence that the new Hard Rock hotel and resort has been built. It's on the site of Ottawa's legendary Rideau Carleton Raceway, which was the epicenter of the province's betting community for more than six decades. This has now been transformed into the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, breathing new life into the city's gaming heritage.
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