RISING POWER
From bingo halls to billion-dollar resorts. Tribal casinos lead the way
By Sean Chaffin
Native American tribal groups across the country have expanded into casino gaming over the last few decades and the entrepreneurial efforts have had massive impacts not just for their own people, but also to the wider communities they serve. According to the American Gaming Association, tribal gaming generated a record $43.9 billion in revenue nationwide in 2024. That’s a 4.6% increase over 2023 and marks the fourth consecutive year of record growth for the industry that includes 532 gaming operations in 29 states.
“These revenue numbers demonstrate the positive impacts of tribal gaming and the essential role it plays supporting tribal sovereignty, job growth, infrastructure, education, and important social, health, and welfare programs in tribal communities—just to name a few,” National Indian Gaming Commission Vice Chair Jeannie Hovland said. “NIGC remains committed to working with Tribes and their regulators to ensure the long-term integrity and success of Indian gaming.”
Those numbers highlight just how successful these gaming enterprises have become. What once began in many states as small-scale bingo operations have become full- fledged resorts with numerous gaming and hospitality options for Americans across the country. Beyond gaming operations in their traditional lands, tribes have branched out to include hotels, dining, sports betting, online gaming and more. These gaming destinations are surging in popularity with Americans seeking a gaming getaway in much of the country.
Revenue from these activities are then funneled back into each tribes’ communities— funding schools and health care, creating jobs, providing retirement benefits, keeping tribal traditions alive, and so much more. And in an ever-changing gaming landscape, tribal groups continue to adapt and change to keep gamblers happy and coming through the doors. While challenges may lie ahead, today’s tribal gaming groups aren’t just following the trends, but many times are out front and actually leading the gaming industry. Here’s a look at some of these leaders and the recent events and additions shaping them.
EAST
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Metropolitan Park
A Hard Rock Casino is coming to New York City after the state awarded the company, owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, one of three downstate casino licenses. The company will partner with New York Mets owner Steve Cohen on the project, to be known as Metropolitan Park.
In addition to a Hard Rock casino, plans also call for a 25- acre public park, shopping, restaurants, bike paths and more on a 50-acre parking lot adjacent to Citi Field, where the Queens baseball team plays. The project is expected to begin construction in 2026 and open by 2030, depending on finalizing the approval process.
Turning Stone Resort Casino
Turning Stone Resort Casino’s new Crescent Hotel and Salt Seafood & Raw Bar will officially open on June 29. Additionally, the Grand Expo will also open on Sept. 7 and will transform Turning Stone into New York’s largest meetings and conventions resort through the $370 million evolution. The property is located in Verona, NY, and is owned and operated by the Oneida Indian Nation.
The Crescent Hotel, the resort’s fourth hotel on the main property, features 258 luxurious guest rooms and suites, a dedicated entrance and check-in, and indoor connectivity to The Grand Expo, restaurants, the Event Center, the Showroom and the gaming floor. Salt Seafood & Raw Bar offers an elevated fine-dining destination spanning the hotel’s entire seventh floor. The restaurant will feature sweeping views of the surrounding natural landscape with floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive heated terraces for three-season outdoor dining, and elegant private dining rooms designed for intimate gatherings and special occasions. The Grand Expo features 200,000 square feet of modern meetings and event space, two ballrooms and a dedicated outdoor terrace designed to accommodate close to 2,000 guests.
“For more than 30 years, we’ve built a reputation of dreaming big and then bringing those dreams to life,” said Ray Halbritter, Oneida Indian Nation representative and chief executive officer of Turning Stone Enterprises. “When The Crescent opens in June, the vision behind the Turning Stone Evolution comes to life, creating an incredible new experience for our guests and beginning the next chapter for our organization.”
Originally projected for completion in 2027, the Turning Stone Evolution is the largest reinvestment in the resort’s history and also includes a new 1,600-space parking garage and an on-site medical center to serve team members, guests and the broader community. Through the evolution, 3,500 construction and related jobs have been created for this project.
Oneida Indian Nation Homelands
Along with the additions at Turning Stone, the Oneida Indian Nation saw record-breaking economic impact for 2025 with investments in capital projects, employees and supply chain exceeding $855 million. These major investments grew by more than $150 million over 2024 and include more than $542 million for capital spending and vendor payments across the Nation’s enterprises—with over $377 million invested with New York vendors and over $305 million in payroll, 401(k) retirement savings and healthcare benefits for the group’s workforce.
