SugarHouse Casino: SugarHouse Casino, now rebranded as Rivers Casino Philadelphia, is one of the most prominent gaming and entertainment destinations on the East Coast. Located in the Fishtown neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this waterfront casino blends excitement, history, and modern luxury.
Initially opened in 2010 as SugarHouse Casino, the facility underwent a major expansion and rebranding in 2019, adopting the Rivers Casino brand while retaining its local character. It offers an impressive blend of gaming, dining, entertainment, and event spaces.
Location and Contact Information
SugarHouse Casino (now Rivers Casino Philadelphia) is located on the banks of the Delaware River, offering scenic views and convenient access.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 1001 N. Delaware Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19125 |
| Phone | (877) 477-3715 |
| Website | www.riverscasino.com/philadelphia |
| Hours of Operation | Open 24 hours, 7 days a week |
| Parking | Free self-parking and valet available |
The location is just minutes from Center City, with access via I-95 and public transit options such as SEPTA buses and the Market-Frankford Line.
Gaming Options
SugarHouse Casino features a robust selection of gaming experiences catering to all types of players—from casual gamers to seasoned high-rollers.
Casino Games
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Slot Machines | Over 1,600 slots including penny slots and high-limit machines |
| Table Games | 100+ tables with blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, and more |
| Poker Room | 28-table poker room hosting tournaments and cash games |
| Betting | Rivers Sportsbook offering in-person and mobile sports betting |
The casino’s gaming floor is vibrant and well-maintained, with cocktail service, security, and a rewards program (Rush Rewards) offering perks and comps.
Dining and Restaurants
Rivers Casino Philadelphia offers several dining venues ranging from casual to upscale. Whether you want a quick bite or a sit-down dinner, there’s something for every taste.
Dining Options
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Jack’s Bar + Grill | American | Burgers, steaks, cocktails, and river views |
| Mian | Asian Fusion | Noodles, stir fry, and dim sum |
| Hugo’s Frog Bar | Steakhouse/Seafood | High-end steaks, seafood, wine selection |
| Rita’s Italian Ice | Desserts & Frozen Treats | Classic Philly frozen desserts and treats |
| Coffee Spot | Cafe | Coffee, pastries, and light snacks |
Hugo’s Frog Bar stands out as the fine-dining flagship and is ideal for special occasions or business dinners.
Events and Entertainment
The casino isn’t just about gambling—it’s also a hub for live entertainment and private events.
Live Entertainment
| Venue | Type of Events | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| The Event Center | Concerts, comedy shows, private functions | Weekly events |
| Sportsbook Lounge | Game day experiences, trivia nights | During major sports events |
| Outside Plaza | Seasonal events, food trucks, beer gardens | Spring/Summer weekends |
Live entertainment includes regional bands, national comedy acts, and special themed nights (like Ladies’ Night or Salsa Night).
Hotel and Accommodations
While SugarHouse Casino does not currently have an on-site hotel, it partners with nearby Philadelphia hotels to accommodate guests.
| Nearby Hotel | Distance | Perks for Casino Guests |
|---|---|---|
| Hilton Philadelphia Penn’s Landing | 1.5 miles | Shuttle service, player discounts |
| Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District | 2 miles | Special rates for Rush Rewards members |
| Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia | 3.5 miles | Luxury suites, ideal for high rollers |
Rivers Casino often offers hotel packages for VIPs and event guests. It’s best to inquire with the casino host for current offers.
Promotions and Rewards
Rush Rewards Program
Guests can enroll in the Rush Rewards loyalty program, which allows players to earn points from slots, tables, and dining.
| Tier Level | Points Needed | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Rush | Entry level | Discounts, free parking, promo entries |
| Preferred | 5,000+ | Priority service, exclusive events |
| Signature | 25,000+ | VIP lounge, complimentary offers |
| Black Card | Invitation only | Personalized host, travel rewards, elite perks |
Monthly giveaways include car raffles, cash drawings, and point multipliers.
Transportation and Accessibility
SugarHouse Casino is easy to get to via car, bus, or bike. It also offers various accessibility features.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Parking | 3-level garage and surface lot, free for all visitors |
| Public Transit Access | SEPTA Route 15 Trolley, Bus Route 5, Market-Frankford Line |
| Accessibility | ADA-compliant entrances, elevators, and gaming tables |
| Bike Racks | Located near main entrance |
Ride-share pick-up/drop-off zones are clearly marked for services like Uber and Lyft.
Economic and Community Impact
SugarHouse Casino has played a significant role in revitalizing the Fishtown waterfront. Since opening, it has contributed millions in tax revenue and community funding.
| Area | Impact |
|---|---|
| Jobs Created | Over 1,600 permanent jobs |
| Community Grants | $10+ million to local initiatives |
| Revenue to City | $1.5 billion+ in gaming tax revenue since opening |
| Environmental Efforts | Waterfront revitalization, green building standards |
The casino also partners with neighborhood groups to support small businesses, education, and cultural events.
Final Thoughts
SugarHouse Casino—now Rivers Casino Philadelphia—has become a cornerstone of the city’s entertainment scene. With its wide variety of games, dynamic dining, regular entertainment, and riverside charm, it offers more than just gambling. It’s a destination.
Whether you’re a local Philadelphian looking for a night out, or a visitor seeking fun during your stay in the city, Rivers Casino delivers a complete and vibrant experience.
