Detroit’s Gaming Scene: Three World-Class Casino Resorts
Are there casinos in detroit? Yes, Detroit is home to three major casino resort hotels that have transformed the city’s entertainment landscape since opening in the late 1990s.
Quick Answer:
– 3 casino resorts operate in downtown Detroit
– MGM Grand Detroit – Art Deco luxury with 400 rooms
– MotorCity Casino Hotel – “Future Retro” theme with Sound Board theater
– Hollywood Casino at Greektown – Connected to People Mover transit
– 100,000+ square feet of gaming space at each property
– 21+ age requirement for all gaming areas
– 24/7 operations with full hotel, dining, and entertainment
Detroit’s casino scene emerged after Michigan voters approved three commercial gaming licenses in 1996. What started as temporary facilities has evolved into a cornerstone of the city’s downtown revival, generating over $178 million annually in city tax revenue and attracting millions of visitors to the Motor City.
Beyond gaming floors packed with slots and table games, these properties offer fine dining steakhouses, live entertainment venues, luxury spas, and sports betting. Whether you’re a corporate traveler looking to unwind after work or planning a weekend getaway, Detroit’s casinos provide a complete entertainment experience in the heart of downtown.
I’m Sean Swain, founder of Detroit Furnished Rentals, and I’ve been helping visitors steer Detroit’s entertainment district for years, including guiding guests to the best casino experiences. My knowledge of downtown Detroit means I understand exactly what travelers want to know when asking are there casinos in detroit.
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Are There Casinos in Detroit? Quick Answer
When people ask “are there casinos in detroit,” the answer is a resounding yes! Detroit is home to three commercial casinos that have completely transformed the city’s entertainment scene since Michigan voters approved casino gaming in 1996.
These aren’t your typical small-town gambling halls. We’re talking about massive 400-room hotel towers with approximately 100,000 square feet of gaming space each. Think world-class casino resorts that can hold their own against properties anywhere in the country.
All three casinos operate 24/7 with a strict 21+ age requirement for gaming floors. Unlike some tribal casinos elsewhere in Michigan that allow 18-year-olds, Detroit’s commercial properties consistently enforce the higher age limit across all gaming areas and most restaurants.
The economic impact is huge too. The city collected an estimated $178.25 million in casino taxes for 2007 alone, showing just how much these properties contribute to Detroit’s ongoing downtown revival.
Why the Question “are there casinos in detroit” Matters
Understanding Detroit’s casino scene matters for several great reasons. First, it shows how dramatically the city has changed from industrial decline to entertainment hotspot. When Michigan voters took that leap of faith in 1996, they were betting big on downtown revitalization – and it worked beautifully.
For travelers, knowing about these casino options is pure gold for trip planning. Maybe you’re here on business and want some evening fun, or you’re planning a weekend getaway with friends. These properties offer complete resort experiences that go way beyond just gaming.
The question also reflects Detroit’s growing reputation as a regional gaming hub. With roughly 46 million people living within 300 miles of Metro Detroit, these casinos draw visitors from across the Midwest and our Canadian neighbors too.
Snapshot: Detroit as a Midwest Gaming Destination
Detroit’s casino vibe is refreshingly different from the desert glitz of Las Vegas or the boardwalk nostalgia of Atlantic City. These properties blend naturally into the urban downtown setting, adding to Detroit’s authentic character rather than creating some artificial gaming bubble.
The Midwest location gives Detroit unique advantages. We sit perfectly at the crossroads of major population centers, with more than fifteen million people crossing between Detroit and Windsor annually. That cross-border traffic is a huge boost for casino visitation.
What’s really cool is how Detroit’s casinos complement the broader downtown scene. Visitors often mix casino gaming with Tigers games at Comerica Park, concerts at the Fox Theatre, or exploring the amazing food scene in nearby Corktown. It’s all part of one big, exciting downtown experience.
Detroit’s Three Casino Resorts at a Glance
When people ask “are there casinos in detroit,” they’re really asking about three incredible properties that have completely transformed downtown entertainment. Each casino brings its own personality while delivering the same world-class gaming experience – think 100,000+ square feet of gaming space, 400-room hotel towers, and amenities that rival anything you’ll find in Vegas.
What makes Detroit’s casino scene special is how different each property feels. You’ve got MGM’s sleek Art Deco elegance, MotorCity’s automotive-inspired “Future Retro” vibe, and Greektown’s integration with the city’s historic entertainment district. Yet all three deliver on the fundamentals: extensive gaming floors, multiple dining options, live entertainment, and luxury accommodations.
