TEJON, CA – Hard Rock International, in partnership with the Tejon Indian Tribe, will open Hard Rock Casino Tejon on Nov. 13, 2025. The entertainment destination, located less than 15 miles south of Bakersfield on Tejon Indian Tribal land, will be the first of its kind in Kern County and a landmark development for the region. The all-new entertainment facility is owned by the Tejon Indian Tribe and will be managed by Hard Rock International.
Nestled at the base of the historic Grapevine Mountain Pass at the southernmost tip of the San Joaquin Valley, the new property is poised to serve both Southern California and the Central Valley markets. The destination will be the second closest full casino experience to Los Angeles. The opening marks an important cultural and economic milestone for the Tejon Indian Tribe and the Kern County community, in addition to introducing new hospitality and entertainment offerings.
The privately funded project has already generated thousands of construction jobs and 1,000 permanent roles upon opening. Hard Rock Casino Tejon has also committed to infrastructure improvements in the surrounding area at no cost to taxpayers and will provide long-term investment in community services, education and economic development initiatives for the Tejon Indian Tribe.
“Today marks a historic moment for the Tejon Indian Tribe and the entire Kern County community,” said Octavio Escobedo, III Chairman of the Tejon Tribe. “The opening of Hard Rock Casino Tejon is not only a celebration of our tribe’s heritage and resilience, but also a bold step forward in creating opportunity and prosperity for future generations. This project will bring thousands of jobs, fuel economic growth, and serve as a gathering place where culture, entertainment, and community come together. We are proud to share this milestone with our friends, neighbors, and partners who helped make this vision a reality.”
“We are incredibly proud to bring our iconic brand to Kern County and are thankful for our partnership with the Tejon Indian Tribe,” said Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming. “Hard Rock Casino Tejon will set a new standard for entertainment in the region, blending our world-class hospitality with the tribe’s inspiring vision for cultural and economic growth.”
“It is an honor to lead this incredible project as we prepare to welcome guests in mid-November,” added Chris Kelley, President of Hard Rock Casino Tejon. “Hard Rock Casino Tejon will combine the energy, flavor and excitement that our brand is known for with a uniquely local spirit that reflects the strength and heritage of the Tejon Indian Tribe. We look forward to creating unforgettable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.”
When the doors open, guests will experience a 150,000 sq. ft. gaming floor featuring more than 2,000 slot machines, more than 50 live table games including blackjack, Ultimate Texas Hold ’em and Three Card Poker, and exclusive VIP rooms for blackjack and baccarat. The property will also showcase an extensive collection of authentic music memorabilia, telling the stories of iconic artists and infusing the property with Hard Rock’s legendary energy.
Dining and nightlife will feature the world-renowned Hard Rock Cafe, Deep Cut Steaks | Seafood, and YOUYU, alongside a Marketplace Food Hall with diverse options including artisanal coffee and pastries, street tacos, Southern comfort favorites and wood-fired Italian classics. The property will also include a Rock Shop offering exclusive Hard Rock merchandise.
Guests can enroll in Unity by Hard Rock, the global loyalty program that rewards gaming, dining, shopping and travel at participating Hard Rock locations worldwide. Unity members will enjoy exclusive opening promotions, custom rewards and VIP perks, including access to the Plum Lounge for Unity X members.
The Nov. 13, 2025, opening marks Hard Rock International’s latest expansion in California and underscores its commitment to delivering unforgettable guest experiences that celebrate music, culture and community.
