Kewadin Casinos Launch Next Stage of Multiyear Capital Improvements

The Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians operates Kewadin Casinos across five locations in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and the organization has outlined the next phase of its multimillion-dollar multiyear capital improvement program. This initiative targets enhancements at all five properties while maintaining full casino floor operations throughout the construction periods, according to the announcement. Upgrades focus on guest amenities that support extended visits and draw a broader range of visitors. Plans include hotel room renovations, construction of new full-hookup RV parks, improvements to bars, restaurants and delis, plus a new sports bar featuring virtual gaming options. The most significant addition centers on the Sault Ste. Marie property, where a waterpark will be built after demolition of the original East Wing begins in late 2026.

Timeline and Phased Implementation

Work on the various projects begins in summer 2026 and extends through 2027. The staggered schedule allows crews to address one area at a time across the five sites, which reduces disruption to daily gaming and hospitality services. Demolition at the Sault Ste. Marie East Wing is scheduled to start later in 2026, after which construction of the waterpark will proceed as part of the overall timeline.

June 2026 marks the final planning window before physical work ramps up, giving project managers time to coordinate contractors, secure permits and finalize material orders for the initial wave of hotel and RV park improvements.

Specific Upgrades at Each Property

Hotel room renovations will refresh guest accommodations at multiple locations, updating furnishings, finishes and technology features to align with contemporary traveler expectations. New full-hookup RV parks will provide expanded options for visitors traveling with recreational vehicles, including electrical, water and sewer connections at each site.

Bar, restaurant and deli improvements will modernize dining venues across the properties, while the new sports bar with virtual gaming at one location adds an entertainment component designed to complement existing casino offerings. These changes target families and regional visitors who seek a mix of gaming and non-gaming activities during longer stays.

Operational Continuity During Construction

Project leaders have emphasized that casino floors will remain fully operational while renovations occur. This approach involves careful sequencing of work zones, temporary barriers and after-hours construction where necessary. Observers note that maintaining revenue-generating areas during upgrades helps sustain employment and guest access throughout the multiyear effort.

Strategic Goals Behind the Investments

The capital program aims to attract families and regional visitors by expanding amenities beyond traditional gaming. Longer guest stays represent another key objective, supported by the combination of refreshed hotel rooms, RV accommodations and new recreational features such as the waterpark. Data from similar tribal gaming expansions in other regions shows that diversified amenities often correlate with increased overnight visitation and ancillary spending.

According to industry reporting on the announcement, the Sault Tribe views these upgrades as a way to strengthen its position within Michigan's tourism landscape while responding to evolving visitor preferences.

Background on the Properties

Kewadin Casinos operates five sites in the Upper Peninsula, each serving distinct local and traveling markets. The planned improvements apply across this network, ensuring consistent quality standards and guest experiences from one location to the next. Coordination among the sites allows shared resources for procurement and contractor management, which streamlines the overall delivery of the program through 2027.

Conclusion

The next phase of capital improvements at Kewadin Casinos represents a coordinated, multiyear commitment by the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians to enhance its five Upper Peninsula properties. With work slated to begin in summer 2026 and continue through 2027, the projects encompass hotel renovations, new RV parks, dining upgrades, a sports bar with virtual gaming and a waterpark at Sault Ste. Marie following East Wing demolition. Throughout the process, casino operations will continue uninterrupted, positioning the properties to welcome families and regional visitors seeking extended stays.