Hard Rock International and the Tejon Indian Tribe jointly announced that the Hard Rock Tejon Casino will officially open on November 13, 2025. Located beside Highway 99 south of Bakersfield, California, with an investment of $600 million, it is the first fully operational casino facility in Kern County. Owned by the Tejon Tribe and operated by Hard Rock International, the project is expected to create thousands of construction jobs and 1,000 permanent positions, bringing significant economic benefits to the local community. The casino will offer 150,000 square feet of gaming space, 2,000 slot machines, and 50 live gaming tables, along with various themed dining and musical cultural experiences.
Project Overview and Opening Information
Hard Rock International, in collaboration with the Tejon Indian Tribe, has confirmed that the Hard Rock Tejon Casino will officially open on November 13, 2025. This project is located beside the Mettler 99 Highway south of Bakersfield, California, and is the first fully operational casino facility in Kern County.
The project, with an investment of $600 million, is owned by the Tejon Indian Tribe and managed by Hard Rock International. The casino construction was initially proposed in June 2019 and officially broke ground in December 2023.
Geographical Location and Transportation Advantages
The casino is located on the southern edge of the San Joaquin Valley, near the historic Grapevine Pass, offering convenient access to the Central Valley and Southern California communities. Due to its proximity to Los Angeles, the casino will become the second closest full-service casino resort to Los Angeles.
This strategic location enables it to serve a broad customer base from the Central Valley and Southern California, providing significant market outreach advantages.
Investment Structure and Economic Benefits
The project is entirely privately funded, with a total investment of $600 million. The construction of the casino has created thousands of construction jobs, and it is expected to provide 1,000 permanent positions after its operation.
The project promises to improve local infrastructure without increasing taxpayer burden and provides long-term support for tribal projects in healthcare, education, housing, and community services, offering significant socio-economic benefits.
Entertainment and Gaming Facilities
The casino gaming space spans 150,000 square feet (approximately 14,000 square meters), equipped with over 2,000 slot machines and 50 live gaming tables. Popular games include blackjack, ultimate Texas hold'em, and three-card poker.
The facility also features private high-stakes gaming rooms offering games like blackjack and baccarat. The venue will display a large collection of music memorabilia, continuing the Hard Rock brand's musical culture tradition.
Dining and Retail Experience
Dining services include the globally renowned Hard Rock Cafe, Deep Cut Steaks | Seafood, and YOUYU among other specialty restaurants. The marketplace food court offers a variety of options from street food to wood-fired Italian cuisine.
The retail section features the Rock Shop, offering exclusive merchandise sales. A diverse range of dining and retail options provides guests with a complete entertainment experience.
Membership Program and Customer Service
The casino will integrate the Hard Rock Group's international loyalty program "Unity by Hard Rock," allowing members to earn and redeem points at Hard Rock facilities worldwide. The new venue will offer opening promotions, customized rewards, and VIP treatments.
Unity X members can access the Plum Lounge VIP lounge for exclusive services, reflecting Hard Rock's high standards of service.
Tribal Collaboration and Cultural Significance
Tejon Tribe Chairman Octavio Escobedo III stated, "Today is a historic moment for both the Tejon Indian Tribe and the Kern County community. The opening of the casino is not only a celebration of the tribe's traditions and resilience but also a bold step in creating opportunities for future generations."
The project exemplifies the successful collaboration model between Hard Rock International and indigenous tribes, balancing economic development and cultural heritage, bringing long-term benefits to the tribal community.
Official Statements and Future Outlook
Jim Allen, Chairman and CEO of Hard Rock International, said, "We are very proud to bring our brand to Kern County, thanks to the collaboration with the Tejon Tribe. This casino will set a new benchmark for the regional entertainment industry, blending world-class service with tribal cultural vision."
Chris Kelley, President of Hard Rock Tejon Casino, added, "We are ready to welcome guests in mid-November. The casino will blend the brand's renowned energy, flavor, and passion, reflecting the strength and tradition of the Tejon Tribe."
Community Impact and Development Prospects
The opening of the casino is expected to have a profound impact on Kern County, becoming a cultural, economic, and entertainment hub for the region. The project will boost local economic growth, provide job opportunities, and enhance the area's attractiveness.
As a significant step in Hard Rock's expansion in California, the casino is poised to become an important entertainment destination in the Central Valley region, injecting new vitality into the local tourism and service industries.
