NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – Betting on the future of New Orleans as a destination city, leaders at Caesars Entertainment joined public officials Tuesday (Oct. 22) to cut the ribbon on a massive, $435 million renovation of the former Harrah’s casino in Downtown New Orleans.

The Caesars New Orleans hotel-casino property is a focal point at the foot of Canal Street that has welcomed guests since it first opened as Harrah’s in 1999.

Three years ago, an ambitious project began to overhaul the casino and construct a brand new, adjacent hotel tower.

Ahead of the swarm of crowds for Taylor Swift’s concerts at the end of the week, leaders from Caesars flew in from Las Vegas and joined public officials to host a parade, second line and party to celebrate the official rebranding.

“We’re excited to be a little slice of Caesars but also a big slice of New Orleans still,” said Samir Mowad, senior vice president and general manager of Caesars New Orleans. “We are now fully operational, in terms of all the amenities you would expect.”

Mowad said the renovations can be seen in every aspect of functionality at the casino, including an overhaul of building’s exterior, new flooring, pieces on display including massive columns and chairs, the opening of the centerpiece Octavia Bar with a massive chandelier, and a variety of restaurants including Nobu.

“It’s what Caesars Entertainment is famous for,” Mowad said. “That Las Vegas, that Bobby Flay, the Nobu, the Buddy Valastro Pizza Cake, combined with the local flavor that is New Orleans. Whether it’s our new partnership with Chef Emeril (Lagasse), we have (Compere Lapin chef) Nina Compton in our celebrity food hall.”

Nearby residents said the hotel tower, set to open this weekend, combined with the refreshed exterior of the casino, has felt like something of a rebirth for the foot of Canal Street.

“It’s exciting,” said Beau Goodreaux. “I think Harrah’s is a bit more of a generic casino brand, and Caesars feels so much more premium.”

New Orleans joins Las Vegas and Atlantic City, along with a location in Canada, as one of the few Caesars-branded casinos in the country.

The rebranding was welcome news for several employees who have worked at Harrah’s since it opened 25 years ago.

“I mean, it’s awesome,” said Darrell Guillory. “The new renovations, the sportsbook, everything that’s going to bring revenue into the casino.”

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