On this past Tuesday the first Slot machine parlor opened in Southeastern Pennsylvania at Philadelphia Park, the home of champion horse Smarty Jones, the casino is expected to give Atlantic City some competition.
Several hundred people were waiting at the doors when they opened at 11:30 AM, and instantly started trying to make their fortunes.
A 47 year old Lady from northern Philly who was one of the first people thru the doors said that already Philadelphia Park was her Favorite gambling destination. In the past she would frequent Delaware Park and Atlantic City.
"But I'm coming here now," she said as she played Hot Hot Super Jackpot, a nickel machine. "It's closer to my house."
The racetrack that houses the slots parlor is about 20 minutes north of Philadelphia, and has over 2,200 slot machines a bar and a buffet. The opening was much quieter and with less fanfare then the opening in
Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania.
The Racetrack officials believe that the added revenue of the slot machines will help raise the size of the purses at the track which will bring in bigger bets and better horses.
“Within the next few years we expect to be a full service gaming market with table games and everything” said one track official.
