The former Macy’s at the Nittany Mall is undergoing a $120 million transformation into central Pennsylvania’s newest entertainment hub. Happy Valley Casino is scheduled to open next spring, bringing with it about 600 slot machines, 22 table games, a full-service restaurant, bar, and grab-and-go dining.
The project is expected to create roughly 300 jobs in the State College area. While the property will not feature an on-site sportsbook, Pennsylvania players will still be able to place mobile bets and enjoy iGaming through existing platforms.
Dealer Training School Goes Live This Winter
Ahead of opening day, Happy Valley Casino is launching a dealer training school to prepare locals for careers in table games. Classes begin December 15 and January 5, with enrollment opening October 1. The 12-week program will offer both day and evening sessions, teaching students how to deal blackjack, roulette, and craps.
No prior experience is required. Students simply need to be at least 21 years old and eligible for a dealer license under the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB). Casino officials emphasized that the school is not just about learning game rules but about preparing people to succeed in a fast-paced and dynamic industry. The dealer school is being promoted as a potential first step in a long-term career, which makes it even more exciting for people interested in taking that path especially as the sector continues to grow.
Building on a Promising Foundation
The Happy Valley project has been several years in the making. In 2020, SC Gaming OpCo, LLC won the gaming license through a $10 million bid. Lubert qualified to participate thanks to his minority stake in Rivers Casino Pittsburgh.
More recently, the PGCB approved Saratoga Casino Holdings’ acquisition of a 60% stake in the venture, backing the development with additional backing and resources. With construction already happening, a dealer school opening this winter, and hundreds of jobs on the horizon, Happy Valley Casino is positioning itself as the next major gaming destination in Pennsylvania, putting it right up there with market leaders.
