22 May 2026
Catawba Nation Marks New Era with Two Kings Casino First Phase Launch in Kings Mountain
The Catawba Nation opened the introductory phase of its Two Kings Casino Resort on May 20, 2026 in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, and this step brings a permanent gaming facility to the region after years of temporary operations that began in 2021.
Observers note that the new phase includes roughly 1,350 slot machines along with 20 to 22 table games plus a sportsbook while parking garage levels, multiple dining options, and additional amenities round out the experience for visitors arriving at the site.
Background on the Project Development
The Catawba Nation has worked for years to establish this resort and the temporary casino that ran from 2021 onward served as an initial bridge while planners prepared the full complex which carries a projected cost between 1 and 1.25 billion dollars.
Local records show that the permanent structure now taking shape on the same property will expand significantly beyond the current introductory offerings once construction wraps up in spring 2027.
Details of the May 2026 Opening
Officials confirmed the May 20, 2026 date for the first phase debut and the event drew attention because it replaced the temporary setup with a more substantial building that features dedicated spaces for slots, tables, and sports wagering under one roof.
Those who attended the launch reported smooth access through the new parking structures and quick entry to the gaming floor where the slot machines and table games stand ready for play while the sportsbook area provides live betting terminals connected to major events.
Features Available in the Introductory Phase
The facility offers approximately 1,350 slot machines that cover a range of themes and denominations, and the 20 to 22 table games include classics such as blackjack and roulette while the sportsbook operates alongside them with screens displaying ongoing competitions.
Dining options inside the phase include several restaurants and casual eateries that serve everything from quick bites to full meals, and these spots connect directly to the gaming areas so guests can move between activities without leaving the building.
Additional amenities such as restrooms, guest services, and lounges support the main attractions and the parking garage levels provide multi-story capacity that accommodates large crowds on busy days.
Construction Timeline for the Full Resort
Work continues on the broader resort complex that will eventually include hotels, expanded entertainment venues, and more dining and retail space, and the schedule calls for a complete opening in spring 2027.
Project updates indicate that crews are focusing on structural elements and interior finishes for the remaining buildings while the introductory phase already operates at full capacity with its current roster of games and services.
Economic Contributions to the Region
Analysts from regional development offices have tracked the expected job creation tied to the resort and figures reveal hundreds of positions already filled for the first phase with more hires planned as the full property comes online.
Tourism data collected by state agencies shows increased visitor traffic to Kings Mountain since the temporary casino opened in 2021 and the permanent facility is projected to build on that momentum through extended stays and higher spending on lodging and local attractions.
A report from the WCNC coverage of the opening outlines how the Catawba Nation coordinated with local authorities to ensure infrastructure upgrades supported the increased activity around the site.
Community and Operational Outlook
Representatives from the Catawba Nation have stated that the resort will operate under established regulatory guidelines for gaming in North Carolina and they continue to work with state partners on compliance and revenue sharing arrangements that benefit surrounding communities.
Future phases will introduce hotel rooms and larger event spaces that connect to the existing gaming floor and these additions are expected to draw overnight guests who previously visited only for day trips.
Conclusion
The May 20, 2026 opening of the introductory phase at Two Kings Casino Resort represents a key milestone for the Catawba Nation as the permanent facility replaces the temporary operation that ran since 2021 and sets the stage for the complete resort debut in spring 2027.
With its 1,350 slot machines, 20 to 22 table games, sportsbook, parking structures, and dining choices now available, the site already provides a full range of amenities while construction proceeds on the remaining elements of the 1 to 1.25 billion dollar project.
Regional economic projections continue to point toward sustained job growth and tourism gains as the resort moves toward full operation and observers expect the facility to serve as a long-term anchor for development in Kings Mountain and nearby areas.