Michigan Casinos

Michigan casinos are a popular tourist destination for people from all over the United States. The Great Lake state is home to a rich mix of casinos, including resort casinos, commercial casinos, and tribal casinos.

Resort casinos are the largest and most luxurious, with full-service hotels, spas, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Commercial casinos are smaller but still offer a variety of gaming options, while tribal casinos are owned and operated by Native American tribes.

Beyond these, most casinos are owned by various Native American tribes in the state. Tribal casinos are not regulated by the MGCB but are governed and regulated by the tribes governing body and the National Indian Gaming Commission.

Tribal casinos operate under the State-Tribal compacts signed by the Governor. Under these compacts, the tribal casinos agree to pay a percentage of their revenue to the local cities and municipalities.

What is the Michigan Gaming Control Board?

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) regulates Michigan’s gaming industry. It oversees and governs the actions of casinos, online casinos and sportsbooks, racetracks, and some of the state's charitable gaming as well as their associated employees and suppliers. It also bears the responsibility for auditing the Native American casinos’ Class 3 revenue.

The MGCB was established in November 1996 when voters in Michigan approved a proposal that authorized the building of casinos in its largest city, Detroit. The proposal E was expanded and signed into law as the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act in 1997.

Under the law, the MGCB was created as part of the Michigan Department of Treasury. The board is composed of a team made of an Executive Director and five members appointed by the State Governor and approved by the Michigan Senate.

The MGCB is supported in its duties by the Michigan Attorney General's office, the Michigan State Police, and the Michigan Department of Technology Management.

Although there are several Tribal casinos in Michigan the MGCB does not have regulatory authority over them because of the Sovereignty of Native American tribes. The Michigan Gaming Control Board does however have oversight authority and monitors the tribes’ compliance with the State-Tribal compact provisions in Michigan.

The National Indian Gaming Commission and each tribal casino’s governing tribe are in charge of all other regulations and governance of tribal casinos in Michigan.

What Michigan Cities Have Casinos?

As of 2022, over two dozen cities in Michigan have one or more casinos within their environs. Of these, 25 are owned by Indian tribes while 3 are state-licensed casinos owned by gaming and entertainment companies.

Some of the cities in Michigan with casinos include:

Is Gambling Legal in Michigan?

Yes, gambling is legal in Michigan. Michigan has always been a gambling-friendly state, far back as 1933 the first opportunities for legal gambling were created with the passing of the Racing Act which led to the creation of the Office of the Racing Commissioner.

Next in May 1972, Michigan voters approved a constitutional amendment to set up a state lottery. This was signed into law as Public Act 239 later that year in August 1972. Also in 1972 Act 382 was passed which permitted licensed non-profit organizations to use so-called charitable gambling to raise funds.

Charitable gambling activities are usually in the form of licensed bingo games, charity game ticket sales, millionaire parties, and raffles. It also allows the licensing of bingo suppliers and gaming halls. In March 2007, there was a revision of the Act which added more rules for charitable gaming organized by different subjects.

It also adds administrative rules with definitions and guidance for running gaming activities including general gaming or gambling and charitable gaming.

State-Tribal compacts are written agreements between the state and tribes signed by the governor. These compact agreements instruct the tribal casinos to pay a percentage of their winnings to local counties and municipalities.

In 1996 Michigan voters approved Proposal E which allowed the building of 3 state-licensed casinos in its largest city Detroit. This proposal was expanded, improved, and signed into law in 1997 as Public Act 69, the Michigan Gaming Control & Revenue Act.

The law authorized the creation of the Michigan Gaming Control Board which governs and regulates all state-licensed casinos. The three casinos built in Detroit were the MGM Grand Detroit, the Motor City Casino, and the Greek Town Hollywood Casino.

Is Poker Legal in Michigan?

Yes, Poker is legal in all licensed gambling establishments in Michigan, including land-based casinos, online casinos, and poker rooms. Players looking for poker games will find thriving poker communities both in the land-based casinos and in the online poker rooms in Michigan.

Poker can be played at home or in other private settings but Michigan law makes it Illegal for the operator of such games to make money from it.

