Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack

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The temporary Lake Mac Casino Resort, located just south of Interstate 80 in Ogallala, Nebraska, opened on August 19, 2025. Operated in partnership with Hastings Exposition and Racing and Iowa-based Elite Casino Resorts, the interim facility is open 7 days a week from 7am to 3am. Visitors can choose from reel and video slots and video poker, along with electronic table games, live dealer Blackjack and Ultimate Texas Hold'em. Also featured is simulcast wagering and quarter horse racing, and ELITE Sportsbook retail and kiosk sports betting. Located on the gaming floor, the sports lounge serves pub-style food and drinks, live entertainment, and more. 

The temporary facility is expected to operate for over two years, leading up to the resort’s grand opening in 2029. When complete, the permanent 37,000 sq ft casino floor will expand to include 650 slot machines, 20 table games, a sportsbook, and simulcast racing.

The main resort will feature 180 guest rooms (with both king and double queen options), two bars, multiple restaurants, indoor and outdoor pools, conference space, and a large event center. A family-friendly clubhouse will offer patrons a comfortable place to enjoy live horse racing.

Additionally, horse racing is expected to begin around Labor Day, pending completion of the track. The long-term plan reportedly includes hosting 15 race weeks each year, spread across five weeks. A typical race week would consist of three days of racing with 10 races per day. 

While there is no on-site lodging, there are several nearby hotels, including Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Hampton Inn, Best Western Plus, Quality Inn & Convention Center, and Kingsley Dam Resort, all in Ogallala.

Iowa-based Elite Casino Resorts will operate both the temporary casino and, upon opening in 2027 or 2028, the permanent casino.

The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission (NRGC) approved a request to transfer a horse racetrack license from Fairplay Park in Hastings roughly 200 miles west to a new facility in Ogalla. The Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack project involves an investment of $100 million and is planned for a 178-acre site near Interstate 80 and Highway 26.

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Dining & Restaurants

Draft Day Sports Lounge

• Serving: Pub Fare

Located on the gaming floor, Draft Day Sports Lounge at the temporary Lake Mac Casino Resort serves local beer and great bar selections, and grab-and-go items like pizza, sandwiches, burgers, appetizers, and more. Kick back with an ice-cold brew and watch your favorite game on any one of the large-screen HDTVs. 

Visitors can also enjoy everything from live weekend performances in the Draft Day Show Lounge to signature outdoor concerts at the racetrack paddock.

*The bar is open daily from 8am to 1am.

General

Price range: Average

Reservations: (308) 465-0777

Alcohol: Full Bar

Ambience: Casual

Attire: Casual

Take away

Hours

Sunday	8:00am / 10:00pm
Monday	8:00am / 10:00pm
Tuesday	8:00am / 10:00pm
Wednesday	8:00am / 10:00pm
Thursday	8:00am / 10:00pm
Friday	7:00am / 11:00pm
Saturday	7:00am / 11:00pm