Casinos in Michigan

Jane Shaw By Jane Shaw Editor at Casinos.US Updated: September 13, 2024
Jane Shaw Jane Shaw Editor at Casinos.US See Full Bio

We count on Jane to inform our readers about the latest slot games in the US market. With her passion for video games and a degree in engineering, she's our gambling tech expert. Jane's also active in our blog section, where she tackles the curiosities and changes in the industry.

Map of Gambling Locations in Michigan

You'll find casinos throughout Michigan, in both urban and more rural areas. There are 26 casinos in total, with the majority being casinos built on tribal land. In fact, only three don't belong to Native American owners. We've mapped out the territory of the state, showing the best locations for gambling in Michigan to help you navigate and find with, little hesitation, your preferred casino destination. We've certainly missed something, as new venues pop up all the time, but surely, we've indicated the top-rated ones. Check out our Michigan casinos map below and find the best casinos in MI near you.

Michigan Casino Map

The Best Casinos in Michigan

MGM Grand Detroit is the leader in the scoreboard for a number of slot machines and popularity. The name of the popular gambling operator speaks for itself as it's often associated with tradition and prestige by gamblers in the know.

The resort where the casino is housed in is an all-round fantastic venue to spend time and to feel like you are the center of attention thanks to a rich programme of special events. Spending a night at the Soaring Eagle or Greektown can also make you feel special. They also deserve a big red circle on the Michigan casinos map.

Michigan Best Casinos
MGM Grand Detroit
5.0 /5
MGM Grand Detroit mgmgranddetroit.com 1777 3rd Ave, 48226, United States 3500
  • Events
  • Live concerts
  • Spa
More About The Casino
Soaring Eagle Casino Resort
5.0 /5
Soaring Eagle Casino Resort www.soaringeaglecasino.com 6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd, 48858, United States 3330
  • Fine dining
  • Spa
  • Swimming pool
More About The Casino
Greektown Casino-Hotel
5.0 /5
Greektown Casino-Hotel www.greektowncasino.com 555 E Lafayette St, 49117, United States 3000
  • Bars
  • Events
  • Restaurant
More About The Casino

The Biggest Casinos in Michigan

The biggest casinos in Michigan are where you can enjoy comfort, good company, a prepossessing atmosphere, and thrive as a high stakes player. There's even more to be found there for the average gambler. Namely, copious amounts of table games, including poker tables aplenty. Four Winds is the only Michigan casino lacking on that score.

Soaring eagle and Gun lake don't lack poker tables and certainly don't lack acreage. One of the best benefits of paying a visit to one of them is having so much walking space, different experiences to immerse into, and an ever so enticing ambience. Oh, and also the tens of bustling blackjack and roulette tables.

Michigan Biggest Casino

Are There Tribal Casinos in Michigan?

Yes, there are 23 different Tribal casinos in Michigan, owned and operated by a variety of different tribes. These casinos are open to absolutely everyone, providing they meet minimum age requirements, however they do not have to abide by state regulations. Tribal casinos can be huge and are known for providing superb gambling experiences. Check out three of the best below.

Michigan Indian Casino
Blackjack Games, Casino Poker Games, Dice Games, Lottery Games, Other Games, Poker Cash And Poker Tournaments, Roulette, Slots Games, Read Our Review Visit Website
Blackjack Games, Casino Poker Games, Dice Games, Lottery Games, Other Games, Poker Cash And Poker Tournaments, Roulette, Slots Games, Read Our Review Visit Website
Blackjack Games, Casino Poker Games, Dice Games, Lottery Games, Other Games, Poker Cash And Poker Tournaments, Roulette, Slots Games, Read Our Review Visit Website

Racinos

Racinos are casinos built at racetracks, combining the fun of playing casino games with the excitement of betting on horses. Despite there being racetracks in Michigan, there aren't any racinos in the traditional sense of the word. Racetracks are available and it is possible to bet on horses there.

However, you'll be facing a dilemma as many MI casinos also have sports betting, kindly brought to them by their sportsbook partners. Betting on all sports was legalized in the state in 2019, but it seems as though casino fans with a desire to visit the racinos of Michigan will have to wait some more.

