THE STRENGTH OF SOVEREIGNTY
Tribal Gaming Powers U.S. Casino Industry with Record-Breaking Revenue and Expansive Developments
By Sean Chaffin
Tribal gaming continues to be a driving force in the American casino industry and that became apparent in February with the American Gaming Association (AGA) and the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) teaming up to announce the results of the AGA’s 2024 Commercial Gaming Revenue Tracker. Total revenue from commercial casinos reached $71.92 billion, a 7.5% increase from 2023. IGA executive director Jason Giles also reported that tribal gaming generated more than $42 billion in revenue during 2024, bringing total U.S. gaming revenue to $115 billion.
“By all accounts, 2024 tells a positive story about our industry’s strength and momentum,” AGA President and CEO Bill Miller said. “Commercial gaming continues to demonstrate unprecedented continued success.”
That success is mirrored by the country’s numerous tribal gaming operations as well, which includes casinos, sportsbooks, racing venues, online gaming, major operations outside traditional tribal lands, and so much more. Beyond these big numbers, tribal casinos are much more than just corporate entities watching profit margins. These business enterprises have a direct impact on Native American groups across the country.
“These revenues are directly returned to our tribal communities and tribal citizens, not investors or shareholders,” Giles said. “The use of these revenues goes directly to the health and welfare of our tribal citizens on the reservation.”
That $42 billion is an increase from $40.9 billion in 2023, an increase of 2.6%, and shows that these operations aren’t just serving their people, but also pleasing customers and keeping them coming back. These casinos help provide much-needed services, employment opportunities, education, and so much more for the residents of these communities. Many of these opportunities, economic benefits and tax funds extend well beyond the reservation.
“For over four decades, Indian gaming revenues have transformed the lives of tribal citizens and their neighbors,” chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, Ernest L. Stevens, Jr., recently noted in Tribal Gaming & Hospitality magazine. “By law, tribal governments must reinvest gaming revenues into their economies, funding vital programs and services in education, healthcare, public safety, and infrastructure programs and services. This revenue also empowers tribes to exercise their sovereignty and uphold their treaty rights in a way that amplifies our voices.”
In our annual Tribal Gaming Developments special edition, we explore how tribal gaming enterprises are shaping the future of the industry. From record-breaking revenues and cuttingedge casino expansions to groundbreaking innovations in online gaming and hospitality, Native American casino properties continue to lead the way. Join us as we take a closer look at the latest advancements and what lies ahead for tribal gaming.
East
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol (Bristol, VA)
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol officially opened on Nov.11, marking a major milestone for Virginia’s gaming and entertainment industry. The highly anticipated 620,000-square-foot resort features nearly 1,500 slot machines, over 50 table games, a sportsbook and a hotel with more than 300 rooms. Guests can also enjoy seven unique dining options, a Hard Rock Café, the iconic Rock Shop and a 2,000-seat Hard Rock Live entertainment venue.
The grand opening celebration included Hard Rock’s signature guitar smash ceremony, bringing together executives, officials and community leaders. Replacing the temporary casino that had operated since 2022, the permanent resort is set to create over 1,400 jobs while boosting tourism and economic growth in southwest Virginia. Since opening, the property has drawn impressive crowds, with 100,000 visitors, a 99% hotel occupancy rate and over $12 million in jackpots awarded.
President Allie Evangelista noted that guests have praised the casino’s Las Vegas-style experience. In February, the resort expanded further with a new 14-table poker room offering a variety of cash games and tournaments in a comfortable, non-smoking setting. With world-class gaming, entertainment and hospitality, Hard Rock Bristol is redefining the region’s casino experience.
Turning Stone Resort & Casino (Verona, NY)
This popular property in upstate New York is currently undergoing some major changes as part of a $370 million project.The Oneida Indian Nation’s capital investment is the largest evolution of Turning Stone in two decades. Plans call for a new 77,000-square-foot conference center, doubling the existing space with new indoor and outdoor event facilities.
