The new Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana in Gary is about ready for its public debut.

Site operators are planning a ceremonial guitar smashing event for 11 a.m. on May 14. The casino opens to the public later that day at 5 p.m.

The Hard Rock at 5400 West 29th Ave. is next to I-80/94 Burr Street Interchange.

The $300 million 200,000 square-foot casino and entertainment center features more than 1,600 slots and 80 table games. 

Its food venues include a Hard Rock Cafe, Council Oak Steaks and Seafood, YouYu Noodle Bar, Fresh Harvest Buffet, and a Constant Grind Coffee Shop. 

It will also feature an on-site sportsbook, a retail shop, and a 1,954-seat Hard Rock Live performance venue. 

Phase two of the project will add a 200-room hotel and a multi-level parking garage. Site operators expect Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana will generate more than $20 million annually in tax revenues.