Thursday marked a significant occasion for gambling in the Sunshine State, as retail sports betting, craps, and roulette debuted across Seminole casinos in Florida. Hard Rock Bet, a mobile sports betting app, also officially launched to all Florida customers, although customers throughout the state were able to begin wagering on the platform Tuesday. 

“The addition of craps and roulette here at our facilities in Florida is a big day for us,” Hard Rock CEO Jim Allen told CNBC. “When we look at the international guests coming into south Florida to now offer the game of roulette is a real addition for us, and we’re really excited about it.”

The new era of gambling in Florida came with plenty of fanfare across the state Thursday, as celebrities such as Sofia Vergara, Jon Bon Jovi, Dwyane Wade, and DJ Khaled visited Seminole-owned casinos across the state. Hard Rock Hollywood, the Seminole’s flagship casino in the state, was home to the largest opening day celebration. 

New casino games

For the Seminole Tribe and Hard Rock, Thursday came with notable excitement about adding to the collection of new games.

“The Seminole Tribe of Florida is proud to point to a new era in Florida gaming with the unveiling of our new casino games,” Seminole Tribe of Florida Chairman Marcellus Osceola, Jr. said in a press release. “With the addition of craps, roulette, and sports betting, we now offer a full complement of casino games and we join the ranks of leading casinos around the world.”

A day for the books

Craps, roulette & sports book are now live! pic.twitter.com/UHDyjMnJ6c

— Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood (@HardRockHolly) December 8, 2023

Allen believes the gaming expansion will benefit several industries in the state, creating a clear economic impact.

“The entertainment, travel, and tourism industries, and many more, will see positive economic impact caused by the new casino games,” Allen said via press release. “They will increase tourism to Florida and boost employment not only at Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood, but also at businesses in the areas surrounding this casino complex and others operated by Seminole Gaming throughout Florida.”

Sports betting and retail casino gaming are both legally available in Florida. Mobile casino apps, however, are not legal in the state.

Photo: Getty Images