Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sacramento at Fire Mountain in Wheatland was recently ranked third best casino outside Las Vegas in “Newsweek’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards.” Photo by Shamaya Sutton

WHEATLAND, CA (MPG) - Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sacramento at Fire Mountain has earned national recognition as one of the top casino destinations in the United States, ranking third best casino outside Las Vegas in “Newsweek’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards.”

The annual rankings are determined through a nationwide reader vote alongside the opinion of “expert panelists” highlighting top casino destinations beyond the Las Vegas market. Hard Rock Sacramento’s placement among the top three reflects its growing reputation as a premier destination for gaming, entertainment and hospitality in Northern California.

In addition to its overall casino ranking, Hard Rock Live Sacramento — the resort’s concert and entertainment venue — was also recognized in the same “Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards,” earning the No. 2 spot for best casino concert venue in the country.

Industry recognition extended beyond public voting. According to rankings published by “Pollstar,” Hard Rock Live Sacramento ranked among the top-performing venues nationally and globally in 2025 for both gross ticket sales and total attendance, placing first in California among casino venues. The rankings reflect a strong year of live entertainment programming and sustained audience demand.

“We are humbled to be recognized for these extraordinary achievements by two world-class organizations,” said Mark Birtha, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sacramento at Fire Mountain. “We pride ourselves on creating an integrated destination resort in Northern California that offers outstanding and unparalleled service, amenities and entertainment programming in the region.  Our guests and these authorities recognize that commitment.”

Yuba County Economic Development officials praised the recognition, calling it a significant win for the county and the broader region.

“Hard Rock Casino has earned national recognition as one of the top casino destinations in the country, a huge win for Yuba County and the region as a whole,” the agency said in a statement shared on social media. “This achievement illustrates the scale and quality of tribal investment taking place in South Yuba County and reinforces the region’s growing profile as a destination for tourism, entertainment, and economic activity.”

The county emphasized that the ranking highlights more than entertainment success, pointing to the region’s infrastructure, workforce and long-term growth potential. Officials noted that continued partnerships and investment are helping drive job creation, visitation and economic momentum across the county.

Local coverage has previously highlighted the role Hard Rock Sacramento has played in elevating Yuba County’s visibility statewide and beyond. Operated by the Estom Yumeka Maidu Tribe of the Enterprise Rancheria, the resort features a full-service casino, hotel, dining options and a major entertainment venue that attracts both regional and out-of-area visitors.

With multiple national rankings and industry accolades, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sacramento continues to position Yuba County as an emerging destination for tourism, entertainment and economic development as it moves into 2026.