To accommodate an increase in conference and event guests, the evolution includes construction of The Crescent, a new Four Diamond hotel with stunning architecture. The hotel will include 258 rooms, 23 spacious one- and two-bedroom, a welcoming lobby with fireplace and lounge seating, a quick-service cafe, and VIP lounge. The casino will also unveil Salt Seafood & Raw Bar, the newest fine-dining destination from Turning Stone’s award-winning culinary team, with five private dining rooms featuring outdoor patios.
“The Turning Stone Evolution is much more than just an expansion,” said Ray Halbritter, Oneida Indian Nation Representative and Oneida Nation Enterprises CEO. “It is nothing less than a full evolution of the region’s premier destination and its role as an economic leader. Together with our existing facilities and partnerships, the new conference center will make Turning Stone and Central New York an even more desirable destination for larger and more prestigious events.”
As part of the project, existing lodging at Turning Stone will undergo a transformation as renovations continue. All the renovations will generate a $616 million one-time economic impact, according to Turning Stone, creating 3,600 one-time jobs and generating $22.1 million in state and local tax revenues.
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino (Atlantic City, NJ)
A trip to the Jersey Shore got better last summer with the Hard Rock’s new beach experience. Hard Rock Beach Experience offers guests an oceanside retreat complete with lounge chairs, umbrellas and beverage service. The new Terrace outdoor venue adds to the experience.
Located on the second level of the resort, guests can take in brilliant views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Steel Pier’s iconic Ferris wheel. The Terrace features live entertainment, specialty cocktails, food options and more. This is just another expansion for Hard Rock International, which is owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
Mohegan Sun Casino & Resort (Uncasville, CT)
Mohegan Sun has elevated luxury with a multi-million-dollar renovation of its two Royal Suites, the most exclusive in Sky Tower. The 3,500- squarefoot suites now feature distinct themes—“Playing with Fire” and “The Sky is the Limit”—offering unique VIP experiences. Each suite includes two master bedrooms, two Jacuzzis, a circular living room, butler service and panoramic Thames River views.
Enhancements extend beyond the suites, with the exclusive Thirty- Three lounge on Sky Tower’s 33rd floor offering gourmet dining, private blackjack tables and a complimentary bar for select Momentum cardholders.
Additionally, the Sachem Lounge in Casino of the Sky reopened in late 2023 featuring a soaring planetarium dome, the majestic Wombi Rock backdrop and a striking 3-D floating trellis. Located near a highlimit slot section with popular games like Dragon Link HD, it seamlessly blends exclusivity and comfort for Mohegan Sun’s most valued players.
Foxwoods Resort Casino (Mashantucket, CT)
This massive property unveiled Club Newport in 2024, a new high-limit gaming destination to offer an “unmatched gaming experience, with state-of-the-art gaming, luxurious surroundings and unparalleled VIP services.” The venue features a striking gold vaulted ceiling supported by elegant bronze arches and a custom ombre burgundy glass fixture entrance to the main gaming area. Linear chandeliers hang from the club’s raised ceilings, and “warm pearlescent” wallpaper wraps the room, trimmed with a cream and gold base and crowned with gold and glass trim. Club Newport houses 35 high-limit table games, two exclusive private- themed salons and more.
“This groundbreaking new space is designed to cater to our most distinguished guests, ensuring they experience the pinnacle of our award-winning customer service and gaming offerings,” Foxwoods President and CEO Jason Guyot said. “As the premier gaming destination on the East Coast, we are excited to provide unparalleled opportunities that only Foxwoods can offer.”
Metropolitan Park – Hard Rock International & New York Mets (New York City)
Hard Rock is teaming with the New York Mets in hopes of landing a New York City casino license. The plan would transform CitiField’s surroundings into Metropolitan Park—a 25-acre oasis that would include new public parks, five acres of new community athletic fields, accessibility upgrades, improved roadways and cycling paths, a casino, hotel, music venue, and access to Flushing Bay. The Big Apple’s three casino licenses are expected to be awarded this year.
