Permanent DraftKings Retail Sportsbook Opens At Bay Mills Resort & Casino

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Written By Drew Ellis on November 7, 2022
DraftKings retail casino at Bay Mills

The most recent addition to Michigan’s retail sportsbooks is now officially open.

The grand opening of DraftKings Sportsbook at the Brimley location of Bay Mills Resort & Casino was celebrated on Sunday.

Bay Mills will be introducing several new amenities in the upcoming years, and among them is the permanent sportsbook.

Draftkings retail Sportsbook opens at Bay Mills

On Sunday, a ribbon cutting ceremony took place to celebrate the grand opening of DraftKings Sportsbook. Representatives from Bay Mills, DraftKings, and the Sault Ste Marie Chamber of Commerce were present to mark the occasion.

Richard LeBlanc, General Manager of Bay Mills Resort and Casino, expressed his enthusiasm for the official opening of the retail DraftKings Sportsbook in their establishment. In a press release, LeBlanc shared his satisfaction in showcasing the DraftKings partnership to their valued guests and the local community, recognizing the long-lasting positive effects it will have on the region.

At Bay Mills, DraftKings Sportsbook boasts a total of eight expansive high-definition televisions, accompanied by three odds boards and four convenient betting kiosks. Moreover, visitors can find two supplementary betting kiosks situated on the main casino floor.

Michael Kibort, Sr. Director of Retail Sportsbook Operations at DraftKings, expressed his excitement about the extended partnership with the Bay Mills Indian Community and the creation of a facility that will be enjoyed by all guests at a top entertainment destination in Northern Michigan. He stated that the new sportsbook at Bay Mills Resort & Casino will provide sports fans with an unparalleled, energetic, and year-round immersive sports betting experience.

Every day, starting at 11 a.m. ET, DraftKings retail sportsbook will offer a range of food and beverage choices.

The sports betting kiosks will be accessible around the clock.

DraftKings a leader among MI’s top online sportsbooks

Ever since the legalization of online sports betting in Michigan in January 2021, DraftKings has established a solid presence in the state.

With a handle of $1.72 billion, DraftKings Sportsbook MI holds the third position among Michigan’s online sportsbooks. It stands alongside FanDuel Sportsbook MI and BetMGM Michigan as the top three choices for online betting in the state. Collectively, these three platforms have amassed a staggering $5.56 billion in online handle.

During the month of September, DraftKings maintained its position as the leading online sports betting handle in the state, boasting an impressive $108.2 million. This consistent trend has solidified DraftKings as one of the top online sportsbooks and casinos, particularly during the football season.

$65 million expansion project coming to Bay Mills

In addition to the upcoming launch of the retail sportsbook, Bay Mills has plans to commence a $65 million expansion project in the spring of 2025.

The Bay Mills Resort & Casino will undergo a project to enhance numerous amenities.

Interior upgrades will include:

  • There are 134 more rooms available, each equipped with a balcony.
  • New deli
  • A spa that offers private massage therapy rooms.
  • A swimming pool accompanied by a fun splash pad.
  • Hot tubs
  • Nail salon
  • Fitness center
  • Arcade
  • Conference spaces
  • Storefront

The resort’s employees will also have the privilege of enjoying an upgraded break room, offering them more space to unwind and relax.

The exterior will be enhanced with upgrades.

  • New fishing piers
  • Gardens
  • Gazebos
  • Outdoor patios
  • Marina upgrades

The architectural firm DSGW has been appointed to oversee the project, with an estimated completion date of 2025.

 

Photo courtesy of DraftKings