Experience Detroit’s Gaming Scene: The Ultimate Casino Resort Guide
Detroit casino resorts offer world-class gaming, luxury accommodations, and entertainment in the heart of Motor City. Here’s what you need to know:
- Three major casino resorts: MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino Hotel, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown
- Gaming space: Each features approximately 100,000 square feet of gaming space
- Accommodations: 400+ hotel rooms at each property with luxury amenities
- Location: All centrally located in downtown Detroit
- Dining options: Multiple restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining
- Entertainment: Live performances, sports betting, and nightlife venues
Detroit’s casino scene combines Vegas-style gaming with Midwestern hospitality, creating unique entertainment destinations that contribute significantly to the city’s tourism economy. Each resort offers distinctive amenities while maintaining the excitement of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms that attract visitors from across the region.
The city’s strategic location—with an estimated 46 million people living within a 300-mile radius—makes these resorts popular destinations for weekend getaways and extended stays alike. Visitors can enjoy not only the gaming floors but also luxury spas, concert venues, and chef-driven restaurants all under one roof.
I’m Sean Swain, and my experience operating Detroit Furnished Rentals has given me unique insights into what travelers seek when visiting Detroit casino resorts, as many of our guests choose our accommodations for their proximity to these entertainment hubs. Our properties offer the perfect home base for exploring Detroit’s vibrant casino scene while enjoying the comforts of a fully furnished rental.
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Detroit Casino Resort Snapshot
Welcome to Motor City’s dazzling gaming wonderland! Detroit’s casino scene stands among America’s most impressive metropolitan gaming markets, with three magnificent Detroit casino resorts changing the city’s entertainment landscape since their permanent structures opened in the late 2000s. Together, these gaming palaces create a vibrant playground that rivals many long-established gambling destinations.
The economic punch these casinos pack is nothing short of remarkable. Back in 2007, Detroit anticipated collecting a whopping $178.25 million in casino taxes alone – a figure that’s only grown as these resorts have expanded their offerings. This steady stream of revenue has been a lifeline for Detroit’s revival, funding essential public services and much-needed infrastructure improvements throughout the city.
Each Detroit casino resort boasts approximately 100,000 square feet of gaming paradise, home to thousands of slot machines and dozens of table games where fortunes are won and lost daily. What makes Detroit special is the walkable concentration of these gaming venues in the downtown area – creating an exciting urban casino experience that feels more intimate than the sprawling resort corridors you might find elsewhere.
Just a stone’s throw away across the Detroit River, Caesars Windsor adds an international flavor to our region’s gaming menu, attracting roughly six million visitors each year. This unique cross-border gaming market – accessible via the Ambassador Bridge or the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel – sees more than fifteen million people traveling between the two countries annually, creating a truly international gaming experience unlike anywhere else in America.
Why Detroit for Casino Resorts?
Location, location, location! The strategic positioning of Detroit casino resorts taps into an enormous potential customer base – with an estimated 46 million people living within a 300-mile radius of Metro Detroit. This population density, combined with excellent highway access and international border crossings, creates the perfect storm for gaming tourism success.
These casinos weren’t just built for gambling – they’ve been instrumental in breathing new life into downtown Detroit. When MGM Grand Detroit unveiled its permanent resort in October 2007, it wasn’t merely adding another gaming venue to the landscape. It established an entertainment anchor that helped transform how people perceive downtown Detroit. The casino’s arrival even prompted the reconstruction of 3rd Street into a two-way boulevard to improve traffic flow – a testament to these resorts’ city-shaping influence.
Beyond the gaming tables, the Detroit casino resort scene has generated thousands of good jobs and established the city as an entertainment destination that goes well beyond its traditional automotive and musical roots. By weaving these resorts into the urban fabric rather than isolating them in suburban areas, Detroit created a cohesive entertainment district that encourages visitors to venture beyond the casino doors and explore everything our revitalized downtown has to offer.
