Delaware Park Casino has broken ground on a $5 million outdoor slot patio, adding to a growing list of expansions that mark a new era for the facility under its current ownership. Located near the casino’s racetrack, the 10,000-square-foot open-air patio will house 250 slot machines, allowing patrons to enjoy the thrill of gaming outdoors in a comfortable, year-round environment. The new patio follows a recent $10 million casino renovation and comes as the casino prepares to reinstate 24/7 table games beginning November 8.
The slot patio represents a shift from traditional indoor-only designs, reflecting an industry trend toward outdoor entertainment areas. Delaware Park Casino President Terry Glebocki , cited by Delaware Business Now, highlighted the appeal of the open-air concept, explaining, “Post-COVID, one of the things we’ve learned is that people like being outdoors, they like having their space, they like fresh air.” With heating for winter and fans for summer, the patio is designed to be a comfortable destination throughout the year.
A New Approach to Gaming with Outdoor Slots and Modern Design
The Delaware Park outdoor slot patio is part of a broader investment strategy aimed at refreshing the casino’s offerings and expanding its appeal. Built by Wilmington-based DiSabatino Construction and designed by WATG-SOSH, the patio will feature an open-air design that meets Delaware’s legal requirements for outdoor spaces, allowing patrons to smoke while playing. While partially enclosed for protection against the elements, there will be ample airflow, with gaps between the walls and roof to maintain an open atmosphere.
Though the new patio offers a unique space for those who prefer fresh air, it has also raised some concerns. Cynthia Hallett, President of Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights, criticized the design, arguing that it “makes a mockery of state law” intended to shield workers and guests from secondhand smoke. Glebocki responded by assuring that the structure aligns with Delaware’s outdoor space definitions, adding, “There will be a ton of airflow out there, and in the summers we increase that airflow with fans.”
Expanding Amenities Under New Ownership
Since the joint acquisition of Delaware Park by Rubico Gaming and Clairvest Group in 2021, the casino has undergone significant updates. The recent $10 million upgrade included a complete redesign of the gaming floor with new slot machines, high-limit table games, and a contemporary Vegas-inspired style. These updates were part of a larger plan to modernize the facility, which had previously maintained a classic design under the Rickman family’s ownership.
“We are continually seeking ways to enhance our guests’ experience,” Glebocki said. She emphasized the outdoor patio as a new feature in response to changing customer preferences. The casino has also added new dining options like the High Steaks Brewery, a combination brewpub, and steakhouse, and is planning additional events for the holiday season, including a holiday light show and a craft fair at the horse paddocks.
Alongside the outdoor patio, Delaware Park will reintroduce 24-hour table games, restoring a pre-pandemic amenity. First-floor slot machines returned to 24/7 operation earlier this year, and the success of the round-the-clock slots paved the way for table games to follow. “We had people lining up, waiting for the casino to open, so 24-hour slots were a really easy decision. Tables take more manpower, and we had to grow into that,” Glebocki explained.
