Kewadin Casinos online gambling partnership

In April 2020, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, the owner/operator of Kewadin Casinos, revealed their collaboration with gambling software developer GAN, marking their entry into the online sports betting and online casino market in Michigan.

Alongside providing online casino software support, GAN is also assisting the tribe in establishing retail sportsbooks at all five casino locations. The opening of these kiosks took place on December 14, 2020. The Sault Ste. Marie location is equipped with three kiosks, while the St. Ignace location has two, and the remaining three locations each have one.

Tribe officials have stated that GAN will be introducing its platform along with specific operational services to the Upper Peninsula.

In this venture, the tribe has formed a partnership with Wynn, a prominent player in the Las Vegas Strip. Wynn Resorts, renowned for its presence in the physical realm, is now expanding its online presence and reputation.

Kewadin Casinos sports betting

On December 14, 2020, sports betting kiosks were introduced at all five Kewadin Casinos locations.

• During the Christmas season, Frosty’s Pub ‘n’ Grub is home to a single sports betting kiosk.
• The bar area at the Hessel location houses a single kiosk.
• At the Team Spirit Bar in Manistique, there is a single sports betting terminal available.
• The Rapids Lounge and Superior Bar in Sault Ste. Marie house a total of three kiosks.
• There are a total of two sports betting kiosks located at the Whitetail Sports Bar in St. Ignace.

Kewadin Casino Sault Ste. Marie

The largest and most comprehensive among the five Kewadin casinos is the one situated in Sault Ste. Marie. This particular location boasts over 800 slot machines, available for use by players around the clock, without any time restrictions.

Table games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and keno can also be found at Kewadin – Sault Ste. Marie. However, unlike the slot machines, these games are not available 24/7. Instead, the table games at this location operate according to the following schedule:

Table games

• The operating hours from Sunday to Thursday are from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. ET.
• The operating hours from Friday to Saturday are 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. ET.

Keno

• The operating hours are from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET, Thursday through Sunday.
• Monday – Wednesday: CLOSED

The Kewadin – Sault Ste. Marie establishment offers a bingo hall where players can unwind and partake in a leisurely game. Bingo games commence at 7 p.m. every Wednesday and 2 p.m. every Thursday, while the hall remains closed on all other days.

The exclusive poker room at Kewadin – Sault Ste. Marie stands out as the sole casino in the group to provide this facility. With its six tables, the room hosts both cash games and tournaments. It’s important to note that unless otherwise specified, all the games offered in the poker room are of the no-limit Texas Hold’em variety.

Similar to the rest of the table games, the poker room has a more restricted operating schedule compared to the overall casino or slot machine section. To ensure accuracy, it is advisable to contact in advance, but the poker room generally operates during the following hours:

• Friday: 6 p.m. to 4 a.m. Eastern Time (ET)
• Saturday: 12 p.m. – 4 a.m. Eastern Time
• Sunday: 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Eastern Time (ET)

Kewadin Casino Christmas

Kewadin – Christmas, as part of the Sault Ste. Marie Chippewa portfolio, stands out as one of the smaller casino venues. Despite its size, this casino successfully integrates its natural theme to create an attractive experience for visitors.

Visitors to the Christmas destination will discover a wide selection of slot machines, offering countless opportunities for entertainment. The casino extends a warm invitation to patrons, operating from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. every day, ensuring that it is open and ready to serve your needs.

At Kewadin – Christmas, individuals seeking a unique gaming experience can enjoy a selection of limited table games. From 4 p.m. until midnight on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the venue offers both blackjack and Let It Ride.

The entire gaming experience takes place in a delightful Christmas-inspired setting, complete with a grand Santa Claus statue graciously greeting you at the entrance of the casino.

Kewadin Casino Hessel

Kewadin Casino – Hessel stands as the most compact among the Kewadin group’s five establishments. Additionally, it distinguishes itself from the rest by exclusively dedicating its offerings to slot machines.

