BIG BUILDS, BOLD MOVES
Tribal gaming is on the rise, with new resorts, major expansions, renovations and bold new developments reshaping the casino landscape from coast to coast
By Sean Chaffin
Tribal gaming remains a major part of the U.S. casino industry. Native American casinos not only benefit tribes, but have a massive impact on communities across the country. These properties certainly resonated with gamblers in 2025.The tribal gaming industry saw a record $46.2 billion in gross gaming revenue in 2025, an increase of 5.3% and $2.3 billion more than the industry reached in 2024, according to the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC).The numbers derive from 545 operations across the country and marked the fifth straight year of growth. That streak stretches back to 2010 when removing the COVID year of 2020.
“I would like to wish the Indian gaming community a job well done on another strong year,” NIGC Associate Commissioner Sharon Avery said. “These GGR results reflect the continued commitment of tribal regulators and operators to responsible growth and community benefit.”
Tribal gaming operations now include much more than just casinos, ranging from sportsbooks, racing venues and online gaming ventures to restaurants, hotels, entertainment complexes and more. Some Native American groups have expanded outside traditional tribal lands in recent years as well. These business enterprises have a direct impact on Native American groups across the country through housing, healthcare, senior services, employment and more.
And while things are certainly looking up, there are some headwinds tribal leaders are watching. Concerns remain over tribal sovereignty and growing competition in some states with commercial casinos. Inter-tribe disagreements over property locations have also been in the news in recent years. Some tribal leaders are concerned about the growth of prediction markets.
That played out in September as the Indian Gaming Association welcomed a block of the Clarity Act in the Senate. The act would establish a comprehensive market structure and regulatory framework for digital assets and cryptocurrencies. Tribal nations urged Congress to reject any version of the act that fails to explicitly protect sovereignty, the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA),tribal-state compact rights, and the authority of tribal and state governments to regulate gaming within their jurisdictions
The dispute derives over continued adherence to regulating prediction markets at the federal level.
“We have said from the beginning that this issue is bigger than one bill,” IGA Chairman David Z. Bean said. “The fundamental question is whether the federal government will respect the sovereign authority of Tribal Nations and the gaming framework Congress established through IGRA. No federal agency and no new financial marketplace should be allowed to create a back door for nationwide gambling that ignores tribal sovereignty.”
This month, Strictly Slots sets aside the concerns for the industry and focuses on some of what’s in the works. Here’s a look at some of the major renovations, additions, events and more going on at tribal casinos across the country.
EAST
Hard Rock Casino Metropolitan Park (New York City)
The New York Mets are teaming up with Hard Rock International, owned and operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, for a new casino project in the area surrounding Citi Field in Queens, NY. The $8 billion project was one of three to get the go-ahead from the state in December. The venue will be named Metropolitan Park and will include a Hard Rock casino, hotel tower, Hard Rock Live entertainment venue, 25-acre public park, shopping, restaurants, bike paths and more on a 50-acre parking lot adjacent to the stadium.
“After years of community engagement and support, Metropolitan Park is one step closer to becoming a reality. Following a fair, transparent and rigorous process,” the Mets and Hard Rock noted after receiving a gaming license for the property. “The Gaming Facility Location Board has validated the positive economic impact this project will have with billions of dollars in tax revenue, 23,000 union jobs, and over $1 billion in community benefits. We look forward to the Gaming Commission’s review,” the group said in a statement.”
Turning Stone Resort Casino (Verona, NY)
Turning Stone celebrated the grand opening of The Crescent, a new 258- room hotel; and Salt, its newest dining concept, in July. Members of The Oneida Indian Nation, elected officials and tourism and business leaders attended the celebration. The opening marks the first phase of Turning Stone’s $400 million evolution as the property moves toward becoming New York’s largest meetings and conventions resort.
“As we prepare to become New York’s largest meetings and conventions resort destination, it was essential that we elevated every aspect of the Turning Stone experience,” Oneida Indian Nation representative and Turning Stone Enterprises CEO Ray Halbritter said. “The Crescent and Salt reflect our commitment to delivering a level of luxury and hospitality that rivals the finest destinations in the world.”
