Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) will temporarily close its Casino Salem location this spring for a major renovation and rebranding. When it reopens, the venue will be known as the Rockingham Grand Casino.
This move shows that investment in New Hampshire’s entertainment and gambling industries is growing. It also reflects a trend toward bigger and more engaging casino experiences.
Churchill Downs, famous for the Kentucky Derby and its many casinos and racetracks, bought most of Casino Salem in 2025. Local developers Joe Faro of Tuscan Brands and Sal Lupoli of Lupoli Companies kept a minority share, so there is still a local presence as CDI takes over operations.
Casino Salem will close at 1 a.m. on March 9, 2026, so construction can begin on the new facility. The Rockingham Grand Casino is expected to open by mid-2027, with a larger gaming floor, more amenities, new dining options, live entertainment, and other features. It aims to become a top gaming and entertainment spot in New England.
As traditional casinos change, many people in New Hampshire and visitors from other states are also using offshore online casinos. These sites operate outside state rules and often offer many different games and promotions.
Online NH Casinos
New Hampshire allows online sports betting and poker, but there is no fully regulated online casino network for residents yet.
Because of this, many players look for offshore NH online casinos. These sites are outside U.S. jurisdiction and accept players from New Hampshire and other states. They are popular for their wide selection of games, big bonuses, and flexible payment options.
Why New Hampshire Players Use Offshore Casinos
- No State Online Casino: New Hampshire’s current gaming laws do not allow a state-regulated online casino, prompting residents to seek alternatives.
- Broad Game Selection: Offshore platforms often offer hundreds of slots, table games, live dealer experiences, and specialty games not available through state-regulated avenues.
- Promotional Incentives: Many offshore casinos attract players with lucrative welcome bonuses, reload offers, and loyalty perks.
- Flexible Payments: Offshore sites frequently support a wide range of banking methods, including traditional credit cards, e-wallets, and even cryptocurrencies.
Popular Online Casino Games
No matter how they play—on regulated poker sites, offshore casinos, or future state-run online casinos—New Hampshire players have some favorite games they return to again and again.
1. Online Slots
Slots are the most popular games at online casinos because they are easy to play, come in many styles, and offer progressive jackpots. Themes include classic fruit machines and video slots based on movies, myths, and adventures.
- Progressive Jackpot Slots: Games that pool a growing jackpot across many players, offering life-changing payouts.
- Video Slots: Feature advanced graphics and mini-bonus games.
- Classic Slots: Simple three-reel games for traditional players.
2. Table Games
Table games are a mainstay at both online and traditional casinos.
- Blackjack: A strategy-influenced favorite where players aim to beat the dealer’s hand without exceeding 21.
- Roulette: Players bet on where a ball will land on a spinning wheel; variations include European, American, and French Roulette.
- Baccarat: A classic card game popular for its simplicity and high-roller appeal.
3. Live Dealer Games
Live dealer games combine the convenience of online play with the social feel of a real casino. Players interact with real dealers through a live video stream.
- Live Blackjack & Roulette: Real tables streamed to players’ devices.
- Live Game Shows: Interactive formats with hosts and bonus features.
4. Specialty Games
These are unique games that give players more variety online.
- Video Poker: Mixes poker and slot machine features, with strategy affecting payouts.
- Bingo and Keno: Lottery-style games that appeal to casual gamers.