Catawba Nation Debuts Opening Phase of Two Kings Casino Resort Near Charlotte
The Catawba Nation marked a significant milestone on May 21, 2026, when it opened the first major phase of its Two Kings Casino Resort in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, a site positioned close to Charlotte and accessible via Interstate 85. This development replaced the temporary gaming facility that had been in operation since 2021, shifting operations into a more permanent structure designed to serve as the foundation for the full resort project. Construction on the larger $1 to $1.25 billion resort continues alongside the new facility, with the permanent casino floor scheduled for spring 2027 and overall completion, including a 24-story hotel, targeted for the end of 2027. The project carries projections to employ between 2,000 and 2,200 people once fully operational, creating positions across gaming, hospitality, and support services.Transition from Temporary Operations
The introductory casino builds directly on the groundwork laid by the earlier temporary site, which provided initial gaming access in the region while planners advanced the larger vision. Observers note that this phased approach allowed the Catawba Nation to maintain continuity for visitors while expanding infrastructure, a method that connects prior activities with upcoming stages without interruption.
The new facility introduces expanded amenities that reflect the scale of the permanent plans ahead. Features include more than 1,300 slot machines along with electronic gaming tables, traditional table games, and sports betting kiosks. Restaurant and bar areas support guest stays, offering options that integrate with the gaming floor layout.Key Features of the Introductory Phase
Slot machines form a central element of the opening phase, delivering a broad selection that caters to varied player preferences. Electronic gaming tables complement these offerings by providing digital interfaces for classic games, while traditional table games maintain physical dealer interactions for those who prefer that format. Sports betting kiosks add another dimension, enabling wagers on events through self-service terminals positioned throughout the space.
Dining and beverage areas round out the experience, with restaurant options and bar setups designed to accommodate both quick visits and longer sessions. These elements operate within a unified layout that prioritizes flow between gaming zones and relaxation spots, according to details from project announcements.
Construction Timeline and Scale
Work on the full resort proceeds in parallel with the introductory operations, focusing on the permanent casino floor that will open in spring 2027. Full completion remains set for 2027, at which point the 24-story hotel will stand as the centerpiece of the property. This timeline reflects coordinated efforts across multiple contractors and suppliers, ensuring each phase aligns with regulatory and structural requirements in North Carolina.
The overall investment range of $1 to $1.25 billion underscores the scope of the undertaking, encompassing land development, building construction, and integration of technology across gaming and hospitality systems. Employment estimates of 2,000 to 2,200 positions cover roles in casino management, food service, security, and maintenance, with hiring processes expected to ramp up as later phases near completion.Economic Context in the Region
Kings Mountain's location near Charlotte and Interstate 85 positions the resort to draw from a wide catchment area, connecting local traffic patterns with broader regional access. The Catawba Nation's approach integrates the new facility into existing transportation corridors, which supports steady visitor flow from the outset. Data from similar projects in other states indicates that phased openings can stabilize revenue streams while construction advances, a pattern that applies here as operations continue without pause.
But here's the thing: the introductory phase serves as both an operational hub and a preview of what the complete resort will offer once the hotel and expanded gaming areas come online. This setup allows adjustments based on real-world usage before the larger elements finalize.Future Phases and Projections
The permanent casino floor in spring 2027 will expand upon the current offerings, incorporating lessons from the initial period. Full resort completion in 2027 brings the 24-story hotel into service, adding lodging capacity that pairs with gaming and dining to create a destination experience. Employment figures in the 2,000 to 2,200 range account for growth across these additions, distributing opportunities through direct hires and supporting vendors.
According to project updates, the timeline remains on track despite the complexities of large-scale construction, with milestones tied to specific seasonal targets. This structure keeps momentum while the introductory facility handles daily operations.