Catawba Nation Marks Milestone With Phase One Launch of Two Kings Casino Resort

The Catawba Nation opened the introductory phase of its Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort on May 20, 2026 in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, and this development replaces a temporary facility that had operated since 2021 while construction progressed on the larger project. Thousands of visitors arrived on opening day to explore the new space, which features 1,350 slot machines along with 22 traditional table games, 36 electronic table games, a restaurant and bar, sports betting kiosks, and dedicated parking facilities. Observers note that the venue forms the initial component of a broader $1 billion resort complex that will eventually span 2 million square feet once fully complete.

Facilities and Gaming Options Available at Launch

Visitors encounter a focused selection of gaming choices in this first phase, where the 1,350 slot machines occupy substantial floor space and the combination of traditional table games with electronic variants provides multiple ways to participate. Sports betting kiosks stand ready for those interested in placing wagers on events, while the restaurant and bar area offers dining and refreshment options without requiring guests to leave the property. Parking facilities accommodate the influx of cars, and reports indicate smooth operations throughout the opening day despite the large crowds drawn to the site near Charlotte.

According to coverage from local media outlets, the layout emphasizes accessibility and flow, allowing patrons to move between gaming zones, dining areas, and betting stations with relative ease. The electronic table games supplement the 22 traditional offerings, creating capacity for both experienced players and those new to the experience, and this mix reflects planning that accounts for varied preferences among the thousands who attended the launch.

Employment Growth and Workforce Expansion

The tribe has hired approximately 600 people so far to staff the introductory phase, and this initial workforce supports daily operations across gaming, hospitality, and support roles. Plans call for expansion beyond 2,000 jobs once the full resort opens in spring 2027, which will include a 385-room hotel and additional amenities within the 2-million-square-foot complex. Those tracking regional development note that such hiring milestones contribute to local employment opportunities in Cleveland County and surrounding areas.

Training programs and recruitment efforts have focused on preparing staff for both current demands and future growth, ensuring continuity as construction continues on the remaining sections of the resort. Data from project updates shows steady progress toward the larger employment target, with the current 600 positions serving as a foundation for scaling up services when the hotel and expanded facilities come online.

Transition From Temporary Operations

The temporary facility, active since 2021, provided an early platform for the Catawba Nation to establish a presence in the Kings Mountain area while permanent construction advanced. Its replacement by the new venue on May 20, 2026 represents a clear step forward in scale and amenities, shifting from interim operations to a more comprehensive setup that includes dedicated parking and expanded gaming selections. People familiar with the timeline observe that this progression aligns with the tribe's stated goals for the overall project.

Operations at the temporary site helped build experience and community connections, which now carry over to the first phase of the $1 billion resort. The move allows for increased capacity and variety, as evidenced by the addition of sports betting kiosks and the larger array of table games and slots now available to guests.

Looking Ahead to Full Resort Completion

Construction continues on the remaining elements of the resort, with the 385-room hotel and additional features scheduled to open in spring 2027. This timeline positions the full 2-million-square-foot development as a major addition to the regional landscape, building directly on the infrastructure and staffing already in place at the introductory phase. Updates from project representatives indicate ongoing work to meet these deadlines while maintaining service levels at the current venue.

Conclusion

The opening of the first phase on May 20, 2026 establishes a new operational base for the Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort and sets the stage for further development through 2027. With its combination of slots, table games, electronic options, dining, sports betting, and parking now accessible, the venue serves thousands of daily visitors while supporting an initial workforce of about 600 employees. The project continues its trajectory toward the complete resort, which will deliver expanded employment and facilities in the coming year.