A well-known off-Strip casino is currently in the midst of a $35 million transformation. Ellis Island is the site of this multimillion-dollar project, which will see the gaming floor expanded and several new additions to the property, such as a new center bar and a rooftop event space. The existing Village Pub & Café and karaoke lounge will also receive renovations as part of this extensive upgrade.

Having been in operation since the late 1960s, this family-owned establishment has seen multiple improvements over the years, but none as substantial as this current endeavor. Christina Ellis, vice president of development at Ellis Island, expressed her excitement about the project, stating, “We are very excited to have this project underway. The city is growing, and we are eager to expand our offerings while staying true to what has kept us a staple on Koval Lane for 56 years, with great value dining, gaming and amenities.”

While no specific timeline for the completion of the project has been provided, Ellis Island’s reputation among bargain-seeking gamblers for offering lower table game minimums is well-known. The casino floor boasts $5 blackjack and craps games, as well as $10 roulette. As part of the revamp, over 250 new slot machines and a new pit area will be introduced to the casino floor.

Anamarie Ellis, the property’s vice president of operations, shared her enthusiasm for the expansion, stating, “Our casino team is eager to expand our mix, bringing in more fan-favorite slots, growing our casino pit, and introducing a new center bar, and other exciting amenities. We are looking forward to bringing this new aesthetic to the floor and welcoming our loyal guests to enjoy the upgrades.”

Steelman Partners and Bentar Construction, two Las Vegas-based businesses, are behind the design and construction of the Ellis Island project. However, the casino is currently involved in a legal battle with Formula One over damages allegedly sustained during the construction for last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix. Claiming to have lost millions of dollars in 2023 due to obstructed customer access caused by road improvements and other race-related construction, Ellis Island filed a lawsuit against the organization. While oral arguments have been heard in court, no action has been taken thus far.

As this year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend approaches on Nov. 21-23, Ellis Island continues with its ambitious renovation plans, eager to unveil the revamped casino to its guests and the public.