At this unassuming venue, you will discover a variety of your preferred slot games. The action commences promptly at 9 a.m. daily, extending well into the evening hours.

Kewadin Casino Manistique

Kewadin Casino – Manistique holds a unique position among the Kewadin casino properties.

At the Manistique location, similar to all other establishments under the ownership and operation of the Sault Ste. Marie Chippewa, you will discover a variety of slot machines for your enjoyment. Nevertheless, Kewadin – Manistique takes a distinct approach when it comes to offering table games.

The location is, in fact, the sole one among the five that provides virtual table games for players. These tables have a capacity of accommodating five players, and every aspect of the game, including the gameplay, is fully automated.

The advantage of virtual machines is that they are much simpler to manage and upkeep compared to live tables. Consequently, both the slot area and the virtual tables operate for the same hours. You can enjoy betting from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. every day to your heart’s delight.

Kewadin Casino St. Ignace

With Kewadin – Sault Ste. Marie reigning as the leader of the Kewadin group, the St. Ignace location undoubtedly holds the title of prince. Situated close to the Mackinac Bridge, linking the U.P. to the lower peninsula, this property offers a plethora of options, amenities, and features that are almost on par with its northern sister property.

The casino offers more than 700 slot machines for gambling. Additionally, besides Sault Ste. Marie, Kewadin – St. Ignace is the only other Kewadin casino where you can play these machines around the clock.

St. Ignace takes a straightforward approach to its table games selection, offering the classic trio of blackjack, roulette, and craps, which are the mainstay of most casinos’ table game offerings.

Please plan accordingly as the table games have limited hours of availability. They are only accessible from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. every day.

Northern Rewards Club

The Kewadin casinos understand that keeping a customer is more cost-effective than gaining a new one, which is why they have introduced the Northern Rewards Club as their loyalty program. This program aims to reward frequent visitors to their facilities.

By being a member of the club, you have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of benefits. These include the ability to redeem your membership for complimentary hotel stays, dinners, tickets to shows and other forms of entertainment. Additionally, you can avail discounts on merchandise and receive exclusive invitations to special events, contests, and promotions.

Naturally, the perks you can enjoy depend on the tier you hold in the program. The Northern Rewards Club consists of four main levels: Green, Silver, Gold, and Black. Moreover, the club provides the Valor card exclusively to active and honorably discharged military personnel, police officers, firefighters, and EMS professionals.

Except for the Valor card, the tier status of all players is dependent on the number of tier points they accumulate while playing. Each player can earn one tier point for each of the following actions:

• $4 in slot play
• $8 spent on playing video poker.
• $1 in keno bets
• $10 spent on wagers in table games.

To gain access to each tier, you must accumulate several thousand tier points. Additionally, your tier status will be evaluated every six months. Therefore, frequent gameplay is necessary to advance from the Green tier.

While earning tier points, you will also accumulate club points concurrently. These points serve as a form of virtual currency during your visit to a Kewadin casino. They can be redeemed at a rate of 100 points per dollar, although cashing out the points is not possible. Nevertheless, you can conveniently utilize your points by swiping your card to make purchases at Kewadin casinos. Additionally, besides the various items available for purchase, you may also obtain free play credits worth several dollars.

Kewadin casinos acknowledge that you may have to travel a considerable distance to reach their properties. Additionally, the cost of bridge tolls can make the journey quite expensive. In response, Kewadin has made a commitment to provide $8 in credits as reimbursement if you cross the International Bridge or Mackinac Bridge on your way to one of their casinos. You can redeem this benefit without any specific point requirement, and there is no need to present a receipt. Simply visit any Kewadin casino and receive your reimbursement.

Given that joining this club is completely free, it would be foolish not to make the most of it, especially if you had intentions of visiting a Kewadin location. Ensure you don’t overlook all the great benefits.

Amenities at the Kewadin Casinos

Hotel

Out of all the Kewadin casinos, only two have hotels available on their premises. The remaining casinos either depend on nearby lodging options or are specifically designed to cater to local visitors. Nevertheless, both of the Kewadin hotels provide a delightful escape from the bustling gaming activities happening nearby.

