Rivers Casino Philadelphia
- Founded
- 2006-01-01 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Headquarters
- 1001 North Delaware Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19125, USA
Rivers Casino Philadelphia, originally opened as SugarHouse Casino in 2010, is a premier land‑based casino and entertainment destination on the Delaware River waterfront in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood. It was the first casino to open in the city and is owned and operated by Rush Street Gaming, a leading casino developer. The property offers over 1,500 slot machines, nearly 75 table games, a 28‑table poker room, and a BetRivers Sportsbook for in‑person sports betting. Dining options range from Italian‑American steakhouse Martorano’s Prime to Asian‑focused Mian and casual spots like FLIPT burgers. The casino also features The Event Center for live performances and the boutique hotel Riversuites at The Battery. Through its partnership with the Penn Treaty Special Services District, the casino has contributed over $13 million to community projects since 2009, and its parent company’s “Rivers Gives” program allocates approximately $14 million annually across all properties.
Detailed Review
History & Development
SugarHouse Casino was awarded one of five stand‑alone casino licenses by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board on December 20, 2006. After legal challenges and community negotiations, groundbreaking took place on October 9, 2009, and the casino opened on September 23, 2010 on the site of the former Jack Frost Sugar Refinery. A major expansion completed in May 2016 added gaming space, restaurants, and a parking garage. In December 2018, the property launched Philadelphia’s first licensed sportsbook, operated by Rush Street Interactive. The casino was rebranded as Rivers Casino Philadelphia in 2019, aligning with Rush Street’s Rivers brand.
Facilities & Gaming
The casino floor spans approximately 45,000 square feet and includes a wide variety of slot machines, table games such as blackjack, craps, Spanish 21, and roulette, Asian gaming tables, and a 28‑table poker room. The BetRivers Sportsbook offers in‑person wagering on major sports. The property also offers a loyalty program, Rush Rewards, and high‑limit gaming areas.
Dining & Entertainment
Notable restaurants include Martorano’s Prime (Italian‑American steakhouse), Mian (Asian cuisine), Jack’s Bar + Grill, FLIPT (burgers and shakes), and Sapore Slice (pizza). The Marketplace features Dunkin’ and Rita’s Italian Ice. The Event Center hosts live comedy, concerts, and special events. Riversuites at The Battery is a 32‑suite boutique hotel with river views.
Community & Corporate Responsibility
Rivers Casino Philadelphia has a long‑standing partnership with the Penn Treaty Special Services District (SSD). In December 2025, it made its annual $750,000 contribution, part of a 15‑year, $11.25 million pledge. The casino also supports local nonprofits through its “Rivers Gives” program, contributing approximately $14 million annually across all Rush Street properties.
Licensing & Legal Structure
The casino operates under a Category 2 license from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. The legal entity is SugarHouse HSP Gaming, LP, doing business as Rivers Casino Philadelphia. The property is owned by Rush Street Gaming, which also operates casinos in Pittsburgh, Des Plaines (IL), Portsmouth (VA), and Schenectady (NY).
Awards & Recognition
The casino has been repeatedly voted a “Best Place to Work” and “Top Workplace” by its team members.
Key Products
Slot Machines
Over 1,500 slot machines featuring classic and video reel games, progressive jackpots, and high‑limit areas.
Table Games
Nearly 75 tables including blackjack, craps, Spanish 21, roulette, and more.
Poker Room
28‑table poker room hosting cash games and tournaments.
BetRivers Sportsbook
In‑person sports wagering with multiple screens and betting kiosks.
Asian Gaming
Live Asian‑inspired table games (e.g., baccarat, sic bo) and Dynasty Stadium Gaming terminals.
Rush Rewards
Player loyalty program offering points, comps, and tier benefits.
Martorano’s Prime
Italian‑American steakhouse restaurant.
Mian
Authentic Asian cuisine restaurant.
Jack’s Bar + Grill
American bar and grill.
FLIPT
Smash burger and shake concept.
The Event Center
Multipurpose venue for concerts, comedy, and private events.
Riversuites at The Battery
Boutique hotel with 32 suites overlooking the Delaware River.
Key Persons
- Scott Lokke
General Manager
- Tim Drehkoff
CEO of Rush Street Gaming
Recent News
Pennsylvania Gaming Revenue Surpasses $7bn in FY2025-26 as June Figures Slip 1.7%
Pennsylvania's total gaming revenue for fiscal year 2025-2026 broke the $7bn barrier for the first time, rising 9.6%, though June revenue dipped 1.7% to $535.3m. iGaming led the annual gains with an 18.4% increase to $2.9bn, while sports wagering surged 36% despite a June slump.
2026-07-17