Instead of a ribbon-cutting, a guitar was smashed at the June 9 grand opening of the .2 million expansion the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Sioux City, Iowa. Thousands of fans also welcomed Willie Nelson, the opening act for the 2017 Battery Park Concert Series. General Manager Todd Moyer said, “Every time I walk into this new space I’m amazed by how beautiful it is. I am proud that we were able to use local contractors and craftsman to build such a great space. The feedback from our guests has been extraordinary.”
The 8,000 square foot expansion includes 60 new slots and two additional blackjack tables, a private lounge and the Wine Bar, offering 125 labels and 20 wines by the glass.
As in every Hard Rock property, memorabilia from American music icons line the walls. The new space’s entry features full apparel ensembles from Tom Petty and Jon Bon Jovi. Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, SLASH and Willie Nelson also donated memorabilia on display. Original artwork includes a shattered-glass portrayal of Springsteen by artist Orland-based artist Jay Bonadio, and San Diego-based artist Adam Orr created three pieces, including a portrait of Willie Nelson.
Moyer stated, “When looking for the quintessential artist to perform at our grand opening, Willie Nelson immediately came to mind. His performance this weekend to celebrate this new space and to kick off the 2017 Battery Park Concert Series is truly a dream realized. We are all very excited to have Willie and other American musical icons identify this new space. Their music so often focused on the celebration of American pride and continues to inspire generations. They uniquely give the room its special vibe.”
Other performers for the Battery Park Concert Series include: Journey with Asia, June 30; Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City’s Country Music Festival with Billy Currington, Chase Rice, Whiskey Myers, Michael Tyler & Filmore, July 22; Bret Michaels with Great White & Slaughter, July 28; Alanis Morissette, August 26; and Five Finger Death Punch, September 1.