More info about Detroit MGM Casino and More info about MotorCity Casino provide detailed guides that are especially helpful for guests staying in our furnished apartments who want to explore these properties during their visit.
MGM Grand Detroit
MGM Grand Detroit feels like stepping into Detroit’s golden age, with Art Deco design that celebrates the city’s architectural heritage. This $800 million property opened its permanent facility in October 2007, and it shows – everything from the lobby to the gaming floor screams luxury.
The 17-story tower houses 401 rooms, while the gaming floor spans a massive 100,000 square feet packed with over 4,000 slot machines and dozens of table games. But what really sets MGM apart is how they’ve thought beyond traditional casino amenities. The Topgolf Swing Suite simulator bays let you practice your golf game between poker hands – it’s exactly the kind of unexpected touch that makes this place memorable.
D.PRIME steakhouse anchors the dining scene with fine dining that actually lives up to the hype, while TAP sports bar keeps things casual with over 50 beer choices. The Immerse Spa spans 20,000 square feet, perfect for unwinding after a long gaming session.
The 5,000-car garage means you’ll never circle looking for parking, and the downtown location puts you within walking distance of the riverfront and other entertainment venues. It’s the kind of convenience that makes MGM a natural choice for both locals and visitors.
MotorCity Casino Hotel
MotorCity Casino Hotel perfectly captures what makes Detroit unique. The “Future Retro” design theme, created with legendary car designer Chip Foose, feels authentically Motor City without being cheesy about it. This isn’t just automotive decoration – it’s a thoughtful tribute to the city’s heritage.
The Sound Board theater has become the property’s crown jewel, hosting major entertainment acts in a more intimate setting than you’ll find at larger venues. Combined with seven distinct bars and lounges, MotorCity delivers serious nightlife options that extend well beyond the gaming floor.
Everyone talks about the Assembly Line Buffet, and for good reason. The themed dining stations reflect the automotive inspiration, with prices around $45 per person (seafood nights bump up to $69). It’s become legendary among locals, which tells you everything you need to know about the quality.
Located just off the John C. Lodge Freeway, MotorCity sits about a mile northwest of downtown. This gives you easy highway access while keeping you close enough to walk to other downtown attractions. The 400-room hotel tower offers excellent skyline views that remind you why Detroit’s downtown revival is the real deal.
Greektown Casino-Hotel
Hollywood Casino at Greektown (formerly Greektown Casino-Hotel) sits right in the heart of Detroit’s historic Greektown entertainment district, making it feel more integrated with the city than the other properties. The 30-story, 400-room tower serves as an anchor for one of Detroit’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
More info about Greektown Casino-Hotel covers all the details, but the standout feature is the direct connection to the Detroit People Mover transit system. It’s the only casino in the city with this convenience, making it incredibly accessible if you’re staying downtown without a car.
PRISM steakhouse earned “Best Steakhouse” recognition from HOUR Detroit Magazine, establishing serious culinary credentials. The Monroe Market food hall spans 11,000 square feet with diverse dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals.
The PENN Play rewards program provides extensive benefits across multiple casino destinations, while VIP parking includes an exclusive covered garage for preferred members. Entertainment partnerships with Detroit Music Hall bring live shows to the historic venue right next door, showing how Detroit’s casinos improve rather than replace the existing cultural scene.
Gaming, Dining & Nightlife: What to Expect
When people ask “are there casinos in detroit,” they’re usually curious about what kind of experience awaits them. The answer is impressive – Detroit’s three casino resorts deliver the full Las Vegas-style experience right in the heart of the Motor City.
Each property features extensive slot machine floors packed with the latest games, from penny slots to high-limit machines. Traditional table games include all the classics – blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat. Serious card players will find dedicated poker rooms at each casino, hosting everything from casual games to tournament play.
Sports betting has become a huge draw since Michigan legalized it in March 2020. All three properties now operate retail sportsbooks where you can place bets on everything from Lions games to March Madness. Hollywood Casino at Greektown partners with ESPN BET, creating viewing areas where you can watch the action unfold while tracking your wagers.
The dining scene rivals what you’d find in major destination cities. MGM Grand Detroit houses five different restaurant concepts, including their acclaimed D.PRIME steakhouse. MotorCity’s Assembly Line Buffet has become legendary among locals – at around $45 per person, it offers incredible variety without breaking the bank. Hollywood Casino’s PRISM steakhouse earned recognition as “Best Steakhouse” from HOUR Detroit Magazine, while their 313 Burger Bar provides excellent casual dining.