Cruise Ship and Riverboat Casinos in Michigan

Riverboat casinos are not permitted in Michigan. In fact, only one state bordering Lake Michigan – Indiana – allows riverboat casinos. The fact that Michigan is a landlocked state means that there are no cruise ship casinos found there. This means that those looking for gambling in Michigan will have to stick to solid ground!

That being said, you should know there are beautiful premises, the likes of Little River Casino Resort and Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge situated by Lake Michigan, offering an inspiring view and amenities. Those Michigan casinos also have tangible advantages beside aesthetics.

Full Michigan Casino Directory

Below, you'll find all the important details regarding every legal gambling location in the state. Thanks to the interactive features, it shouldn't take too long to find the perfect venue to have a flutter. We've included additional clarification as to what type venue each establishment is.

We have planned personalized reviews for the future that will give you an insider's perspective on some or all of the best casinos in Michigan. If you are looking for a place that's open all day long, the Four Winds Casino locations should cut it for you! Not all brands keep their casinos open around the clock.

Choose a City
Choose a Type
All Casinos in Battle Creek
Firekeepers Casino Hotel 11177 E Michigan Ave, Battle Creek, 49014 Indian Casino
Four Winds Casino Dowagiac 58700 M-51, Dowagiac, 49047 Indian Casino
Four Winds Casino Hartford 68600 Red Arrow Hwy, Hartford, 49057 Indian Casino
Four Winds Casino New Buffalo 11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo, 49117 Indian Casino Battle Creek
Gun Lake 1123 129th Ave, Wayland, 49348 Indian Casino
All Casinos in Detroit
Greektown Casino-Hotel 555 E Lafayette St, Detroit, 49117 Commercial
MGM Grand Detroit 1777 3rd Ave, Detroit, 48226 Commercial
MotorCity Casino 2901 Grand River Ave, Detroit, 48201 Commercial
All Casinos in Mackinaw City
Odawa Mackinaw 1080 S Nicolet St, Mackinaw City, 49701 Indian Casino
Kewadin Casino Hessel N 3 Mile Rd, Hessel, 49745 Indian Casino
Kewadin Casino St Ignace 3015 Mackinac Trail, St Ignace, 49781 Indian Casino
Odawa Casino Resort Petoskey 1760 Lears Rd, Petoskey, 49770 Indian Casino
All Casinos in Manistee
Little River Casino Resort 2700 Orchard Hwy, Manistee, 49660 Indian Casino
Leelanau Sands Casino 2521 N West Bay Shore Dr, Peshawbestown, 49682 Indian Casino
Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel 7741 M-72, Williamsburg, 49690 Indian Casino
All Casinos in Manistique
Kewadin Casino Manistique 5630W US-2, Manistique, 49854 Indian Casino
Island Resort Casino Harris W 399 US-2, Harris, 49845 Indian Casino
Kewadin Casino Christmas N7761 Candy Cane Ln, Christmas, 49862 Indian Casino
Northern Waters Casino Resort N5384 US-45, Watersmeet, 49969 Indian Casino Manistique
Ojibwa Casino Baraga 16449 Michigan Ave, Baraga, 49908 Indian Casino
Ojibwa Casino Marquette 105 Acre Trail, Marquette, 49855 Indian Casino
All Casinos in Mount Pleasant
Soaring Eagle Casino Resort 6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd, Mount Pleasant, 48858 Indian Casino
Saganing Eagles Landing 2690 Worth Rd, Standish, 48658 Indian Casino
All Casinos in Sault Ste Marie
Kewadin Casino Sault Ste. Marie 2186 Shunk Rd, Sault Ste Marie, 49783 Indian Casino
Bay Mills Resort and Casino 11386 W Lakeshore Dr, Brimley, 49715 Indian Casino
Kings Club Casino 12140 W Lakeshore Dr, Brimley, 49715 Indian Casino
 

Future Developments and Trends

Currently, there are no plans to construct any additional casinos. However, residents and visitors alike will find that there are already great options available throughout the state. Readers can see exactly where they are located by looking at the map further up the page.

