The best casinos in Michigan are some you may know well if you’ve ever visited Atlantic City or Las Vegas, such as MGM and MotorCity. However, there are also a few that you may not be familiar with, such as Gun Lake Casino which uses the slogan “Where the fun grows.”
That might sound like they offer free money, but sadly it is just a clever tagline. If you want genuine ways to make some cash before heading to the big game, why not try our guide to the?
This Midwestern state has 124 casinos, showing how popular the industry is here. We have ranked our Michigan casino list based on the games available, payout rates, customer service, and range of promotions.
Without further ado, here are the top land-based casinos in Michigan in 2023:
There are plenty of great places to play, whether you’re in Detroit or another part of the Wolverine State. With so many choices, however, it can seem overwhelming when trying to pick where to gamble.
Gun Lake Casino just pips MGM Grand Detroit to top our Michigan casino rankings for 2023, but every venue has something unique to offer.
If you prefer online slots and table games, we also provide a comprehensive . So let’s dive deeper into the best casinos in MI and see what makes them so special.
Best Casinos in Michigan at a Glance
No sportsbook is currently live in Connecticut.
1. Gun Lake Casino
- Slot Machines: 2,700
- Poker Room: No
- Table Games: 65
- Racebook: No
- Live Poker: No
Justifying our top rating among casinos in Michigan is Gun Lake, located in Wayland, around an hour and a half’s drive northwest of Grand Rapids. It might be the youngest venue on our Michigan casino list, having opened its doors in 2017, but it thinks old school when it comes to one thing– giving.
And so, their motto, “where the fun grows” fits perfectly.
Yes, you won’t find a casino hotel in Michigan better than this one. They don’t serve currency in the form of funny-looking flowers, but their generous approach to rewards makes them stand out from other Michigan casinos. Let me explain.
Club GLC is open to all players, and depending on your level of dedication (or addiction, some might say), you could be picking fruits while asleep amidst a field of gold. Okay, maybe that’s pushing it, but you get the idea—the more IGOLD® points you gain while playing your favorite slot machines or table games, the better the fruit you can pick.
I’m not suggesting you give up your day job just yet, but six figures sounds pretty darn good to me!
In terms of games, there are 2,700 hot slots to enjoy, including the lucrative wide-area progressive machines. If table games are your thing, there are 65 on offer, including Ultimate Texas Hold’em, Missisippi Stud, and over ten different blackjack variations. You can also enjoy high-limit gaming in the VIP room if you really want to push the boat out.
On-site dining options include Brookley’s Food Bar and Deli, Fireside Restaurant, and Lakeside Bar & Grill. There is also a large stage for live entertainment and events, ensuring Gun Lake remains one of the best Michigan Indian casinos.
Best Casino in Michigan Advantages:
- 2,700 Slot Machines
- 65 Table Games
- Generous Rewards Program
- Six Figure Prize Tiers
- Three On-Site Eateries
Disadvantages:
- No Poker Room
2. MGM Grand Detroit
- Slot Machines: 2,300
- Poker Room: Yes
- Table Games: 95
- Racebook: Yes
- Live Poker: Yes
The best casinos in Michigan with a sportsbook often tend to win overall, and the MGM Grand Detroit is no exception to this rule. This downtown Detroit casino is open 24/7 and boasts over 2,300 slot machines and 95 table games, making it one of the premier venues for gambling in the midwest.
As you would expect from one of the world’s most prominent casino brands, the MGM Grand Detroit offers a fantastic choice of games.
Slots fans will be spoiled for choice, with everything from classic reel machines to the latest multi-game titles on offer. And if table games are more your style, you’ll find all the classics here, including blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat.
One of the standout features of this casino is the spacious poker room, which hosts regular tournaments and cash games with blinds starting at $1/$2. If you’re a horse racing fan, you’ll be pleased to learn that there’s also a sports betting facility on site.
MGM Grand Detroit is connected to the Guardian Building by a skywalk, offering easy access to even more dining and entertainment options. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, steak, or a casual bite, there’s something to suit every taste bud here.
With its prime location in the heart of Detroit, the MGM Grand Detroit is the perfect destination for anyone looking for nonstop gaming action and all the thrills that come with it.
As a quick aside, the MGM is a solid option for those who like to visit multiple states to , as it has sister branches in New Jersey and Nevada.
