Are You Game? These Casino Resorts Take It to the Next Level
There's nothing better than a classic casino getaway ... the bright lights, the roaring sounds, the thrill and anticipation of a big win in the air.
But, when all of that excitement is surrounded by extraordinary amenities, from fine eateries to well-appointed spas to luxury accommodations to world-class entertainment and more, that's when you know you've planned an unforgettable trip for your group. And, we're here to help. Let's look at some hotspots across the country that are elevating the experience for guests.
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, located in beautiful Hot Springs, Arkansas, has numerous appeals. Stay in the Forbes-recommended hotel overlooking the historic Oaklawn racetrack and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains or relax in utter indulgence at the state's only Forbes four-star-rated spa, The Astral Spa. Whether your group prefers high-end or casual dining, Oaklawn has you covered. The OAK room & bar or The Bugler are upscale establishments, while Big Al's offers a diner-style vibe. Sports fans will love the state-of-the-art Mainline Sports Bar, featuring 90-plus large-screen TVs, a sportsbook area, three Topgolf Swing Suites and axe throwing.
Don't forget one of the biggest reasons to make Oaklawn your destination of choice: live Thoroughbred racing, which runs December through May. Visit on a race day to place your bets, then find a spot in the Grandstand or on the beautiful infield to cheer on your picks. After, head to the non-smoking casino, which is abuzz 24/7. Enjoy live craps, blackjack, roulette, slot games and promotions. And, don't miss one of their live music shows! Oaklawn is also close to downtown, Hot Springs National Park and Bathhouse Row—all worth a visit while in the area.
Situated between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo in magnificent Michigan is Gun Lake Casino. In the last phases of a $300 million expansion set to open in March 2025, this Great Lakes State gem is a must-go for groups. What's new? A 252-room luxury hotel, a full-service spa, meeting space and added dining options for starters. But, the big reveal, scheduled for May 2025, is the Wawyé Oasis. This 32,000-square-foot glass atrium has a year-round tropical climate and will be home to a cutting-edge entertainment center with multiple pools, as well as a bustling nightclub, live concert venue and banquet facility.
At the casino, there are more than 50 gaming tables, 2,300 state-of-the-art slot machines, a modern sportsbook, a live poker room and keno. For dining, enjoy a contemporary take on American cuisine at Shkodé Chophouse or immerse yourselves in Michigan's brewery culture at CBK (Craft·Bar·Kitchen). There's also Harvest Buffet with fresh, cooked-to-order ingredients and 131 Sportsbar & Lounge.
Pechanga Resort Casino, in Temecula, California, is the only casino resort to be named in Condé Nast Traveler's 2024 Readers' Poll in the category of "Best Resorts." It recently underwent a seven-month remodel of its signature Great Oak Steakhouse, featuring a feast for the palate with menu selections such as Wagyu steaks, caviar, lobster, and oysters, as well as craft cocktails, award-winning wines and delicious desserts. For a special treat, parties of six to 10 can reserve the Chef's Table, a semi-private space offering an eight-course culinary journey and a view into the exhibition kitchen.
Also new are five Native American spa menu options at Spa Pechanga made with Indigenous ingredients known for their healing properties. Of note is Journey of the Payómkawichum, a sound bath and meditation session that leads into a full-body massage.
Let's not leave out the casino aspect, though! On site is a 200,000-square-foot gaming area, 1,100 hotel rooms and suites, a number of restaurants in addition to Great Oak, a 4.5-acre pool oasis, a championship golf course and live entertainment galore.
Connecticut's Mohegan Sun is more than a casino. Under its 5.5-million-square-foot roof are actually two casinos, Mandara Spa, the Sky Tower and Earth Tower hotels, a golf course, convention and expo centers, a sportsbook, and entertainment venues, including Mohegan Sun Arena, where the WNBA's Connecticut Sun play. There are also the Shops at Mohegan Sun, offering top brands such as Tesla, Coach, Athleta, Tommy Bahama and Swarovski, and GAME ON, which has billiards, bowling, karaoke and 50-plus retro arcade games.
The complex houses more than 30 restaurants, bars, and lounges, including the highly anticipated and newly opened The Shed. Other new dining additions are Beauty & Essex, Sift Bake Shop and A.T.Y. Bar & Bonbons. Sun Patio, an outdoor concert and meeting venue, has also been completely revamped.
Mohegan Sun has earned Best Casino Hotel in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for seven straight years. They owe that honor to exceptional guest service—paired with beautiful accommodations—and a commitment to creating memorable experiences.
Nestled in the Laurel Highlands region of the Allegheny Mountains—about 70 miles from Pittsburgh—is The Casino at Nemacolin. Across 26 tables are classic games, such as blackjack, craps, criss cross poker, roulette, and Mississippi stud, plus there are 500 slot, video poker, and keno machines, along with two high-limit gaming areas. For high rollers, there's an exclusive VIP lounge with premium food, beverages and amenities. The Royale sports bar and grill is also a favorite, with more casual, pub-style offerings.
Nemacolin recently underwent a three-year, $500 million refresh, which encompassed all aspects of the resort: the casino, two golf courses, and The Grand Lodge, Falling Rock and The Chateau. Within the sweeping, 2,200-acre NemaVerse is the Woodlands Spa, Holistic Healing Center, and a Fitness Center, plus exquisite dining and shopping. Fun fact: Those with a keen interest in pop culture might recognize Nemacolin as the backdrop of the 2021 season of The Bachelor!
What's Happening in Vegas!
Feeling nostalgic? Head to Fremont Street in downtown Sin City, where it all began. This is definitely where you'll find everything old-school. At the top of the to-see list is El Cortez Hotel & Casino, with a history dating back nearly a century. While it's been renovated and added to over the years, it has retained its façade and three-story neon sign, and it's one of the few spots that offers coin slot machines. If there's a longing for the triumphant clanging of coins when someone hits the jackpot, this is a place your group will love. Other classics on Fremont Street are Golden Nugget, The D, Four Queens and Binion's.
Written by Allison Kay Bannister, Contributing Writer for Groups Today.
This article originally appeared in the Jan/Feb '25 issue of Groups Today.
Photo courtesy of Pechanga Resort Casino.
