Posted on: February 3, 2026, 11:58h.
Last updated on: February 3, 2026, 11:58h.
- The expansion at Bay Mills Resort & Casino in Michigan is complete
- The new hotel and resort amenities opened to the public on Jan. 31
Bay Mills Resort & Casino on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan has officially opened its doors to its expanded facility.
A project five years in the making, officials with the tribal destination located on Waiska Bay, the southeastern edge of Lake Superior, formally opened the Bay Mills Resort & Casino expansion facilities on Jan. 29. The multimillion-dollar investment brings an additional 135 guestrooms and suites to the hotel along with new resort amenities, including a spa, an indoor pool and splash pad, indoor and outdoor saunas, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, a fitness center, an arcade, and additional dining options.
This is an exciting milestone that elevates the guest experience and ushers in a new era of luxury, entertainment, and community pride for the Eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan,” said resort General Manager Richard LeBlanc.
“This expansion is the culmination of years of hard work, a shared vision, and the strength of our people,” added Bay Mays Indian Community President Whitney Gravelle. “BMIC has long been a leader in gaming, and we are excited to continue that legacy with this expansion.”
Gaming ‘Leader’ Is Trailing
Gravelle is correct in asserting that the BMIC has been a leader in Michigan tribal gaming, as the federally recognized tribe was among the first native nations to secure a Class III gaming compact with the state. The Bay Mills tribe was one of seven sovereign nations that struck a deal with Michigan in 1993 to operate Las Vegas-like slot machines and table games on its native lands.
Over the years, however, the Bay Mills Casino has lagged severely behind other Michigan tribal casinos. Its remote location and long, cold, snowy winters put it at a competitive disadvantage with Lower Peninsula tribal properties.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board reports that the Bay Mills Resort & Casino generated gross gaming revenue of approximately $18.7 million in 2024. The casino houses about 600 slots, a dozen tables, and a DraftKings Sportsbook. BMCI’s gaming revenue ranked last among the 12 tribes that conduct Class III gaming in Michigan. The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and its three casinos led with GGR of $329.7 million.
Most internet gaming and online sports betting activity conducted by third-party partners with the tribes is subject to state law and therefore not included in the tribal gaming revenue.
Resort Offerings
Along with the casino and hotel, which now offers 270 rooms, Bay Mills features a 124-spot RV park, the 18-hole Wild Bluff Golf Course, and four restaurants and bars.
During the long winter months, when average snowfall is about 100 inches a year, the Bay Mills Resort Casino offers snowmobiling trails. Hiking trails around the golf course are also available for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
During the warmer months, guests can visit various nearby attractions, such as Tahquamenon Falls, Soo Lock, and the Pt. Iroquois Lighthouse.
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