Comparing Detroit’s Big Three Casino Resorts
Looking for the perfect place to try your luck in Motor City? Each Detroit casino resort has its own unique charm and offerings, while all delivering world-class gaming experiences. Let’s take a friendly tour through what makes each one special, so you can find your perfect match.
| Feature | MGM Grand Detroit | MotorCity Casino Hotel | Hollywood Casino at Greektown |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gaming Space | 100,000 sq ft | 100,000 sq ft | 100,000 sq ft |
| Slot Machines | 4,000+ | 2,800+ | 2,700+ |
| Table Games | 140+ | 60+ | 60+ |
| Poker Room | Yes | Yes | Largest in Detroit |
| Hotel Rooms | 401 | 400 | 400 |
| Signature Restaurant | Wolfgang Puck Steak | Revel Steak | Prism |
| Entertainment Venue | 1,200-seat theater | SoundBoard | None (nearby Fox Theatre) |
| Spa | Yes | D.Tour Spa | No |
| Loyalty Program | MGM Rewards | Club Metro | PENN Play |
| Unique Feature | BetMGM Sportsbook | Free EV charging | VIP covered garage |
| Opening Date | Permanent resort: Oct 2007 | Permanent resort: 2007 | Originally opened: 2000 |
MGM Grand Detroit
When you walk into MGM Grand Detroit, you immediately feel the Vegas-style luxury that made this pioneer—the first permanent Detroit casino resort to open back in October 2007—such a game-changer for the city. The gaming floor buzzes with energy across its massive 100,000 square feet, where you’ll find over 4,000 slot machines and more than 140 table games to test your luck.
After a day of gaming, retreat to one of their 401 stylish rooms where contemporary design meets comfort. Each room offers a peaceful escape with plush bedding and modern bathrooms that make you feel pampered. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer lovely views of the Detroit skyline—a perfect backdrop as you unwind.
Sports fans absolutely love the BetMGM Sportsbook, where the excitement of game day comes alive with wall-to-wall screens and comfortable seating. For a more sophisticated evening, the Onyx lounge serves up craft cocktails in an atmosphere that feels both upscale and welcoming—perfect for celebrating your casino wins.
The resort’s 1,200-seat theater has hosted everyone from Kid Rock to Ashanti since its grand opening, making MGM not just a place to gamble, but a true entertainment destination where memories are made beyond the gaming floor.
MotorCity Casino Hotel
MotorCity Casino Hotel brilliantly captures Detroit’s automotive spirit in its design while offering thoroughly modern amenities that today’s travelers expect. The energy on the gaming floor is infectious, with over 2,800 slot machines and more than 60 table games waiting for your lucky streak.
The 400 rooms and suites deliver what the resort accurately describes as “unrivaled elegance and amenities.” Business travelers appreciate the dedicated workspace in each room, while everyone enjoys the luxury bedding and modern entertainment systems that make your stay comfortable whether you’re here for work or play.
What really sets MotorCity apart is the incredible D.Tour Spa—a true urban oasis where thermal whirlpools, steam rooms, and dry saunas help melt away stress. After a relaxing massage, you might catch a show at the SoundBoard theater, an intimate venue where the acoustics are as impressive as the performers who grace its stage.
In a thoughtful nod to our changing world, MotorCity offers free EV parking and charging stations—a small touch that shows they’re thinking about tomorrow while delivering a great experience today.
Hollywood Casino at Greektown
Nestled in Detroit’s vibrant Greektown district, this Detroit casino resort combines gaming excitement with the neighborhood’s historic charm. The gaming floor features over 2,600 slot machines and more than 60 table games, creating a lively atmosphere that draws both tourists and locals.
Poker enthusiasts, take note—Hollywood Casino boasts Detroit’s largest poker room, making it the go-to destination for serious card players. After trying your hand at the tables, retire to one of their 400 rooms in the 30-story hotel tower, where the distinctive blue-tinted windows frame spectacular 360-degree views of downtown Detroit, the Detroit River, and even Canada across the water.