The Crescent, the resort’s fourth hotel on property, features 258 refined guest rooms decorated with modern textures, furniture and luxury amenities. The hotel’s first floor is home to a new grab-and-go café, The Pantry; and Oneida Sky, a heritage shop featuring art, jewelry and products created by members of The Oneida Indian Nation. Rome Health Convenient Care, an on-site medical center for guests and team members, is also located at The Crescent.
On the dining side, Salt is a fine-dining restaurant that highlights the best of land and sea, spanning the entire seventh floor. Two expansive terraces offer three-season outdoor dining with views of the Mohawk Valley, a gorgeous region filled with lush landscapes, agriculture and history, as well as four private dining rooms that provide unique experiences for plated group meals. The fine-dining restaurant was developed in partnership with Elizabeth Blau, a legendary restaurateur and strategist known for shaping top dining destinations in Las Vegas and across the world. The menu features fresh oysters selected daily from East Coast waters, caviar service, hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood.
Mohegan Sun (Uncasville, CT)
Mohegan Sun celebrates the property’s 30th anniversary this month. The Mohegan tribe also unveiled the Sky Slot Tournament Zone in 2025, a first- of-its-kind at the property. This vibrant new slot zone is exclusive to IGT games and features titles 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.”
In addition to those events, the tribe has also launched a new self- guided Mohegan Cultural Tour, inviting guests to discover the stories, symbols and traditions of the Mohegan people woven throughout the property. Using QR codes at designated stops, visitors can uncover the meaning behind everything from the Wolf Clan and the 13 Mohegan Moons to traditional artifacts, artwork and sacred sites. From the Winter Entrance Gallery to the Tree of Life, Wombi Rock, Taughannick Falls and the SkyTower lobby, the tour offers a fascinating new way to experience Mohegan Sun.
Seneca Niagara Resort Casino (Niagara Falls, NY)
The Seneca Nation began a $47 million renovation at this property in October with an opening planned for December 2027. The project includes all 594 rooms and suites, totalling 394,000 square feet. The 22 floors will be completed in multiple phases of up to three floors at a time. The updated hotel rooms will be exquisitely appointed, creating beautiful spaces where guests can relax from a day of excitement, recharge, and fully envelop themselves in a cascade of comfort and the wonder of an escape from the ordinary.
“Our vision for this project delivers on the elegance and quality our guests have come to expect from each visit to Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, building on the transformative experience that greets them when they arrive and carrying that feeling of excitement and anticipation of what’s to come throughout the hotel,” Senior Vice President of Resort Operations Hicham Jaddoud said.
HeadWaters Resort & Casino (Norfolk, VA)
The Virginia casino landscape has seen massive growth over the last few years and the HeadWaters Resort & Casino from the Pamunkey Indian Tribe is expected to be a major addition to that. Construction is underway and the property is expected to open sometime in 2027 or 2028.The Norfolk casino will be a major waterfront resort featuring a hotel, spa, restaurants and a large gaming floor featuring 1,500 slot machines and 50 table games.
The tribe has already approved the project and design revisions are underway after delays and city negotiations. HeadWaters is one of two tribal casino projects approved in Virginia and will anchor a major redevelopment zone along the Elizabeth River.
Maine Online Gaming
Maine became the latest state to legalize online gaming in January. The state legislature authorized regulated online gaming through the state’s four federally recognized tribes, which already have exclusive rights to mobile sports betting. The bill became law after Gov. Janet Mills (D) allowed passage without signing the bill.
“We know how to do this the right way,” said Rep. Brian Reynolds, the tribal representative for the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians. “We’ve seen how the regulation of sports wagering has worked in Maine quietly, efficiently, with no disruption to local communities. iGaming will be no different. We are asking for the chance to build.”
MIDWEST
Gun Lake Casino Resort (Wayland, MI)
The Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians were proud to complete a $300 million expansion in early 2025, transforming the property into a full-service resort. The project included a new 16-story hotel featuring 31 suites, as well as the 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 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. Additionally, Gun Lake achieved the coveted AAA Four Diamond designation in May. The property is now positioned at the top of the hospitality industry in western Michigan, as only three other hotel properties have this designation. The property made a major economic impact on the region.
