Nebraska’s Casino Industry Surges to $21.1M in April Revenue

Nebraska’s commercial casino market continues to show strong momentum, with gross gaming revenue hitting $21.1 million in April — a significant leap from $8.2 million a year earlier, when only one facility was fully operational.

The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission’s latest figures show that all four racetrack-casino hybrids — WarHorse Casino Lincoln, WarHorse Casino Omaha, Grand Island Casino Resort, and Harrah’s Columbus — experienced substantial year-over-year growth.

Omaha and Columbus Lead the Revenue Spike

The most dramatic gains were recorded at WarHorse Casino Omaha and Harrah’s Columbus, both of which had limited activity in April 2024. WarHorse Omaha’s revenue skyrocketed from just $40,117 last April to $6.8 million this year. Harrah’s Columbus, operated by Caesars Entertainment, increased from $1,551 to $2.3 million.

The growth corresponds with recent facility openings and expansions. WarHorse Omaha launched in August 2024 with 925 gaming positions, including table games and the Sweetwater Café. Its second development phase, which debuted in April 2025, added over 400 gaming spots, a smoking section, and additional food outlets.

Harrah’s Columbus opened its permanent location in May 2024, becoming Nebraska’s first permanent casino. The Grand Island Casino Resort at Fonner Park followed suit in April 2025, adding to the state’s growing permanent casino infrastructure.

Revenue Breakdown and Gaming Taxes

Electronic gaming devices dominated April’s earnings, contributing $18.1 million. Table games brought in an additional $2 million, while electronic table games generated $429,943. Retail sportsbooks ed for $496,207.

In total, Nebraska casinos contributed $4.2 million in tax revenue for the month. WarHorse Casino Omaha led the way with $6.8 million in gross gaming revenue and approximately $1.3 million in taxes. WarHorse Casino Lincoln followed closely with $6.4 million, while Grand Island Casino earned $5.4 million. Harrah’s Columbus reported $2.3 million.

Lincoln and Grand Island Maintain Steady Growth

WarHorse Casino Lincoln, which has been operational longer than the others, also posted healthy gains, increasing revenue from $4.8 million in April 2024 to $6.8 million — a 33.2% rise. Grand Island Casino Resort’s earnings grew from $3.4 million to $5.4 million, up 59.1% year-over-year.

These results reflect the broader upward trend of Nebraska’s gaming market, which is benefiting from ongoing investments in permanent casino development and expanded amenities.

Online Betting Remains Off the Table

Despite the strong performance of retail gaming, Nebraska continues to limit its gambling offerings to in-person activities. due to insufficient legislative backing.

With new permanent casinos opening and the state’s tax revenue from gaming climbing, Nebraska’s commercial gambling sector appears to be solidifying its role in the state’s economic development — even without digital betting channels.

Source:

“Nebraska casinos report $21.1 million in revenue in April”, CDCGaming. Jun 9, 2025