This means the organizer of such private games is not allowed to charge participating players or collect a percentage of winnings or rakes.

Who Owns the Casinos in Michigan?

Casinos in Michigan are either owned by the resident Native American tribes or in the case of the state-licensed casinos, different entertainment companies. The table below lists the casinos operating in Michigan and their respective owners.

Comparison of Michigan Land Casinos

Michigan is home to over 25 land-based casinos. Since gambling became legal, these casinos have provided casino games, such as Blackjack, Baccarat, and Poker to all interested state residents Furthermore, Michigan casinos added services, such as hospitality and bars alongside casino games. Some of the top options include:

Four Winds Casino, New Buffalo, Hartford, Dowagiac, MI

Four Winds Casino is a set of Native American casinos created by the Pokagon band of Potawatomi Indians. There are 4 Four Winds Casinos in total, three of which are located in Michigan. The casino was established on federally-recognized tribal land. Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo has over 2,600 slot machines and 49 table games. On the other hand, the casino in Hartford is noticeably smaller in comparison to the New Buffalo branch. It is a 52,000-square-foot area with over 550 slot machines and nine table games.

Generally, the Four Winds Casino is all-inclusive since it has dedicated areas for smokers. Furthermore, you can place bets as low as 1 cent. Note: there's no maximum betting limit, so it's easy for players to bet hundreds of thousands on their preferred table games.

In addition to offering casino games, the casino also features lottery games and electronic games, such as electronic blackjack and craps. The Casino doesn't offer sports betting.

Furthermore, it features a hotel and entertainment venue alongside the casino. For example, the Four Winds in New Buffalo features a 24/7 casino and a hotel consisting of 415 rooms.

Hotel room prices in this casino can be as low as $99. The casino also boasts of many family-friendly activities, thus making it a top spot for family vacations and get-togethers. Families can unwind at the swimming pool, or spend hours at the arcade.

Live concerts and shows are also common attractions for visitors. You may choose to go on dates at the suave Copper Steakhouse or organize family diners at The Buffet in Four Winds Casino. Get access to exclusive deals, including wine tours and romantic getaways.

Although Four Winds is on sovereign land with a specific set of rules, all players must be 21 years or older to visit and gamble.

Four Winds Casino, New Buffalo

11111 Wilson Road

New Buffalo, MI 49117.

Four Winds Casino, Hartford

68600 Red Arrow Highway

Hartford, MI 49057.

Four Winds Casino, Dowagiac

58700 M-51 South

Dowagiac, MI 49047

Gun Lake Casino, Wayland, MI

Gun Lake Casino is a 24/7 tribal casino with a variety of games and entertainment to guarantee a great gambling experience. It is situated on a 156,000-square-foot property, right between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Visitors and gamblers can enjoy a variety of entertainment, from luxury hotel accommodation to upscale restaurants. There are also arcade centers filled with retro and modern arcade games.

There are over 2,000 slot machines in Gun Lake Casino. In addition, the casino features 47 table games and 17 pokers. You can place bets as low as one cent in most casino games, while the maximum betting limit is $25. Note that there are no dedicated smoking areas within the premises.

Thus, you can only smoke outside the facility. Most importantly, the casino is popular for promotions and bonuses which often run for a month. The GLC rewards are also another incentive for users.

It's a five-tiered rewards system that allows players to earn points in exchange for cash benefits. 500 points are worth $1, and it's redeemable at any of the casino's slot machines.

Families also visit the Gun Lake Casino for its restaurants. For example, the Harvest Buffet is popular for its crab legs, while the Shkode Chophouse offers a variety of steak-based dishes.

Stage 131 and Crossroads are popular nightlife attractions for downing a few drinks with friends and colleagues. You can also visit the casino for live concerts and sports events like the UFC 274.

The minimum age for betting at Gun Lake Casino is 21 years old. Players are often required to come with government-issued IDs when visiting the casino or bars.

Gun Lake Casino

1123 129th Avenue

Wayland, MI 49348

Phone: (269) 792-7777

Soaring Eagle, Mount Pleasant, MI

A unique feature about the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resorts is its low minimum age of eligibility. Persons 18 years old and above, can gamble and gain access to all its facilities. The Soaring Eagle Casino & Resorts is a tribal casino owned by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe.

