Overview of Kewadin Casino Operations in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
The Kewadin Casinos are a group of gaming facilities located throughout Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, operated by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. The casinos offer a range of gaming options, entertainment venues, and amenities for visitors from around the world.
History and Background
Kewadin Casino operations in Michigans Upper Peninsula began with the opening of the first casino, Kewadin Shores Casino, in 1997 in St. Ignace. Over the years, three more https://kewadin-casino.ca casinos were added to the group: Kewadin Casinos – Sault Ste. Marie (2001), Kewadin Casino – Christmas (2013), and Kewadin Casino – Houghton Lake (2020). The most recent addition brought the total number of Kewadin Casinos in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to four.
Location and Accessibility
The casinos are strategically located in key destinations within Michigans Upper Peninsula. This allows visitors from nearby states, particularly Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, easy access by car or other transportation modes. The main locations include:
- Kewadin Shores Casino , St. Ignace: Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan and near the Mackinac Bridge.
- Kewadin Casinos – Sault Ste. Marie : Located in the heart of downtown Sault Ste. Marie, this casino is a few steps away from Interstate 75 (I-75) and the Soo Locks.
- Kewadin Casino – Christmas : In Negaunee Township, Chippewa County, adjacent to US Route 28 (M-189).
- Kewadin Casino – Houghton Lake was recently added in Roscommon County.
Each location is easily accessible by car or public transportation and offers ample parking. Kewadin Casinos also provide shuttle services from nearby locations for patrons who do not have a vehicle, ensuring that all visitors can reach the casinos with minimal hassle.
Gaming Options
The gaming options available at each Kewadin Casino are diverse and comprehensive:
- Slot Machines : A vast selection of slots games covering various themes and types.
- Table Games : From classic roulette to blackjack, craps, baccarat, and three card poker.
- Poker Room : Hosts regular tournaments for cash players as well as an occasional high-stakes game.
- Electronic Racebook and Sports Betting with a growing number of states participating through agreements.
These gaming options ensure that all types of visitors can enjoy their preferred games without the need to travel elsewhere, making the Kewadin Casinos popular destinations in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Entertainment Options
In addition to gaming, each Kewadin Casino offers various forms of entertainment and leisure activities for its patrons:
- Live Music : Regular performances by local and national artists across different genres.
- Dining : Offers a range of food options from fine dining to quick bites at multiple on-site restaurants, including buffets, cafes, and snack bars.
The Kewadin Casinos also host special events such as celebrity visits, holiday celebrations, and themed parties throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy live music performances while enjoying their meals or taking breaks from gaming activities.
Tribal Casino Gaming
Michigan law allows Native American tribes to operate casinos on their tribal lands in exchange for certain financial benefits that go toward community programs, job creation, education, healthcare, environmental protection and other public services within the tribe’s service area. The Kewadin Casinos’ success is an integral part of this agreement.
Awards and Recognition
The Kewadin Shores Casino received a prestigious Best New Slot Selection award at the 2002 North American Gaming Awards in Las Vegas. This recognition highlights their commitment to providing the most recent slot machines for players.
Economic Impact
As one of the top casino operators in Michigans Upper Peninsula, the Kewadin Casinos contribute significantly to the local economy by:
- Employment : Creating jobs in various fields from gaming services and hospitality staff.
- Revenue Generation : Collecting revenue through taxes on its operations while supporting other regional businesses with direct purchases and charitable donations.
A Study published at MSU found that casino revenue also supports other parts of the community including law enforcement, emergency services, parks, and school programs.