TRIBAL GAMING: BEST OF THE MIDWEST
Thrilling adventures are just around the corner at these tribal gaming destinations
The Midwest, often called “America’s Heartland,” captures the essence of traditional American values through its expansive landscapes and a resilient, hardworking spirit. This region features diverse environments, including lakes, mountains and rolling plains, alongside bustling cities and charming small towns. Known for its rich culture, the Midwest boasts vibrant arts scenes, diverse communities and unique regional cuisine. From the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River, it presents a striking contrast between the urban energy of cities like Chicago and Minneapolis and the tranquil beauty of its rural areas. Additionally, tribal gaming has become a popular trend, bringing the excitement of gambling and the casino lifestyle to the Heartland.
The Midwest tribal properties have not only flourished but have also gained significant prominence in the casino industry, featuring some of the largest and most well-equipped destinations in the country.
FIREKEEPERS CASINO HOTEL, Battle Creek, MI
If you’ve never visited FireKeepers, you might be wondering what sets this place apart. It all boils down to a winning combination: exceptional ownership by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi, top-notch service from over 2,000 dedicated team members, and a stunning property that continually introduces new features. This makes FireKeepers a premier gaming destination in the Midwest.
Featuring a luxurious AAA Four-Diamond hotel with 443 rooms, a Vegas- style casino, an array of excellent restaurants and a lively event center, FireKeepers is a mustvisit. The casino boasts a 111,700-square-foot gaming floor with 2,900 slot machines, over 70 gaming tables and a live poker room with 26 tables. Guests can choose from a variety of stylishly designed rooms and suites equipped with high-end amenities for an unforgettable stay. Hotel guests also enjoy access to a multi-level pool, steam room and sauna, fitness center and business facilities, along with in-room high-speed internet and laundry services available upon request.
No visit to FireKeepers is complete without indulging in its exceptional dining options. Nibi, the signature restaurant, has earned multiple Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence. Located in the new hotel promenade, Nibi offers a remarkable dining experience, featuring exquisite fresh seafood and thick, succulent rib-eyes—perfect for memorable meals with friends and family.
For those with diverse tastes, Smoke ’n Fire, recently renovated and conveniently located off the hotel lobby, is the ideal spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The menu lives up to its name, offering mouthwatering dishes that include new steak creations and beloved BBQ classics.
Café 24/7 serves timeless comfort foods with a contemporary twist, providing a relaxing atmosphere for a meal or a quick bite, all while keeping you close to the vibrant energy of the casino floor.
Dacey’s Sportsbook & Taphouse is a haven for sports fans, offering thrilling wagering opportunities and an immersive experience for big games. With 50 craft beer taps, including top Michigan brews, it’s a craft beer lover’s paradise. Massive big-screen TVs ensure you won’t miss any action, complemented by a tantalizing menu to satisfy your cravings.
Easily accessible via a separate entrance, the Taphouse features a distinctive 18-foot barrel, making it a recognizable spot from anywhere on the gaming floor. Ample seating is available, along with a mezzanine level perfect for private parties and special events, adding excitement to your visit.
With headline entertainment and major sporting events, it’s easy to see why FireKeepers is the hottest venue around. Upcoming shows include The Midtown Men- Holiday Hits Show, Dec. 10 and Mirage – Visions of Fleetwood Mac, Dec. 29.
You can easily find FireKeepers Casino Hotel online or in the app store. Visit www.firekeeperscasino.com or call 877.352.8777.
FOUR WINDS CASINO NEW BUFFALO, New Buffalo, MI
Escape to Four Winds New Buffalo, nestled along the stunning southwest Michigan shoreline. Just a short drive from the charming beach town of New Buffalo and the tranquil shores of Lake Michigan, this luxurious casino resort, owned by the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, offers an unparalleled experience in the region.
As the flagship of four locations—including Dowagiac and Hartford, MI; and South Bend, IN—Four Winds New Buffalo features two impressive hotel towers with a total of 415 rooms and 152 suites, all complemented by exceptional guest service and thoughtful amenities. Guests can expect sophisticated décor, delightful dining, vibrant entertainment and an exciting nightlife.
Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and patio area, which includes a full- service bar, hot tub, fireplace and two fire pits. Relax in comfortable chaise lounges or join in the evening festivities with live entertainment, drink specials and great dining options.
The gaming floor at Four Winds New Buffalo is a paradise for gaming enthusiasts, featuring over 2,000 slot machines, some with massive jackpots starting at $100,000! Whether you prefer penny slots or the thrill of $100 machines, there’s a wide range of popular titles to suit every taste.
Additionally, the expansive gaming area offers 41 table games, including various blackjack options like Free Bet Blackjack and Blackjack with Lucky Lucky. Try your hand at High Card Flush, Criss Cross Poker, craps and many more, including Three Card Poker Progressive and Pai Gow Plus, ensuring a comprehensive gaming experience.
Dining at Four Winds New Buffalo is a culinary adventure with four acclaimed restaurants. Savor the exquisite fare at Copper Rock Steakhouse, known for its USDA Prime 55-day dry-aged steaks, succulent coldwater lobster and an extensive wine list that has earned the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 13 consecutive years.
For a modern take on comfort food, visit Kankakee Grille, where you can enjoy hearth-baked pizzas, savory soups and salads and local favorites. This is the perfect spot to indulge in delicious cuisine, craft beers, specialty cocktails and live entertainment.
Four Winds New Buffalo’s Silver Creek Event Center is a modern, multi-use facility that is located adjacent to the casino floor. In addition to hosting concerts, the 17,000-square-foot event center is often reconfigured to host large meetings, special events, conferences and banquets. Upcoming shows include Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox – The ’10’ Tour, Nov. 30; Napoleon Dynamite Live!, Dec. 6; Cirque Dreams Holidaze, Dec. 14 & 15; Grand Funk Railroad, Jan. 11; and Little River Band 50th Anniversary Tour, Jan. 24.