Midwest
WarHorse Casino (Lincoln, NE)
The Cornhusker State saw the latest casino gaming option and officially opened its second phase of construction in November. WarHorse Casino Lincoln is a partnership between the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association.
The expansion significantly grew the gaming floor by 26,000 square feet, introduced 10 live table games, and doubled the number of slots to over 800. The property also saw substantial growth of its simulcast racing and sportsbook areas to further service guests as the Lincoln area’s premier gaming entertainment destination.
Hard Rock Casino (Rockford, IL)
On Aug. 29, Hard Rock Casino Rockford officially opened its doors in Illinois, unveiling a 
$350 million, 175,000-square-foot entertainment complex— a major milestone in the brand’s expanding portfolio. The highly anticipated grand opening featured electrifying performances by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Akon, Brad Paisley, and Rockford native Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick, culminating in Hard Rock’s signature guitar smash ceremony.
The state-of-the-art casino boasts more than 1,300 slot machines, 50 live table games—including a dedicated poker room—a sportsbook with live betting windows and 24/7 kiosks, and the 1,600-seat Hard Rock Live venue, already attracting world-class entertainment. At the entrance, a striking 63-foot version of Rick Nielsen’s signature checkerboard guitar welcomes guests, while inside, a custom chandelier inspired by Nielsen’s guitar illuminates the space, its color-changing lights synchronized with music—setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
“It’s an incredible feeling to finally welcome guests to Hard Rock Casino Rockford,” said Geno Iafrate, president of Hard Rock Casino Rockford. “The opening of this entertainment powerhouse is the culmination of hard work and a shared vision. We’re excited to offer a one-of-a-kind experience right here in Rockford.”
The property also boasts an impressive music and entertainment museum, showcasing memorabilia that celebrates local and regional artists. Guests can explore rare pieces from Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder, who grew up outside Chicago, alongside artifacts from Prince, John Lennon and Taylor Swift. Hard Rock Live even features a dedicated Rick Nielsen display, creating a mini museum honoring the Cheap Trick guitarist.
“I’m thrilled to celebrate another major economic win for the people of Illinois with the new Rockford Hard Rock Casino,” Gov. J.B. Pritzker said of the opening. “This state and local tax revenue helps ensure the city can meet their obligations and build for the future while alleviating the burden on Rockford taxpayers.”
Wind Creek Chicago Southland (East Hazel Crest, IL)
Alabama’s Wind Creek Hospitality, owned by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, has come a long way. The group started with a single bingo hall in 1985 and now operates 10 casinos and casino resorts in the U.S. and the Caribbean. Wind Creek Chicago Southland is the latest of those after opening in November. The 70,000-square-foot casino houses 1,400 slot machines, 56 table games, a sportsbook, high-limit gaming areas, a poker room, and more. This is just the first phase of a full-scale resort experience with completion of the entire project set for spring 2025.
“The opening of Wind Creek Chicago Southland underscores our dedication to making a positive economic impact in the communities we serve,” Wind Creek Hospitality President and CEO Jay Dorris said. “We’re committed to create opportunities that support the region, offer competitive benefits for Team Members, and further strengthen the vibrant Southland community.”
American Place Casino (Waukegan, IL)
American Place Casino a $375 million casino and hotel, is set to open its permanent facility in August 2027 in Waukegan’s Fountain Square, about 35 miles north of downtown Chicago. While construction is underway, an interim venue is already welcoming guests. Once completed, American Place Casino will redefine luxury gaming and entertainment, offering an upscale casino, a multi-tiered entertainment venue and exceptional dining.
Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa (Grand Forks, ND)
The tribe received its first official approval to build a $300 million resort and casino in January and plans for a high-end resort southwest of Grand Forks. The Turtle Mountain Band are planning a casino, hotel, conference and banquet hall, entertainment center, gas station, and a convenience store on 146 acres of tribal land. The tribe is also seeking federal approval from the Department of Interior through the Bureau of Indian Affairs. That approval process is extensive and may take several years.
