Posted on: March 10, 2026, 12:52h.
Last updated on: March 9, 2026, 02:53h.
- Bally’s Marquette will open its new land-based casino on March 13
- Bally’s Marquette is a $26.2 million brick-and-mortar gaming facility
- The casino replaces the longtime Casino Queen Marquette riverboat
Bally’s Marquette will open the doors to its new brick-and-mortar casino later this week.
On Monday, Bally’s Corp. announced that Bally’s Marquette will open its land-based casino and associated amenities this Friday, March 13. Bally’s Marquette replaces the former Casino Queen riverboat following an inland transformation that cost $26.2 million.
The official transformation to Bally’s Marquette represents a defining moment for our team, guests, and the community,” said Robin Corbeil, general manager. “With our move ashore complete, Bally’s Marquette delivers a modern gaming experience, expanded dining offerings, and a welcoming atmosphere that honors our riverfront roots while positioning us for the future.”
The new casino building spans 31,280 square feet with more than 400 slot machines and electronic table games. There are also live dealer blackjack and Ultimate Texas Hold’em table games, plus a sportsbook.
Marquette Makeover
Bally’s acquired Casino Queen Marquette when the riverboat’s owner, private equity firm Standard General, bought Bally’s Corp. for $4.6 billion in 2024. Standard General had earlier bought Queen Casino & Entertainment, Inc.
While Bally’s Marquette was under construction, the riverboat continued to operate. Once Bally’s opens this week, the boat will shutter and be sold.
Along with the casino, Bally’s Marquette includes an expanded portfolio of dining and beverage concepts.
The 1994 Sports Bar pays homage to the riverboat’s December 1994 opening with pub fare and numerous televisions. Sidecar Bar is described as a “spirited lounge” with handcrafted cocktails. The Riverside Grill will serve fast-casual American eats, while Benchfront Coffee will serve up specialty coffee drinks.
The landside move, Bally’s said, created nearly 80 new jobs and “strengthened the property’s long-term investment in regional tourism and economic development.”
The Friday grand opening will include live music, a ribbon cutting, and “other surprises.”
For longtime visitors of Casino Queen Marquette, Pinky, the casino’s storied pink elephant that has stood on the banks of the Mississippi River for almost two decades, is remaining on the property at his current site.
The roadside attraction was moved to the casino along Great River Road in 2009 after the Pink Elephant Hotel & Supper Club was torn down.
Revenue Rebound?
Bally’s is betting big on its inland casino in Marquette. The $26.2 million investment represents more money than the casino generated in gross gaming revenue in 2025.
Casino Queen Marquette reported 2025 gross gaming revenue (GGR) of just $19.9 million. Among the 19 casinos in Iowa, that ranked dead last. Wild Rose Clinton was second to last, with GGR of $30.4 million.
Statewide casino revenue totaled more than $1.67 billion, giving Casino Queen Marquette just a 1.2% market share. Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino led the way at over $234.7 million.
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