Michigan stands poised to potentially reap significant revenue from online casinos after legalizing internet gaming in December 2019. However, many factors will impact how much money actually flows into state coffers.
When Michigan lawmakers approved online casino gambling and online sports betting, they hoped it would generate between $18 million and $100 million annually for the school aid fund. However, initial revenue estimates have since been reduced to a more modest $20 to $40 million range.
Still, that potential revenue pales in comparison to other states that have already legalized online gambling for many years. New Jersey, for example, generates over $300 million per year from internet casinos and sports betting. Pennsylvania’s online gambling market brings in around $130 million annually.
Michigan will have some advantages working in its favor. The state already has a robust land-based casino market concentrated around Detroit that could help jumpstart online activity. The population of almost 10 million residents, including many in urban areas with high internet usage, is also favorable.
But Michigan also faces challenges and uncertainties that could hamper revenue projections. The number of online casino licenses issued by the state could impact competition and how much revenue licensees are willing to share. The timing of license issuances and actual online casino launches remains somewhat up in the air.
Legal casinos in MI
Complete list of all legal casinos in MI comprise of over 20 casinos located throughout the state. Some of the largest and most well-known casinos include MGM Grand Detroit Casino, MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit, FireKeepers Casino Hotel in Battle Creek, Greektown Casino-Hotel in Detroit, and Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant. These gaming destinations offer a variety of amenities including thousands of slot machines, live dealer table games like blackjack and roulette, luxury hotels, restaurants, bars, concert venues, and other entertainment options to provide a full gambling and entertainment experience for visitors.
MGM Grand Detroit
MGM Grand Detroit is a luxury hotel and casino located in the heart of Downtown Detroit. While the casino offers plenty of slots, table games and other gambling options, the hotel itself is what really makes this an incredible experience.
The rooms and suites are beautifully appointed with modern furnishings and décor. The beds are extremely comfortable and the bathrooms are spacious with upscale amenities. The views of the Detroit skyline are spectacular, especially from the higher floors.
In terms of amenities, MGM Grand Detroit really goes above and beyond. They have multiple on-site restaurants which offer a wide variety of cuisines, including steaks, Italian, seafood and American fare. There are also several bars and lounges to choose from. The spa is luxurious and offers a full range of treatments and services. There are indoor and outdoor pools and whirlpools, along with a state-of-the-art fitness center and exercise classes.
The customer service at MGM Grand Detroit is exceptional, from check-in to valet parking to dining. The staff is knowledgeable, professional and friendly, going out of their way to ensure your stay is perfect.
Overall, if you want to experience the height of luxury and comfort in Detroit, I would highly recommend a stay at MGM Grand Detroit. The attention to detail, plethora of amenities and superior service make this a true 5-star experience.
MotorCity Casino Hotel
MotorCity Casino Hotel offers a unique experience that blends Detroit’s automotive heritage with modern luxury. The hotel and casino are located just north of Downtown Detroit in a renovated automotive factory.
The hotel has over 500 spacious guest rooms and suites with comfortable beds and upscale amenities. Many rooms feature views of the casino floor or the atrium with its towering glass facade. The décor pays tribute to Detroit’s automotive history with creative nods to classic cars.
MotorCity Casino features over 100,000 square feet of gaming space with 2,800 slot machines and 146 table games. There is also a poker room, high-limit game area, Keno lounge and private gaming salons. Visitors can earn points and redeem them for cash back, rooms, meals and more.
In addition to gaming, MotorCity Casino Hotel offers a range of amenities. There is an indoor pool and whirlpool, a full-service spa and salon, and a fitness center. The hotel has 6 dining options ranging from a sports bar and grill to fine dining. There is also live music and entertainment nightly.
The staff at MotorCity Casino Hotel provides friendly, efficient service. Guests routinely praise the helpful and professional casino workers, restaurant servers and hotel concierges.
Overall, this unique hotel and casino blend Detroit’s automotive roots with a modern luxury experience. With over 100,000 square feet of gaming space, multiple dining options, live entertainment and full-service spa, MotorCity Casino Hotel promises guests a one-of-a-kind getaway in the heart of Detroit’s automotive industry.
Greektown Casino Hotel
Greektown Casino Hotel is a unique downtown Detroit destination that blends non-stop gaming, dining and nightlife with a luxurious urban hotel experience.
