22 May 2026
Catawba Nation Marks Significant Milestone with Two Kings Casino Resort Phase One Opening
The Catawba Nation opened the first major phase of its Two Kings Casino Resort expansion in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, and this development sits near Interstate 85 roughly 35 miles west of Charlotte while replacing a temporary gaming site that launched back in 2021. Construction crews completed the work on schedule, and visitors filled the space on opening day as slot machines hummed alongside electronic gaming tables and traditional table games. Sports betting kiosks stood ready for action, while dining options and bar areas provided places for guests to pause between rounds of play.
Location Advantages Drive Early Interest
Observers note that the site's position along a major highway corridor makes access straightforward for travelers heading between larger cities and local residents alike. Kings Mountain offers a convenient stop for those driving through the region, and the proximity to Charlotte expands the potential visitor base without requiring long detours. Data from the project indicates that planners selected this spot specifically because of existing traffic patterns and available land that supports future growth phases.
Gaming Options and Amenities in the New Facility
The expanded venue now houses over 1,300 slot machines that range from classic reel games to modern video terminals with progressive jackpots. Electronic gaming tables sit beside dedicated areas for traditional table games such as blackjack and roulette, while sports betting kiosks allow quick wagers on upcoming events. Food and drink options include multiple dining venues along with bar areas designed for relaxed socializing during extended visits. These features combine to create a self-contained entertainment destination that operates continuously once fully staffed and running at capacity.
Scale of the Overall Investment
This opening represents a key milestone in the tribe’s $1.25 billion project, and the full permanent casino plus hotel structure remains on track for completion by spring 2027. Project documents outline phased construction that allows revenue from the initial stage to support later work while minimizing disruption to ongoing operations. The approach keeps the facility active and generating activity even as crews build out additional sections on the same property.
Opening Day Crowds and Initial Operations
Large crowds arrived early on opening day, and staff managed entry flows while guests explored the new layout. Those who visited reported smooth transitions from the prior temporary site, with many machines already in use within the first hours. The shift to a more permanent structure brings improved lighting, better traffic circulation, and expanded seating in the dining zones, all of which support longer stays and repeat visits once the novelty settles into routine use.
Timeline Toward Full Completion
By May 2026 crews expect to finish structural work on the main hotel tower and begin interior fit-outs that will add guest rooms, conference space, and additional entertainment venues. The schedule calls for phased openings that introduce new amenities gradually rather than all at once, which allows the tribe to test systems and adjust staffing levels before peak seasons arrive. Full operations including the hotel are slated for spring 2027 according to current projections shared by project managers.
Economic Context for the Region
Local economic reports show that the casino expansion contributes to job creation both during construction and once the facility reaches steady state. Positions range from gaming floor attendants and hospitality staff to maintenance and security roles, and suppliers in surrounding counties gain steady orders for food, linens, and equipment. The tribe coordinates with regional workforce programs to fill openings, which keeps hiring pipelines active as each construction phase concludes.
Conclusion
The first major phase of the Two Kings Casino Resort now operates in Kings Mountain, and it marks measurable progress on the Catawba Nation’s long-term vision for the property. With more than 1,300 slot machines, varied table games, sports betting options, and supporting amenities already welcoming guests, the site serves as both a replacement for the 2021 temporary location and a foundation for the larger $1.25 billion development. Work continues toward the spring 2027 target for the complete casino and hotel complex, while daily activity at the current facility demonstrates sustained interest from the traveling public and nearby communities. Further updates on construction milestones will appear as the project advances through its remaining phases.