All efforts are channeled into developing the virtual aspect of gaming in the state, mainly represented by Michigan's online casino sites. It's good news that some tribal casinos such as Soaring Eagle are planning to hold their own in the heavily contested virtual gambling market. Maybe there will be more gambling towns in Michigan of the caliber of Detroit in the future.

Gambling in Michigan

The very first product to hit the legal gambling industry in the state was pari-mutuel horse racing the year 1933. The state lottery was launched next after the signing of the McCauley-Traxler-Law-Bowman-McNeely Lottery Act in 1972. Before that – in 1966 – commercial Michigan casino operators were given the green light.

The Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act of 1966 was signed to give the legal right to operate three commercial casinos in Detroit. Consequently, the Michigan Gaming Control Board was founded, and the minimum gambling age was set. Here are the key facts summarized:

Michigan Gambling Topics Gambling Facts for Michigan
Number of Casinos 26
Casino Types Tribal, Commercial
Casino Games Offered Slots, Casino Poker, Poker Cash and Poker Tournaments, Roulette, Blackjack, Dice Games, Lottery Games, Other Games,
Age 21+ Sports betting, 18+ Casino, Lottery,
Smoking Yes/No*, *Smoking inside is prohibited but there are external smoking areas in each Michigan casino
Drinking Yes/No*, *Drinking while playing is allowed, but no free alcoholic drinks are served
Opening Hours
24/7 , Some casinos are closed on Easter and Christmas. Check the brands pages for more info
Betting Limit No legal limits
Taxation of Winnings Yes/No, for additional details click here

Casino Games in Michigan

You won't get bored when it comes to gambling in Michigan. This is because Michigan casinos offer pretty much every cash game you can think of. What's more, many will also be opening sportsbooks soon, where you'll be able to bet on a vast range of different sports markets.

There is something for everyone when it comes to gambling in Michigan! As we've indicated earlier, poker tables are a missing component in some otherwise well-appointed venues. But you can play at online poker sites in Michigan if you would like the best options for staking your cash. The number of slot machines is always accentuated, and as a result, the most popular games of this type can be found nearly everywhere.

Slot
  • Colossal Wizards
  • Li’l Red
  • Spartacus Gladiator of Rome
  • Forbidden Dragons
  • Queen of the Wild II
  • Lazer Lock Ice Sapphire
  • Over 31000 slots machines in casinos in the state
  • Types: Traditional Reel, Video Reel, Video Poker Free Slot Tournaments
Casino Poker
  • Let it Ride
  • Flop Poker
  • Limit Holdem
  • No Limit Holdem
Poker Cash and Poker Tournaments
  • Crazy 4 Poke
  • Fortune Pai Gow
  • Sharp Shooter
  • Razz
  • Limit Holdem
  • NL Holdem
  • Tournaments and cash games offered
Roulette
  • American Roulette
  • European Roulette
Blackjack
  • Any 2 Card Blackjack
  • Spanish 21
  • Hand-Held Deck
  • Shoe Game
  • Single Deck
  • Double Deck
  • Side bets often available
Dice Games
  • Craps
  • Sic Bo
  • Hazard
  • Chuck-A-Luck
Lottery Games
  • Keno
  • 75 Ball Bingo
  • 90 Ball Bingo
  • Daily Lotto Draws
  • Mini Lottos
  • Scratchers
Other Games
  • Electronic Craps
  • Electronic Blackjack
  • Electronic Roulette
  • Electronic 3-Card Poker
Sports Betting
  • Horse racing betting
  • It is legal to bet on all sports in Michigan, although online sports betting is yet to be launched

