The Cascades Casino Penticton opened it’s doors at the start of the month, just 18 months after the plan was approved. It’s also under a year since construction began on the $25m project and it has left the residents of Osoyoos with a marvellous facility available to them.
Plus, there’s a lot more to enjoy than just gambling, with a strong emphasis on providing great entertainment for guests. Here we will rundown exactly what’s in store.
What does the Cascades Casino Penticton offer?
The casino covers 25,000 square feet of space and boasts an impressive 400 slot and gaming machines for players to enjoy. As well as that, there will be 11 gaming tables where you can play classic table games such as blackjack, baccarat and roulette. Many of the machines used were transferred from the old Lakeside Casino and brought across to the new building, although new state-of-the-art machines are also in use. The only downside for players is that there are no poker tables, and also no plans to introduce them, which is partly down to the popularity of poker at the Casino Kelowna.
It’s also important not to underestimate the impact this has had on the local community. General Manager Michael Magnusson revealed that the casino would employ 340 members of staff and that the vast majority would be full-time. “We will have one of the largest payrolls of any business in Penticton”, he said, whilst acknowledging “we’re proud of that”. It’s believed that the facility will generate $100m in taxes to the city of Penticton over the next 40 years too.
Plenty of entertainment to attract all the family
Magnusson also revealed that: “The goal was to create something special for every member of the family” and with the huge range of options it certainly feels as though they’ve achieved that.
A large food court will allow families to come in and enjoy quality fare. Although, there will be themed nights throughout the year offering up a range of cuisines. Furthermore, all-you-can-eat breakfast buffets will be on offer and the dinner buffet will be available for under $20.
And, there will be a Match Eatery & Public House that will even offer free pool to players and 20 large TV’s will showcase any major sporting events. If that wasn’t enough, there will also be live music every weekend, predominantly showcasing the talents of local musicians. All of this meets Magnusson’s desires of appealing to all members of the family.
Car-parking concerns will be solved
One concern for potential visitors was the lack of car-parking spaces available, given the location is so close to the South Okanagan Events Centre (SOEC) and the Penticton Convention Centre as well as other popular venues.
To combat this, a free shuttle will be provided each Friday, Saturday and Sunday to nearby resorts and Walmarts. Plus, when major events are on at the SOEC, a shuttle will pick people up from the City Hall amongst other places. Over the long-term, the management have plans to purchase a larger car-parking area for visitors.
Overall, it’s promising times for everyone associated with the Cascades Casino Penticton and there’s a lot more than just the thrill of gambling to take in. Although, it may be worth perfecting your skills on table games at Lucky Nugget Casino before you do head out to play. Yet, with such a focus on providing multiple sources of entertainment, you’re sure to love the new casino in town.
