Resorts World Catskills is welcoming news that New York state is lifting an 11 p.m. curfew for some businesses.

"It’s almost a year and a couple weeks since we closed our doors completely last year on March 16," said Meghan Taylor, Resorts World Catskills vice president of government affairs and public relations.

The state is now allowing casinos, pool halls, movie theaters, bowling alleys, gyms, and fitness centers to stay open after 11 at night.

"To be here on April 5, 2021, returning to full operating hours 24/7 at Resorts World Catskills, is a feat in itself," she said.


What You Need To Know

  • Resorts World Catskills will now welcome guests during their pre-pandemic opening hours from 9 a.m. - 5 a.m. daily

  • The state is now allowing casinos, pool halls, movie theaters, bowling alleys, gyms, and fitness centers to stay open after 11

  • Under state restrictions, bars and restaurants must still close their doors at 11 p.m. every night

Resorts World reopened under COVID-19 safety restrictions in September. Now, the company says it is ready to welcome guests around the clock, with safety still a top priority.

"We have Plexiglass barriers up at our slot machines and our table games, protecting both our guests and our dealers. Everyone is required to wear a face mask when they enter the facility."

In terms of business, the company says it’s seeing a rise in hotel reservations, with most of their guests reserving rooms for an extended weekend.

"Are our numbers exactly where they were pre-pandemic? No, but they are very close," Taylor said. "I think it also helps that we’re seeing a lot more people being vaccinated. People are just feeling more comfortable in general being out there in public."

But what’s good news for casinos is still in limbo for other businesses. Under state restrictions, bars and restaurants must still close their doors at 11 p.m. every night. It’s a major point of conflict between state and business leaders.

Meanwhile, for casinos and other public venues, there is cautious optimism, and the hope that the odds remain in their favor.

"I would welcome anyone that feels comfortable coming back to do so as soon as possible," Taylor said.