Catawba Nation Brings First Phase of Two Kings Casino Resort Online in Kings Mountain
The Catawba Nation opened the first phase of its Two Kings Casino Resort on May 20 2026 in Kings Mountain North Carolina and this introductory facility replaced the temporary casino that had operated since 2021 while adding substantial new capacity for visitors traveling near Interstate 85.
Construction crews completed the 1,350 slot machines and 22 traditional table games along with electronic gaming options that sit inside the new structure and these additions come with a 68-seat restaurant plus an 18-seat bar that serve guests throughout operating hours while sports betting kiosks stand ready for those who prefer that form of wagering.
Expanded Amenities Replace Temporary Setup
People who visited the earlier temporary location now find more room to move and additional parking spaces that ease congestion during peak times and the new building incorporates these features to handle larger crowds as tourism grows along the I-85 corridor between Charlotte and other regional destinations.
Observers note that the project team focused on integrating these elements smoothly so players transition from slots to table games without leaving the main floor area and the layout supports both casual visitors and those seeking longer sessions with easy access to food and beverage stations.
Construction Jobs Transition to Permanent Roles
Hundreds of workers remain on site to finish remaining phases while the opening of this initial section already supports local employment and the full resort slated for spring 2027 will include a 385-room hotel along with further dining and entertainment options that expand the overall footprint.
According to project timelines around 2,200 permanent positions will become available once all sections operate at full strength and these roles range from gaming staff to hospitality and maintenance teams that keep the resort running daily.
Data from regional development reports shows that facilities like this one often draw visitors who combine casino trips with nearby attractions and that pattern boosts spending at restaurants shops and hotels throughout Cleveland County.
Economic Effects Reach Local Communities
Business owners near the site report increased foot traffic since the temporary casino first appeared in 2021 and the larger permanent structure stands to multiply those effects as more travelers exit I-85 for gaming and related activities.
What's interesting is how the phased approach lets the Catawba Nation test operations and adjust staffing levels before the hotel and additional amenities open in 2027 which reduces the risk of overextending resources during the initial months.
Studies of similar tribal gaming projects in the Southeast indicate that direct employment combined with indirect supplier contracts can sustain hundreds of additional jobs in surrounding towns and the Two Kings location follows that established pattern.
Project Timeline and Future Expansion
Developers expect the full resort to open its doors in spring 2027 when the 385-room hotel becomes available and that milestone will complete the shift from temporary operations to a year-round destination that competes with other regional properties.
Yet the current phase already provides the core gaming experience that guests seek along with convenient parking and dining so revenue generation begins immediately while construction continues on the remaining buildings.
Conclusion
The May 20 2026 opening marks the start of a new chapter for the Catawba Nation's presence in North Carolina and the introductory casino sets the stage for larger economic contributions once the hotel and expanded amenities join the complex in 2027. Those following the project can track updates through official tribal channels and local news outlets that cover employment opportunities and visitor traffic as the resort grows.