Best Casino in Michigan Advantages:
- 2,300 Slot Machines
- 95 Table Games
- Active Poker Room
- Connected to Other Attractions
- Horse Racing Betting
Disadvantages:
- Some Way Before Others in Terms of Facilities
3. MotorCity Casino
- Slot Machines: 2,900
- Poker Room: Yes
- Table Games: 86
- Racebook: Yes
- Live Poker: Yes
Detroit’s casino scene is thriving, and one of the big hitters in the city is MotorCity Casino.
Located in the heart of downtown, this stylish venue offers something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a first-time visitor. With 100,00 square feet of gaming space, MotorCity Casino is one of the larger casinos in Michigan.
It has 2,900 slot machines, 86 table games, a lively poker room, and a retail sportsbook. That means you can enjoy all your favorite casino games in one convenient location.
From classic slots and video poker to roulette, blackjack, and craps, the choice is yours. And if you fancy yourself as the next Phil Hellmuth, then the bustling poker room is the place to be.
With daily tournaments and cash games running throughout the week, you can test your skills against players of all levels.
MotorCity Casino isn’t simply about the gaming; there are some excellent dining options to explore too. Enjoy a delicious steak at Urban Kitchen or opt for Asian fusion cuisine at Siren Court. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something to tickle your taste buds.
So, whether you’re planning a night out with friends or a weekend getaway, MotorCity Casino is well worth a visit. Who knows? Lady Luck might just be waiting for you inside.
Best Casino in Michigan Advantages:
- 2,900 Slot Machines
- 86 Table Games
- Active Poker Room
- Multiple Dining Options
- Horse Racing Betting
Disadvantages:
- Parking Charges
4. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort
- Slot Machines: 4,000+
- Poker Room: Yes
- Table Games: 100+
- Racebook: Yes
- Live Poker: Yes
We move away from the best casino hotels in Michigan to tell you about the Mount Pleasant resort, Soaring Eagle.
Founded way back in 1995, it’s fair to say they know a thing or two about entertaining customers after all these years, especially when said establishment has the word ‘soaring’ in the title.
When arriving at the venue, you’ll likely notice the giant eagle statue perched on top of the building. Soaring Eagle may be the symbol of this tribe, but I hope he doesn’t work in the laundry room. Imagined scenes of him flapping his wings and sending delicates tumbling to the floor have left my OCD needing Valium bigger than a horse. Okay, maybe I need help, but back to the topic at hand.
So, this is the largest casino in Michigan, with more than 4,000 slot machines, electronic keno, and 100+ table games, such as mini and Midgette baccarat, which I’ve never seen before outside of an elementary school playground.
There are also high-stakes baccarat and pai gow poker in the VIP area, so you can strut around feeling superiour to everyone else.
One of the standout features of Soaring Eagle is the on-site golf simulator. While it might not be Augusta National or St Andrews, it’s still a great way to practice your swing without leaving the resort.
Other amenities include a fitness center, full-service spa, and indoor water park. There are also several restaurants to choose from, serving everything from burgers and pizza to fine dining.
So, if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway with plenty of gaming action, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort is well worth considering.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, this is one of the top Lower Peninsula casinos, especially the west side. But hey, people travel thousands of miles to visit Augua National, and that’s hardly in the Lower Peninsula.
Best Casino in Michigan Advantages:
- 4,000+ Slot Machines
- 100+ Table Games
- Golf Simulator
- Indoor Water Park
- Unique Games Like Midgette Baccarat
Disadvantages:
- Rooms Aren’t Massively Spacious
- Some Reportedly Unclean Restrooms
5. Odawa Casino Resort
- Slot Machines: 1,500+
- Poker Room: No
- Table Games: 33
- Racebook: Yes
- Live Poker: No
Another of the top casinos in Northern Michigan, the Odawa, is located right on the Little Traverse Bay, making it arguably one of the most scenic establishments of its kind in the state.
Aside from taking in views that could make a Zen master seem unfocused, you can enjoy various games both indoors and outdoors at this petite resort.
New Online Casinos in NJ (2023) - Miss Gina's Favorite PicksWhile it only has around 1,500 slot machines, around double the number can be enjoyed under the stars during the warmer months.