“Since opening, the casino has shared $207 million in revenue with the state and local community,” Senior Vice President Brian Decorah said. “We proudly offer a highly competitive wage, benefit and retirement package to our 1,500 valued team members. We strive every day to continue improving the quality of life in our region.”
Hard Rock Casino Rockford (Rockford, IL)
Plans for a new Hard Rock Hotel and Convention Center adjacent to the casino were announced in May. Guests can look forward to more than 200 new rooms along with a spa, fitness facility, new dining options, and direct access to the casino and entertainment venues. The adjoining convention center will offer 15,000 square feet of flexible space for conventions, business retreats and social gatherings alongside Hard Rock Live.
“Since day one, we discussed the possibility of building a hotel and convention center in Rockford that further elevates the region and aligns with the best-in-class guest experience that Hard Rock brand offers globally,” Hard Rock Casino Rockford President Geno Iafrate said. “This project will drive visitation, create jobs and create untapped revenue opportunities for the area.”
Wind Creek Chicago Southland (East Hazel Crest, IL)
Big things have been underway at this property, including unveiling a luxury hotel and spa in 2025.The property is owned and operated by Wind Creek Hospitality, the principal gaming and hospitality entity of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. The hotel boasts more than 255 rooms and 43 suites and adds significantly to the Chicagoland casino scene.
Beyond that major undertaking, the property opened an on-site sportsbook in March. Spanning over 4,200 square feet, Sportsbook at Wind Creek features a dedicated lounge in a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. Sports enthusiasts can watch up to 16 games at one time on two LED TV walls or at the bar. Bettors can utilize the betting windows or use one of nine convenient self-service kiosks. Players can also leverage the Sportsbook’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) technology to build bets on their mobile devices and finalize them at the window.
Ho-Chunk Casino Beloit (Beloit, WI)
The Ho-Chunk Nation is set to open this new casino resort on Oct. 23, adding another property among Wisconsin casinos. Another separate tribal casino proposal near Kenosha also remains under federal review. Ho-Chunk Nation President Jon Greendeer said the $705 million Beloit development will include 1,500 slot machines, 44 table games, a sportsbook and multiple dining and beverage options. The resort sits on a 32-acre site at the southeast corner of Willowbrook and Colley roads, near Interstate 39-90.A 312-room hotel and conference center are planned for a second phase of construction, with an opening targeted for 2027. Once complete, the Beloit development is expected to become one of Wisconsin’s largest casino resorts.
“We can’t believe it’s finally happening and we are extremely excited,” Greendeer said. “We hold so much history in this area and now we can say we hold an amazing future to share with our friends and partners in the state line region.”
FireKeepers Casino Hotel (Battle Creek, MI)
This AAA Four Diamond resort and gaming destination, owned and operated by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi, continues adding to the property, debuting Embers Bar in December 2025. This vibrant new addition sees the former Kabaret Lounge completely reimagined into an upscale, yet welcoming space, where guests can relax, connect and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, wine and beer.
The Embers Bar captures the spirit of warmth and sophistication with contemporary design, glowing ambiance and striking light features that draw the eye from every corner of the lobby. The name pays homage to FireKeepers’ signature flame while creating an inviting environment that blends luxury with comfort.
“The Embers Bar represents our continued commitment to enhancing every part of the guest experience,” Vice President of Food & 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.”
Lake Ozark Casino Resort (Lake Ozark, MO)
This beautiful area in the Show-Me State will soon be getting a gaming facility of its own after the Osage Nation announced plans for a $100 million hotel complex with casino, restaurants and entertainment center on a 28-acre site near Lake Ozark in Miller County. A construction date or opening hasn’t been announced yet as the project awaits federal approval.
“Osage Casinos is proud of our ongoing work to build a world-class entertainment district in an area deeply connected to the Osage Nation,” Osage Casinos CEO Kimberly Pearson said. “Missouri is our ancestral homeland where the Osage once flourished and we know our economic development effort at the Lake of the Ozarks will be pivotal to supporting the Osage and the local lake area economy.”