Tech-savvy visitors appreciate the Hollywood Casino app, offering 500+ games for real-money play that integrate seamlessly with the PENN Play loyalty program—letting you continue the fun even when you’re away from the casino floor.
For those who value convenience, the exclusive VIP covered garage is a standout feature—the only one among Detroit casino resorts. Loyalty members enjoy tier-based complimentary parking with dedicated access for Preferred, Elite, Owners Club, Advantage, and Play members.
One of the best perks of staying here is the location itself—guests receive complimentary access to 20 restaurants in the surrounding Greektown Entertainment District, letting you sample the neighborhood’s famous dining scene beyond the resort’s own excellent restaurants.
Hollywood Casino at Detroit Greektown
Beyond the Tables: Rooms, Dining & Nightlife
There’s so much more to Detroit casino resorts than just trying your luck at the gaming tables. These vibrant destinations have evolved into complete entertainment hubs where you can indulge in luxury accommodations, savor exceptional cuisine, and enjoy lively nightlife—all under one roof. Think of Vegas-style amenities but with Detroit’s signature warmth and character.
Walking through these resorts, you’ll find restaurants that have become destinations in their own right. From casual grab-and-go spots perfect for a quick bite between games to neat fine dining establishments where you can celebrate a big win, the culinary scene rivals standalone restaurants throughout the city. Many venues showcase local Michigan ingredients while incorporating global influences, creating unique dining experiences you won’t find elsewhere.
When the sun goes down, the energy shifts as the nightlife venues come alive. Sports fans gather at lively bars to cheer on the Tigers, Lions, Red Wings, or Pistons on massive screens, while those seeking a more sophisticated evening can sink into plush seating at upscale lounges where mixologists craft perfect cocktails. These spaces attract both overnight guests and local Detroiters, creating a vibrant social atmosphere that contributes to downtown’s renaissance.
Plush Hotel Stays at Each Detroit Casino Resort
After a day of excitement, retreating to your room at a Detroit casino resort feels like entering a private sanctuary. Each property has invested significantly in creating accommodations that rival luxury hotels anywhere in the Midwest.
MGM Grand Detroit’s 401 rooms blend contemporary design with thoughtful touches. Their suites feature separate living areas where you can relax, marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame Detroit’s evolving skyline. The design balances neutral tones with artistic elements that subtly nod to the city’s creative heritage.
At MotorCity Casino Hotel, “unrivaled elegance” isn’t just marketing speak—it’s evident the moment you step into one of their 400 rooms. The plush bedding invites you to sink in and relax, while spa-inspired rain showers provide a refreshing start to your day. Business travelers appreciate thoughtful additions like USB charging ports and dedicated workspaces, making these rooms as functional as they are comfortable.
If views are what you’re after, Hollywood Casino at Greektown’s 30-story tower delivers some of the most spectacular vistas in the city. Through distinctive blue-tinted windows, guests enjoy panoramic views of downtown Detroit, the shimmering Detroit River, and even across the border into Canada. Their luxury suites feature generous living areas, indulgent soaking tubs, and high-end furnishings that create a residential feel.
One thing to note (and budget for) is that like most upscale casino properties, these resorts do charge daily amenity fees. For example, Hollywood Casino at Greektown adds $27.59 per night (including tax) to cover amenities like Wi-Fi, fitness center access, and in-room entertainment.
Standout Restaurants & Bars
The dining scene at Detroit casino resorts has become a major draw even for those who don’t consider themselves gamblers. Each property has developed signature restaurants that stand on their own merits, attracting food lovers from across the region.
Hollywood Casino at Greektown’s crown jewel is Prism, an upscale restaurant that’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or enjoying a romantic dinner. The sophisticated atmosphere and refined menu make it a destination worth dressing up for. For more casual fare, Monroe Market offers a food-hall concept where you can wander between different stations, each specializing in different cuisines. Sports fans gravitate to Trappers Bar on the casino floor, where the energy is high and the screens are plentiful.