Ho-Chunk Nation (Beloit, WI)
The Ho-Chunk Nation is building a $405 million casino and hotel, with the first phase of construction scheduled to open in summer 2026, and will feature a casino with 1,500 slot machines, 44 table games, a sportsbook, four restaurants and a casino bar. The second phase will be completed in 2027 and include an 18-story hotel with 312 rooms and a conference center. When all phases are complete, the casino resort will encompass 1.2 million square feet. This will be the seventh casino owned and operated by the tribe.
Gun Lake Casino Resort (Wayland, MI)
South of Grand Rapids, this property is owned by the Match-E-Be-Nash- She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians, also known as the Gun Lake Tribe. The casino is undergoing a major upgrade with the addition of a 16-story hotel featuring 252 rooms and 31 lavish suites. The hotel is scheduled to open on March 7. This $300 million expansion includes the return of the reimagined Sandhills Café, a full-service spa and a stylish new lobby bar.
Also on the horizon is the 32,000-square-foot Wawyé Oasis, a yearround tropical escape featuring a glass-roofed atrium and climate-controlled indoor environment shaped like a sundial to optimize sun exposure. In a region known for cold winters, the atrium will maintain an 82-degree climate year-round, with tropical flora and terraced lawns. Wawyé Oasis will house two distinct pool experiences and will transform from a resort pool oasis by day to a dynamic concert venue by night. The Wawyé Oasis is scheduled to open in May.
Son of Star Casino (White Shield, ND)
Construction on this new property began in 2023, with an opening for the first phase planned for January 2026. The 37,000- square-foot casino will feature 230 slot machines, six table games, a poker room, a sportsbook, restaurant, coffee shop, and campground. A second phase will add a hotel and event center. This will be the second casino owned by the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation, also known as the Three Affiliated Tribes of the Fort Berthold Reservation. The nation also owns the 4 Bears Casino and Lodge in New Town.
West
Acorn Ridge Casino (Plymouth, CA)
The Ione Band of Miwoks is building a new casino in Amador County. The location lies on 228 acres of tribal land about 40 miles from Sacramento. Construction began with a groundbreaking ceremony in October with the casino opening in spring 2026. This will be a boutique casino offering an intimate gaming experience with non-gaming areas and outdoor venues using natural lighting to provide a unique atmosphere. Players will find 60,000 square feet of space with 349 slot machines, 10 table games, a restaurant and bar, and a 372-seat outdoor entertainment venue. A gaming compact signed with the state allows the casino to expand the number of slot machines up to 1,200.
Casino Del Sol Grant Road (Tucson, AZ)
The Pascua Yaqui Tribe has begun construction on a new Casino Del Sol. The 172,000- square-foot project is expected to open in 2026 and add an economic boost around the Old Pascua community near downtown Tucson. The 73,000-square-foot facility will feature slot machines, table games, a high-limit room, a sportsbook, restaurant, food court, and 1,050-space parking garage. Dining options will include a full-service restaurant, food court and more. The new casino is the third casino owned by the Pascua Yaqui, which also owns two other casinos in the Tucson area.
Desert Diamond Casino White Tanks (Waddell, AZ)
The new property from the Tohono O’odham Nation officially opened its doors in December. The casino spans 184,000 square feet with 900 slot machines, a poker room, sportsbook and table games. The property also boasts several dining options and is the only casino in Arizona to host a Morton’s Steakhouse. Construction of the $450 million project began in April 2023 and the new property is just the beginning of the Desert Diamond. Future construction phases will add a hotel, conference center, outdoor pool and additional amenities.
The casino takes its name from the nearby White Tank Mountains, which are visible from the property. These mountains are celebrated for hundreds of petroglyphs, many attributed to the Hohokam, ancestors of the O’odham people.
“Desert Diamond Casino White Tanks is ideally positioned to serve as an economic engine for the fast-growing West Valley,” Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise CEO Mike Bean said. “This is the Nation’s fifth facility, and the iconic Desert Diamond Casino brand is synonymous with unmatched entertainment experiences and outstanding guest service.”
Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel (Snoqualmie, WA)
The property is seeing a major $400 million expansion that is set to open in mid-2025. The project will include a new luxury hotel along with various site improvements, including the casino’s valet entrance, associated buildings and parking facilities, to provide ample space for the nearly 1.2 million square feet of renovations and expansion. Plans also call for an additional 11,000 square feet of gaming floor space, an immersive full-service spa, fitness center and indoor pool with outdoor deck, an expansive 2,000-seat entertainment and convention center, a new onsite parking structure, and two brand-new restaurants.
Tulalip Resort Casino (Tulalip, WA)
The latest highlight of this property’s ongoing expansion and renovation is the grand reopening of its high-limit slots room, complemented by upgrades across several dining venues. The project includes a 70,250-squarefoot addition, slated for completion in late 2025, with all major renovations throughout the property expected to be finalized by late 2026. The 4,000-square-foot high-limit slots room features 73 machines with 22 themes, new titles and a new bar with five bartop slots. The Blackfish Wild Salmon Grill Restaurant also recently received some upgrades, and upgrades continue at the Blackfish Bar and the Journeys East To-Go counter and bar.
Currently spanning 200,000 square feet, the casino’s expansion and renovation will feature additional gaming opportunities and amenities and will highlight the Tulalip Tribe’s culture and traditions through innovative design concepts representing the dynamics of the Salish Sea, shorelines and forest environments. New architectural features and visuals will feature a rich palette of colors and the use of natural material woven into the design themes.
“The upgraded high-limit slots room is representative of our teamwide focus to provide guests with gaming variety and player-friendly comforts,” Tulalip Gaming President Marci Fryberg said. “The major renovation and expansion project is reflective of our ongoing commitment to remain the region’s favorite destination as a premier gaming, dining, meeting, entertainment and shopping experience in Washington State.”
Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians (Vallejo, CA)
The Department of the Interior (DOI) agreed to move land into trust for the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians’ $700 million casino project. The 160-acre project is slated to include a 400,000-square-foot casino, 24 residential units, a tribal building, a 45-acre biological preserve, and more. The tribe first applied to the DOI in 2016, and the Vallejo City Council in November passed a resolution allowing the city to negotiate a cooperative agreement with the tribe.
“This is a special day for the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians,” said Chairman Shawn Davis. “For at least three decades we have been trying to reclaim our community. This allows our people to have a home and to have economic development for us and for our neighbors.”
Jamul Casino (Jamul, CA)
The new hotel at Jamul Casino near San Diego is scheduled to open in the spring. The 16-story hotel will include 200 rooms and 52 suites. Other amenities include an upscale restaurant with views; speakeasy bar; resort spa; banquet space; rooftop pool deck with hot tub, cabanas and bar; fitness center; meeting and banquet facilities; retail space; and more. This becomes just the latest project from the Jamul Indian Village Development Corporation.
“The Jamul Indian Village Tribe waited over 20 years to build a casino that allowed for survival in the high cost of living in San Diego County,” Jamul Casino President and General Manager Mary Cheeks said. “It provided a life of self-sufficiency for this tribe and the addition of a hotel will provide for a continuation of self-reliance for generations to come.”
Shiloh Resort Casino (Santa Rosa, CA)
The Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma has been named as the Koi Nation’s partner for the development and operational management of the Shiloh Resort Casino in Sonoma County. 
Chickasaw owns and operates more than 20 casinos in Oklahoma, including WinStar World Casino and Resort, which is the largest in the world. The $600 million casino resort will be located on a 68-acre vineyard and will encompass 1.2 million square feet and include a casino with 2,500 slot machines, multiple table games, six restaurants, a 400-room hotel with spa, and a conference center.
“Not only does the Chickasaw Nation have great expertise in gaming and resorts, but they also share the same values as the Koi Nation,” Koi Vice Chair and Director of Development Dino Beltran said. “Chickasaw leaders understand the importance of this project to the restoration of our economic self-reliance because they have walked the same path many times in support of their own people’s future.”