Legal Gambling Situation in Michigan

When was casino gambling legalized in Michigan?
Tribal casinos were made legal in 1988, while three commercial casinos in Detroit were approved by voters in 1996. The Michigan Gaming Control Act of 1996 is the legislation to officiate the legality of these three casinos. The first set of gambling compacts between Native American tribes and the state was formulated in 1993.
What is the legal gambling age in Michigan?
Gamblers at Detroit's three commercial casinos must be at least 21. Tribal casinos can set their own minimum age, though, and some allow those aged 18+ to gamble. The legal age for sports betting is 21+, while lottery players have to be 18+. Gambling sites follow the same lawful norms and promote the directives of responsible gambling in the US.
Can you smoke in Michigan casinos?
Yes, it is possible to smoke in most Michigan casinos. Some will have designated areas for smoking. Others have interesting house rules, such as only the one that only active players can smoke. That means you have to be sitting behind a slot machine or at a table where you are actively taking part in the action.
Are there Horse racing / Off-Track betting locations in Michigan?
Northville Downs is the most visited horse race track in Michigan. The operator now offers virtual horse racing, too, via its official partners at TwinSpires and TVG. Off-track betting isn't really available outside Detroit, so you'll have to register at an bookmaker site if you want to stay away from racecourses.
Are there Dog racing / Off-Track betting locations in Michigan?
In recent years, concerns have been raised over the health and wellbeing of racing greyhounds. This, in combination with the decline in revenue from this type of betting, have put the dog race tracks in the unenviable position to choose between closing down or somehow trying to keep the business ticking.
Is charitable gaming offered in Michigan?
Non-profit gambling events take place every now and then in Michigan. Those usually are either bingo or raffles. The Charitable Gaming Division is in charge of authorizing non-profit organizations to hold raffles in the state. Charitable Gaming Rule 105 does not allow the organizers of such events to profit from them.
Are there other legal restrictions in Michigan?
The vote to allow commercial casinos in Detroit restricts the city to having just three commercial venues, tightly regulated by the Michigan Gaming Control Board. Arguably, this limitation is set to propel native casino gaming. The three licensed venues are MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino Hotel, and Greektown Casino.

Taxation of Winnings

There is taxation of gambling winnings in Michigan, both on a federal and state level. Those winning money in Michigan will have to pay a tax of 4.25% to the state, regardless of the prize's size. There is also the requirement to pay the standard federal tax of 24% on any money won over the threshold, which varies for different games, or on any winnings worth 300x the bet amount or more.

In the table below, you can find all types of gambling taxes Michiganians who play for real money must pay on their winnings.

Prize ($) State: $0+ (any prize) Michigan Gross Income Tax (%)4.25

Michigan Gambling Laws

Casinos on Indian reservations were made legal in a federal ruling in 1988, but commercial casinos were only permitted in the mid-1990s. The most recent relevant significant development was the legalization of gambling in Michigan.

A previous year bearing significance for the industry was 2010. Then, the Office of the Racing Commissioner officially took on the duty to oversee horse racing in the state as per the decision of the Michigan Gaming Control Board. Find below two of the most important pieces of legislation that shaped up gambling as is in Michigan.

History

Michigan has a long history when it comes to gambling. You can see some of the key dates for gambling in Michigan below.

A sunset view of Lake Michigan
Evening view of Detroit, Michigan Kings Club Casino opened in 1984, was the first tribal casino in the country.
Crisp Point Lighthouse, Michigan
  • 1933 The Racing Act of 1933 gave those in Michigan the chance to bet for the first time, allowing pari-mutuel horse racing betting.

  • 1972 The Charitable Gaming Act was passed, allowing charitable organizations to raise funds via bingo, raffles and some other specific forms of gambling.

  • 1972 Voters approve a constitutional amendment to create a state lottery.

  • 1984 Kings Club Casino in Brimley becomes the first tribal casino not just in Michigan, but in the whole of the United States.

  • 1993-1998 11 tribal compacts are signed allowing for tribal casinos in Michigan.

  • 1996 Michigan voters authorize three commercial casinos to be opened in Detroit. These were Greektown, MGM Grand Detroit and MotorCity.

  • 1996 Michigan saw the introduction of The Big Game, a multi-state lottery game. It is now called Mega Millions.

  • 2019 Sports betting is legalized in the state, giving casinos the chance to offer sports betting areas to their visitors. Online betting, poker and casinos were also legalized.

Upcoming Changes in the Gambling Regulation

The latest reform coming into effect was online gambling in Michigan which went live on January 22, 2021. That same reform legalized both web-based casinos and sportsbooks in one swing. For instance, you can play at Stars Online Casino in MI absolutely legally and enjoy a wide variety of gambling games. The MGCB remains in charge of the licensing for both types of sites. There are no major changes in the law currently pending.

