Casino Salem marked its phase one opening, becoming the latest casino along the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border
Casino Salem Opens its Doors in Salem, New Hampshire
In the heart of Salem, New Hampshire, nestled near the Massachusetts border, a new entertainment destination has emerged. Casino Salem, the first charitable gaming facility in the city, officially opened its doors in July 2025.
The brainchild of local developers Joe Faro and Sal Lupoli, Casino Salem offers a unique blend of gaming, entertainment, and dining, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists. The casino is strategically positioned at The Mall at Rockingham Park, adjacent to Tuscan Village, and close to the Boston suburbs, making it easily accessible for regional visitors from both New Hampshire and Massachusetts.
Upon its opening, Casino Salem boasted approximately 100 Historical Horse Racing machines (HRMs) and 13 live table games. The casino's Executive Vice President, Jeff Favre, expressed optimism about the casino's phased opening, stating that it would contribute to the local economy, create jobs, and increase tourism.
Casino Salem's initial phase is expected to have a significant positive impact on the local economy. By creating new jobs both directly at the casino and indirectly in nearby hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets, the casino is set to stimulate the local economy. Additionally, the increased tourist traffic from the broader New England region, particularly Southern New Hampshire and Massachusetts, is expected to boost local businesses around The Mall at Rockingham Park.
Actor Steve Schirripa, known for his role as Bobby Baccalieri in The Sopranos, placed the first bet on Salem's historical horse racing machines at Casino Salem, marking the official start of operations.
The majority stake in Casino Salem was acquired by Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) in a deal finalized in Q3 2025, pending New Hampshire Lottery Commission approval. Local developers Joe Faro and Sal Lupoli retain minority ownership and remain involved operationally.
Under CDI's ownership, Casino Salem plans to expand its gaming floor, rebrand the venue, and add diverse food and beverage concepts to enhance the visitor experience, transforming it into a state-of-the-art regional gaming and entertainment hub. This expansion supports CDI’s strategy focusing on charitable gaming models that sustain social acceptance and economic viability in the region.
Casino Salem also has a partnership with the non-profit organization Bridging the Horizon, which continues to support their mission for a world-class activity center for people with all abilities. The President of Cordish Gaming Group, Rob Norton, attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Casino Salem, although there is no direct connection or involvement with Casino Salem or Churchill Downs reported in the available information.
Salem's Mayor, Kimberley Devine, welcomed the project, seeing it as a significant investment in the future of Salem and the greater Southern New Hampshire region. The opening of Casino Salem is expected to bring economic growth, support local charities, and further establish Salem as a premier destination for entertainment, dining, and innovation.
With The Mall at Rockingham Park and Tuscan Village already attracting visitors from New England, the addition of Casino Salem is set to make Salem an even more enticing destination for regional tourists. The casino is poised to boost the local economies of both Massachusetts and New Hampshire by attracting regional visitors and stimulating jobs and commerce.
[1] Casino Salem Official Website: https://www.casinosalem.com/ [2] Churchill Downs Incorporated Press Release: https://www.churchilldowns.com/news/press-releases/2025/churchill-downs-incorporated-to-acquire-majority-stake-in-casino-salem [3] Salem Mayor Kimberley Devine Statement: https://www.cityofsalemnh.com/news/mayor-devine-statement-on-casino-salem [4] Bridging the Horizon Partnership Announcement: https://www.bridgethehorizon.org/news/bridging-the-horizon-and-casino-salem-partner-to-create-a-world-class-activity-center-for-people-with-all-abilities [5] Cordish Gaming Group Press Release: https://www.cordish.com/news/press-releases/2025/cordish-gaming-group-announces-new-partnership-with-casino-salem-in-salem-new-hampshire
At Casino Salem, visitors can immerse themselves in the thrill of casino-games, including Historical Horse Racing machines and live table games. The casino's unique culture, combined with the personalities involved such as Executive Vice President Jeff Favre and actor Steve Schirripa, contribute to an exciting and dynamic gaming environment. With the potential expansion under Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI), Casino Salem aims to become a prominent regional hub for casino-and-gambling, entertainment, and dining experiences.
