22 May 2026
Catawba Nation Marks Milestone with Phase I Opening of Two Kings Casino Resort
The Catawba Nation has officially opened Phase I of its Two Kings Casino Resort in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, around May 20, 2026, and this step replaces the temporary casino that had operated since 2021 while delivering an immediate expansion of gaming and entertainment options for the region. Observers note that the introductory phase brings approximately 1,350 slot machines along with 20 to 22 live table games, a sportsbook, dining options, and dedicated parking facilities, all designed to serve visitors right away.
Details of the Phase I Launch
Construction teams completed the core elements of Phase I on schedule, which allowed the Catawba Nation to transition from the temporary site to a permanent structure without interrupting service, and the new facility includes modern amenities that connect directly to the existing infrastructure on the property. Data from project updates shows the phase covers roughly the footprint needed for high-volume slot play and table games, while the sportsbook occupies a central area that draws sports enthusiasts who seek regulated wagering opportunities in the state. Those who visited during the opening days found streamlined access through expanded parking lots, and multiple dining venues now operate on site to support longer stays.
Project managers coordinated with local authorities to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, and the transition from the temporary casino has proceeded smoothly because the new Phase I building incorporates lessons learned from years of operation at the earlier location. Experts have observed that this approach minimizes disruption for regular patrons while introducing upgraded technology across the gaming floor, including advanced slot systems and live dealer configurations that meet current industry standards.
Timeline Toward Full Resort Completion
Construction on the full-scale resort continues alongside Phase I operations, with a hotel tower and additional gaming space scheduled for spring 2027 completion, which means the overall project will unfold in clear stages over the coming months. The Catawba Nation has outlined that the expanded gaming areas will significantly increase capacity once the hotel opens, allowing the property to host larger events and conferences that draw from across the Southeast. Figures released by the tribe indicate the complete resort will integrate the current Phase I elements into a larger campus that features more restaurants, entertainment venues, and lodging options.
Site plans show the hotel will rise adjacent to the existing Phase I structure, which creates a cohesive layout that supports both day visitors and overnight guests once construction wraps up, and workers remain on schedule because supply chains and labor resources have stayed consistent throughout the build. Those tracking the project note that the spring 2027 target accounts for final inspections and staff training across all new departments.
Economic Contributions to the Region
The opening of Phase I already supports job creation in construction, hospitality, and gaming operations, while the full resort completion in 2027 is projected to generate additional employment across multiple sectors in Kings Mountain and surrounding communities. Local economic analyses indicate that visitor spending at the casino will circulate through nearby businesses, and the Catawba Nation has partnered with regional workforce programs to fill positions with qualified residents. According to project reports, the development represents an investment between one billion and 1.25 billion dollars that will deliver sustained revenue streams once fully operational.
Community leaders have highlighted how the casino resort fits into broader economic development strategies for Cleveland County, and the phased approach allows benefits to begin flowing immediately rather than waiting for the entire property to finish. Data from regional tourism offices shows increased interest from out-of-state travelers who now have a new destination option along major travel corridors in western North Carolina.
Background on the Catawba Two Kings Project
The Catawba Nation selected the Kings Mountain site because of its strategic location near Interstate 85, which provides convenient access for guests traveling from Charlotte, Asheville, and beyond, and the temporary casino that opened in 2021 served as a proving ground for demand while permanent facilities took shape. Tribal officials coordinated extensively with state and local governments to secure necessary approvals, which established a framework that continues to guide the current expansion phases. Those familiar with the project recall that early planning emphasized cultural elements alongside modern gaming amenities, resulting in design features that reflect Catawba heritage throughout public spaces.
Regulatory oversight has remained consistent from the initial temporary operation through the Phase I launch, and the Catawba Nation maintains compliance teams that monitor all aspects of gaming activity to align with North Carolina statutes. This continuity helps ensure that the transition to larger facilities occurs without regulatory gaps or service interruptions for players.
Conclusion
The Phase I opening around May 20, 2026, positions the Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort as an active contributor to regional growth while the tribe advances toward the 2027 full-scale completion that will add a hotel and expanded gaming options. The project replaces the temporary facility with permanent infrastructure that includes 1,350 slot machines, 20 to 22 table games, a sportsbook, dining, and parking, all of which now operate under one roof. Economic projections tied to the development point toward ongoing job creation and visitor spending that will benefit Kings Mountain and nearby areas for years ahead. As construction proceeds on the remaining elements, the resort continues to demonstrate how phased development can deliver measurable results at each stage of a large-scale initiative.