Michigan Casino Resorts and Trips

Casino resorts represent the perfect choice for those looking for an experience that’s more than just gambling. Many companies offer tours to these casino resorts. You can learn about the best casino resorts in Michigan and the best casino tour companies when you take a look below.

Casino Resorts

Casino resorts don't just provide gambling but also provide a host of other entertainment options. These can be anything – from golf through to theater shows. This kind of versatility is what makes these establishments some of the best casinos in Michigan.

What's more, most resorts are kid-friendly, offering children loads of ways to keep themselves entertained. At the same time, the gaming areas are clearly delineated and kept apart from the designated playgrounds and arcades for kids. Take a look below to see the three best casino resorts in Michigan.

Four Winds (New Buffalo)
Number of Rooms415
Price Range ($)99-459
Special Packages"Romantic getaway package"
Additional ServicesLive concerts Arcade Fitness
Kewadin (Sault Ste. Marie)
Number of Rooms339
Price Range ($)85-130
Special Packages"Deals for Northern Rewards Club members"
Additional ServicesPool Fitness RV park
Soaring Eagle
Number of Rooms780
Price Range ($)159-449
Special Packages"Deals for Loyalty Club members"
Additional ServicesSpa Pool Live shows

Casino Trips

Looking to get to a casino but don't want to drive there yourself? If so, a casino tour is the perfect alternative. You'll get dropped off at the casino and picked up at the end of your time there, plus, you also might find a few perks being given to you as well. Check out three of the top trips to Michigan casinos below.

There are at least three agencies we know of that can take you to your desired casino destination. We don't want to break it to you, but the majority of the venues on the Michigan casinos map are not part of these trips. However, here are the casinos you can visit if you commit to such a trip.

Indian Trails  Visit Website
  • FireKeepers, Greektown, Soaring Eagle
  • Vouchers for food and games
Diamond Tours  Visit Website
  • Kewadin (Sault Ste. Marie)
  • Free buffet
Route 23 Tours  Visit Website
  • Turtle Creek, Little River, Gun Lake
  • Casino Overnight Fundraiser

Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to provide only accurate and up-to-date information, please be aware that casinos.us shall not be held responsible for any inaccuracies in the offer packages or other details listed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Michigan casino has the best payout?

Information on overall payouts isn't readily available. You can be sure that you can find fair payouts in all venues on the Michigan casinos map. Those of them that have gaming websites sometimes place on record a report from a trusted testing authority such as eCOGRA that could be referenced by anyone.

What games can I play at Michigan casinos?

To the eye of an experienced gambler, there will be nothing new about the games of the best casinos in Michigan. There's a noticable emphasis on slot machines, and in some cases – poker tables. Not all casinos in Michigan have poker tables, but the nice choice of blackjack variants compensates for that.

Who regulates casinos in Michigan?

The Michigan casino gambling laws empowered the MGCB with the authority to enforce the law and to handle licensing. The board regulates all licensed operators in a number of ways, each of which can lead to a license being revoked.

Can I bring pets to any of the Michigan casinos?

The pet policy of casinos in Michigan varies from place to place. While there are Michigan casino resorts, that would make your pet feel at home in exchange of a small fee, there are other resorts, the managers of which would shake their finger at you merely at the sight of your furry friend.

About Michigan

Outline of the state of Michigan, including Detroit, Warren, and Grand Rapids
Capital Lansing 
Largest Cities Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren 
Size 96713.51 sq mi 
Population 9,986,857 (2019) 
Time Zone Eastern: UTC -5/-4, Central: UTC -6/-5 
Abbreviation MI, Mi. 

Conclusion

Gaming in the state has come a long way and has seen many small transformations that, collectively, have formed the gambling industry there as we know it today. The takeaway of the whole situation is that you have the freedom to find an experience tailored to your needs. The three major benefits of the favorable gaming climate in Michigan are available to everyone:

  • Legal Wagering Venues
  • Authoritative Online Sportsbooks
  • First-Rate Native American Casinos

Let's not forget that Michigan also has a brimming with life land-based casino landscape. You can get all you want as a gambler if you visit one of the Native American gambling premises or one of the Michigan casino resorts in Detroit. Simply gazing at the majestic interior of one of them is a highlight of its own.

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