Thus, it is a sovereign territory and not bound by the state's gambling regulations. You will find this 210,000 sq/ft establishment not far from the Mount Pleasant region and the Indian Pines Park.

Soaring Eagle Casino has over 3,330 slot machines and 60 table games. You will find popular variants of your favorite table games, like American Roulette and Spanish 21 Blackjack.

Furthermore, there are 18 poker tables. Note that the casino and resort are open to all visitors all around the clock. There's no dedicated area for smokers within the premises. Smokers must always go outside to smoke.

Loyal customers can receive an ACCESS Loyalty Card, depending on their level of participation. You can use these loyalty cards to redeem points and access facilities like Slot machines and hotel rooms.

The Soaring Eagle Resort is a four-star facility containing 759 rooms and 21 suites. Each room is air-conditioned and fitted with native-American-themed designs. Staff members are also available all around the clock to give a wholesome experience. In addition, the resort features amenities, such as fitness centers, hot tubs, heated indoor pools, and outdoor pools.

There are also children-friendly shows and activities to engage young families. Furthermore, gamblers can dine at any of the restaurants littered around the facility. You can start your dining experience with Little Eagle Cafe before proceeding for those premium beef cuts at the Prime Rib Cart or Siniikaung Steak and Chop House.

In addition to a bubbling dining environment, you may attend live concerts and different shows. Always check the official website to know the scheduled concerts and live events. The facility also boasts a vibrant nightlife, thanks to Ascend Sports Bar & Night Club and Water Lily Lounge.

You must be 21 years old and above to gamble in Soaring Eagle casino. Players are often required to come with government-issued IDs when visiting the casino or bars.

Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort

6800 Soaring Eagle Boulevard

Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Phone: (888) 732-4537.

Firekeepers Casino, Battle Creek, MI

The Firekeepers Casino is situated on a 117,000 sq/ft property owned by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Indians.

Visitors often enjoy the casino's perfect blend of gambling and non-gambling activities. For example, it features 2,900 of your favorite slot machines, 15 table poker rooms, 70 table games, and a 500-seat live bingo room. You'll find popular variants of Blackjack, Poker, Baccarat, and Craps.

What's more interesting? There are no limits on the casino's poker table. You can place bets for a minimum of one cent, and there is no maximum limit to what you can bet.

Visit Dacey's Sportsbook and Taphouse to wager any amount on both local and international sports events. At the Firekeepers Casino, you can place bets on major sports like basketball, golf, soccer, MMA, and championship tennis. In addition, the casino allows players to wager on upcoming championships in popular sports.

Players can also enjoy better incentives and benefits by joining the Red Hot Rewards Club. These benefits include a discount on fuel, buffets, and access to VIP areas of the casino.

Red Hot Rewards members can get as much as a 50 percent discount on alcoholic beverages. In addition, they're eligible to free ATM withdrawals.

On the other hand, there are four bars and six restaurants in this establishment and a load of other attractions. You can take a break from gambling to enjoy a variety of treats at the Biggby Coffee or Café 24/7. Smoke 'N' Fire offers a unique dining experience for dates and business meetings.

The Fire Keeper Hotel has 243 rooms, with varying levels of comfort and luxury. From the Classic rooms at a lesser price to the upscale and quite expensive presidential suite, there are enough choices for users. Firekeepers Casino is open 24/7. So, you can visit and access all the amenities at any time of the day.

Note: The facility doesn't allow indoor smoking.

You must be 21 years old and above to gamble for real cash in Firekeepers casino. Players are often required to come with government-issued IDs when visiting the casino or bars.

Firekeepers Casino & Resort

11177 East Michigan Avenue

Battle Creek, MI 49014

Phone: (269) 962-0000.

Turtle Creek Casino, Williamstown, MI

Turtle Creek is an Indian casino situated on a 56,000 sq/ft property, about 11 miles outside of Traverse City, Williamsburg. It was established by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. The casino offers a range of entertainment, from casino games to luxury accommodation and nightlife.

