Catawba Nation Marks Milestone with Two Kings Casino Resort Phase One Opening in Kings Mountain

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. The new facility replaces a temporary gaming site that opened in 2021, and it brings together more than 1,300 slot machines, electronic gaming tables, traditional table games, and sports betting kiosks along with dining options and bar areas that drew large crowds on opening day.

Background on the Project

Construction for the overall Two Kings Casino Resort forms part of a $1.25 billion investment by the Catawba Nation, while the full permanent casino and hotel complex remains on track for completion by spring 2027. Observers note that this phased approach allows the tribe to begin operations and generate revenue sooner, and it provides time for additional infrastructure work to finish on the remaining sections. The location benefits from easy access off Interstate 85, which connects travelers from Charlotte and surrounding regions, and this strategic placement supports steady visitor flow from the start.

Details of the New Facility

Inside the opened phase, guests encounter a range of gaming choices that include classic slot machines alongside electronic versions of table games such as blackjack and roulette. Traditional table game pits operate with live dealers, and sports betting kiosks stand ready for those interested in wagering on events. Dining venues and bar areas provide spaces for meals and drinks, creating an integrated experience that keeps visitors on site longer. People who attended the opening reported steady crowds throughout the day, and the volume of activity reflected anticipation built up since the temporary site first appeared in 2021.

Significance for the Region

The opening represents a key milestone in the tribe’s long-term plans, and it shifts operations from the interim facility to a more permanent setup that meets modern standards. Local traffic patterns around Kings Mountain saw noticeable increases on opening day, while nearby businesses noted higher foot traffic from casino visitors. Data from similar tribal gaming projects across the country shows that such developments often stimulate job creation during both construction and ongoing operations, and this expansion follows that pattern with positions in gaming, hospitality, and security now filled or in the hiring process.

Construction crews continue work on the hotel tower and additional gaming space that will complete the resort by spring 2027, and progress reports indicate steady advancement on those elements. In the months leading into May 2026, crews plan to finalize structural work on the hotel and integrate new amenities that will expand the property’s capacity further. This timeline keeps the overall project aligned with the announced spring 2027 target for full operations.

Looking Ahead

The Catawba Nation continues to manage the phased rollout while monitoring visitor response to the current offerings, and feedback from opening-day attendees will help refine services in the weeks ahead. Additional phases will introduce the hotel and expanded gaming areas, creating a destination that combines lodging with comprehensive entertainment options. According to updates shared through the project’s official channels, the remaining work focuses on integrating these new elements smoothly with the already operational sections.

Conclusion

The first major phase of the Two Kings Casino Resort now stands open to the public in Kings Mountain, and it marks a concrete step forward in the Catawba Nation’s $1.25 billion vision. With gaming, dining, and betting options already drawing crowds, the facility sets the stage for the hotel and full resort completion expected by spring 2027. The development strengthens the tribe’s presence in North Carolina gaming while offering new economic activity in the greater Charlotte area.