Graton Resort & Casino (Sonoma County, CA)
The property is currently undergoing a $1 billion expansion. The casino floor expansion will add 144,000 square feet, including 2,000 new slot machines, a new poker room and a new high-limit area. The project will also include a new five-story hotel wing with over 200 rooms; a 28,000- square-foot rooftop restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating and a 3,500-seat theater. As part of the expansion, Graton Resort & Casino unveiled a five-level parking structure with solar panels and EV charging stations in August.
“This is an exciting day, and we’re thrilled to begin construction. The expansion reflects our consistent mission to provide the highest quality guest experience at Graton Resort & Casino,” Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Tribal Chairman Greg Sarris said. “We’ve been working on these plans for several years, and we’re excited to create new job opportunities here in Sonoma County.”
Hard Rock Casino Tejon (Mettler, CA)
Big things are ahead this week for the Tejon Indian Tribe as this new $600 million casino, hotel and entertainment complex is set to see the gaming venue completed in December. The property is located 15 miles south of Bakersfield and has been under construction since December 2023. The casino will include 166,000 square feet of gaming space, a 400-room hotel, a Hard Rock Live concert venue, Rock Spa, and 13 restaurants and bars.
The casino will feature 3,000 slot machines, 48 table games and 13 restaurants and bars including a Hard Rock Cafe and an upscale steakhouse. After the casino opens in December, the hotel and 2,800-seat concert center will open 20 months later.
Muckleshoot Casino Resort (Tacoma, WA)
This popular property began 2024 with the opening of a new 401- room hotel that includes 27 suites, a major new restaurant addition, and other new amenities. The expansion includes an expanded casino floor, indoor pool, luxurious spa and the gourmet Smoke & Cedar rooftop steakhouse with breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier, the Olympic Mountain range, and the Seattle skyline.
“From a whisper to a resort, we have built the next level of experience for regional tourism here in the Pacific Northwest,” Muckleshoot Director Yvonne Johnson said. “The addition of a dynamic resort experience to Muckleshoot Casino exemplifies the Muckleshoot Tribe’s unwavering commitment and dedication to developing unmatched guest experiences.”
Hard Rock Las Vegas
Sin City’s famed Mirage has now begun the transformation to Hard Rock Las Vegas. The Seminole tribe purchased the property in December 2022 for about $1 billion. Plans call for the new resort to include a guitarshaped hotel tower, as seen at the Seminole Hard Rock in Hollywood, FL, as well as 25 restaurants and a 5,000- seat theater. Hard Rock CEO Jim Allen recently told Nevada gaming regulators the construction of the resort is running on time and the property will open in 2027, with behind- the-scenes work underway for the opening. He said the project will cost between $4 and $5 billion.
Chicken Ranch Casino Resort (Jamestown, CA)
The Chicken Ranch Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians unveiled this new property in 2024 near the stunning landscapes of Yosemite National Park. the nine-story resort offers breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada foothills and features 197 well-appointed hotel rooms and suites, an expanded gaming floor, multiple dining and bar options and event space. The property also houses a brand-new bingo hall.
Adding to its growing list of attractions, Chicken Ranch Casino Resort recently celebrated the grand opening of Cyber Quest Feb. 8. This stateof- the-art, family-friendly arcade is designed to offer fun for all ages, featuring the latest in redemption, crane and video games, along with an exciting Prize Zone stocked with small toys, designer accessories and high-end technology.
Eagle Mountain Casino (Porterville, CA)
The Tule River Tribe debuted this full-service casino in 2023. The casino doubles the size of the tribe’s previous casino, growing to over 100,000 square feet. The expansion included new dining options, 1,750 slot machines, 20 table games, a 2,000-seat state-of-the-art event center and more. Special items showcasing the tribe’s culture and history are also included.
“The tribe has waited 27 years to have a great facility for them, and we had great hospitality with what we had to make do with but now we have a great place and everyone can be proud of it,” casino General Manager Matthew Mingrone said.
Harrah’s Resort Southern California (Funner, CA)
Martin Short became the new “mayor” of Funner, CA, after taking the stage in May at Harrah’s Resort Southern California, which is owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians and operated by Caesars Entertainment. The longtime actor and comedian, currently starring in Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building, follows in the footsteps of other Rob Riggle and David Hasselhoff.
