Kewadin Casino: Overview and Amenities in Upper Michigan
Located in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, Kewadin Casino is one of the most popular gaming destinations in the Upper Peninsula. The casino has a rich history dating back to 1985 when it first opened its doors as a small bingo hall. Over the years, it has grown and expanded into a full-fledged casino offering various games, entertainment options, and dining experiences.
History and Expansion
The Kewadin Casino was established by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, which is one of six register now federally recognized tribes in Michigan. Initially, it focused on bingo operations but gradually expanded to include slot machines and card games. In 2008, Kewadin underwent a major renovation that transformed its physical space into what is now known as the largest casino in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Today, the complex spans over 75,000 square feet of gaming space with more than 2,300 slots, electronic table games, and a selection of traditional card games. The venue also features a high-limit gaming area, which caters to players seeking higher stakes experiences. The recent addition of an off-track betting lounge allows patrons to place bets on various sporting events while enjoying the casino’s amenities.
Games and Amenities
One of Kewadin Casino’s primary attractions is its extensive library of slots games featuring popular titles from industry leaders like Aristocrat, WMS Gaming, and Konami. These digital machines are available 24/7 in dedicated gaming areas designed to provide a comfortable playing environment. Additionally, the casino offers electronic table games such as Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and Baccarat that mimic classic casino experiences.
Kewadin also features numerous traditional card tables with stakes ranging from $1 minimum bets up to higher limits for more serious gamblers. Poker enthusiasts can participate in tournaments or cash games at dedicated poker rooms throughout the week. When it comes to high-roller gaming, a separate VIP area offers exclusive services and perks tailored specifically for its elite clientele.
The Kewadin Casino has several dining options to cater to diverse tastes and appetites:
- Starline Diner: A classic American diner with breakfast favorites, sandwiches, burgers, salads, and comforting entrees.
- Jamie’s Bighorn Chophouse & Pub: Upscale dining featuring premium cuts of steak, seafood dishes, and an impressive selection of craft beers.
- Chinook Buffet: A buffet serving an international cuisine menu with a variety of hot and cold items for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
In addition to gaming and dining options, Kewadin Casino hosts various entertainment events throughout the year:
Kewadin Comedy Series:
A quarterly series featuring stand-up comedians from across North America. Recent performances included well-known acts like Louie Anderson and Jim Breuer.
Music Live Music Venues: A live music venue hosting local, regional, and national bands in a variety of genres such as rock, country, pop, and hip-hop.
Guests can also take advantage of various non-gaming activities available at Kewadin:
Kewadin Convention Center:
A multi-purpose meeting space accommodating conferences, trade shows, weddings, or other events. State-of-the-art audiovisual equipment ensures a seamless experience for attendees.
The Kewadin Casino’s accommodations include two hotels affiliated with the venue: The Kewadin Shores Hotel and its sister property, The Island Hotel and Resort at Kewadin. While guests must stay within these designated hotels to participate in casino activities during their visit period, they are free to engage with amenities available on-site or in nearby Sault Ste.
Sustainable Initiatives
The Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians has implemented environmentally friendly practices throughout Kewadin Casino:
- Water Conservation Program: Efforts have been made to reduce water consumption through installing low-flow fixtures, reducing water waste, and implementing efficient irrigation systems for the complex’s landscaping.
Tribal Economic Benefits
Kewadin Casino has had a significant economic impact on Sault Ste. Marie since its inception:
- Job Creation: Employment opportunities have been created not only within the casino itself but also in related industries such as hospitality, security services, and maintenance.
- Tribal Revenue Generation Kewadin Casino generates a significant portion of revenue for its parent tribal organization through taxes on gaming profits. This revenue is reinvested into various community development projects.
Governmental Regulations
Like other US casinos, Kewadin must abide by federal and state regulations:
- Casino Regulatory Commission: The Michigan Casino Gaming Association regulates and licenses casino operators like Kewadin to ensure compliance with local laws.
- Tribal-State Compact Kewadin is subject to the terms of a 1997 Tribal-State compact agreement between the state government of Michigan and the Sault Ste.
Conclusion
In summary, Kewadin Casino has established itself as one of Upper Michigan’s premier gaming destinations thanks in part to its wide range of games, entertainment options, dining experiences, accommodations, and dedication to sustainability initiatives.