For more information, visit www.fourwindscasino.com.
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort, Mount Pleasant, MI
The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe proudly owns one of the world’s premier casino/resort complexes: Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort. Nestled in beautiful Mount Pleasant, this destination offers a thrilling gaming experience alongside luxurious accommodations, making it an ideal Midwest retreat.
Unwind in the comfort of AAA Four Diamond-rated rooms and premium suites, each designed to be a haven of relaxation. Every well-appointed guest room features amenities like patios or balconies, double-headed walk-in glass showers and cozy fireplaces. The friendly, dedicated staff is committed to ensuring your stay exceeds all expectations.
As soon as you step into the casino, the excitement is palpable. With thousands of state-of-the-art slot machines, including progressive jackpots, you’re sure to find your favorite games. Explore the latest slot offerings on the main gaming floor and at the Slot Palace.
Table game enthusiasts will enjoy a wide range of options, from roulette and craps to blackjack and 3-Card Poker, ensuring that your preferred game is always close at hand.
For bingo lovers, Soaring Eagle Bingo is the largest in Michigan and the premier spot for bingo action in the Midwest. Bring your good luck charms and join the fun every Wednesday through Sunday, with sessions available throughout the day.
The culinary offerings at Soaring Eagle are equally impressive, catering to all tastes. Begin your dining experience at Siniikaung Bistro, where innovative dishes are crafted from fresh international ingredients. This full-service restaurant combines American bistro classics with an inventive cocktail menu at approachable prices.
For a more upscale experience, visit Ruth’s Chris Steak House, where every bite is as satisfying as the first.
Sports fans will love Ascend Sportsbook & Lounge, the ultimate spot for watching and wagering on live sporting events. With large-screen TVs and ample seating, it’s the perfect place to enjoy great food, specialty drinks and craft beer while keeping an eye on the action.
Legends Diner offers all the classic diner favorites, including mouthwatering burgers, hot dogs and delicious desserts like malts and sundaes.
The Little Eagle Café, located in the Slot Palace, serves popular comfort foods, including breakfast favorites, burgers and sandwiches.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Native Grind features a café- style menu with custom roasted coffee, house-made artisan breads, pastries and more—making it the perfect spot to fuel your day or night.
Soaring Eagle is also a premier entertainment destination, hosting major music and comedy acts. Upcoming shows include The Oak Ridge Boys, American Made Farewell Tour, Nov. 23; Cheap Trick Live in Concert WSG Blue Oyster Cult, Dec. 6; Ice Cube, Dec. 13; The Rockin’ Holiday Bash, Dec. 14; Aaron Lewis, American Patriot Tour, Dec. 20; Fuel & Lit, Ignited We Stand, Dec. 21; Wayne Newton, Up Close and Personal, Dec. 27; Rodney Carrington, Dec. 28; Stephen Pearcy of Ratt and Ace Frehley, Dec. 29; and Keith Sweat, Dec. 30.
Whatever your interests, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort promises a fantastic experience. Plan your getaway today at SoaringEagleCasino.com or call 1-877-2-EAGLE.
Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel, Tama, IA
Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel offers more than just a night out—it’s your ultimate entertainment destination! With 67,553 square feet of exciting casino games, a fully stocked bar and a friendly, attentive staff, the gaming floor at Meskwaki is the perfect spot for a great time.
Opened in 1992, Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel features 366 comfortable hotel rooms, a lounge with live music and various dining options. The lobby showcases impressive museum-quality displays of Meskwaki artifacts and photos, celebrating a rich Native American heritage.
Even the most dedicated players need a break, and Meskwaki provides a range of amenities to enhance your stay, including free Wi-Fi, nonsmoking rooms, coffee makers, refrigerators, flat-screen TVs and five excellent restaurants, along with a bar and lounge. After an action- packed night, unwind in style.
Notably, Meskwaki’s slots are known for their generous payouts, as confirmed by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. Popular new titles include Stinkin’ Rich Skunks Gone Wild, Super Sally Shrimpmania and Wheel of Fortune High Roller. For highstakes players, the exclusive high-limit slot room features 68 machines with big payout potential.
Enjoy table games year-round at Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel. Choose from 25 tables offering games like blackjack, craps, baccarat and roulette, with betting limits ranging from $5 to $2,000, ensuring fun for everyone from beginners to seasoned players.
Get ready to shout “BINGO!” in the spacious 550-seat Bingo Parlor, where you can enjoy afternoon and evening sessions. With Progressive Pots and monthly $1,199 Saturday sessions, the excitement never ends. Play traditional paper bingo or opt for the electronic version.
Dining at Meskwaki is a treat, with a diverse menu featuring light and fluffy buttermilk pancakes, juicy prime rib, Angus burgers, homemade onion rings, endless shrimp specials and their famous Seafood Buffet. Whatever you’re craving, they have something to satisfy your taste buds.
Experience live entertainment at its best, from rock stars and comedy acts to local legends and country chart-toppers.
Whether you’re looking for a lively concert or a cozy gathering with local musicians, Meskwaki has it all. Upcoming shows include Staggard Band, Nov. 22 & 23; Route 66, Nov. 29 & 30; Recoil, Dec. 6 & 7; Grand Marshall, Dec. 13 & 14; Jonah Seymour, Dec. 20 & 21; Undercurrent, Dec. 27 & 28; and CJ Ryder & the Past Masters, Dec. 31.
For more information, visit www.meskwaki.com.