Year-over-year, the Nation increased capital expenditures by 73%, grew spending with New York vendors by 43% and raised overall vendor spending by 30%. Overall, the Oneida Indian Nation generates a more than $1 billion economic impact annually in Upstate New York.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol (Virginia) celebrated the property’s first anniversary in 2025. The 620,000-square-foot resort features 1,500 slot machines, 50 table games, a sportsbook, more than 300 hotel rooms, restaurants, a 2,000-plus seat entertainment venue and more.
“This is such a monumental moment for the Bristol community and Hard Rock,” Hard Rock International COO Jon Lucas said when the property first opened. “Hard Rock’s music heritage is a natural fit for Bristol, the ‘Birthplace of Country Music.’ We look forward to serving Bristol and the surrounding region with world-class gaming, dining and entertainment offerings.”
Along with celebrating the anniversary, the property also unveiled a new non-smoking poker room in February 2025. The room features 14 tables and is conveniently located next to the casino’s new non-smoking gaming space, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for all players.
Seneca Resorts & Casinos
Seneca Resorts & Casinos, which operates three properties across New York in Niagara Falls, Buffalo and Allegany, has launched a new SENECA mobile app—making it easier than ever for guests to stay connected to its gaming and entertainment destinations.
Owned and operated by the Seneca Nation, the resorts now allow guests to check point balances, view promotions and entertainment, explore dining specials and book hotel stays directly from their phones.
The tribe also announced four key leadership appointments as part of its new Centers of Excellence organizational model. Joanne Israel, most recently general manager at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, has been named chief strategy officer; Linda Hitchcock, former general manager at Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, is now senior vice president of food & beverage; Chama Darcy has been promoted to corporate vice president of food and beverage; and Peter Maybee will expand his role to oversee security strategy across all three properties. All four are enrolled members of the Seneca Nation.
The new structure centralizes strategic oversight of major revenue drivers and guest service initiatives across the enterprise, positioning the company for long-term growth. As the organization approaches its 25th anniversary, President & CEO Kevin Nephew said the model is designed to strengthen service delivery, drive revenue and ensure sustainable success in an evolving gaming and hospitality landscape.
Mohegan Sun
This property in Uncasville, CT, unveiled several new additions in 2025. Located near the Cabaret Theatre in Casino of the Sky, the Sky Slot Tournament Zone is a first-of-its-kind at the property, which is owned and operated by the Mohegan Tribe. This vibrant new slot zone is exclusive to IGT games and features games like Wheel of Fortune, Hex Breaker, Cleopatra and Stinkin’ Rich, all of which seamlessly switch between tournament mode and regular play.
“This new slot lounge is now the central hub for our popular slot tournaments held year- round,” Mohegan Sun President Jeff Hamilton said. “Mohegan Sun is an industry leader when it comes to loyalty perks—and our frequent, high-energy slot tournaments certainly help take the Momentum experience to the next level.”
Mohegan Sun also saw four new restaurant openings: The Farm Italy, Beauty & Essex, The Shed Restaurant, and SIFT Bake Shop & A.T.Y Bar & Bonbons. Developed in partnership with renowned chefs and hospitality experts, each has been designed with the modern traveler in mind, blending standout cuisine and striking design, with easy access to nightlife and entertainment just steps away.
Additionally, Todd English’s Tuscany officially reopened, bringing guests an exciting blend of familiar flavors and new culinary experiences in a refreshed, elegant setting. The restaurant has undergone an extensive update, introducing modern touches while preserving the warm, inviting atmosphere that guests have cherished. From refined design details to a revamped menu, every element has been crafted to make dining at Tuscany more memorable than ever.
Foxwoods Resort Casino
This high-end resort in Mashantucket, CT, is celebrating the property’s 34th anniversary by looking ahead to the future with new updates, bold additions and a renewed focus on creating unforgettable experiences for guests, including the arrival of Yamashiro Foxwoods. The iconic Los Angeles culinary landmark offers guests a Japanese-inspired dining experience defined by exceptional cuisine, striking design, and an atmosphere that seamlessly transitions into vibrant nightlife.
