Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino expansion nears completion. (Image: Courtesy of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River)

The expansion of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel in North Carolina is nearing completion, with the 12-story, 296-room Valley Tower set to open in early 2025. The development is part of a $275 million project that began with the opening of a 25,000-square-foot addition to the casino floor in May.

The Valley Tower will nearly double the hotel's capacity and introduce several luxury amenities, including a 12,000-square-foot rooftop restaurant with mountain views, a 9,600-square-foot salon and spa, and a year-round indoor pool. 

Guests will be able to enjoy a spa. (Image: Courtesy of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River)

Bookings for the new rooms will open on March 1, 2025, though rooms may be available as early as late 2024.

Lumpy Lambert, General Manager of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel, said, “We’re thrilled to share our progress made to Valley Tower and are eager to welcome guests to experience the luxurious new rooms and enhanced amenities soon.  

“Every detail of the Valley Tower has been thoughtfully designed with our guests’ comfort and enjoyment in mind.” 

Harrah’s Cherokee also made the news recently by serving the community, having acted as a vital staging area for Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.

 The rooftop restaurant offers views of the surrounding nature. (Image: Courtesy of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River)

To accommodate the expected increase in visitors, a new five-story parking deck is also nearing completion, with crews finalizing the installation of elevators, electrical systems, and parking spaces. 

The expansion will also create new job opportunities in hotel services, food and beverage, and retail, with starting wages at $15 per hour. Harrah’s Cherokee offers career growth opportunities and a tuition reimbursement program for employees.