WEST
Caesars Republic Sonoma County (Geyserville, CA)
This property from the Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians is being transformed from the former River Rock Casino into a new Caesars Republic property. An opening date is estimated for summer 2027. A ground breaking has now been completed and the new facility will feature a new casino floor with more than 1,000 slots and table games, a 100-room hotel with spa, pool and fitness center, plus multiple new dining concepts. The project is designed as a modern wine-country resort overlooking Alexander Valley and the Russian River.
“Breaking ground on Caesars Republic Sonoma County marks a monumental moment for Dry Creek Rancheria,” Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians Chairman Chris Wright said. “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. Together, we are creating a world-class resort experience that blends the natural beauty of Sonoma County with premier gaming, hospitality and entertainment. We are proud to work alongside Caesars, Citizens and GLPI to bring this vision to life and elevate our economic and cultural legacy. This project is a powerful step forward and we are eager to share it with the region and beyond.”
Eagle Mountain Casino (Porterville, CA)
A new 193-room hotel tower is the next construction phase following the relocation of the casino to Porterville in 2023.The Tule River Indian Tribe of California has set a target date of 2027 for the project to officially open to the public. Plans call for well-apportioned suites, premium rooms and a rooftop restaurant. The $220 million expansion also includes a 2,000-seat event center for concerts, conferences and special events, plus other resort amenities. The property’s outdoor amenities will include a lazy river for guests to chill out and beat the summer heat.
“We’re in this together,” Tule River Tribe Chairman Shine Nieto said of the project’s link to the bordering Pottersville community. “There’s no more cowboys and Indians. There’s no more Europeans and savages. It’s all of us as human beings in this valley.”
Harrah’s Southern California (Funner, CA)
Look for a new high-limit area at this property from the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. The unveiling followed a $13.1 million investment with an anticipated opening in 2026-2027.
The renovation merges high-design aesthetics with guest-focused amenities to create a premier, high-touch experience for top-tier players.
“The completion of the high-limit area renovation reflects Harrah’s Resort SoCal’s steadfast commitment to excellence,” said Senior Vice President and General Manager Jill Barrett. “As we evolve, we are constantly seeking ways to enhance guest journey, providing the most elevated escape possible for our VIP players and resort guests alike.”
The project features a refreshed ambiance, stunning video walls, curated energy-efficient LED lighting and an enhanced, immersive audio system. The gaming floor has been revitalized with 100 slot machines, including 11 bar-top units. In addition to high-stakes slots, the room offers a refined environment for classic table games, including Double Deck Blackjack, Shoe Blackjack, Baccarat and Pai Gow, as well as an exclusive bar.
Graton Resort & Casino (Rohnert Park, CA)
The resort is undergoing a $1 billion hotel expansion project slated to debut in 2027.The final phases of construction are now underway that will add a second hotel tower, gaming, dining and amenities.
The property, owned and operated by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, also includes an expanded gaming space, new parking and upgraded resort amenities.
The multi-year expansion is designed to increase room inventory, relieve parking demand, and position the property as one of Northern California’s largest tribal resort destinations. The expansion also creates a smoke-free gaming environment as well as improved dining experiences, including high-end restaurants like AYA, a 250-seat wood-fired restaurant from Hawaiian Executive Chef Royden Ellamar. The menu focuses on “fish, farm, and fire,” with ingredients sourced from the property’s own 40-acre farm. Playbook Sports Bar also brings sports fans wall-to-wall screens and elevated bar food. Even more eateries are on tap as well.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (Las Vegas)
This Sin City location right on the Las Vegas Strip saw the final beam top off the famed Guitar Hotel during a ceremony on May 1.This event marked the structural completion of the iconic 660-foot guitar-shaped tower, adding a bit more rock ’n’ roll to the world-famous stretch of casinos. Demolition of the Mirage began in summer 2024, and the multi-billion-dollar resort complex is targeted to open in late 2027.The completed project will feature over 3,700 hotel rooms, about 175,000 square feet of casino gaming floor, extensive meeting spaces, and new dining and retail options.
“We are grateful to our construction teams and their commitment to safety as we watch this property undergo the most significant transformation the Strip has seen in two decades, and we are proud to be at the center of it,” Seminole Gaming CEO and Hard Rock International Chairman Jim Allen said.
