Cripple Creek‘s Casino Boom: Can Luxury Revitalize a Historic Town?
A newly opened Las Vegas-style hotel and casino complex, dubbed the Chamonix, is leaving its imprint on Cripple Creek, Colorado, a historic gold mining town looking to reinvent itself. The Chamonix, boasting 300 luxury rooms, upscale amenities, and a high-end steakhouse, is not only attracting more gamblers but also driving a surge in investment throughout the town.
A Wave of Investment
Since the Chamonix opened in phases starting late last year, casino revenue in Cripple Creek has jumped by over 10%, while neighboring towns like Black Hawk have seen more modest growth.
This success is prompting other casino operators in Cripple Creek to follow suit, investing in renovations and expansions.
For instance, Full House Resorts, the company behind the Chamonix, anticipates its new hotel-casino complex will generate an annual profit of $50 million within a few years. The company is betting on a larger target audience, hoping to ease the usual weekday slump in casino traffic.
“We are attracting customers from Denver, especially on the south side such as Parker and Centennial, because we are equidistant from them as they are to Black Hawk,” said CEO Dan Lee. “The hotel is really just opening, over the summer it was a matter of telling people we were here.”
Beyond Full House Resorts, the Golden Nugget Cripple Creek Hotel & Casino, under the Fertitta Entertainment umbrella, recently completed a series of upgrades, though larger-scale renovations are reportedly in the works.
Rocky Mountain Gaming CC, a new owner consortium, is also investing in Cripple Creek by acquiring andrevitalizing existing casinos, while Century Casinos is putting millions into a grand entrance upgrade for their flagship casino.
Even the Double Eagle Hotel and Casino is riding the wave, recently concluding a major renovation of its hotel rooms and preparing to introduce a sports betting area in partnership with Fanatics Sportsbook.
A New Vision for a Historic Town
The influx of investment signals a shift in Cripple Creek. While its appeal as a historic gold mining town remains, casino operators are aiming to attract a broader range of visitors seeking luxury amenities and modern entertainment options alongside the history.
Lee, the CEO of Full House Resorts, envisions Cripple Creek becoming a western version of Colonial Williamsburg, blending its historical charm with modern attractions.
Its charming, Wild West vibe, coupled with its proximity to Denver and Colorado Springs, positions it well to capitalize on this trend, promising both a nostalgic escape and a taste of modern luxury.
This transformation is yet to be fully realized, but the early signs point to a promising future. While the outcome remains to be seen, the Chamonix’s success is undeniably a catalyst for change in Cripple Creek, paving the way for a new era.
What specific types of tourists does the guest believe Cripple Creek is now attracting with its focus on luxury?
## Can Luxury Revitalize Cripple Creek? A Guest’s Perspective
**(Reporter):** Cripple Creek is experiencing a surge in casino activity, largely fueled by the opening of the Chamonix, a new luxury hotel and casino complex. We’re here today with a guest, [Guest Name], who recently visited Cripple Creek. [Guest Name], thanks for joining us. Can you tell us about your experience?
**(Guest):** It was fantastic! We were really impressed with the Chamonix. It’s beautiful, with such a luxurious feel. The rooms were comfortable and spacious, and we especially enjoyed the high-end steakhouse. [[1](https://www.cnty.com/cripple-creek/)]
**(Reporter):** You mentioned the Chamonix. There’s been talk of this new complex revitalizing the town. What are your thoughts on that?
**(Guest):** I definitely think so. Cripple Creek has a charming historic feel, but it’s clear they’re trying to modernize and attract a wider audience. The Chamonix is setting a new standard, and it seems to be working. The town feels busier, more vibrant.
**(Reporter):** Do you think the focus on luxury will appeal to a bigger crowd?
**(Guest):** Absolutely. Cripple Creek always drew a certain type of visitor, but now it feels like they’re attracting a new demographic – people interested in a more upscale experience.
**(Reporter):** What about the impact on local businesses?
**(Guest):** It’s hard to say for sure, but we saw a lot of new shops and restaurants popping up. If the Chamonix is bringing in more tourists, that can only benefit the local economy.
**(Reporter):** Thank you for sharing your thoughts, [Guest Name].
**(Guest):** My pleasure.
