Gun Lake Casino celebrated Phase 5 of a large expansion project with a Topping Out Ceremony recently. The property is spending $300 million on a range of new additions expected to be complete by next spring.
Gun Lake Casino has produced positive payments to local entities over the last two years. With the new amenities coming to the casinos, it’s hoping for even more of an improvement.
Just the construction alone is projected to have an economic impact of $650 million. The expansion is also going to create 350 additional jobs.
Guests to enjoy plenty of new amenities at Wayland casino
The $300 million project, announced in April 2021, will take about four years to complete, should everything remain on schedule.
The casino installed the “final beam” to indicate Phase 5 of construction, which means Gun Lake is about a year from completion.
Visitors of the casino can take advantage of numerous additions that will be added to the property. Some of which include:
- 252-room hotel
- Full service spa
- Meeting space
- More dining options
- 32,000-square-foot glass atrium featuring three swimming pools
- High limit table games room
The Aquadome, also known as Wawye Oasis, is perhaps the most impressive amenity Gun Lake is showcasing. The space will include palm trees for a tropical feel and two separate pools. One will be for ages 21 and over and the other is for families of all ages.
The area sits inside an enclosed glass atrium, which allows the sunlight during the day and a nightclub and concert light show atmosphere at night.
New amenities hopefully equates to better business for Gun Lake
Tribal casinos don’t offer much information in terms of revenue. However, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) tracks gaming payments to local entities, which is an indicator of performance.
The MGCB reported a payment decline, for the second straight year, of 1.4% in 2023.
Gun Lake has been able to hold its own weight among tribal casinos. The property has recorded the following payments since 2021:
- 2021: $4.24 million
- 2022: $4.27 million
- 2023: $4.31 million
In 2023, the casino posted an increase of 0.9% from 2022 and a cumulative increase of 1.6% since 2021.
Beyond the economic impact of the construction, it’s expected that the new features are going to draw more people in Gun Lake, resulting in better business.
The could make Gun Lake a powerhouse among Michigan casinos, with plenty to offer guests.