The Fox Tower Hotel also gets a transformation with multi-year renovations that will also reimagine the lobby and introduce new concepts in the future. The property is also debuting the Innovation Zone in the tower. This immersive hub features next-generation gaming and emerging technology, appealing to seasoned and new players alike. A new box office is also in the works with a new design that improves guest flow. Additional upgrades and additions across the resort include a newly relocated poker room in The Fox Tower; the addition of The Bedford by Martha Stewart, which is set to open in March; and ongoing renovations of The Great Cedar Hotel.
“For 34 years, Foxwoods has set the standard for innovation and hospitality, and this milestone celebrates both our legacy and our future,” President Jason Guyot said. “Our focus remains on creating exceptional experiences through cutting-edge gaming, world-class dining, and premier entertainment that continue to shape the future of resorting.”
MIDWEST
Hard Rock Casino Rockford
This Seminole casino in Rockford, IL, turned up the hometown pride with the debut of two exclusive, locally inspired slot machines in 2025 that pay tribute to Rockford icons—guitar legend Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick and the trailblazing women of the Rockford Peaches baseball team. To celebrate its first anniversary on Sept. 25, the casino introduced Rick Nielsen’s Five Neck Fortune, a mechanical slot themed around the Cheap Trick guitarist’s infamous five-neck guitar. Built on IGT’s classic S2000 reelspinning format, the game features Nielsen’s signature checkerboard guitar, which also acts as the top-paying symbol and a 3X wild. Nielsen, who still lives in Rockford, and helped design the game, was the first to play.
“If you’re going to have a bad idea, make sure it’s extra bad,” joked Nielsen about his outlandish guitar. “And so, it’s difficult to play, but it’s difficult to ignore. Sort of like me.”
Nielsen’s actual five-neck guitar is on display at the casino’s center bar, while the venue’s massive chandelier replicates the guitar in glowing LED form. Just steps away, another new machine is drawing crowds—and making history. The Rockford Peaches slot machines honor the legendary women’s baseball team that played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League from 1943 to 1954. The team’s story was famously featured in the film A League of Their Own, and now, their legacy lives on in three vibrant slot machines placed in a prime location on the casino floor.
Gun Lake Casino Resort
The Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians were proud to finish the long-awaited expansion of Gun Lake Casino Resort in 2025, which included a new 16-story hotel featuring 31 suites. This $300 million expansion included the highly anticipated return of the reimagined Sandhill Café, a full-service spa and a stylish new Lobby Bar.
“Welcome to the all-new Gun Lake Casino Resort—this is where you want to be,” CEO Sal Semola said. “With Phase 5, we have evolved into a full-service, year-round casino resort, offering amenities and experiences that set a new standard for the Midwest and rival top- tier gaming destinations across the country.”
The unveiling comes as the casino, which is located in Wayland, MI, celebrated the property’s 15th anniversary in February. As part of the celebration, the property is awarding two lucky slot winners with $100 every week for the next 15 years.
“Since opening, the casino has shared $207 million in revenue with the state and local community. We proudly offer a highly competitive wage, benefit, and retirement package to our 1,500 team valued members,” Senior Vice President Brian Decorah said. “We strive every day to continue improving the quality of life in our region.”
7 Clans Casinos
7 Clans Casinos in northern Oklahoma have earned the Strictly Slots Loose Slot Certification, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to win at this Sooner State enterprise owned and operated by the Otoe-Missouria Development Authority, the official economic branch of the Otoe- Missouria Tribe of Indians. At the signature First Council property, slot players will find a wide variety of gaming options and stakes, with more than 1,200 of the hottest slots to choose from. New games are also always hitting the casino floor. Additionally, the Red Rock Rewards Players Club features multiple tiers offering progressive perks and other benefits. It pays to play at 7 Clans.
“We take special pride in our ability to offer a great mix of slots that consistently reward players from penny games all the way up,” CEO Bruce Barnett says. “Achieving the loose slots certification means backing up what we’ve heard for a long time.
Listening to our guests, we always had the thought that 7 Clans offered players more. While others promote messages related to jackpot winners and payouts, we wanted to prove it to our guests by attaining the respected Loose Slots certification from Strictly Slots.”
WindCreek Southland
Guests will now have an even better resort experience at Windcreek Southland in East Hazel Crest, IL. The property, which is owned and operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians of Alabama, officially opened a new hotel and spa experience in April 2025. The property now boasts a state-of-the-art hotel with 255 rooms and 43 luxury suites, along with an onsite spa; a 70,000-square-foot casino with 1,400 slot machines, 56 table games, a poker room, a sportsbook and high-limit salons; 12,000 square feet of meeting space; numerous dining and cocktail options; and additional amenities like EV charging stations, a pool and fitness center.