Who wants to be inside when the Great Lakes State summers are warm enough to melt the Wicked Witch of the East? Okay, that may be slightly exaggerated, but the weather is glorious.
There are also high-capacity keno machines and 33 table games, such as mini and regular baccarat, blackjack, craps, and Spanish 21. As the former is my specialist subject, I’d likely spend hours smiling sweetly at dealers while secretly wishing they would comb their hair.
Although there is no on-site poker room at Odawa Casino Resort, you can enjoy historical horse racing. I had no idea there was racing that happens after the event; surely that’s like watching reruns of Antiques Roadshow to try and become a millionaire?
Never mind; the historical racebook should still be fun, and there’s a sports betting facility, too. Perhaps you can finally prove to your buddies that the 1994 USA Olympic Women’s Soccer Team was better than the 2021 NBA Chicago Bulls.
When your pockets are lined with either cash or coins, you can enjoy a meal at one of four eateries before retiring to your room or hitting the dance floor.
This venue can compete with other top casinos in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Given the location, it’s little wonder many consider it one of the best casinos in the region, let alone the state.
Best Casino in Michigan Advantages:
- 1,500+ Slot Machines
- 33 Table Games
- Historical Racebook
- Four On-Site Eateries
- Stunning Location
Disadvantages:
- Smaller Than Many Competitors
- Some Complaints About Room Cleanliness
6. Island Resort & Casino
- Slot Machines: 2,000+
- Poker Room: Yes
- Table Games: 34
- Racebook: Yes
- Live Poker: Yes
Herring Salmon can leap up to 1,500 feet upstream on their spawning mission. Thankfully, you can reach the Harris location of Island Resort & Casino without such exertion.
Located near the upper peninsula of Michigan, the lodge has a fly shop and access to the lucrative rainbow trout population. Sadly, I doubt the hotel provides a helicopter service to drop you off at the tables; you may need to drive, walk, or use a combination of both legs and fins.
You could surely earn enough at the gaming stations to buy two of the same car, one for land and the other for water.
There are 2,000+ slot machines, so nobody can accuse you of duplication when telling your mates how many you played. Classic and progressive games line the floors, along with electronic keno, while 34 table games await your presence.
Avoid the blackjack table if I’m dealing, though. Remember my specialist subject? Yeah…
There’s a large poker room with regular tournaments, plus a sportsbook and historic racebook. When your bankroll is heavy enough to build an Ark out of Dodo birds’ eggs, you can grab a meal at one of seven eateries or watch the sunset over the straits of Mackinac.
Island Resort & Casino could easily challenge the higher-ranked entries in our Michigan casino ratings. Indeed, some experts may place it even higher given its superior fishing opportunities.
It’s arguably one of the best northern lower peninsula casinos, although I appreciate that’s a made-up category. Still, if anyone asked you why you sounded like a loon, you can explain the herring’s leaps and the quality casino.
Best Casino in Michigan Advantages:
- 2,000+ Slot Machines
- 34 Table Games
- Large Poker Room
- Historic Racebook
- Seven On-Site Eateries
- Superb Trout Fishing
Disadvantages:
- Long Drive From Major Cities
7. Dacey’s Twin Creek Casino
- Slot Machines: 1,700
- Poker Room: No
- Table Games: 22
- Racebook: Yes
- Live Poker: No
We move from one tribal casino called Island to another, Dacey’s Twin Creek. However, there’s no risk of confusing thesetwo establishments, as the former is in Kingston, Mich., while the other is hundreds of miles away.
While Dacey’s may not offer on-site accommodations, there are several hotels within a five-mile radius.
After winning big on the 1,700 slot machines or 22 table games, you can retire to your establishment and sleep like a baby, knowing there are plenty of places within walking distance that serve coffee.
Well, perhaps not the undisturbed aspect, but you get the idea.
Tired dealers, on the other hand, might want to crash at the hotel. Promoting three different blackjack variants should wear anybody out, especially when one is Electronic Blackjack and another SurreaBlackjack. Saying goodnight will be a struggle, other than possibly calling the former two CBT and CPB.
Joking aside, other hot spots include Mini Baccarat, Craps, and Pai Gow. Unfortunately, this venue does not have a dedicated poker room, although there is a racebook if you want to trot to the finish line.