In Turtle Creek Casino, there are over 1,200 slot machines, six poker games, and 40 table games available to players above the minimum age. Players over the age of 18 can play variants of casino games like slots, baccarat, craps, poker, and roulette.

There's also a sportsbook section for placing bets on the major local and international sports events. Horse racing and Keno is also a favorable option for sports bettors.

Interestingly, there is no maximum or minimum limit for betting in Turtle Creek Casino. So, high rollers and those with minimum spending power can stake bets on any casino game. Turtle Creek is open to visitors all year round, except for Easter and Christmas holidays.

The casino is not the only attraction in this establishment. Turtle Creek Resorts provides luxury accommodations to all visitors. The hotel fees range from $159 to $400, based on the luxury and size of the room.

In addition, there are meeting spaces and halls for all types of events. Let's not forget the spas and gift shops accessible to all visitors. You can also enjoy amazing cuisines from restaurants like Bourbon's 72 and The Coffee Spoon.

The Tower Bar and Mid-level Bar in Turtle Creek Resorts are open to all persons above the minimum legal age. Don't forget to attend the live shows and other attractions when visiting with your loved ones.

Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel

7741 M-72

Williamsburg, MI 49690.

Bay Mills Resort and Casino, Brimley, MI

Owned by the Bay Mills Indian community, this casino sits on a 40,000 sq/ft property. The Bay Mills Resort and Casino offers just as much attraction as a majority of the larger casinos on this list. For example, it boasts a luxury resort and a gambling floor with a large variety of table games.

The casino floor consists of over 700 casinos, 14 table games, and four poker tables. There's no table limit, so you can pull a chair and participate in an ongoing game. It's also perfect for high rollers and those with low spending power. The minimum betting limit is one cent, while there's no maximum limit to what you can bet. Note: smoking is not allowed on the premises. Furthermore, it does not feature a sportsbook facility.

The resort section is also another source of attraction for all users. It is a premium spot for having dates, dinners, and family outings. Visitors can lodge into the 143-room resort and earn exclusive deals or discounts. Room prices at the Bay Mills Resort start from $79 to 220.

On the other hand, you can dine at any of the resort's restaurants. Tasty wings and large portions of food coupled with a nice outdoor seating area is the reason why many prefer the Black Bay Grills restaurant in Bay Mills resort. Nightcrawlers will also love the vibrant nightlife, thanks to a host of bars and live concerts.

Bay Mills Resort also features a championship 18-hole golf course and a 124-RV park. So, park your RVs and gain access to free water, electricity, and internet.

Bay Mills Resort and Casino

11386 West Lakeshore Drive

Brimley, MI 49715

Phone: (906) 248-3715.

Lac Vieux Desert Resort Casino, Watersmeet, MI

Occupying a 25.000 sq/ft space, the Northern Waters Casino is one of the smallest tribal casinos in Michigan. The casino was established by the Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians. It features over 500 slot machines and seven poker tables. There's no table limit for most games , since players can join any ongoing game in the casino. However, the table limit for Blackjack varies between $5 and $200. Other casino games may have different minimum or maximum betting limits. You can also place bets on local and international sports events. Note that there are no betting options for horse racing.

Note: smoking is not allowed on the premises.

At the same time, the Northern Water Resort is the best spot for fun getaways with friends and families. There are huge halls and spaces for corporate events or weddings. On top of that, there are lots of restaurants, bars, and entertainment to keep you preoccupied. The NW Sports Bar, for example, brings a perfect blend of entertainment and amazing food menus. The Food Court and Sugar Bush restaurants are also great spots for dining in the resort.

Visitors, gamblers, and non-gamblers may choose to book a room in the resort. Prices of these rooms start from $75 to $135, depending on the type of suite. That said, guests and registered members can access the resort's swimming pools and spa. What's more? You get a free $10 to play casino games on your birthday month. You also get to enjoy special perks when you sign up for the resort's Superior Rewards Club.

You must be at least 21 years old to play for real cash at the Northern Waters Resort.

Northern Waters Resort

N5384 US-45

Watersmeet, MI 49969

Phone: (906) 358-4226.

