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Michigan's tribal casinos rise, fall, and fight for survival over 40 years

Some became landmarks, others vanished overnight. The turbulent saga of Michigan's tribal casinos reveals ambition, conflict, and the high cost of gaming sovereignty.

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2 min read
The image shows an old map of the city of Detroit, Michigan, with detailed streets, buildings, and...
The image shows an old map of the city of Detroit, Michigan, with detailed streets, buildings, and other landmarks. The map is printed on a paper with text, providing a comprehensive overview of the area.

Michigan's tribal casinos rise, fall, and fight for survival over 40 years

Tribal gaming in Michigan has seen major changes over the past four decades. Some casinos thrived and expanded, while others faced legal challenges or sudden closures. The history includes high-stakes bingo halls, pioneering slot machines, and disputes with state authorities.

The story began in 1983 when the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community opened The Pines Casino. It quickly became a legal battleground after Michigan officials argued it violated state gambling laws. The dispute ended in 1985 when the FBI raided the casino, leading to its closure under a federal injunction.

A year later, in 1984, the **Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians** launched **Super Bingo Palace**, the tribe's first high-stakes bingo venue. It operated briefly before evolving into **Leelanau Sands Casino** in May 1991. That same year, the **Bay Mills Indian Community** made history by opening **Kings Club Casino**, the first tribally owned casino in the US to offer slot machines and blackjack. It ran for 36 years before shutting down in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and never reopened. In 2000, the **Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians** opened **Victories Casino**, their first full-service gaming venue. Seven years later, it was replaced by the larger **Odawa Casino Resort**, which opened on June 20, 2007. Not all ventures succeeded. The **Bay Mills Indian Community** tried again in 2010 with **Vanderbilt Casino**, but it lasted only five months. A state lawsuit led to a federal injunction, forcing its closure in 2011.

Michigan's tribal casinos have had a mixed record of success and legal struggles. Some, like Kings Club and Victories Casino, operated for years before closing or upgrading. Others, such as The Pines and Vanderbilt, faced early shutdowns due to legal action. The industry continues to shape gaming in the state, though challenges remain.

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