Sky River Casino (Elk Grove, CA)
Sky River marked a major milestone in the property’s ongoing expansion on April 27 with a golden shovel ground breaking ceremony for a new hotel resort. Guests were welcomed through a visually immersive experience designed to preview components of the future resort. A red-carpeted walkway framed by black velvet ropes guided attendees toward the event stage, where architectural renderings of the upscale hotel resort and historical milestones from Wilton Rancheria and Sky River Casino’s history offered a sensory glimpse into the property’s evolution.
The ceremony brought together Wilton Rancheria leadership and citizens, Sky River Casino executives and regional dignitaries—officially signaling the start of construction on the hotel resort. The soil used during the ceremony was uncovered from Wilton Rancheria’s land on which the casino operates, symbolizing the tribe’s sovereignty and federal recognition while honoring their ancestral roots.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sacramento at Fire Mountain (Wheatland, CA)
Enterprise Rancheria and Hard Rock International have revealed plans for a multi-billion-dollar sports and entertainment district on 350 acres adjacent to the current Hard Rock property in Yuba County. Construction got underway earlier this year and the project is estimated between $2 billion and $4 billion. The facility will be built on an undeveloped tract between the casino and the Toyota Amphitheater.
Construction will continue in three phases. The first will establish a retail and dining promenade with features such as fountains and walking paths. The second phase includes sports and recreational facilities, followed by the third phase with agricultural facilities and programs, such as designated spaces for livestock shows and agricultural education workshops.
“We’re not just talking about a casino expansion,” Hard Rock
Sacramento President Mark Birtha said. “This is a long-term master plan that could transform the region.”
Casino Del Sol Vahi Taa’am (Tucson, AZ)
Casino Del Sol, the resort enterprise owned and operated by the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, is set to open a new resort on Nov.15.The 153,000-square-foot Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taáam, becomes the tribe’s third gaming property and is a landmark moment in the Pascua Yaqui Tribe’s decades-long commitment to economic self-determination, cultural pride and community investment in southern Arizona. The name Vahi Taáam (pronounced vah-hee tah-ahm) means “Three Suns” in Yoeme, the language of the Pascua Yaqui people—symbolizing light and a bright future for the community, the tribe and every guest who will walk through its doors.
The property features a large gaming floor, restaurants and parking. The project also includes 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 Taáam.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.
“Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taáam, is more than a new property—it is a declaration of what the Pascua Yaqui Tribe stands for: a future as bright as the three suns its name evokes,” Casino Del Sol Interim CEO Amanda Sampson Lomayesva said. “We look forward to opening these doors, to welcoming the nearly 500 people who will work within these walls, and to bringing this experience to the heart of Tucson.”
Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa (Rancho Mirage, CA)
This premier casino resort destination in Greater Palms Springs announces plans for a comprehensive $60 million renovation in January. The project will transform all 340 guest rooms, reaffirming the hotel’s commitment to elevated design, comfort and modern luxury. The multi-phase remodel is currently underway and will introduce fully reimagined guest rooms and suites featuring contemporary design, upgraded furnishings, enhanced technology and refined finishes inspired by local culture, natural surroundings and brand ethos. The $60 million renovation represents one of the most significant investments in the property’s history.
Muckleshoot Casino Resort (Auburn, WA)
Plenty is in the works at Muckleshoot this year. In September, the property announced a new development phase following completion of a landmark resort expansion. The new phase sees the property undergo a multi-year interior transformation initiative designed to modernize guest-facing spaces, improve dining options and elevate the visitor experience.
The latest investment marks a strategic shift for the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, which recently completed a large-scale expansion that transformed the Auburn property into a full-service destination resort featuring an 18-story hotel tower, expanded gaming space, new restaurants and entertainment amenities.
Beyond that, the property is also adding to the sports-betting experience. In May, Muckleshoot announced the transformation of the area in front of Caesars Sportsbook into a new state-of-the-art sportsbook experience that includes three new dining concepts. Construction got underway on May 11.