Over at MotorCity Casino Hotel, Revel Steak has earned a reputation for perfectly prepared premium cuts and classic steakhouse sides with modern twists. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a favorite for business dinners and celebrations alike. When you’re looking for something quicker, the on-site food court offers multiple options that don’t sacrifice quality for convenience.
The bar scene across these properties ranges from craft beer havens showcasing Michigan’s excellent brewing tradition to sophisticated lounges where you can sample artisanal cocktails crafted with house-made ingredients. Weekend evenings often feature live music or DJs, creating energetic spaces where both hotel guests and locals mingle.
One of Hollywood Casino at Greektown’s unique advantages is its location in the historic Greektown district, giving guests complimentary access to 20 additional restaurants just steps from the property. This integration with the surrounding neighborhood improves your options and encourages exploration of this vibrant part of downtown Detroit.
Shows, Spas, Sportsbooks
Entertainment at Detroit casino resorts extends far beyond the gaming floor, with venues and amenities designed to appeal to diverse interests and preferences.
Music lovers flock to MotorCity Casino Hotel’s SoundBoard theater, which has established itself as one of Detroit’s premier intimate concert venues. With exceptional acoustics and seating for approximately 1,200, it attracts national touring acts across musical genres. There’s truly not a bad seat in the house, creating memorable performance experiences whether you’re there for rock, R&B, or stand-up comedy.
Similarly, MGM Grand Detroit’s theater hosts an impressive calendar of entertainment ranging from musical performances to comedy shows and special events. These venues have become integral to Detroit’s entertainment landscape, bringing top talent to intimate settings where you can enjoy performances without the massive crowds of larger arenas.
After all that excitement, D.Tour Spa at MotorCity offers a perfect respite. This full-service wellness retreat features thermal whirlpools where you can soak away tension, aromatic steam rooms, dry saunas, and a comprehensive menu of massage and facial treatments. Spa coordinators help customize your experience, whether you’re looking for deep tissue work to address specific issues or a gentle relaxation massage.
Sports betting has added an exciting new dimension to Detroit casino resorts in recent years. Dedicated sportsbook areas offer comfortable seating where you can settle in for an afternoon of game-watching, with multiple screens showing simultaneous action and convenient betting windows or kiosks nearby. Hollywood Casino at Greektown has partnered with ESPN BET to create “the official sportsbook of ESPN,” featuring exclusive odds boosts and promotions for sports enthusiasts.
Industry research confirms that wellness amenities like spas have become increasingly important factors in travel decisions. Studies show that travelers who incorporate wellness experiences during their stays report significantly higher satisfaction levels and are more likely to return to properties offering these services.
Scientific research on wellness-travel
Need-to-Know Tips: Policies, Rewards, Getting Around
Let’s talk about the practical stuff that can make or break your casino getaway. Knowing the ins and outs of Detroit casino resort policies before you arrive can save you headaches and help you squeeze every bit of value from your visit.
Standard check-in time at most Detroit casino resorts is 3:00 PM, with check-out typically by 11:00 AM or noon. If you’re arriving early or need to stay later, it never hurts to ask—early check-in and late check-out might be possible depending on how busy they are and your loyalty status. Michigan gaming laws require visitors to be 21 or older on the casino floor, though younger guests (18+) can usually access restaurants and hotels when accompanied by adults.
Technology has made arrival smoother at these properties. Hollywood Casino at Greektown, for instance, offers the PENN Play app that lets you check in digitally and even use your phone as your room key. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference, especially after a long drive into the city.
When you check in, have your ID and credit card ready. The resorts typically place a hold of around $100 on your card for incidentals—this isn’t a charge, just a temporary hold that’s released when you check out (assuming you didn’t raid the minibar!).
Parking & Transit Hacks
Each Detroit casino resort has its own parking setup, and knowing the differences can save you both time and money.
MotorCity Casino Hotel is the clear winner for budget-conscious travelers, offering both self-parking and valet service completely free. If you drive an electric vehicle, you’ll appreciate their complimentary EV charging stations—a thoughtful amenity that’s becoming increasingly important.
