OTTAWA, ONTARIO – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa officially opened its doors with a signature guitar smash, marking the arrival of Canada’s first fully integrated Hard Rock resort. The $350 million resort brings the brand to Canada’s capital, offering locals and visitors an immersive Hard Rock experience blending iconic music history with world-class entertainment, hospitality, dining, and gaming.
In true Hard Rock fashion, the opening festivities began with the Canadian Tenors’ rendition of the O Canada anthem followed by the brand’s signature guitar smash – a modern take on the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony. Executives, dignitaries, and community leaders took the stage to ceremoniously smash guitars, signaling the official opening of the state-of-the-art entertainment destination.
A special moment included the presentation of a $100,000 donation to Ottawa Food Bank, reinforcing Hard Rock’s commitment to giving back to the communities it serves.
“Bringing Hard Rock to Canada’s capital is an iconic milestone for our brand,” said Jim Allen, CEO of Hard Rock International. “We’re proud to expand our global footprint and create a destination where locals and visitors can experience world-class gaming, hospitality, and entertainment all in one place.”
“Our government is thrilled that Hard Rock chose Ontario for its first fully integrated hotel and casino venue in Canada,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “This new entertainment and hospitality destination will draw visitors from near and far to Ottawa, create and sustain hundreds of local jobs, and provide millions of dollars for local infrastructure and community programs.”

Grand opening attendees included leaders from the Seminole Tribe of Florida and top executives from Hard Rock International, such as COO Jeff Hook and Executive Operations Advisor Jon Lucas. Also in attendance were Stan Cho, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, and City of Ottawa officials, including Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, Police Chief Eric Stubbs, and Fire Chief Paul Hutt. Representing the sports community were Michael Andlauer of the Ottawa Senators ownership group, Brianne Jenner, captain of PWHL Ottawa, and Sara Bailey, the reigning WBA Light Flyweight World Champion.
“The wait is over,” said Christine Crump, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa. “We are thrilled to share this exquisite facility with our community and tourists. At our core, we are an entertainment company, and we know that our guests will feel the vibe and energy the moment they walk in!”
Guests can now experience over 150,000 sq. ft. of entertainment and hospitality offerings. These include a contemporary, music-inspired hotel featuring 150 guest rooms, including 22 luxury suites. Dining options range from the elevated experience at Council Oak Steakhouse & Seafood to the legendary Hard Rock Cafe. The property also features Hard Rock Live, a state-of-the-art performance venue with a capacity of up to 2,200 guests. The expanded casino floor offers slots, live table games, and high-limit gaming areas. Additionally, the Rock Shop showcases exclusive Hard Rock merchandise and curated music memorabilia from Canadian and international music icons.
“I could not be prouder of our local and global team members who have collaborated on this remarkable venue,” said Crump. “We’ve built a destination that will attract guests from inside and outside our borders, helping to drive the local economy. It truly is the new place to be.”
The project represents a significant investment in the National Capital Region, creating over 600 new jobs and positioning Ottawa as a must-visit destination for entertainment, hospitality, and tourism.