Beyond gaming and dining, these properties offer serious nightlife and entertainment. MotorCity’s Sound Board theater regularly hosts major musical acts in an intimate setting. MGM features everything from DJ sets to live performances across multiple venues. For those seeking relaxation, MGM’s 20,000-square-foot Immerse Spa provides a complete wellness experience.
Latest research on responsible gaming offers valuable information for anyone wanting to enjoy casino entertainment safely and responsibly.
Age Limits, Hours & Smoking Policies
Detroit’s casinos maintain strict 21+ age requirements for all gaming floors and most restaurants. Security personnel actively check valid government-issued photo ID throughout the properties, so always bring proper identification.
The gaming action never stops – casino floors operate 24/7, though bars observe last call around 2 a.m. following Michigan liquor laws. Unlike some other states, Michigan prohibits complimentary alcoholic beverages for gamblers, so you’ll need to purchase drinks.
Smoking policies have improved significantly, especially since the pandemic. Instead of allowing smoking throughout gaming areas, casinos now provide designated smoking zones off the main floors. This creates much better air quality while still accommodating guests who smoke.
Hotel check-in typically starts at 4 p.m., though early arrival might be possible depending on availability. Valet parking operates around the clock at all three properties, making arrival convenient any time of day or night.
Loyalty Programs & Perks
Each casino runs comprehensive rewards programs that provide real value for regular visitors. MGM Grand Detroit’s M life Rewards offers tier benefits, complimentary play, and dining credits based on your gaming activity. Points earned can be redeemed for meals, hotel stays, and entertainment tickets.
MotorCity’s Club Metro provides similar benefits with special perks for local residents, including exclusive member events and priority restaurant reservations. The program also features special gaming promotions throughout the year.
Hollywood Casino’s PENN Play program extends beyond Detroit, allowing you to earn and redeem rewards at multiple properties nationwide. New members can receive up to $500 back in slot play, plus ongoing tier point accumulation for additional benefits.
Tier status typically depends on annual gaming activity. Higher levels provide improved benefits like priority check-in, complimentary valet parking, and exclusive member events. These programs genuinely reward loyalty while providing tangible value that makes each visit more enjoyable.
Getting There & Getting Around
Getting to Detroit’s casinos couldn’t be easier, thanks to their prime downtown locations and excellent transportation connections. Whether you’re driving from across the Midwest or flying into Detroit Metropolitan Airport, you’ll find convenient ways to reach the gaming action.
All three casino properties understand that parking can make or break a casino visit. MGM Grand Detroit leads the pack with its massive 5,000-car garage – the largest casino parking facility in the city. You’ll never circle endlessly looking for a spot here. Hollywood Casino at Greektown sweetens the deal with exclusive VIP covered parking for their preferred members, while all three properties offer complimentary valet service that makes you feel like a high roller from the moment you arrive.
The downtown locations provide a huge advantage over suburban casino properties. You’re not stuck in an isolated gaming bubble – instead, you’re in the heart of a vibrant city with multiple transportation options and plenty to see and do beyond the casino floors.
Public transit fans will love the connectivity options. The Detroit People Mover provides direct access to Hollywood Casino at Greektown, while the other properties sit within easy walking distance of People Mover stations. The QLINE streetcar adds another layer of convenience, connecting the casino district to the riverfront and other downtown attractions.
More info about Detroit Transport Guide covers all your transit options if you want to explore the city car-free.
Are there casinos in detroit reachable without a car?
The short answer? Absolutely yes. Detroit’s downtown casino locations make asking “are there casinos in detroit” reachable without a car almost unnecessary – they’re incredibly accessible via multiple transportation methods.
The compact downtown layout means you can easily walk between all three casinos and other attractions. It’s a pleasant stroll that lets you soak in the city’s ongoing revival. The area feels safe and welcoming, especially during evening hours when the casino district comes alive with activity.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have designated pickup and drop-off zones at each casino, making transfers smooth and predictable. No more wandering around trying to find your ride – each property has clearly marked areas that drivers know well.
The Detroit People Mover deserves special mention for casino visitors. This automated transit system connects directly to Hollywood Casino at Greektown, while MGM Grand Detroit and MotorCity Casino Hotel are just short walks from nearby stations. The system runs frequently during peak hours and provides a fun, liftd view of downtown as you travel.
