Over the years, Gun Lake Casino has undergone multiple phases of renovation to enhance its offerings. The official opening of a new luxury hotel took place at an event on March 7 in Wayland, Michigan. Sal Semola, the CEO of Gun Lake Casino, describes the new luxury hotel at Gun Lake as a ‘game changer.’
He says it will set a new standard for the Midwest a
nd is on a par with the best gaming destinations in the country. HBG Design led the architecture and interior design for the transformation and attended the grand opening event.
Years of planning and development
Gun Lake Casino is situated between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. It first opened its doors in 2011. It has slot machines, a sportsbook, table games, a live poker room, and several restaurants. It also offers online casino games through Play Gun Lake Casino. Players can use a casino app to play at playgunlake.com on their mobile devices.
Construction on the hotel started in May 2022. Gun Lake Tribe’s Chairman, Bob Peters, says that a great deal of blood, sweat, and tears have gone into the project over the past five or six years. After years of planning and development, opening day finally arrived.
Peters says it was an exciting, nerve-wracking, and emotional experience for him to present the new hotel to the community. When he cut the ribbon, he said that the $300 million project represents the progress of tribal citizens and continues the casino’s commitment to the local community.
The new luxury hotel
The 16-story hotel and spa is at the center of Gun Lake Casino’s ongoing expansion. It has 252 rooms and features 31 suites, a spa, and a café. Standard room prices start at just under $200 per night. Employees may find this new hotel a good place to stay when working remotely as it has versatile meeting and event spaces.
The two-story Omega penthouse price is in another league and starts at $2,000 per night. It is on the top floor and has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full bar, and an in-suite elevator. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of West Michigan. The penthouse is still under construction but will be finished later this month. On-site accommodation will make Gun Lake Casino more competitive with other casinos that offer accommodation in Michigan.
Guests can also take advantage of many amenities like the MnoYé Spa. It has private treatment rooms, a vitality pool, massagers, and a nail salon. The Sandhill Café has been re-imagined and the new menu will feature all-day breakfast and classic comfort foods. There is also a sophisticated new Lobby Bar.
The Wawye Oasis
The debut of the Wawye Oasis in May will complete the expansion project. It includes a 32,000 sq. ft. climate-controlled, domed glass atrium with live palm trees and tropical flora. Two swimming pools, a swim-up bar, and private cabanas complete the picture. The Oasis will double as a venue for concerts and events.
Special event
To celebrate the opening of the hotel, Gun Lake Casino hosted a special event. A drone show took place as evening fell. A fleet of illuminated drones featuring dazzling visuals synchronized to music in a fun show for all ages.
The fun continued from 7.30 pm as magicians, stilt walkers, and speed caricature artists took to the casino floor.
Live entertainment at 131 Sports Bar and Lounge from 10 pm featured Brena. She gave a live performance paying tribute to women in the history of rock.
Benefit to the economy
The Phase 5 expansion gave jobs to 1,160 construction workers. This included plumbers, welders, electricians, painters, carpenters, etc. The casino employs 1,500 team members across many different departments. The expansion of the casino will give even more of a boost to the local economy. Taxes have already funded schools, infrastructure development, and road repairs.
The ongoing expansion of Gun Lake Casino shows how much tourism in Michigan is flourishing. There is so much to see and do in Michigan with its inspiring natural landscapes, history, and cultural experiences.
Sal Semola believes the hotel isn’t just a hotel but represents an evolution in the hospitality industry. In a region that attracts both leisure and business travelers, it provides a critical infrastructure upgrade.
