Durango Resort is making a bold move in Southwest Las Vegas, launching a third-phase expansion that increases its footprint and gaming options.
The $385 million project will add about 275,000 square feet to the property’s north side, marking the latest step since Durango Resort opened in late 2023. The expansion follows a $120 million second phase and is expected to take 18 months to complete.
Construction crews have begun work on the new podium structure, which will house an expanded casino floor, more restaurants, and upgraded entertainment spaces. The resort plans to keep all existing amenities open to minimize disruption to guests during the buildout.
The expansion shows how competitive the Las Vegas casino market has become, even away from the Strip. While physical resorts continue to grow, the digital side of the industry is evolving. Many players in Nevada still turn to online casinos for real-money gaming, since state law restricts most forms of online casino play.
Online Gambling in the United States
Across the United States, in-person casinos, poker sites, and sportsbooks remain a major part of the entertainment landscape, but more Americans now turn to online sources to place bets. Only a handful of states permit full online casino or poker gambling, and many others restrict it entirely.
For many Americans, online Vegas gambling sites have become a familiar alternative because they offer mobile play and a wider selection of games, sports lines, and poker options than most state‑regulated platforms. These sites typically feature extensive game libraries, around‑the‑clock access, and flexible banking options, including cryptocurrency.
For those without legal online casinos or who prefer privacy and ease, offshore platforms extend the Vegas experience with no travel, hotels, or crowds required.
Other Vegas Developments Taking Place in 2026
Las Vegas has several major casino developments in 2026, surprising analysts who predicted a quieter year for the Strip.
- Hard Rock’s Guitar Tower Reshapes the Strip – Construction on the Hard Rock Hotel’s guitar-shaped tower continues through 2026 and remains one of the city’s most visible projects. It will not open until 2027, but its exterior will dominate the skyline by year’s end.
- Athletics Ballpark Project at the Former Tropicana Site – Crews continue work on the Oakland A’s MLB ballpark at the old Tropicana site. The surrounding development will include a hotel, casino, retail, dining, and entertainment, making it one of the largest off-Strip projects in years.
- Cromwell Rebrands as the Vanderpump Hotel – The Cromwell is transforming into the Vanderpump Hotel, led by Lisa Vanderpump. The renovation brings new dining, nightlife, and design concepts, adding a boutique casino experience to the center Strip.