Elite Casino Resorts Acquires Catfish Bend Casino

Company plans to rebrand the Burlington property as Great River Casino Resort & Fun City

Jan. 28, 2026 at 5:55pm

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Elite Casino Resorts has finalized the purchase of Catfish Bend Casino in Burlington, Iowa. The company plans to transition the property to its new name, Great River Casino Resort & Fun City, in the coming weeks. Elite Casino Resorts, which owns six other casino resorts in the Midwest, says the Burlington location will continue to serve as a destination for entertainment, hospitality, and community engagement.

Why it matters

The acquisition of Catfish Bend Casino by Elite Casino Resorts represents a significant shift in the gaming landscape of the Midwest region. As a major player in the industry, Elite's investment in the Burlington property signals its commitment to expanding its footprint and diversifying its offerings to attract a wider customer base.

The details

Elite Casino Resorts finalized the purchase of Catfish Bend Casino yesterday. The company plans to begin the rebranding process in the coming weeks, transitioning the property to its new name, Great River Casino Resort & Fun City. Elite Casino Resorts, which owns six other casino resorts in the Midwest, including locations in Riverside, Davenport, and Larchwood, says the Burlington property will continue to serve as a destination for entertainment, hospitality, and community engagement.

  • Elite Casino Resorts finalized the purchase of Catfish Bend Casino on January 27, 2026.
  • The company plans to begin transitioning the property to its new name, Great River Casino Resort & Fun City, in the coming weeks.

The players

Elite Casino Resorts

A Midwest-based casino resort company that owns and operates six other casino properties in the region, including locations in Riverside, Davenport, and Larchwood.

Catfish Bend Casino

A casino property located in Burlington, Iowa, which has been acquired by Elite Casino Resorts.

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What they’re saying

“The Burlington property will continue to serve as a destination for entertainment, hospitality and community engagement.”

— Elite Casino Resorts

What’s next

In the coming weeks, Elite Casino Resorts will begin the process of transitioning the Catfish Bend Casino property to its new name, Great River Casino Resort & Fun City.

The takeaway

The acquisition of Catfish Bend Casino by Elite Casino Resorts represents a strategic move by the company to expand its presence in the Midwest gaming market and diversify its portfolio of entertainment and hospitality offerings. The rebranding of the Burlington property as Great River Casino Resort & Fun City is expected to attract a wider range of customers and solidify Elite's position as a leading player in the regional casino industry.