Hollywood Casino at Greektown takes a different approach with their exclusive VIP covered garage on level 3. This premium parking area is reserved for loyalty program members at the Preferred level and above. For everyone else, the regular self-parking garage is accessible from I-375, but keep in mind it’s credit card only—no cash accepted at the payment kiosks.
If you prefer the convenience of valet service, all three resorts offer it, though typically with a fee attached. Hollywood Casino at Greektown runs their valet service 24 hours from Thursday through Sunday, perfect for those late-night outings. Loyalty program members at higher tiers often get valet parking fees waived—another reason to sign up before your visit.
Using Uber or Lyft? Look for the clearly marked rideshare zones near the main entrances. These designated pickup and drop-off areas make arrivals and departures much smoother, especially during busy weekend evenings.
Rewards Programs & Best Booking Strategies
If you’re planning multiple visits to Detroit casino resorts, joining their loyalty programs is absolutely worth your time. These free programs can transform an ordinary stay into a value-packed experience.
MGM Grand Detroit’s MGM Rewards program lets you earn points across five tiers (Sapphire, Pearl, Gold, Platinum, and NOIR) whenever you game, dine, or stay. As you climb the tiers, perks get increasingly attractive—from discounted rooms and priority check-in to complimentary valet parking and room upgrades. The best part? Your status and points work at any MGM property nationwide.
MotorCity Casino Hotel keeps it local with their Club Metro program. Gaming earns you points that convert to free play, dining credits, hotel stays, and merchandise. Their “Stay & Play” package is particularly popular, including $40 in Reward Play® with your overnight stay—essentially discounting your room if you’re planning to hit the casino floor anyway.
Hollywood Casino at Greektown makes a bold play for new members with their PENN Play program, offering up to $500 back in slot play for those who join and play within their first 24 hours. Keep playing to reach 3,000 Tier Points, and you’ll open up additional PENN Cash bonuses.
For scoring the best room rates, booking directly through the resort websites typically offers the most competitive pricing. Many properties will match or beat rates found elsewhere with their best rate guarantees. Watch for package deals that bundle rooms with dining credits or free play—these packages often represent better value than booking each component separately.
Responsible Gaming Resources at Detroit Casino Resorts
Behind the glitz and excitement, Detroit casino resorts take their responsibility to promote healthy gaming seriously. Each property offers resources for guests who might need support.
Self-exclusion programs allow anyone to voluntarily ban themselves from the casino for a set period. Working with the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), these programs provide an important safety net for those who recognize they need to step back from gaming.
MGM Grand Detroit’s GameSense program stands out with its educational approach. Interactive kiosks on the gaming floor offer information about game odds and responsible betting strategies, while on-site advisors can answer questions about responsible gaming practices.
All properties prominently display the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-270-7117) throughout their facilities and websites. This confidential 24/7 service connects callers with professionals who provide support and treatment referrals when needed. For more intensive support, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services offers specialized gambling addiction counseling, with some services available at no cost to Michigan residents.
These resources reflect the industry’s commitment to ensuring that casino entertainment remains fun rather than problematic for guests—an important consideration for any responsible visitor to Detroit casino resorts.
Frequently Asked Questions about Detroit Casino Resorts
What’s the legal gambling age in Detroit?
If you’re planning to hit the gaming floor at any Detroit casino resort, you’ll need to be 21 or older to join the fun. This age requirement applies across the board—whether you’re trying your luck at slots, testing your poker face, placing sports bets, or enjoying table games.
Don’t forget your ID! Security staff will check for valid government-issued photo identification when you enter the gaming areas. They take this seriously, so even if you’re clearly over 21, having your ID ready will make for a smoother experience.
Traveling with family members under 21? No problem! Younger guests can still enjoy the hotel rooms and many of the resort amenities like restaurants and shops when accompanied by adults. Many Detroit casino resorts have thoughtfully designed their layouts with dedicated pathways that allow younger visitors to access non-gaming areas without crossing the casino floor.