“Martin Short represents the essence of Funner,” Harrah’s Senior Vice President and General Manager Jill Barrett said. “His renowned humor and dedication to entertainment make him an ideal leader for guiding Funner into a new era. Mayor Marty is already actively planning innovative projects that will enhance the fun in Funner like his ‘Short On Time’ spa offerings and ‘Buckets of Fun’ hotel package; we eagerly anticipate seeing his vision unfold and fun made funner.”
Red Hawk Resort & Casino (Placerville, CA)
This property celebrated its 15th anniversary and opening of a luxurious new hotel tower in 2024. Red Hawk also unveiled The Apex, an all-age amusement complex. The smoke-free hotel seamlessly connects to the existing casino, 156 rooms, including 25 suites, where a realm of refined luxury and exceptional comfort awaits. The hotel features a range of spacious accommodations designed to cater to every desire. From the inviting deluxe rooms to the opulent premium suites spanning 900 square feet, each space is meticulously crafted to provide a haven of relaxation.
“This expansion project is the result of our commitment to providing our guests with a premium experience while also supporting our local community,” casino President and CEO Bryan deLugo said. “We are grateful for the continued support of our tribal leadership and the broader community as we strive to create an unforgettable experience for our guests.”
South & Southeast
Coushatta Casino Resort (Kinder, LA)
Louisiana’s largest and most renowned gaming destination is celebrating 30 years of excellence, entertainment and community. Owned and operated by the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, the resort marked this milestone with a special ceremony on Jan. 10. The event featured traditional Coushatta tribal dancers and attendance by members of the tribal council, casino management, local dignitaries and others.
Home to Louisiana’s Certified Loose Slots, Coushatta is often the first to debut many of the region’s newest slot games. It boasts the largest gaming floor, featuring thousands of slots, 55 table games, a poker room, offtrack betting, a sportsbook and more.
Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino (Okeechobee, FL)
A new casino resort will take the place of the existing casino. The resort will feature tribal-inspired decor, incorporating Seminole colors and designs to immerse guests in a rich cultural ambiance. From vibrant patterns to intricate motifs, every detail, including the exterior’s diamond pattern inspired by tribal patchwork, will echo the unconquered spirit and heritage of the Seminole Tribe. A “Topping Out” ceremony was held in June of 2024 at the site of the new casino, which is 40% larger than the existing property and is scheduled to open this year.
The new resort features nearly 38,000 square feet, including space for 640 slot machines and 18 table games, which also entails a smokefree gaming space with 104 slots and a high-limit gaming area with 42 slots and four table games. The complex will include the first hotel built on the Brighton Seminole Reservation. Guests will find 100 rooms on four stories totaling 72,000 square feet. New dining options will include a 24- hour restaurant, a steakhouse and a fast-service and carry-out cafe. Another new amenity is an indoor event space with 400 seats for performances, banquet events and bingo games. In a first for any Seminole casino, the new resort will include a 10-lane bowling alley of 7,044 square feet with seats for dining.
Hard Rock Casino Tampa (Tampa, FL)
This property unveiled a $65 million enhancement in January, including an expanded gaming area, the return of a beloved buffet, and newly renovated smoke-free hotel rooms. As part of the expansion, the casino has added 350 new slot machines by transforming the former food court space, bringing the total number of games to 5,230—the largest selection in Florida.
Food lovers will enjoy the return of Fresh Harvest Buffet, a longtime favorite that had closed during the pandemic. The revitalized buffet features six stations, offering a variety of cuisines, including American Bounty, Cucina Italiana, an international station, a raw bar, a salad bar, and an array of decadent desserts. Additionally, the West Tower has been completely renovated to accommodate smoke-free hotel rooms, catering to guests seeking a fresh and comfortable stay. With 240 smoke-free rooms now available within the 802-room property, visitors have more options for a relaxing retreat.
