Palms Casino Marks New Smoke-Free Gaming Space with Charity Slot Event

The Palms hotel-casino in Las Vegas completed its ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new 7,300-square-foot fully enclosed nonsmoking gaming expansion that had opened to the public the prior week. This addition brings 224 slot machines along with its own bar, and the entire space sits as a fully separated area near the sportsbook. Developers created the zone after guests requested more smoke-free options, and the event featured the first “Spin It Forward” IGT Charity Slot Challenge.

Event Details and Charitable Impact

Participants in the inaugural tournament helped raise roughly $35,000 for 10 Southern Nevada nonprofits. San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority, the property owner, contributed $25,000 in total while IGT provided $10,000 in tournament awards. Observers note that such events combine gaming promotions with direct support for local organizations, and the funds reached multiple community groups serving the region.

The ceremony drew attention to the new facility's design, which keeps the gaming area completely enclosed and separate from smoking sections elsewhere in the casino. Guests who prefer smoke-free environments now have expanded choices near the sportsbook, where they can play the 224 slot machines without exposure to smoke from adjacent areas.

Background on the Expansion

Construction of the 7,300-square-foot space addressed ongoing demand from visitors seeking additional nonsmoking gaming floors. The Palms positioned the new area close to the sportsbook so that sports bettors and slot players can move between activities while remaining in the smoke-free zone. Industry reports from the Nevada Gaming Control Board show steady interest in such designated sections across Las Vegas properties.

According to statements released during the event, the bar within the expansion provides a central gathering point for players. This setup allows guests to enjoy drinks and gaming in one location without leaving the enclosed nonsmoking environment. The 224 machines include a variety of titles supplied in partnership with IGT, which also organized the charity tournament component.

Partnerships and Future Plans

San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority has owned the Palms since acquiring it several years ago, and the company continues to invest in updates that respond to guest feedback. The addition of this dedicated space aligns with broader trends in the Las Vegas market, where multiple operators have introduced or expanded smoke-free gaming areas over recent years. Data from the Nevada Resort Association indicates that properties offering such options often see repeat visits from certain guest segments.

IGT's involvement extended beyond equipment supply to include sponsorship of the “Spin It Forward” challenge. The tournament format allowed players to compete while directing proceeds toward the 10 nonprofits. Those organizations focus on various causes throughout Southern Nevada, and the combined donations from the owner and IGT totaled the reported $35,000 figure.

Context Within Las Vegas Gaming

Las Vegas casinos have long balanced smoking and nonsmoking preferences among visitors. The Palms expansion adds to existing smoke-free offerings at the property and places the new area in a high-traffic location near the sportsbook. This strategic placement lets guests transition between sports wagering and slot play without exiting the controlled environment.

Local coverage from the Las Vegas Review-Journal detailed the ribbon-cutting and the charity results, confirming the square footage, machine count, and donation amounts. The article also highlighted how the project responded directly to guest requests for more smoke-free gaming space.

Conclusion

The Palms ceremony showcased both the physical opening of the 7,300-square-foot nonsmoking expansion and the successful launch of the “Spin It Forward” IGT Charity Slot Challenge. With 224 slot machines, a dedicated bar, and full separation from smoking areas, the new zone meets documented demand while supporting Southern Nevada nonprofits through the $35,000 raised. The partnership between San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority and IGT produced measurable results for the 10 recipient organizations, and the location near the sportsbook integrates the addition into the casino's overall layout.