More than 33 percent of first-year visitors arrived from the Atlanta market, according to Harrah’s research.Īlthough Valley River is equipped with an inviting food court that can recharge gamblers with grub from Panda Express, Earl of Sandwich, Papa John’s and a Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs/Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips combo - as well as the aforementioned Starbucks - visitors told management through surveys and conversations that a slightly more formal dining option was desired. Visitation has been good,” said Lumpy Lambert, general manager of the casino-hotel, sitting the next day in the Starbucks housed in the casino lobby as early-morning gamblers streamed in.Ī tally of 1.1 million people rotated through the $110 million property its first year, almost exactly aligned with expectations, Lambert said. The casino and adjoining hotel sit on 40 acres of land, which is owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and operated by Caesars Entertainment. While Georgia stubbornly digs in its heels against approving gaming in the state, Harrah's opened its second North Carolina property exactly 15.3 miles over the state line and a two-hour drive from metro Atlanta. 28, Harrah's Cherokee Valley River celebrated its first birthday - and celebrate is the accurate verb considering the success of the property.