The project includes theater-style sports viewing seating, large screens, a new bar, three new dining experiences in the Food Hall, new gaming machines, and a Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay, projected to open in mid- November.
Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel (Snoqualmie, WA)
In September, Snoqualmie announced that the property has earned recognition through the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Best Choice restaurant program. The resort becomes the first casino property nationwide to participate in the program and only the second company in Washington State authorized to display the Seafood Watch seal. The recognition reflects Snoqualmie’s commitment to responsible sourcing and elevated dining experiences, with Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood serving as a primary showcase for seafood selections that meet Seafood Watch standards.
Qualifying selections at Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood include Chef Creek Oysters from Stellar Bay, British Columbia, raised using bottom- culture methods; Littleneck Clams from Chesapeake Bay, U.S.A., cultivated using off-bottom methods; and Ora King Salmon from New Zealand, raised in marine net pens.
For more than 20 years, Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch has served as a leading resource for sustainable seafood guidance, helping restaurants and consumers make informed decisions about seafood that is responsibly sourced, farmed and harvested. The recognition builds on Snoqualmie’s continued focus on premium dining and thoughtful sourcing.
SOUTH
Catawba Two Kings Casino (Kings Mountain, NC)
The Catawba Indian Nation and key partner Delaware North are proud to have completed the first phase of the $1.25 billion Catawba Two Kings Casino in May. The property is located near Charlotte and is a new milestone in a major gaming project for the company. The first phase, known as the introductory casino, features 1,350 slot machines, 36 electronic table games, 22 traditional table games, a 68-seat restaurant, 18- seat bar, high-limit area, sports betting kiosks and player rewards desk.
The new gaming venue replaces the successful temporary casino that opened in July 2021.The completed first phase represents the first portion of the new overall development to open. The comprehensive project is estimated to open in spring 2027 and will offer about 2 million square feet and a 24-story, 385-room hotel. Players will find 4,300 slot machines,100 table games,11 dining outlets, a players lounge,11 bars and 3,500 parking spaces.
Coushatta Casino Resort (Kinder, LA)
Louisiana’s largest casino resort celebrated the grand opening of Legacy Tower in May, a major expansion milestone that adds 204 guest rooms, including 100 luxury suites. The project brings the resort’s total inventory to more than 1,000 rooms. The opening was marked with a ceremony hosted by the Coushatta Tribe, bringing together tribal leadership, casino executives, development partners, elected officials and community members to commemorate one of the most significant expansions in the resort’s 30- year history.
The tower is designed to serve as a bold new front door for the resort. The hotel features a dramatic exterior, including a seven-story LED display, along with a redesigned arrival experience and a new connecting lobby that centralizes guest access across the property. Inside, the tower blends modern luxury with cultural storytelling. Design elements draw inspiration from Coushatta heritage, including patterns and textures influenced by traditional basketry.
“Legacy Tower represents more than growth for Coushatta,” Coushatta Chairman David Sickey said. “It reflects our commitment to building something lasting for future generations while honoring the legacy of those who came before us. We are proud to continue welcoming others in a way that reflects our culture, values and community.”
Harrah’s Resort & Casino (Chandler, OK)
This new property from the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma opened in April, marking the first-ever Caesars Entertainment-managed casino experience in the state. The casino rises along historic Route 66 and delivers a Las Vegas-style gaming, dining and entertainment experience, featuring 1,000 slot machines, 12 table games, a high-limit area and multiple restaurants and bars. An on-site hotel and expanded entertainment space is in the works for a later date.
For the Iowa Tribe, which also owns the Cimarron and Ioway casinos, Harrah’s will significantly expand the tribe’s footprint. Tribal Chairman Perri Ahhaitty said Caesars has a strong track record partnering with Native American tribes nationwide. The opening will introduce a modern, vibrant and distinctly Caesars experience to Oklahoma players.
Naskila Casino (Leggett, TX)
The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas celebrated the grand opening of Naskila Casino in August. The property is located just a little over an hour north of Houston and the Alabama-Coushatta marked the opening with a ceremonial blessing attended by tribal council members and casino leadership. The property features more than 300 electronic bingo games, along with dedicated smoking and non-smoking gaming areas. The location also includes the Seven Feathers Players Club and Kano Grill, a 24-hour dining venue offering quick and convenient bites.