The hotel features 340 spacious guest rooms and suites, all of which were recently renovated in 2019. Rooms are well-appointed with plush bedding, modern furnishings and upscale bath amenities. Many rooms offer views of downtown Detroit or Greektown’s historic district.
The casino spans over 200,000 square feet and contains 2,800 slot machines, 120 table games and a 12-table poker room, making it one of the largest casinos in the state. There is a wide variety of slots and table games to choose from as well as a high-limit gaming area.
In addition to gaming, Greektown Casino Hotel offers 8 dining options from fine dining restaurants and steakhouses to casual eateries. Live music and entertainment is offered nightly.
Hotel amenities include an indoor pool and whirlpool, fitness center, barber shop and business center. A full-service luxury spa provides a variety of relaxing treatments and massages.
Service at Greektown Casino Hotel is prompt, friendly and professional. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure guests have an enjoyable stay.
Overall, Greektown Casino Hotel offers an unbeatable combination of urban luxury, non-stop gaming action and Greektown’s famous nightlife and dining, all within walking distance of downtown Detroit’s attractions.
Bay Mills Resort & Casino
Nestled on the shores of Brimley Bay on the Little Traverse Bay in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan lies Bay Mills Resort & Casino. Owned and operated by the Bay Mills Indian Community, the resort offers a relaxing getaway combined with plenty of gaming action.
The hotel features 98 spacious and modern guest rooms, all overlooking the bay. Rooms are equipped with flat screen TVs, free WiFi, coffee makers, and plush bedding. Many rooms have water views while others feature scenic mountain or golf course views.
The casino boasts 1,200 slots, 25 table games, and a high-limit gaming area. There is also a high-end poker room and bingo hall. The large gaming floor provides a vibrant and energetic atmosphere around the clock.
In addition to gaming, Bay Mills Resort & Casino has plenty for visitors to do. There is an indoor pool complex with a hot tub, steam room and sauna. An outdoor pool is open seasonally. The resort also has a full-service spa, fitness center, 18-hole golf course, marina and boat launch.
For dining, there are three on-site restaurants to choose from ranging from a dining room with fine steakhouse fare to lake-view casual dining. The resort also has multiple bars and lounges.
The staff at Bay Mills Resort & Casino are friendly, accommodating and knowledgeable. They ensure guests have everything they need for a comfortable stay.
Overall, Bay Mills Resort & Casino is a perfect getaway for those looking to enjoy gaming and relaxation in the stunning natural setting of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
FireKeepers Casino Hotel
FireKeepers Casino Hotel is a luxury gaming resort owned and operated by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi. Located just off I-94 in Battle Creek, Michigan, FireKeepers offers an oasis of gaming, dining, entertainment and amenities.
The hotel features 246 well-appointed guest rooms and suites. Accommodations feature plush bedding, luxurious bath amenities, 55 inch 4K TVs and free WiFi. Many rooms offer stunning views of the golf course or FireKeepers Lake.
The spacious casino contains 2,300 of the latest slots and 85 action-packed table games including blackjack, craps, roulette and poker. There is also a state-of-the-art bingo room and high-limit gaming area. Non-stop promotions and tournaments keep the energy level up around the clock.
Dining options at FireKeepers Casino Hotel include four restaurants ranging from casual pub fare to upscale steakhouse cuisine. There are also multiple bars offering live music, craft cocktails and comfort food.
Hotel amenities include an indoor pool and whirlpool, hot tub, fitness center, salon and business center. The Willow Spa offers a full menu of relaxing treatments and massage therapies. There is an 18-hole Arnold Palmer signature golf course right on property as well.
Service at FireKeepers Casino Hotel is excellent, with an emphasis on guest satisfaction. The staff is approachable, knowledgeable and timely.
Overall, FireKeepers Casino Hotel offers an extraordinary luxury gaming experience and resort amenities in a relaxing natural setting just outside of Battle Creek, Michigan.
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort
Located just outside of Mount Pleasant in Michigan’s scenic central region, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort offers world-class gaming, dining, and entertainment in a luxurious natural setting.
The resort features over 400 contemporary guest rooms and suites, all decorated in warm earth tones with soothing nature inspired themes. Amenities include flat screen TVs, work desks, plush bedding and modern bathrooms with granite countertops.
