Located between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, the Gun Lake Casino in Michigan is owned by the Gun Lake Tribe. Since it opened in 2011, the brick-and-mortar casino has seen many expansions. Building a hotel has been a goal of the tribe for many years.
Expansion at Gun Lake
In January 2016, Gun Lake Casino embarked on a $76,000 project that increased its size to 156,000 sq. ft. It added new slot machines, table games, and an upscale buffet restaurant. The brand also launched an online casino in partnership with Parx Casino following the approval of iGaming in Michigan.
In late 2021, Gun Lake Casino added another 72,000 square feet to the casino. The $100 million expansion added 450 slot machines, more table games, a bigger non-smoking area, and two new restaurants.
In April 2021, Gun Lake Casino announced plans to build a $300 million hotel with a 32,000 sq. ft. aquadome, private cabanas, entertainment, and a restaurant. HBG Design from Memphis did the design, and the project got the go-ahead in 2022. A groundbreaking ceremony was conducted on May 19th, 2022.
On schedule for opening in March 2025
Casino-goers ready for a vacation will be pleased to know that the project is still on track for completion in March 2025. This is despite challenges such as labor shortages and higher material costs. Sal Semola, CEO of Gun Lake Casino, says that a close eye is being kept on the costs and the global economic situation. The next step will transform the casino into a resort, boosting Michigan’s economy. The resort is likely to become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Midwest.
Project construction
The expansion project has brought together a massive workforce. Allen Blower, senior vice president of Clark Construction, said the project will create over 15,000 jobs during the build. Around 200 workers will be working on the project daily. Construction of a project of this size is challenging, but effective project management ensures that it stays on track.
Economic implications
Tribe and casino representatives predict the project will affect the economy to the tune of about $650 million. In the U.S., the number of hotels and resorts is growing. Real estate sector growth is coming from a high demand for commercial real estate.
The experience that awaits visitors
As the project makes progress, anticipation is building for the experience that awaits visitors, setting a new standard for hospitality and entertainment.
The new 15-story hotel will have 252 rooms and 30 suites. Each room has large windows to offer views of the local area. A two-story suite on the top two levels will be a unique living and entertainment space. It will showcase a grand staircase, a double-height window, lounge areas, a billiard table, and a residential elevator. A restaurant, Sandhill Café, will seat up to 137 people. A spa pool, fitness center, and meeting room will be located on the lower level, offering a relaxing retreat.
The aquadome will have three pools, a swim-up bar, palm trees, and a stage for events that can hold up to 2,400 people. Each pool and deck are separate living spaces that create social yet private settings inside the oasis. Natural light will illuminate the space during the day, which will have a nightclub atmosphere and light show after the sunset.