Sault Ste. Marie Hotel

Sault Ste. Marie’s Kewadin casinos feature a variety of hotels, with the largest casino offering the most extensive onsite accommodation. Visitors can choose from a total of 319 rooms, providing ample space and comfort for a relaxing overnight stay.

You have the option to rent one of three types of rooms: a standard room, a suite room, or a whirlpool room. So, whether you prefer a basic accommodation or want to indulge in a more luxurious experience, the choice is yours.

The standard rooms offer the expected amenities, including an in-room coffee maker for your convenience. On the other hand, guests opting for a suite room will be delighted to discover a spacious living room area, a separate bedroom, a kitchenette, and a luxurious jetted bathtub.

Whirlpool rooms take it up a notch by offering an in-room whirlpool exclusively for you. While these rooms are incredibly cozy, the main worry is how wrinkled your fingers will become once you eventually step out.

The Sault Ste. Marie hotel offers all its guests access to the indoor pool and fitness center. Moreover, families with children can enjoy the game room provided on-site.

St. Ignace Hotel

When visiting the St. Ignace property, visitors can expect a similar level of service to that of Sault Ste. Marie. Despite the hotel’s limited 81 rooms, each one is tastefully furnished to ensure guests’ utmost comfort.

The room options in St. Ignace are identical to the ones mentioned previously and include the same amenities. Nonetheless, there is no availability for whirlpool rooms in St. Ignace. Therefore, you will need to select either a standard room or a suite. Additionally, each room in St. Ignace is furnished with its own microwave.

St. Ignace, similar to its sister property, offers guests an indoor pool and whirlpool for their enjoyment. Additionally, the property boasts a fitness center to help guests stay in shape. Nevertheless, the most captivating feature for hotel guests at St. Ignace is undoubtedly the breathtaking view of Lake Huron that the hotel overlooks.

Dining

No matter your accommodation, dining is a necessity. Therefore, each of the five Kewadin casinos offers at least one dining option to satisfy your hunger.

Sault Ste. Marie dining

Out of the five casinos, the Kewadin flagship location stands out with its extensive dining choices. With three distinct food venues available onsite, guests have ample options for their meals. Moreover, the Sault Ste. Marie location is the exclusive casino to provide room service for its hotel guests.

When you find yourself at this property, make sure to visit the Dreamcatchers Restaurant for all your dining needs. This venue is open throughout the day, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their menu features a variety of options including breakfast classics, burgers, baskets, and steaks. On Tuesdays, you can enjoy a special breakfast deal for only $3.95 which includes two eggs, bacon or sausage, toast, and fries.

If you’re feeling thirsty or looking for something a little more refreshing, consider giving the Signatures Lounge a try. This pub offers a selection of sandwiches, appetizers, and beverages that are sure to uplift your mood.

If you’re craving some unique cuisine, give the Trail Deli a shot. Alongside their delightful sandwiches, they offer a range of options including hot wings, omelets, and even ice cream for those seeking a more unconventional dining experience.

St. Ignace dining

Similar to its larger counterpart, Kewadin – St. Ignace also provides various dining options for visitors at the second-largest casino within the Kewadin group. However, due to its limited number of 81 guest rooms, room service is not available at this venue.

However, customers have the opportunity to enjoy a seated meal at the Horseshoe Bay Restaurant from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. This popular establishment serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner while providing breathtaking views of Lake Huron.

The Whitetail Sports Bar is St. Ignace’s popular watering hole, offering a comfortable setting for up to 80 guests. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a delicious meal, quench your thirst with a refreshing beverage, or simply catch a game, this is the place to be.

In St. Ignace, you will find the Campfire Deli, which is similar to Sault Ste. Marie’s Trail Deli. Just like its counterpart, this laid-back establishment allows you to indulge in sandwiches, wings, and ice cream.