Several bars and eateries will help you refuel before returning to the fray, making Dacey’s Twin Creek a strong choice among the top casinos in south eastern Michigan.
Best Casino in Michigan Advantages:
- 1,700 Slot Machines
- 22 Table Games
- Three Variants of Blackjack
- Mini Baccarat
- On-Site Dining
Disadvantages:
- No Attached Hotel w/ Crash Naps
- Some Complaints About Dealer Personnel
8. FireKeepers Casino Hotel
- Slot Machines: 2,900
- Poker Room: Yes
- Table Games: 64
- Racebook: Yes
- Live Poker: Yes
The Battle Creek area has long been associated with the cereal industry and the famous figure, John Harvey Kellogg. However, you don’t need fiber when your diet consists of chips, especially when they help you scoop a huge pot on the poker tables.
Locals now have a new string to their bow with the arrival of FireKeepers Casino Hotel in 2013.
This impressive venue boasts 2,900 slot machines, 64 table games, and a lively poker room, making it one of the largest casinos in southern Michigan.
Whether you’re spinning the reels of your favorite slot machines or vying for the top spot at the blackjack tables, you’re guaranteed a thrilling gaming experience at FireKeepers Casino Hotel.
But that’s not all — the casino also offers a variety of other games, including Spanish 21, craps, roulette, and pai gow. And if poker is your thing, you’ll be happy to know that the on-site poker room hosts daily tournaments and cash games.
After you’ve had your fill of gaming, why not relax and unwind in one of the casino’s many dining establishments? Choose from classic American fare at Buck’s Forge or indulge in some sushi at Kyoto. And if you’re in the mood for a refreshing beverage, the Full Firekeeper Lounge is the perfect spot to catch a live music performance.
So, whether you’re planning a girls’ trip or a guys’ getaway, FireKeepers Casino Hotel is definitely worth adding to your list. Who knows? Maybe Lady Luck will shine down on you and keep you regular at the same time.
Best Casino in Michigan Advantages:
- 2,900 Slot Machines
- 64 Table Games
- Variety of Games
- On-Site Dining
- Live Music
Disadvantages:
- Some People Have Criticized the Rooms
9. Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge
- Slot Machines: 1,300+
- Poker Room: Yes
- Table Games: 14
- Racebook: No
- Live Poker: Yes
Many of us crave the sand between our toes and the sound of waves lapping the shore. It’s little wonder so many people flock to Michigan casinos near the lake, and Leelanau Sands is one of the finest.
Sure, it doesn’t have the largest number of slot machines or table games, coming in at less than 1,400 spinners and 14 stations, but the outdoor gaming area surely offsets this.
Plus, it’s hard to imagine a more picturesque setting for a casino. You can feel the therapeutic effects of Mother Nature while potentially draining your account dry. Talk about finding inner peace; I’d likely sit at a blackjack table, hands folded in my lap, while dealers confidently shuffled away, convinced I wasn’t going to play.
Before you reach for those air quotes when I mention meditation, check out the on-site lodge. There are 45 guest rooms and suites, allowing you to extend your stay in one of the most stunning locations in Michigan’s western region.
You could also eat at the Solitude Café or take some dishes back to your room with the order-to-room service. Leelenau Sands doesn’t have a dedicated restaurant, but that’s a minor point when so much beauty surrounds the facility.
The lodge also connects to the Sister Bay Watersports Rental, where you can hire pontoons, jet skis, wave runners, kayaks, paddleboards, and more. So, you could potentially lose money on the tables and win it back renting a waverunner.
Okay, that’s a terrible strategy finance guys would likely frown upon, but it’s fun to think about. Besides, few things are more cathartic than careering across a lake while wondering if that last bet was a mistake.
Overall, Leelanau Sands ranks highly among the best western Michigan casinos. After all, who needs a racebook when you have wave runners and blackjack?
2023's Complete Guide to Online Gambling in PennsylvaniaBest Casino in Michigan Winner:
- 1,300+ Slot Machines
- 14 Table Games
- On-Site Lodge
- Watersport Hire
- Gorgeous Location
Disadvantages:
- Fewer Games Than Some
- Some Rooms Small
10. Kewadin Casinos (Various Locations)
- Slot Machines: 2,500+
- Poker Room: Yes
- Table Games: 40+
- Racebook: Yes
- Live Poker: Yes
Kewadin is a Ho-Chunk word meaning “a place of refreshment and renewal.” Even if you’ve only lost your dentures on the penny slots, we’ll assume that the former applies.