“With the opening of our hotel and spa, Wind Creek Chicago Southland is bringing a truly all-encompassing resort experience to the Southland region—one that blends luxury with accessibility,” Executive Vice President Roger Kuehn said. “We’re proud to see this project come to life and to continue contributing to the vibrancy and economic growth of the surrounding community.”
Ho-Chunk Casino Beloit
The Ho-Chunk Nation will open the tribe’s second-largest casino in Wisconsin when it completes the first phase of construction of this new property in Beloit in September. The $705 million casino, hotel and conference center will feature 1,500 slot machines, 40 table games, a sportsbook, four restaurants and a casino bar.
A second phase of construction will add an 18-story hotel with 312 rooms and a conference center, which will open in 2027. When construction is completed, the total size of the casino, hotel, conference center and parking garage will be 1.2 million square feet. This will mark the seventh casino owned and operated by the Ho-Chunk Nation.
Son of Star Casino
After seeing construction start in 2023, Son of Star Casino is set to open in White Shield, ND, in April. The 37,000-square-foot casino will feature slot machines, table games, a poker room, a sportsbook, a steakhouse, a coffee shop and a campground.
Son Of Star Casino will be the second casino owned by the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation tribes, also known as Three Affiliated Tribes of the Fort Berthold Reservation. A hotel and event center may be added to the new casino in the future.
Firekeepers Casino Hotel
In December, the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi held the grand opening of The Embers Bar at FireKeepers Casino Hotel, a vibrant new addition located just off the casino lobby. In a footprint previously housing the Kabaret Lounge, The Embers Bar has been completely reimagined into an upscale, yet welcoming space, where guests can relax, connect and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, wine and beer. The venue captures the spirit of warmth and sophistication with its contemporary design, glowing ambiance and striking light features. Its name pays homage to FireKeepers’ signature flame while creating an inviting environment that blends luxury with comfort.
Inspired by the idea of fire as a natural gathering place, the design focuses on warmth and energy without leaning on literal flame imagery. The bar’s circular layout makes the space feel open and social, encouraging people to linger and connect. Polished metal accents and angled surfaces catch the light in a subtle, modern way that adds movement without overwhelming the room.
“The Embers Bar represents our continued commitment to enhancing every part of the guest experience,” Vice President of Food and Beverage Michael Hamilton said. “We wanted to create a space that feels both energizing and comfortable, where guests can unwind with a drink, celebrate with friends, or simply take in the lively atmosphere that makes FireKeepers so special.”
WEST
Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel
The hotel portion of Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel, located in Snoqualmie, WA, officially opened in 2025. The hotel had been planned and built over seven years, and also includes a fitness center and a year-round indoor pool. The property held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception in August to officially mark the opening of the new additions. Hundreds of people attended, including various members of the media, community stakeholders, Snoqualmie Tribe elders and more.
“It was more than a start of a business,” Snoqualmie Tribal Council Chairman Robert de los Angeles said of the event. “It was a homecoming and foundation of economic growth we continue to build today. Together, we spent thousands of hours planning, designing and making sure that our culture is represented in every detail,” he said. “For example, the roof line on the hotel tower is designed to honor the traditional longhouses of our ancestors, which once dotted hundreds of square miles of our ancestral lands.”
Tulalip Resort Casino
After more than a year and a half of construction and planning, the expansion of this property in Tulalip, WA, officially debuted in July. The project was announced in November 2023 as part of the casino’s 20th anniversary. Guests will now find an additional 70,250 square feet, expanding the casino to 270,250 square feet. Also included were dramatic new and redesigned north and east entrances featuring massive timber arches and metallic tribal storytelling spindle whorls, as well as distinctive new design themes and elements to be featured in the completed renovation as the Tulalip Tribes continue adding to the property.
A new full-service “North Bar” is one of the new amenities and opens to an outdoor covered heated patio with seating and a smoking area. Gamblers will also find more than 400 additional slot machines, bringing the casino-wide total to more than 2,600 new restrooms coupled with extensive upgrades to existing restrooms that were also part of this phase of renovation. The new look of the property highlights Tulalip Tribes’ culture and traditions. Further casino renovation will continue through late 2026.