The opening reflects the tribe’s continued commitment to create economic opportunity in East Texas. The new facility has created more than 100 full-time career opportunities and serves as an important step in the tribe’s long-term vision for development, community investment and a stronger future for the region. The new facility is located on the future site of Naskila Casino Resort, anticipated to open in phases beginning in late 2028.The tribe’s original property, Naskila Casino Livingston, remains open and a popular gaming destination outside of the Greater Houston area.
Choctaw Casino & Resort (Pocola, OK)
This property announced a $140 million expansion and renovation project in June that will add a new hotel tower, luxury amenities and upgrades across the property. Plans call for a new seven-story hotel tower, resort-style pool, full-service spa, a fitness center and coffee and tea bar. The 118-room hotel and casino floor will see new carpet, lighting, bathroom tiles and fixtures and modern furnishings. Along with those, the poker room, off-track betting area and Rewards Club will move to new upgraded locations and all restaurants and bars will receive a refresh and rebrand with elevated food and craft cocktail offerings.
“Choctaw has long been a proud part of this region, growing alongside the community and contributing to its vitality and success,” Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton said. “As the largest employer in LeFlore County and the second largest resort in the Choctaw portfolio, Choctaw – Pocola plays a vital role in driving economic growth and opportunity in this region. This investment will allow us to welcome more guests while delivering an even higher level of hospitality and resort experience.”
Rock & Brews Casino (Braman, OK)
This property in northern Oklahoma announced a major expansion in August, which will include a new 25,000- square-foot, 1,000-seat R&B Live entertainment center, opening in 2027. Additionally, a new 21-space RV park is also in the works, with an opening set for October 2026. The RV park will offer full hookups for water, sewer and electricity, plus a clubhouse with restrooms, showers and a self-service laundry facility. The projects broke ground in May with work underway for both projects.
“The new expansion is a significant milestone for Kaw Nation,” Tribal Chair Kim Jenkins said. “It represents more than just a building. It is an important capital investment in the future of our people, our culture and the continued growth of Kaw Nation. ”
Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel (Eagle Pass, TX)
Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel and the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas celebrated the ground breaking of a new hotel tower expansion in July. This marked a major investment in the future of the state’s largest casino and the continued growth of tourism and hospitality in south Texas. The project represents the next chapter in the property’s evolution as it celebrates 30 years of serving guests from across Texas, Mexico and beyond.
Upon completion, the expansion will bring the property’s total hotel inventory to 252 rooms, including 80 suites. The project also includes a full renovation of the existing hotel lobby, a new resort-style pool, a 60-seat restaurant and bar, and a new courtyard connecting the hotel tower and casino floor.
Seminole Hard Rock Tampa (FL)
Gamblers looking for a smoke-free experience now have a lot to look forward to at Hard Rock Tampa. In August, the casino announced the Hard Rock Event Center was transforming into a temporary smoke-free gaming area as the resort moves forward with plans to introduce a new smoke-free experience. The temporary casino was scheduled to open to the public in late September.
“We are committed to providing our guests with more choices, greater comfort and even more ways to play.” Hard Rock Tampa President Travis Lunn said. “The temporary casino inside Hard Rock Event Center will allow guests to continue enjoying a wide variety of gaming options while this incredible transformation takes place.”
The temporary venue features 682 new slot machines and 34 table games. Hard Rock Event Center Casino will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Cash centers and ticket-redemption services will be available inside the venue. To maintain uninterrupted gaming operations during broader casino floor renovations, Seminole Hard Rock Tampa added 243 slots throughout the existing casino floor. With the opening of Hard Rock Event Center Casino, the property offers a combined total of 6,185 slot machines.
Areas transitioning to smoke-free environments include portions of the casino floor stretching from the Elvis piano display to the Cipresso restaurant, along with the hotel lobby and L Bar. Existing smoke-free venues and amenities throughout the property will remain unchanged, including all restaurants, the Draper Room, Rock Spa & Salon and the Mezzanine Casino. All resort amenities and restaurants will remain open throughout the construction.