Even international visitors can reach Detroit’s casinos without a car. Cross-border traffic from Windsor flows easily via the Ambassador Bridge or Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, then connects to local transportation options. Many Canadian visitors make this trip specifically for the casino experience.
Where to Stay Nearby
Your accommodation choice can significantly impact your casino experience. The casino hotels themselves offer the ultimate convenience – stumble from your room to the gaming floor in minutes, and retreat upstairs when you need a break. Each property features 400+ rooms ranging from comfortable standards to luxury suites, with rates that often reflect your gaming activity level.
Downtown Detroit’s boutique hotels and national chains provide excellent alternatives within walking distance of all three casinos. This gives you the flexibility to enjoy casino amenities without committing to staying on-site. You might prefer a quieter environment away from the 24/7 casino energy.
For visitors seeking more space and home-like comfort, furnished apartments offer compelling advantages. Our guests at Detroit Furnished Rentals frequently choose this option for casino trips, especially for extended stays or when traveling with pets. Having a fully equipped kitchen means you can prepare your own meals and snacks – a nice budget-friendly balance to casino dining.
The dedicated workspaces in our furnished apartments also appeal to business travelers who want to mix work with entertainment. You can handle calls and emails in a quiet, professional environment, then head out for casino excitement when your workday ends.
Many guests tell us they appreciate having a peaceful retreat after exciting casino evenings. There’s something special about unwinding in your own space with a kitchen, comfortable seating, and all the amenities of home – while still being just minutes from the gaming action.
Detroit’s Casino Scene in the Region
Detroit’s three casinos don’t operate in isolation – they’re part of a vibrant regional gaming market that stretches across the Great Lakes. When people ask “are there casinos in detroit,” they’re often comparing options throughout Michigan and neighboring states.
The Motor City sits in a sweet spot geographically. More than 46 million people live within 300 miles of downtown Detroit, creating an enormous potential customer base. This includes major population centers like Chicago, Cleveland, Toronto, and countless smaller cities throughout the Midwest.
What makes Detroit special is its urban setting. Unlike many gaming destinations that feel isolated or artificial, these casinos integrate seamlessly into a real city with authentic character. Visitors combine casino gaming with Tigers games, concerts at Fox Theatre, or exploring the riverfront – creating multi-day experiences that keep people coming back.
The cross-border flow with Canada adds another dimension. Over fifteen million people cross between Detroit and Windsor annually, and many Canadian visitors appreciate the different gaming atmosphere and entertainment options available on the American side.
Michigan’s tribal casinos throughout the state provide regional competition, but Detroit’s commercial properties offer a distinctly different experience. The downtown location, world-class dining, major entertainment acts, and luxury amenities create a resort-style atmosphere that stands apart from smaller regional facilities.
How Detroit Casinos Boost the Local Economy
The numbers tell an impressive story. Detroit projected collecting $178.25 million in casino taxes for 2007 alone – money that directly supports city services, infrastructure improvements, and community programs. That’s real funding that makes a tangible difference in residents’ daily lives.
Employment impact extends throughout downtown Detroit. Each casino employs hundreds of people in everything from gaming operations to restaurants, hotels, security, and administration. These aren’t just jobs – they’re careers with benefits packages that support local families and contribute to the community’s stability.
Tourism growth has been remarkable. Many visitors who come for casino gaming find other Detroit attractions and return for future visits. This creates a positive cycle where casinos bring people to the city, and the city’s other amenities keep them coming back.
The convention and meeting business represents another major economic driver. MGM Grand Detroit’s 30,000 square feet of meeting space and 1,200-seat theater attracts corporate groups, conferences, and special events. These business travelers often extend their stays to enjoy gaming and entertainment.
Downtown revitalization has accelerated alongside casino development. Increased foot traffic, improved security presence, and rising property values have encouraged additional restaurant, retail, and entertainment development throughout the area.
For guests staying in our furnished apartments, this economic vitality translates to a more vibrant, safer, and more interesting neighborhood to explore. The casinos have become anchor tenants that support an entire ecosystem of downtown entertainment and dining options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Are There Casinos in Detroit
When people search “are there casinos in detroit,” they usually have specific practical questions about visiting these properties. As someone who helps guests steer Detroit’s entertainment scene daily through Detroit Furnished Rentals, I hear these same questions repeatedly from travelers staying in our furnished apartments.