Thunder Valley Casino Resort
Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, CA, has completed an extensive renovation of 408 hotel guest rooms and suites, unveiling a refreshed and contemporary design curated to enhance comfort, functionality and overall guest experience. The renovation is part of the United Auburn Indian Community’s ongoing effort to enhance its AAA Four Diamond accommodations in Lincoln, CA. The updates focus on refreshed room layouts and functional design improvements intended to enhance comfort and usability.
“This renovation represents our ongoing commitment to listening to our guests and evolving with their needs,” General Manager Dawn Clayton said. “Every update was thoughtfully designed to ensure our guests enjoy an elevated experience from the moment they arrive.”
A key feature of the redesign is the removal of traditional desks, allowing for expanded living space and improved room flow. In their place, a work-height table has been introduced, providing a flexible surface that can be used for working, dining or leisure, making it well suited for both business and vacation guests. In-room safes have also been relocated from high closet shelving to a sofa-side table, offering safer, more convenient access for guests. To support the needs of modern, tech-savvy travelers, each room includes two built-in wireless charging pads, enabling guests to power devices without cords or adapters.
Jamul Casino Resort
In mid-August, Jamul Casino Resort in Jamul, CA, celebrated the grand opening of its 16-story boutique hotel tower, marking a new era in Southern California hospitality. The hotel features 200 spacious, Alexaenabled rooms, high-tech luxury suites, a full-service spa, rooftop pool with mountain views, a signature dining venue, a speakeasy, and inviteonly gaming spaces—offering guests an unparalleled stay-and-play experience.
The opening weekend kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by tribal leaders, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and other local dignitaries. Guests enjoyed exclusive access to the Fly Room speakeasy, Signature Club and Starlite Pool, where baseball legend Trevor Hoffman joined the festivities. The celebration included a drone show, rooftop pool party, a whiskey tasting hosted by actor Glenn Howerton and live music with salsa dancing, creating a three-day extravaganza.
“This moment has been a long time coming,” President Mary Cheeks said. “Our new hotel tower is designed to create a truly exceptional experience for our guests while deepening our commitment to revitalizing the community.
Caesars Republic Sonoma
Dry Creek Rancheria and Caesars Entertainment officially broke ground on Caesars Republic Sonoma County in August. The new integrated resort is set to transform the existing River Rock Casino and marks a major milestone for the tribe. The new resort will feature a completely reimagined casino floor with more than 1,000 slot machines and 28 table games. Plans also include a 100-room hotel with luxury amenities such as a spa, pool and fitness center. Caesars Entertainment will serve as both development and management partner. It is located off Highway 101 and overlooking the Alexander Valley Vineyards and Russian River in Northern California.
“This partnership with Caesars Entertainment represents more than just a new chapter in our casino’s story—it’s a bold leap into the future for our Tribe and our community,” Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians Chairman Chris Wright said. “Together, we are creating a worldclass resort experience that blends the natural beauty of Sonoma County with premier gaming, hospitality and entertainment.”
Hard Rock Casino Tejon
The Tejon Indian Tribe officially opened Hard Rock Casino Tejon in Mettler, CA, in November with a celebratory guitar smash ceremony, marking the first fullscale gaming and entertainment destination in Kern County. The $600 million project, located 80 miles north of Los Angeles, represents the largest private hospitality investment in the region and has already created over 1,000 permanent jobs and more than 5,000 construction roles. The opening celebration included a tribal blessing, color guard presentation and a $100,000 charitable donation, underscoring the tribe’s commitment to community and future generations.
The 150,000-square-foot casino offers over 2,000 state-of-the-art slot machines, more than 50 table games including blackjack, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, Three Card Poker and baccarat, plus VIP high-limit rooms and access to Hard Rock’s Unity loyalty program. Dining at Hard Rock Casino Tejon blends brand staples with new culinary concepts. The legendary Hard Rock Cafe anchors the property with classic American fare and music memorabilia, while the Marketplace Food Hall features fast-casual favorites like Constant Grind, Street Tacos, The Roost and Brick’d Italian Kitchen. There are several other dining options as well. Looking ahead, Phase II will bring a 400-room hotel and a 2,800-seat Hard Rock Live venue for concerts, performances and sporting events, completing the full Hard Rock experience.
Graton Resort & Casino
The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria recently broke ground on the resort’s hotel expansion, a project poised to redefine luxury and guest experience in Northern California. Casino executives and tribal council members participated in the event, continuing the $1 billion expansion that began in 2023.
