In the late 1990’s, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. began to open Charity Casino’s featuring slots with racetracks as a way to ensure the continued viability of the horse racing industry. This strategy, while it proved to be highly contentious, resulted in the survival of many tracks and launched the “locals serving locals” gaming category in Ontario.
In 2001, the OLG opened the Slots at Hanover Raceway in the farming and manufacturing town of Hanover, Ontario. Out of economic necessity the new slot gaming and food service operation was wedged under the existing racetrack grandstand. The architectural result was predictable and slot players were welcomed into a dark, cluttered and oppressive environment that outlived its best days before it opened.
Soon after taking over operations of this track slot facility, Gateway Casino & Entertainment decided that they would relocate the business rather than renovate the existing space. Fortunately for GC&E, an adjacent construction project had recently been abandoned for financial reasons soon after the modern exterior had been completed.
The building struck a contemporary form and was beautifully clad both stone and metal finishes. Upon entering the casino lobby, players are met with a gaming interior that exudes a fresh charm and energy that is amplified through soaring ceilings, lively graphics, natural materials, clean lines and engaging details. In addition to the busy slot floor and its groovy Arcade Bar, Playtime Casino Hanover also features a day lit trackside restaurant named Match Eatery & Public House, a contemporary Buffet concept and Simulcast Theatre for horse racing.
The new Playtime Casino Hanover offers players and guests a gaming and hospitality experience that is best described as welcoming, joyful and fun.
Photography by David Whittaker