Miccosukee Casino (Miami, FL)
A grand opening for the new high-limit slots & VIP lounge was held in December with a ribbon cutting ceremony and a VIP preview event. The new venue is elegantly designed and covers 4,800 square feet with 59 high-limit slots, a premium full-service bar and VIP services. This casino 2,000 slots, a 32-table poker room, highstakes bingo, six restaurants, two bars, and a 300-room hotel.
“This newly developed space has been meticulously designed to accommodate our distinguished guests, ensuring they receive the highest level of our award-winning customer service and gaming offerings,” casino General Manager Brad Rhines said.
Choctaw Landing (Hochatown, OK)
Choctaw Landing, a 100- bed resort and casino located in Hochatown, OK, opened in 2024. The $238 million resort focuses on the rich Choctaw culture and reflects the natural beauty of southeastern Oklahoma. The property is located just an hour north of the Oklahoma/Texas border and will cater to residents of both states as well as Arkansas and Louisiana. The resort will include 100 guest rooms with 15 suites; three conference rooms; one hotel restaurant and three outdoor dining/bar options; fitness center; pool area with nine cabanas, two hot tubs and three fire pits; outdoor amphitheater with seating for 125; casino with 600 slot machines and eight table games; and a mercantile with groceries, a deli, a Starbucks and gas station.
Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River (Murphy, NC)
Work continues on the new Valley Tower. The 12-story hotel tower is part of a $275 million expansion project and is expected to open in early 2025. The project features 296 new hotel rooms; a 12,000-square-foot rooftop restaurant with mountain views; a 9,600-square-foot salon and spa; year-round indoor pool; and new five-story parking deck. The tower will complement the existing River Tower and design elements will feature Cherokee cultural elements.
The expansion project will include a new Ramsay’s Kitchen restaurant similar to the one at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort in Cherokee, NC, opening in early 2025. The eatery will be located on the 12th floor of the new tower. The 12,000-square-foot restaurant will accommodate 190 guests with both indoor and outdoor seating and be surrounded with views of the beautiful Nantahala National Forest. Other features include a large wine cellar, a 19-seat bar and private dining area.
“We have seen much success with our food hall over at Harrah’s Cherokee, so we thought we’d bring another option to guests of the region with my long-time partners at Caesars Entertainment,” Ramsay said. “I love to customize menus inspired by my travels but with local influence and I’m excited to bring that to Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River guests next year.”
Pokagon Band Launches Four Winds Ventures to Expand Business Portfolio On Feb. 5, 2025, the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians of Michigan and Indiana announced the launch of Four Winds Ventures, LLC. The new entity will focus on developing, managing and operating businesses in commercial gaming, hospitality and related sectors. Four Winds Ventures is governed by a seven-member board of directors appointed by the Pokagon Band Tribal Council.
To date, the Pokagon Band Tribal Council has appointed five distinguished executives to the Four Winds Ventures Board. The council is currently seeking letters of intent from individuals interested in filling the two remaining board seats. Candidates should have relevant experience in private sector management, business administration, accounting, banking or law.
Matthew Wesaw, chairman of the Pokagon Band Tribal Council, expressed enthusiasm about the new venture, stating, “The Pokagon Band has achieved remarkable success operating our Four Winds Casino Resorts across four locations in Michigan and Indiana. This success has not only generated vital revenue to support our Tribal Nation and essential government services but has also created significant economic and employment opportunities for surrounding communities. We look forward to expanding Four Winds Ventures as we continue diversifying our business portfolio, which includes gaming, hospitality, architecture, construction, engineering, commercial real estate and cannabis.”
Mary Smith, chair of the Four Winds Ventures Board and chief operating officer of Four Winds Casinos, added, “We are excited to leverage nearly two decades of expertise in gaming and hospitality. Over the years, we have developed and expanded four casino resorts, established Four Winds Casinos as the premier gaming destinations in the Midwest, and earned recognition among the top-ranked casino resorts outside of Las Vegas. With the introduction of Four Winds Ventures, we look forward to collaborating with organizations to help advance their business objectives.”