Slated to debut in 2027, the project in the city of Rohnert Park will add two new hotel wings, seamlessly extending from the existing tower. These additions feature 220 new rooms, designed with a contemporary aesthetic consistent with Graton’s current high standards of luxury. Guests will experience an expanded lobby retail shop and a new private VIP entrance for an even more exclusive feel. A cornerstone of this expansion introduces a second adults-only pool, promising an oasis of relaxation. This new aquatic amenity boasts a dedicated poolside bar, a rejuvenating jacuzzi, and 12 luxurious cabanas, including VIP options with exclusive plunge pools. Plans include a fixed stage to host dedicated poolside entertainment, offering a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.
“The expansion of our luxurious hotel and the addition of an adults-only pool underscore Graton’s dedication to solidifying our position as a premier destination for leisure and entertainment,” President Lana Rivera said. “We are thrilled to offer our guests even more reasons to visit and enjoy the unparalleled hospitality Graton is known for.”
Also at the property, Elleonor Hoffman was crowned grand champion at the inaugural Global Gaming Expo Dealer Championship in Las Vegas in 2025. The table games dealer has worked at the property for a year and showcased her mastery against the nation’s best to win the title of best dealer in the U.S.
“This achievement is a testament to the professionalism, skill, and dedication that defines the Graton team,” COO Brian Green said. “It confirms that we employ the finest talent working on our floor.”
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas
In Sin City, the Hard Rock property on the Strip is also making significant progress and is expected to open in 2027. The company acquired the property in 2021 from MGM Resorts and has begun transitioning the facilities with Hard Rock branding. That includes a guitar-shaped tower, which should be completed by late 2027. The hotel will reach 660 feet high and feature 3,600 rooms with exterior blue glass windows.
Sky River Casino
Expansion of the Sky River Casino continues after getting underway in 2024. The project will expand the casino and add a hotel, event center and a parking garage. Construction will be finished in phases over 2026-27. The Wilton Rancheria tribe purchased 20 acres of land adjacent to the casino in Elk Grove, CA, in 2023 for the project. Sky River opened in 2022 and the additions include a 300-room hotel with a day spa and outdoor pool.
The expanded casino will see up to 400 new slot machines and high-limit VIP gaming rooms. Phase one of construction is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2026, which will include the porte cochere and new valet service area, expanded casino floor and parking garage. The second phase is scheduled for completion in 2027 and will include the opening of the hotel, spa, pool, high-limit and VIP gaming rooms, and the event and entertainment center.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sacramento at Fire Mountain
This is the nation’s largest casino resort expansion project and is currently in the final planning stages. The multibillion-dollar construction project in Wheatland, CA, from the Enterprise Rancheria of Maidu Indians, includes a massive entertainment district on 350 acres of undeveloped land between the Hard Rock Casino and the Toyota Amphitheatre. The project will also include fairgrounds, shops, restaurants and more.
Phase one includes an entertainment promenade and is expected to be completed by 2028. The district and lifestyle promenade will host retail shops, boutique stores, restaurants, a stage for live music, plazas for festivals and special events, and art experiences like dancing fountains and Hard Rock memorabilia walls.
The second phase will add indoor and outdoor sports facilities, possibly a sports stadium, a water park, a new hotel and convention center. Phase three includes the addition of agricultural fairgrounds to host rodeos, livestock shows, festivals, farmers markets, educational programs and agricultural trade shows. That part of the project is projected to be completed between 2032 and 2035.
Harrah’s Southern California
This property in Funner, CA, has announced plans for a $13.1 million renovation of the property’s high-limit room. Slated to debut in June, the renovation will introduce a new level of privacy, luxury and sophistication for top-tier players. The reimagined space will merge elevated design with guest-focused amenities to create a truly exclusive gaming environment. The renovation includes a refreshed décor, upgraded audio systems, video walls, energy-efficient LED lighting, and a new bar offering a selection of specialty spirits and a menu of craft cocktails.
“We couldn’t be more excited to share the plans for our reimagined High Limit Room,” Senior Vice President Jill Barrett said. “We’re not just raising the stakes; we’re elevating the entire experience, creating a worldclass gaming environment made perfect for our VIP players.”
