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Caesars Virginia Launches Visitors Center to Boost Local Economy

By jili tutorial · October 11, 2026

Caesars Virginia Launches Visitors Center to Boost Local Economy

Introduction: A New Hub for Community Engagement

Caesars Virginia has taken a significant step towards fostering community engagement by opening a dedicated Visitors Center within its casino resort. Known as the SoSi Tourism Center, this 600-square-foot space is strategically located near the resort’s spa and fitness center. The center aims to promote small businesses and attractions in historic downtown Danville, Virginia. This move underscores Caesars Entertainment’s commitment to community stewardship in Southside Virginia.

The SoSi Tourism Center: Bridging Casino Guests and Local Businesses

What is SoSi?

SoSi stands for Southside Virginia, a region encompassing Danville and Pittsylvania County. The name is derived from the Visit SoSi brand, managed by the Danville Office of Economic Development & Tourism. The SoSi Tourism Center is designed to be a bridge between Caesars Virginia’s guests and the broader community.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the SoSi Tourism Center is clear: to help visitors create memorable experiences while encouraging them to explore Danville’s local offerings. As Lisa Meriwether, Danville’s tourism manager, stated during the grand opening, “When guests extend their stays, everyone benefits. Our local businesses benefit, our attractions benefit, our community benefits, and, most importantly, our guests leave with a desire to return again and again.”

Staffing and Services

The center will be staffed with knowledgeable employees who can provide personalized recommendations based on guests’ interests and needs. This tailored approach aims to enhance the visitor experience and ensure that guests venture beyond the casino’s confines to explore what Danville has to offer.

Caesars’ Commitment to Danville: Economic Impact and Community Support

Financial Contributions

Caesars Entertainment has made substantial financial contributions to Danville since securing the casino opportunity. The company directs 6.5% of its monthly gross gaming revenue to the city. In fiscal year 2025, Danville collected nearly $31.4 million from Caesars Virginia. These funds were allocated to various community needs, including:

Job Creation and Local Partnerships

Caesars Virginia has also supported the local economy by creating 1,200 jobs and providing space for Danville restaurants within its resort. The 500 Block Food Hall features offerings from local vendors such as Southern Slices and Mill Burger, further integrating the casino into the local business ecosystem.

The Challenge of Increased Foot Traffic: Current Impact and Future Prospects

Current Impact on Local Businesses

Since its opening in December 2024, Caesars Virginia has seen mixed results in driving foot traffic to downtown businesses and restaurants. Some establishments have reported only a modest increase in visitors. However, the SoSi Tourism Center is expected to amplify this impact by actively encouraging guests to explore Danville’s River District.

Future Prospects

The SoSi Tourism Center is poised to play a pivotal role in boosting local business traffic. By showcasing downtown attractions and eateries, the center aims to entice more guests to venture off-property, thereby fostering a symbiotic relationship between the casino and the community.

Caesars Virginia: A Leader in Virginia’s Casino Industry

Revenue and Market Position

Caesars Virginia has quickly risen to become the top-grossing casino in Virginia. Through August, its 1,544 slots and 88 table games generated $269.4 million in gross gaming revenue (GGR). This places it ahead of Rivers Casino Portsmouth ($216.2 million) and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol ($176.9 million). Additionally, two temporary casinos—Live! Virginia in Petersburg and The Interim Gaming Hall in Norfolk—are also operational in the state.

Conclusion: A Win-Win for Caesars and Danville

The opening of the SoSi Tourism Center marks a significant milestone in Caesars Virginia’s journey as a community partner. By promoting local businesses and attractions, the casino is not only enriching the visitor experience but also contributing to Danville’s economic vitality. As Caesars continues to blend its corporate goals with community needs, the SoSi Tourism Center stands as a testament to the potential of collaborative growth.