There are five Kewadin Casino locations across the mitten state, making it incredibly convenient. I mean, you’re not likely to miss your luck window if you can roll out of bed and into the slots.
Each venue has slightly different facilities, but none have attached lodgings. That could be a pro or con, depending on your perspective. Nobody wants to stumble to their room hours after losing big, but some folks might view an escape as beneficial.
For example, you cannot hide the empty wallet behind your sofa, but a room removed from reality’s harshness could be helpful.
Let’s look at the Casa Blanca location since it didn’t make our top 10 Michigan casino revenue list. However, that could change at any moment, especially when someone like me starts playing.
The Saint Ignace establishment has over 650 slots, video poker, and electronic keno. Plus, around 25 table games include traditional blackjack, plus face-up 21 and Crazy 21.
There’s also a nice pit featuring Minnesota hi-low, along with mini and regular baccarat.
The Gladstone venue has one of the largest sportsbooks in the state, while the Manistee location has a huge outdoor gaming area.
All casinos have historic racebooks and one hell of a renewal policy. Sorry, I mean Kewadin offers numerous refund programs for loyalty members, including Ho-Chunk Perks and Club One.
Refunds aren’t bad per se; I once got $20 for some tuna that gave me food poisoning. Sure, my insides felt like I was being pulled through a mincing machine, but the 20 notes brought a smile. Had I viewed it as a loss, I’d probably have sought legal action against the fish.
Anyway, Kewadin has several excellent venues, making it one of the leading casinos in northern Michigan.
Best Casino in Michigan Advantages:
- Multiple Venues
- Over 2,500 Slot Machines
- Varied Refund Programs
- Outdoor Gaming
- Convenient Locations
Disadvantages:
- Some People Prefer Attached Hotels
- Individual Venues May Not Be Largest in Certain Areas
11. Island Resort & Casino – Harris
- Slot Machines: 500+
- Poker Room: Yes
- Table Games: 8
- Racebook: Yes
- Live Poker: No
Our final entry is the second island resort on this list, located in beautiful Harris, Michigan.
Don’t confuse this venue with the higher-ranked sister establishment, or you’ll end up like someone searching for tuna in a casino.
Unfortunately, the Harris location doesn’t have a dedicated poker room, which is a shame. However, there are still 500+ slot machines and eight table games where you can win (or lose) some coin.
The games are spread across two properties that are linked by an enclosed walkway. The complex also houses a golf course, arcade, and several dining options.
While not offering the typical casino experiences of its sister property and others featured in our rankings, Island Resort and Casino Harris remains a popular destination for gamblers and visitors seeking entertainment in the Harris area.
So, if you find yourself in northern Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, stop by and give lady luck a chance to smile in your direction. Just remember to set a budget and practice responsible gambling.
Best Casino in Michigan Winner:
- Around 500 Slot Machines
- 8 Table Games
- Golf Course and Dining Options
- Linked Properties
Disadvantages:
- No Poker Room
- Some Complaints About Age Permitted in Attached Hotel
How to Choose the Right Casino in Michigan
So, which of these casinos in Michigan should you visit? It depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in a gaming experience.
Here are a few factors to consider when choosing the right casino:
- Location: Do you prefer a casino in a big city like Detroit or one situated in a rural area? Would you like a lakefront venue or a place close to other attractions?
- Gaming options: Consider the types of games you enjoy playing. Some casinos excel in slot machines, while others offer a wider variety of table games and poker options.
- Atmosphere and amenities: Think about the overall ambiance you want in a casino. Do you prefer a sleek and modern atmosphere or a more classical and elegant setting? What additional amenities do you desire, such as shopping, entertainment, fine dining, spas, or lodging options?
- Promotions and loyalty programs: Check out the current promotions and rewards offered by the casino. Which program suits you best, and what type of benefits can you gain, such as comps, cashback, discounted stays, free play, or event tickets?
Ultimately, the best Michigan casino is the one that aligns with your tastes and provides an enjoyable and potentially profitable gaming experience.
For those who prefer to enjoy the excitement of the casino from the comfort of their own home, please see our page devoted to the .