Do Detroit casino resorts charge resort or amenity fees?
Yes, like many upscale hotels nationwide, Detroit casino resorts do add resort or amenity fees to your bill. For instance, Hollywood Casino at Greektown currently charges $27.59 per night (including tax) on top of your room rate.
What do these fees actually cover? Typically, they include conveniences like:
- High-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property
- Access to state-of-the-art fitness centers
- In-room coffee, tea, and bottled water
- Local and toll-free calls
- Digital newspaper subscriptions
- Premium in-room entertainment systems
These fees aren’t optional—they apply to all reservations, even when you’re booking with loyalty points or through discount travel sites. When comparing prices between different Detroit casino resorts, be sure to factor in these fees for an accurate picture of what you’ll actually pay.
How can I earn complimentary rooms or meals fastest?
Want to maximize your chances for free stays and dining? The secret is loyalty and focus. Rather than spreading your play across all three Detroit casino resorts, concentrate your gaming at just one property to climb their loyalty tiers more quickly.
Each resort offers its own rewards program with slightly different perks:
At MGM Grand Detroit, the MGM Rewards program lets you earn points through gaming, dining, and hotel stays. Once you reach Gold, Platinum, or the exclusive NOIR levels, you’ll start receiving complimentary room offers based on your play history.
MotorCity’s Club Metro rewards regular players with points that can be redeemed for everything from free slot play to hotel stays and meals. The more you play, the better the offers get.
If you choose Hollywood Casino at Greektown, their PENN Play program offers quite the welcome—new members can earn up to $500 in slot play within their first 24 hours. Reach 3,000 Tier Points and you’ll open up additional PENN Cash bonuses.
For the savviest players, focusing on table games with lower house edges (think blackjack or craps) while using proper strategy can stretch your gaming budget. Also, keep an eye out for promotional point multiplier days—these can significantly accelerate your path to complimentary perks.
Many of our guests at Detroit Furnished Rentals enjoy having a comfortable home base near these casino resorts, giving them the flexibility to enjoy the gaming excitement while having a more residential experience to return to. Our pet-friendly accommodations are particularly popular with guests who want to bring their furry companions along for their Detroit trip.
Conclusion
Detroit casino resorts have breathed new life into the city’s entertainment landscape, creating vibrant destinations where world-class gaming meets luxury accommodations, exceptional dining, and top-tier entertainment. Each property brings something special to the table—from MGM Grand Detroit’s sophisticated elegance to MotorCity’s automotive-inspired design and Hollywood Casino at Greektown’s seamless neighborhood integration. Together, they’ve become cornerstones in Detroit’s ongoing renaissance.
These resorts do more than entertain—they power the local economy. By generating substantial tax revenue and creating thousands of good-paying jobs, they’ve become economic engines that help drive Detroit forward. Their strategic location is nothing short of brilliant—with 46 million potential visitors living within a 300-mile radius and easy access to our Canadian neighbors across the river, these properties are perfectly positioned for long-term success.
If you’re weighing your options for a casino getaway, Detroit offers remarkable value compared to more established gaming destinations. You’ll find comparable amenities often at more wallet-friendly prices, plus the added bonus of a walkable downtown that puts other attractions, restaurants, and cultural institutions within easy reach during your stay.
At Detroit Furnished Rentals, we’ve had a front-row seat to how Detroit casino resorts have transformed tourism in our city. Many guests specifically choose our accommodations because of their proximity to these entertainment hubs. Our pet-friendly, fully equipped rentals offer a spacious alternative to standard hotel rooms, with full kitchens and comfortable workspaces that make longer stays feel like home.
Whether you’re planning a weekend of gaming excitement or an extended exploration of everything Detroit has to offer, our city’s casino resorts deliver world-class entertainment that keeps getting better with each passing year. We invite you to find these dynamic properties and experience Detroit’s remarkable comeback story firsthand.
