Nebraska gaming laws require a casino to be associated with a racetrack to exist. For Harrah’s Columbus Nebraska Racing & Casino, Caesars Entertainment chose Columbus Exposition and Racing, a one-mile racetrack that is the longest in the state.
The new property opened in mid-May with 17,000 square feet containing 400 slot machines and 11 table games, along with the retail Caesars Race & Sportsbook, the first in Nebraska.
The initial bet was $20 on the Boston Celtics to win the NBA Finals. In the casino itself, the initial jackpot came to $1,876 on Power Push.
“We’re so proud to open the doors to Harrah’s Columbus, Nebraska Racing & Casino for the first time today,” Todd Connelly, regional president of Caesars Entertainment, told Covers. “Harrah’s is an iconic brand that our guests have come to know and love across the country. We’re so happy to be here with our partners and friends as we celebrate what is sure to be a bright future in Nebraska.”
The 2,100-square-foot sportsbook and simulcast betting area lies adjacent to the casino floor. The iconic brand lets guests earn Caesars Rewards.
The property contains a Brew Brothers restaurant and a bar named Wishbones. Construction continues on two adjacent hotels, a Marriott Fairfield Inn and Townplace Suites hotel complex.
Nebraska Racing & Gaming Commission regulates the track, sportsbook and casino.