The expansive casino contains over 100,000 square feet of gaming space with 2,600 of the newest slot machines and 80 action-packed table games. There is also a high-limit gaming area and a 16-table poker room. Live music and entertainment keep the energy up around the clock.
Guests at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort can choose from 7 dining options ranging from casual eats to upscale steakhouses. The Bay Mills Buffalo Grille specializes in authentic Native American cuisine. There are also multiple bars and lounges.
Hotel amenities include 2 outdoor pools, a full-service luxury spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and indoor and outdoor wedding venues. There is also a 1,800-seat concert venue that hosts big name performances.
The staff at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort provides exceptional guest service, characterized by friendliness, professionalism and a strong desire to make sure visitors have an enjoyable stay.
Overall, with its array of luxurious amenities, non-stop gaming action and dedication to guest satisfaction, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort delivers an unforgettable gaming and resort experience in the idyllic central Michigan countryside.
Island Resort & Casino
Nestled along the beautiful shores of Mission Bay on Michigan’s Mackinac Island, Island Resort & Casino provides an extraordinary escape just a short ferry ride from civilization.
The hotel features 206 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, all with spectacular views of either the bay or the surrounding forests and gardens. Accommodations offer plush bedding, luxury bath amenities and flat screen TVs.
The sizable casino contains over 1,100 of the newest slot machines, 20 table games including blackjack, poker and roulette, and a modern 500-seat bingo hall. Gaming promotions and live entertainment keep the energy up around the clock.
Guests at Island Resort & Casino can choose from 5 dining options ranging from a casual waterfront grille and sports bar to a high-end steakhouse. There are also multiple bars and lounges.
Hotel amenities include 2 outdoor pools, a full-service spa with steam rooms and saunas, a state-of-the-art fitness center and multiple meeting rooms. Trails wind throughout the 250 acre resort property providing stunning views of water and wildlife.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Island Resort & Casino goes above and beyond to ensure guests have an unforgettable stay. Prompt, thoughtful, and professional service is a top priority.
Overall, Island Resort & Casino provides an unmatched gaming experience on Mackinac Island combined with serene nature, captivating views and exceptional service, all just steps from the shores of Lake Huron’s beautiful Mission Bay.
Gun Lake Casino
Gun Lake Casino is located on the Gun Lake Reservation in Western Michigan, nestled between the towns of Wayland and Plainwell. Owned and operated by the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians, Gun Lake Casino offers Vegas-style gaming in a relaxed setting.
The casino features 2,300 of the latest slot machines with a wide array of games and themes. There are also over 50 table games including blackjack, poker, craps and roulette. A spacious non-smoking gaming area, high-limit section and 300-seat bingo hall are also available.
Gun Lake Casino has 8 dining options ranging from gourmet burgers and pub fare to fine dining. Restaurants feature indoor and outdoor seating areas with views of the gaming floor or surrounding countryside. Multiple bars and lounges provide live entertainment nightly.
The staff at Gun Lake Casino are friendly and professional, striving to provide an enjoyable experience for all guests. Employees are knowledgeable about the various gaming options, restaurant menus and upcoming promotions.
Several major hotel chains are located within a short drive of Gun Lake Casino for guests seeking accommodations. The casino also frequently hosts concerts, comedy shows and other entertainment events in its 1,800 seat Casino Cabinet Hall.
Overall, Gun Lake Casino offers Vegas-style gaming action and dining in a relaxed setting, with friendly and knowledgeable staff committed to customer satisfaction.
All online casinos in Michigan
- Caesars Casino
- BetMGM Casino
- FanDuel Casino
- DraftKings Casino
- BetRivers Casino
- PointsBet Casino
- Golden Nugget Casino
- WynnBET Casino
- PokerStars Casino
- Four Winds Casino
- Barstool Casino
- Play Gun Lake Casino
- Firekeepers ICasino
- Eagle Casino and Sports
- SI Casino
Conclusion
While Michigan online casinos do have potential to generate significant new tax revenue, many implementation details still need to be ironed out to realize those revenue projections. The emerging nature of internet gambling in Michigan means estimates are still highly speculative at this point. Initial revenue will likely come in below earlier high-end estimates as the market finds its footing in the years ahead. But if properly regulated and implemented, Michigan’s online casino market could eventually mature into a sizable revenue source for the state.
