22 May 2026
Catawba Nation Marks Milestone with Two Kings Casino Opening in Kings Mountain
The Catawba Nation opened the introductory phase of its Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort on May 20, 2026, and thousands of visitors turned out to see the new venue in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. This launch replaces the temporary facility that operated since 2021 and forms the first step in a $1 billion development project. The tribe timed the event to coincide with growing regional interest in expanded gaming options near Charlotte, and attendance figures on opening day reflected that momentum.
Inside the new space visitors found 1,350 slot machines along with 22 traditional table games and 36 electronic table games. A restaurant and bar sit near sports betting kiosks while dedicated parking facilities handle the influx of cars. Observers note that these amenities provide a complete introductory experience before the larger resort comes online.
Scale of teh Project and Regional Context
The full Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort will span two million square feet once construction finishes. Planners have scheduled the grand opening for spring 2027 and included a 385-room hotel in the design. That timeline gives the tribe time to expand staffing and fine-tune operations after the current phase settles into routine. The location in Kings Mountain places the property within easy reach of Charlotte metro residents while also serving travelers from surrounding states.
Job Creation and Workforce Growth
The tribe has hired roughly 600 people so far to run the first phase and expects the total to climb above 2,000 once the complete resort opens. Those positions range from gaming floor staff to hospitality roles and maintenance teams. Local workforce agencies have worked with the Catawba Nation to match applicants with available openings, and hiring events continue on a regular schedule. Data from regional labor reports indicates sustained demand for these roles through the remainder of 2026 and into the following year.
What's notable is how the employment numbers connect to broader economic activity in Cleveland County. Suppliers and service providers gain steady contracts as the casino ramps up daily operations, and that ripple effect supports additional indirect jobs in the area. The tribe has emphasized training programs that prepare workers for both current needs and the expanded demands scheduled for 2027.
Visitor Experience and Daily Operations
Guests on opening day encountered a streamlined layout designed for easy navigation between gaming areas and dining options. Sports betting kiosks allow quick wagers on major events while the mix of traditional and electronic tables gives players varied choices. Management has implemented shift schedules that keep all sections staffed during peak evening hours, and early feedback shows steady foot traffic throughout the week. According to the WBTV coverage of the launch, crowd control measures handled the volume without major delays at entrances or parking lots.
Security protocols follow standard industry practices for North Carolina gaming venues, and the tribe coordinates with local law enforcement on traffic and safety planning. Food and beverage service operates from a central restaurant and bar that features regional menu items alongside classic casino fare. These operational details help maintain a consistent experience as visitor numbers stabilize after the initial surge.
Looking Ahead to the 2027 Expansion
Construction crews continue work on the remaining sections of the resort while the current phase runs at full capacity. The 385-room hotel will add overnight accommodations that expand the property's appeal to out-of-town guests. Once complete, the full facility will offer additional dining venues, entertainment spaces, and meeting rooms that support both leisure and corporate events. The tribe has outlined a phased staffing plan that aligns new hires with each completed section of the build-out.
Observers point out that the project timeline allows for adjustments based on performance data collected during the introductory months. Revenue tracking and guest flow studies will guide final decisions on layout tweaks before the larger opening. This measured approach reflects standard practices seen at other tribal gaming developments across the United States.
Conclusion
The May 2026 launch of the Catawba Two Kings Casino first phase marks a clear step forward for the Catawba Nation and the surrounding community. With steady hiring underway and construction progressing toward the 2027 target, the resort continues to generate measurable activity in Kings Mountain. The combination of gaming options, dining, and upcoming hotel space positions the property to serve a growing regional market while delivering ongoing employment opportunities. As operations mature, teh focus remains on integrating new facilities and staff into a cohesive visitor experience that builds on the momentum established during opening week.