Greektown Casino Hotel, Detroit, MI

The Greektown Casino Hotel is one of the biggest casino hotels in Michigan. Established by Penn National Gaming Inc, it features a world-class casino with over 3,000 slot machines, 85 table games, and 12 poker tables. Some of the featured games include Texas Hold’em, and pot-limit Omaha HI.

The table minimum is usually $5 for electronic roulette and $10 on blackjack. However, this minimum bet can easily shoot up to $25 if there are many players participating in the table game. In most cases, the minimum bet limits fluctuate between $5 and $25.

The casino and outside area is the only designated smoking area in Greektown Casino. Smokers lodging in the hotel may also request designated rooms for smoking.

The Greektown Casino-Hotel provides world-class accommodation. It consists of 400 rooms in different suite levels. The starting price for a room is $179. Furthermore, visitors may opt for a five-star dining experience at the Stack'd or Bistro 555. On the other hand, the Starbucks or Noodle Art restaurant at the Greektown Casino-Hotel is great for a quick and casual breakfast or brunch.

You must be at least 21 years old to play for real cash at the Greektown Casino Hotel.

Greektown Casino-Hotel

555 East Lafayette Street

Detroit, MI 49117

Phone: (313) 223-2999.

MGM Grand Detroit, Detroit, MI

MGM Grand Detroit is situated on a 100,000 sq/ft property, and it's one of the largest casinos in Detroit. The casino features 3,500 slots, 143 table games, and 17 poker tables. So, you will find popular variants of Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and Baccarat in this casino. The MGM Grand Detroit has a Sportsbook section for handling all bets on local and international sports events.

Furthermore, it's more inclusive thanks to a $1 minimum betting limit and an unlimited maximum betting cap. What's more? The casino allows smokers to smoke in the casinos and outside the premises. However, smoking is restricted to only designated areas. And yes, it's open all year round. You can access the casinos and other amenities in the MGM Grand Detroit at any time of the day.

You will also find luxury accommodation at the MGM Grand Detroit. The establishment features 400 rooms in over 65 suite levels. From the simple classic rooms to the presidential suite, users have a wide range of options to choose from. Room prices at the MGM Grand Detroit start from $189.

Gamblers and non-gamblers can dine at any of the hotel's restaurants. There are steakhouses for fine dining experiences, and outdoor eating areas fit casual dining. Only players above 21 years old can play for real cash at the MGM Grand Detroit.

MGM Grand Detroit

1777 3rd Avenue

Detroit, MI 48226

Phone: (313) 465-1777.

MotorCity Casino Hotel, Detroit, MI

MotorCity Casino combines it all; fine dining, world-class accommodation, spa, live performance, and gaming. It also hosts the crown jewel of the Detroit skyline. Established on a 100,000 sq/ft space, the casino is easily accessible via the I - 71 Highway.

It features over 2,700 slot machines, 59 table games, and 17 poker tables. There's no table limit for most games since players can join any ongoing game in the casino. Furthermore, there's no betting limit required before you can place bets on casino games. You can also place bets on local and international football, golf, basketball, and motor racing sports events.

Note: There are designated areas for smokers in the casino.

Likewise, visitors to the casino can also access luxury accommodations at the 400-room hotel facility in MotorCity. Select your preferred suite level to access specific perks. Persons holding the Club Metro Membership will enjoy discounts and gain access to more amenities and benefits.

At the same time, the White Pine boutique is a favorite spot for corporate, wedding, and other types of events. The casino organizes live concerts and shows entertainment to keep users interested in their amenities.

MotorCity Casino Hotel
2901 Grand River Avenue
Detroit, MI 48201
Phone:c(313) 237-7711.

Are Online Casinos Legal in Michigan?

Online casinso are legal in Michigan. In 2019, the Governor of Michigan signed the Lawful Internet Gaming Act into law, which legalized online gambling activity, including online casinos, sportsbooks, online poker rooms, and daily fantasy sports sites.

For an online casino to operate in Michigan, it must be licensed, pay the $50000-$100000 application fee, and be partnered with a land-based Michigan casino. All licensing and regulation of online casinos are handled by the Michigan GamingControl Board (MGCB).

