Gun Lake Casino, owned by the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi, has completed a $300 million expansion, adding a 16-story hotel with 252 rooms, including 31 suites and a two-story penthouse. CEO Sal Semola stated, "It says casino on the front door, but for all intents and purposes, we're in the entertainment business, and this expansion right now will bring the total investment from the tribe to $750 million." The average room rate is about $200 per night, according to WOOD TV.
The community celebrated the expansion, with Wayland City Manager Erik Wilson expressing optimism about its impact on local businesses. "I think it's going to attract more visitors to the region," Wilson said, "Those visitors are going to visit our businesses. They're going to spend their dollars here in the city. So I think that that type of investment for the region is great," as stated by FOX 17.
Gun Lake Casino has expanded with new amenities, including the MnoYé Spa, which offers a private pool, massage rooms, a nail salon, and a gym with Peloton bikes. The Ogema penthouse, featuring a full bar, two bedrooms, and an in-suite elevator, is set to be completed later this month. The expansion opening included a drone show and live entertainment. The Wawye Oasis, a glass atrium with pools and tropical plants, is scheduled to open in May as a venue for concerts and events. Casino management expects high weekend occupancy, as reported by MLive.
