Harrah’s Philadelphia
- Founded
- 2007-01-01 in Chester, Pennsylvania, USA
- Headquarters
- 777 Harrah’s Blvd, Chester, PA 19013, USA
Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack is a prominent racino situated on the waterfront of Chester, Pennsylvania, approximately 15 miles southwest of downtown Philadelphia. Originally opened as Harrah’s Chester in 2006 with its harness racing season and expanded to a full casino in January 2007, the property rebranded to Harrah’s Philadelphia in 2019 to better reflect its regional appeal. It is owned by Vici Properties and operated by Caesars Entertainment, making it part of one of the largest casino operators in the world. The facility features a 100,000-square-foot gaming floor with over 2,000 slot machines, a wide array of live table games, and a Caesars Sportsbook for sports betting. The 5/8-mile harness racing track is one of the fastest in North America, with live racing from April through November and year-round simulcast wagering. Dining options include the Epic Buffet, The Book Bar & Grill, and several outlets serving regional favorites. The property operates 24/7, is fully ADA-compliant, and does not include an on-site hotel, instead directing guests to nearby partner accommodations. Through the Caesars Rewards program, guests earn points redeemable across the Caesars network. The casino also engages with the local community through partnerships, such as serving as a post-game destination for the Philadelphia Union. Licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, Harrah’s Philadelphia remains a key entertainment anchor in the Delaware Valley region.
Detailed Review
History and Ownership
Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack was developed under Pennsylvania’s early gaming expansion and first opened its harness racing season on September 10, 2006. The casino floor opened on January 22, 2007, initially under the name Harrah’s Chester. The property rebranded to Harrah’s Philadelphia in 2019 to better reflect its regional draw. Originally built by Harrah’s Entertainment (later Caesars Entertainment), the complex became part of the Vici Properties/Caesars structure after the corporate split in 2017. Vici Properties owns the real estate, while Caesars Entertainment operates the gaming, dining, and racing operations.
Gaming and Racing
The gaming floor spans 100,000 square feet and features over 2,000 slot machines, including penny, multi-denomination, and progressive machines. Live table games include blackjack, craps, roulette, three-card poker, and other popular varieties. The Caesars Sportsbook offers in-person and mobile sports wagering. The harness racing track is a 5/8-mile oval with a grandstand and simulcast viewing area; it holds regularly scheduled live racing from April through November, with a typical Thursday/Friday/Sunday schedule and occasional special events. Simulcast wagering on races from across North America is available year-round.
Dining and Amenities
Dining outlets range from full-service restaurants to grab-and-go options. The Epic Buffet provides a rotating selection, while The Book Bar & Grill combines sports viewing with pub fare. Asian fusion and classic Philly cheesesteaks are also available. The property does not have a hotel; guests are directed to nearby partner accommodations. The facility is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, and offers ample self-parking and valet service. It is fully ADA-compliant, with accessible entrances, restrooms, gaming aisles, and loaner wheelchairs available.
Loyalty and Community Engagement
Harrah’s Philadelphia participates in Caesars Rewards, the loyalty program that allows members to earn and redeem points across all Caesars properties. Community engagement includes partnerships such as its collaboration with the Philadelphia Union, where Harrah’s Philadelphia serves as a community partner and post-game destination. The property also hosts regular promotions, tournaments, and entertainment events.
Regulatory Oversight
Regulatory oversight is provided by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, under whose license the casino operates. The property has maintained a consistent compliance record and continues to invest in its facilities and offerings.
Key Products
Slot Machines
Over 2,000 slot machines covering a wide range of denominations and themes, including penny, multi-denomination, and progressive machines.
Live Table Games
A variety of table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, and three-card poker, among others.
Harness Racing
Live harness racing on a 5/8-mile oval track, typically run from spring through fall with a regular Thursday/Friday/Sunday schedule.
Simulcast Wagering
Off-track betting on horse races from tracks across North America, available year-round.
Caesars Sportsbook
In-person and mobile sports betting platform offering a wide range of sports and events.
Caesars Rewards
Loyalty program that allows guests to earn points, comps, and tier credits redeemable across all Caesars properties.
Dining Outlets
Includes the Epic Buffet, The Book Bar & Grill, an Asian fusion restaurant, and a food court with regional specialties.
Event Space
Venues for promotions, tournaments, and community events.
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