Christmas dining

Frosty’s Pub ‘n Grub at the Kewadin – Christmas location is the sole dining option available, reflecting the smaller size of the venue. Despite its limited options, this dining area remains true to the casino’s theme and offers a variety of greasy delights, snacks, and beverages.

Manistique dining

The Mariner’s Cove Restaurant at Kewadin – Manistique takes full advantage of its quaint location, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a cozy 60-seat venue. This charming spot serves a variety of comfort food to satisfy your palate.

In addition to wetting your whistle, you can also engage in trivia, enjoy music, or attend a comedy show at Team Spirits Bar in Manistique. Needless to mention, there are various entertainment options available to cater to your preferences.

Hessel dining

The Northern Nook Bar & Grill at Kewadin – Hessel is a perfect match for the casino’s casual atmosphere. It offers a laid-back dining experience with its all-day menu, making it a quick and convenient option for guests.

Entertainment

In the Kewadin family, three casinos offer various independent entertainment options for their patrons to enjoy. Sometimes, you may feel the need to take a break from the casino atmosphere and experience a concert, show, or comedy act.

Sault Ste. Marie entertainment

Kewadin – Sault Ste. Marie boasts three unique entertainment venues. Among them, the DreamMakers Theater stands out as the most prominent, offering a traditional concert and theater experience. This versatile space hosts a wide range of performances, including shows by renowned artists such as Black Label Society and Candlebox, as well as captivating retrospectives like the one dedicated to the iconic show Hee Haw.

If you prefer a more relaxing musical atmosphere, consider visiting the Rapids Lounge, conveniently located beside the Huron Gaming Room. This dedicated space aims to introduce newcomers to various music genres such as jazz, reggae, and country.

If you prefer a more hands-on experience, make your way to the Signatures Lounge. In addition to having its own occasional entertainers, Signatures is the exclusive venue for onsite karaoke.

St. Ignace entertainment

Kewadin – St. Ignace offers two distinct venues for performers and entertainment. One of them is the event center, where musical acts take the stage in a conventional setting. While the majority of acts at the event center lean towards country or rock genres, it is advisable to consult the box office for a schedule of upcoming shows.

In the Northern Pines Lounge, located at the heart of the casino, you have the opportunity to enjoy smaller shows and even showcase your own singing talents at karaoke. Simply listen for the occasional off-key performances, and you’ll easily spot the lounge.

Manistique entertainment

If you enjoy sports bars, the Team Spirits Bar at Kewadin- Manistique is an excellent spot to enjoy a refreshing beverage. Apart from being a sports bar, Team Spirits also offers entertaining comedy acts, trivia nights, and broadcasts sports events on its large screens throughout the week. If you’re seeking a change of pace from the excitement of the casino, make your way to Team Spirits and discover the latest happenings.

Kewadin Casinos History

The tale of the Kewadin Casinos and their proprietors, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, is marked by hardship. Despite the tribe’s long-standing presence in the vicinity of what later developed into Sault Ste. Marie, it was not officially acknowledged as a distinct entity until the 1970s.

The Sault Ste. Marie Chippewas have rapidly gained prominence, largely thanks to the success of their casino properties.

In 1984, the opening of the first casino marked a turning point for the tribe as their fortunes soared. Presently, the tribe boasts a total of five Kewadin casinos, and the profits derived from these establishments have not only facilitated their growth but also enabled them to venture into an additional fifteen business ventures.

In 2005, approximately three decades after establishing its own identity, the tribe garnered additional attention. Through its diverse range of businesses, it successfully provided employment to over 2,000 individuals, earning itself the distinction of being the largest employer in the entire Upper Peninsula.

The tribe’s casinos and other establishments remain a vital source of support for its people, and there are plans for further expansion. Recent court documents reveal that the tribe intends to open two more locations in Ingham and Wayne counties. Although a lawsuit may cause delays, it is evident that the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians is determined to keep progressing and not become complacent.

On December 14, 2020, the five casinos introduced retail sports betting services through kiosks. Subsequently, in 2021, the casinos initiated online operations for both casino gaming and sports betting.