The property is owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians and operated by Caesars Entertainment. More is in the works this summer, including plenty of fun in Dive, the trifecta of pools featuring a 400-foot lazy river; Southern California’s first swim- up bar; a serene 11,000 squarefoot spa; diverse food scene with 11 restaurants; and more. Additionally, Aug. 1 will mark 10 years since the proclamation of naming for Funner was adopted by the Rincon Band.
SOUTH & SOUTHEAST
Catawba Two Kings Casino
The Catawba Nation celebrated a significant construction milestone in October with the placement of a ceremonial final beam atop the development of a $1 billion casino and hotel complex in Kings Mountain, NC. The event included performances of Catawba Nation drumming and songs and remarks from tribal leaders.
“This final beam doesn’t just reflect the erection of a structure but the rise of a nation,” Catawba Nation Chief Brian Harris said. “The Catawba Nation’s resilience and unity have been key—our team always finds a way forward. We have overcome challenges through strong intergovernmental relationships, transparent communication with our financial partners and an unwavering commitment to our long-term vision.”
Harris said the topping-off ceremony symbolizes the structural completion of major components and that the project’s introductory casino phase remains on target to open in spring 2026. The introductory casino will include 1,350 slot machines, 22 table games, a 68-seat restaurant, an 18-seat bar, sports betting kiosks, and a Lucky North Rewards desk. It will replace the current temporary casino, which opened in 2021. Work also continues on the 24-story, 385-room hotel. The main casino complex is scheduled to open in spring 2027 and will feature 2 million square feet with 4,300 slot machines, 100 table games, 11 restaurants, 11 bars and a parking garage.
Harrah’s Resort & Casino Oklahoma
Harrah’s Oklahoma will officially open April 9, 2026, marking the firstever Caesars-managed casino experience in the state. Developed in partnership with the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma and managed by Caesars Entertainment, the new destination rises along historic Route 66 near Chandler and is now in its final phase of construction.
The property will deliver a Las Vegas-style gaming, dining and entertainment experience, featuring 1,000 slot machines, 12 table games, a high-limit area, multiple restaurants and bars, with plans for a future onsite hotel and expanded entertainment space. Owned by the Iowa Tribe— whose portfolio also includes Cimarron Casino and Ioway Casino—the new Harrah’s will replace Ioway Casino and significantly expand the tribe’s footprint. The project is expected to create 300 jobs, with hiring already underway. Tribal Chairman Perri Ahhaitty previously noted Caesars’ strong track record partnering with Native American tribes nationwide, while SVP and General Manager Joe Scibetta said the long-anticipated opening will introduce a modern, vibrant and distinctly Caesars experience to Oklahoma players.
Coushatta Casino Resort
This property from the Coushatta Tribe in Kinder, LA, celebrated the grand reopening of the Big Sky Steakhouse in August, unveiling a completely reimagined dining experience inspired by the Acadian heritage of southwest Louisiana. A regional favorite for more than 30 years, Big Sky returns with a new look, a locally inspired menu and a strong culinary vision led by chef Matthew Beard, an Oberlin native and Le Cordon Bleutrained chef. Guests will dine in a warm, Acadian-inspired atmosphere featuring repurposed 150-year- old doors, local woodwork and a grand fireplace. The new Mirror Bar, adorned with 40 antique mirrors and serving craft cocktails, adds a dramatic touch to the space.
“Our goal was to bring the best of Louisiana to a steakhouse setting,” said Beard. “Our custom cuts, dry- aging process and commitment to Louisiana flavors make every dish stand out.”
Additionally, the resort reached a significant milestone in the ongoing expansion efforts with a topping-out ceremony for the new eight-story hotel in April 2025. The event marked the placement of the final steel beam atop the project—a momentous achievement in the project’s timeline scheduled to open this spring. The ceremony, held at the construction site, brought together key members of the Coushatta Tribal Council, including Interim Chairwoman Crystal Williams, Coushatta Casino Resort General Manager Todd Stewart, and project partners to reflect on the progress of the massive expansion and its impact on the community.
“This is a meaningful milestone for our tribe and our resort,” Coushatta interim Chairwoman Williams said. “The final beam leaves a lasting symbolic mark on the structure, representing the teamwork and commitment of everyone involved. We are excited about all the new venues and upgrades that we will be able to offer our guests, starting with this new hotel. Ultimately, this expansion means more jobs for our people, more reasons for guests to return, and more ways we can continue to share our culture and hospitality.”
Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage
Southern California’s Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage completed a major casino floor expansion in 2025, adding over 12,000 square feet of gaming space, over 250 slot machines and additional table games to the Rancho Mirage resort. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians held an official ribbon-cutting ceremony led by COO Saverio R. Scheri III to celebrate the completion of the expanded gaming and promotions areas.
“The ribbon cutting culminates months of planning and construction and our commitment to providing an elevated gaming experience for our guests at all three Agua Caliente Casino properties,” said Scheri.
The project brings Rancho Mirage’s slot machine total to nearly 1,800 and more than 3,400 across all three Agua Caliente Casino properties. The expansion introduced hundreds of new and exclusive slot titles and Rancho Mirage now offers over 89,000 square feet of gaming, including 42 table games, two high-limit rooms, and the only poker room in the Coachella Valley. The celebration tied into Agua Caliente Casinos’ 30th anniversary, marking three decades of gaming excellence since the tribe opened its first casino in downtown Palm Springs in 1995.
Casino Del Sol Vahi Taa’am
Casino Del Sol is building a new, major entertainment complex on West Grant Road in Tucson, AZ. Tagged as the Casino Del Sol Vahi Taa’am, the property is expected to open in late 2026 or early 2027, featuring a large gaming floor, restaurants and parking. The new Grant Road site is a significant expansion for the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and the project received a 28,000-pound, all-copper dome atop the central rotunda of the casino in December.
The dome is designed as a cultural landmark representing “Vahi Taa’am”—meaning the “Three Suns”—to symbolize light, culture and a bright future for the tribe. The first phase of the project will include a casino, restaurants, food court, bars and a parking garage. The second phase adds a hotel, conference center and a second parking garage. A completion date for the second phase hasn’t been announced.
Choctaw Casinos & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company, unveiled an expansion of its upscale and lifestyle offerings through a new multi- hotel deal with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. The agreement brings four Choctaw properties, representing nearly 2,000 rooms, into the Wyndham portfolio. Led by Choctaw’s flagship resort in Durant, now part of the Wyndham Grand portfolio, three additional properties join the company’s globally recognized Trademark Collection with the Choctaw Nation retaining ownership and management of all four resorts.
“Our agreement with Wyndham represents a meaningful expansion of what the Choctaw brand delivers to our guests and our people,” Chief Gary Batton said. “For our customers, it elevates the hospitality experience by combining Choctaw’s signature service, culture, and entertainment with the global recognition, loyalty benefits, and travel network of one of the world’s largest and most respected hotel companies.
“For Choctaw tribal members, it strengthens long-term economic sustainability—creating new career pathways, professional development opportunities, and reinvestment into tribal programs and communities. It is a strategic step that honors our values while positioning Choctaw for continued growth on a global stage.”
Cherokee Nation Entertainment
Tribal leaders along with community members and leaders gathered in December to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Cherokee Nation’s gaming and hospitality enterprise, Cherokee Nation Entertainment (CNE), at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. The event highlighted CNE’s remarkable growth, which has evolved into one of the region’s largest gaming and hospitality enterprises and a powerful driver of economic opportunity for the Cherokee Nation and the communities it serves.
“Thirty-five years ago, the Cherokee Nation stepped boldly into a new era, rooted in the belief that economic opportunity could transform lives,” Cherokee Chief Chuck Hoskin said. “Today, that vision continues, as we celebrate not only how far we have come, but how far we will go—as we build a brighter, healthier, stronger and more prosperous future for the Cherokee Nation and the communities we serve.”
The Cherokee Nation’s gaming story began in the late 1980s, when then Principal Chief Wilma Mankiller championed a bold and unconventional vision for economic growth, advocating for the Cherokee Nation Tribal Gaming Act, passed by the Council in 1989, with a clear purpose: to improve the lives of Cherokee citizens. That vision took its first major step forward in 1990, marking the Nation’s entry into gaming with the opening of the Cherokee Nation Bingo Outpost in Roland, the facility that would later become Cherokee Casino & Hotel Roland.
The small outpost, which employed 64 people, later led to expansion with additional Bingo Outposts opening in Catoosa in 1993 and West Siloam Springs in 1994. By 2004, the Nation advanced its operations further by transitioning its bingo facilities to Class III gaming, beginning with a major expansion in Catoosa, laying the foundation for today’s robust casino and hospitality business, which now generates more than $1 billion in revenue and employs more than 4,000 people.