Does Michigan Have Table Games and Slot Machines?

Yes, most casinos in Michigan both land-based and online will have a variety of table games and slot machines. Currently, all 28 land-based casinos and 15 online casinos have a combination of slot machines and table games such as poker, blackjack, roulette, and baccarat.

Which Land Casino has the most slot machines?

At the moment, the MGM Grand in Detroit is the land casino with the most slot machines boasting over 3500 slot machines and video poker games. Following closely is the Soaring Eagles Casino and Resort in Mount Pleasant with 3330 slot machines

How Do I Place a Bet Online in Michigan?

To make a bet online in Michigan an individual must choose and be registered on any of the online casinos and sportsbooks available in Michigan.

For a person to be eligible to register on these online casinos they must be 21 years old or over and physically reside in Michigan. After selecting the site they may register or sign up by providing the necessary information and following the simple instructions provided.

After registration, the player must log in to the site and credit the account with funds they will use to play their bets. Most sites will provide numerous convenient ways for players to fund their accounts. Free bets and bonuses are also given as incentives for players to join up. Next, the player selects the sport or game they wish to bet on, and selects the betting market.

Finally, the player selects the outcome of the game they wish to bet on. Most sportsbook sites will have a digital betting slip with all a player’s selected bets on the side of their account screen.

Are Drinks Free in Michigan Casinos?

Michigan is among the 15 so-called “dry states” that do not allow their casinos to serve patrols free alcoholic drinks while they gamble.

Due to Michigan legislation free or comped alcoholic drinks and cocktails are unavailable to players on the casino floor. If a player wants a drink while gambling on the casino floor they will have to pay, however, non-alcoholic drinks like coffee, tea, and chocolate are free.

Can you smoke in the Casinos in Michigan?

Yes, smoking is allowed in casinos in Michigan but only in certain designated areas which may defer from casino to casino.

However, most casinos will also have separate non-smoking areas marked around the property. Smoking in a non-smoking area will usually incur a heavy fine.

Does Michigan Have Casinos?

Yes, Michigan has both online and land-based casinos within the state. Currently, there are 28 land-based casinos in Michigan separated into 3 state-licensed casinos and 25 tribal casinos. There are also 15 online casinos operating in Michigan for players who choose to game from their home or a mobile device.

What is the Oldest Casino in Michigan?

The oldest casino in Michigan is the Kings Club casino located in the City of Brimley. It is a tribal casino and was opened in 1984 by the Bay Mills Indian Community. It currently has a gaming floor measuring 700 square meters (7500 sq. feet) and has over 280 slot machines with a cafe and dining area.

What is the Largest Casino in Michigan?

The largest casino in Michigan is the Soaring Eagles Casino and Resort located in Mount Pleasant owned and operated by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan. After renovations in 2018, it currently boasts the most significant game floor space measuring 20,000 square meters (210,000 sq. feet).

It features over 3330 slot machines and video poker machines, over 60 table games, plus 18 poker rooms ideal for hosting tournaments. For dining and relaxation, Soaring Eagle offers 759 rooms and 29 suites, 8 restaurants, a full-service spa, and a pool with underwater sound systems. Other features are the Ascend sportsbook, 3 meeting and conference rooms, a 6000+ seater Entertainment Hall, and the 16000+ seater outdoor amphitheater.

For families, the casino provides a games arcade and a daycare to cater to children. Renovation plans are almost completed which improve the Entertainment Hall and children's areas and add a sports bar, VIP lounge, and nightclub near the game floor.

On another hand, the MGM Grand in Detroit has the most gaming facilities. It has a smaller gaming floor measuring 100,000 square feet or 9300 square meters. However, it contains 3500 slots and video poker machines, 143 table games, and 17 poker rooms.

The MGM Grand contains 400 rooms plus 69 suites, a pool with a gym/fitness center, a full-service spa, and a salon plus the MGM retail store. Also available at the MGM Grand are meeting areas, several restaurants, event centers, the Axis VIP lounge, nightclubs, and the Top Swing virtual golf Suite.