Let me answer the most common questions with the straightforward information you need to plan your casino visit.
How many casinos are in Detroit and what are their names?
Detroit operates exactly three commercial casinos, each offering a complete resort experience. These properties are MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino Hotel, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown (which recently changed from Greektown Casino-Hotel).
What makes Detroit unique is that these aren’t small gambling halls – we’re talking about massive resort complexes. Each property features approximately 100,000 square feet of gaming space housed in spectacular 17-story hotel towers with around 400 rooms.
The story behind these casinos is pretty interesting. Michigan voters approved three commercial gaming licenses back in 1996, and all three properties started as temporary facilities. Over the years, they’ve evolved into the impressive resort destinations you see today, each with its own personality and attractions.
From my experience helping guests choose between them, MGM Grand Detroit offers Art Deco luxury, MotorCity Casino Hotel provides that authentic “Future Retro” automotive theme, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown gives you the most convenient People Mover access for getting around downtown.
Do Detroit casinos offer sports betting and online gaming?
Absolutely! All three Detroit casinos jumped into sports betting when Michigan legalized it on March 11, 2020. Each property operates its own retail sportsbook where you can place bets on everything from Lions games to March Madness.
ESPN BET serves as the official partner at Hollywood Casino at Greektown, while MGM and MotorCity run their own branded sports betting facilities. These aren’t just counters tucked in a corner – they’re full-featured spaces with viewing areas, live odds displays, and comfortable seating for watching games.
Online gambling is also legal in Michigan for anyone 21 and older. Several operators offer mobile apps that let you play real-money casino games from anywhere within state boundaries. Hollywood Casino’s app features over 500 casino games, daily promotions, and connects with their PENN Play rewards program.
This means you could literally place a sports bet from your furnished apartment, then head over to the casino to collect your winnings if you’re lucky! Just remember that online gaming only works while you’re physically in Michigan.
What’s the minimum age and ID needed to gamble?
Here’s where Detroit’s casinos are stricter than some other Michigan gaming venues. The minimum gambling age is 21 years old at all three properties. This applies to gaming floors, sports betting areas, and even most of the on-site restaurants.
You’ll need valid government-issued photo identification to enter, and security can ask to see it anytime during your visit. Driver’s licenses, state ID cards, passports, and military identification all work fine. Just make sure your ID isn’t expired – they’re pretty strict about that.
This 21+ requirement differs from some tribal casinos in Michigan that allow 18-year-olds to gamble. Detroit’s commercial properties follow the same age rules as Las Vegas and Atlantic City, which keeps things consistent if you’re used to gaming in major markets.
Security personnel actively check IDs throughout the properties, not just at the entrance. It might seem like a hassle, but it’s actually reassuring to know they’re maintaining a safe, controlled environment for all guests.
Conclusion
So, are there casinos in detroit? You bet there are – and they’re pretty spectacular. Detroit’s three casino resorts have genuinely transformed the downtown area from a sleepy business district into a buzzing entertainment hub that rivals major gaming destinations.
What I love about Detroit’s casino scene is how authentic it feels. These aren’t artificial gaming bubbles dropped into the middle of nowhere. MGM Grand Detroit’s Art Deco elegance, MotorCity’s automotive-inspired design, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown’s integration with the historic entertainment district all feel uniquely Detroit.
Whether you’re here for a quick evening of slots and dinner or planning a full weekend getaway, these properties deliver. The luxury spas offer genuine relaxation after exciting gaming sessions. The fine dining restaurants like D.PRIME and PRISM compete with the best steakhouses anywhere. And venues like the Sound Board bring world-class entertainment right downtown.
As someone who helps visitors steer Detroit daily, I’ve seen how these casinos work perfectly with our furnished apartment rentals. Many of our guests love having a quiet, comfortable home base with a fully equipped kitchen and pet-friendly accommodations just minutes from the casino action. There’s something special about being able to grab a home-cooked breakfast before heading out for a day of gaming, or having your furry friend waiting when you return from an exciting evening downtown.
The stay and play packages that many properties offer can provide excellent value, but don’t overlook the benefits of staying in one of our furnished apartments nearby. You’ll get more space, the convenience of cooking your own meals, and the flexibility to truly make Detroit your temporary home while exploring everything the casino district offers.
More info about Detroit Casinos area guide provides additional details for guests who want to maximize their casino experience while staying in our furnished accommodations.
