12 Jun 2026
Kewadin Casinos Advances Major Renovation Program Across Upper Peninsula Properties
The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians operates Kewadin Casinos and has announced the next phase of a multiyear renovation program covering all five of its Michigan properties in the Upper Peninsula. The initiative involves hotel room renovations along with upgrades to RV parks that will feature full hookups, and it also includes improvements to bars, restaurants, and delis while adding major new amenities such as a waterpark and sports bar at the flagship location in Sault Ste. Marie.
Scope of the Current Phase
Work on these projects is scheduled to begin in summer and fall of 2026 and will continue into 2027. Observers note that the upgrades target both family-oriented visitors and regional travelers who frequent the properties throughout the year. According to reports from the Mining Journal, the effort builds on previous investments while introducing fresh elements designed to broaden the appeal of each site.
Hotel room renovations will take place across multiple locations, with crews focusing on modernizing interiors and updating furnishings to meet current traveler expectations. RV park enhancements include the addition or expansion of sites equipped with full hookups for water, electric, and sewer connections, which allows longer stays for guests traveling with recreational vehicles. Bar, restaurant, and deli upgrades will refresh dining options at each property, while the new waterpark and sports bar at Sault Ste. Marie represent the most visible additions in this round of work.
Timeline and Implementation Details
Construction schedules call for phased starts beginning in the warmer months of 2026 so that outdoor elements such as RV park expansions and the waterpark can progress efficiently before winter conditions arrive in the Upper Peninsula. Projects extending into 2027 will allow time for interior renovations and final installations without disrupting ongoing casino operations. Those who have tracked similar tribal gaming developments note that such timelines help maintain revenue streams while facilities undergo improvements.
The flagship Sault Ste. Marie property will receive the waterpark and sports bar, which are intended to draw families and sports enthusiasts in addition to traditional gaming visitors. Other locations will see parallel work on lodging, RV facilities, and food service areas so that consistent standards apply across the entire portfolio. Data from industry sources indicates that integrated resort features like these often support longer guest visits and increased on-site spending.
Regional Context and Objectives
The Upper Peninsula properties serve a mix of local residents and tourists who travel for gaming, outdoor recreation, and seasonal events. Enhancements to RV parks with full hookups address demand from visitors who prefer self-contained accommodations yet want access to casino amenities. Hotel upgrades aim to improve comfort levels for overnight guests, while refreshed dining venues expand meal choices throughout the day.
According to coverage on World Casino Directory, the program emphasizes family and regional appeal through the addition of recreational facilities that complement existing gaming options. The waterpark at Sault Ste. Marie stands out as a new draw for multi-generational groups, whereas the sports bar provides dedicated space for viewing events and casual gatherings. These elements align with broader trends in tribal gaming where properties diversify beyond slots and table games to attract wider audiences.
Work will occur at all five sites simultaneously where feasible, with contractors coordinating schedules to minimize overlap in high-traffic areas. The multiyear structure allows for adjustments based on material availability and seasonal weather patterns common in northern Michigan. Researchers who study regional economic impacts have observed that such capital investments can support local employment during construction phases and sustain jobs once facilities reopen with expanded offerings.
Conclusion
The announcement marks a continued commitment by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians to maintain and improve its Kewadin Casinos properties through targeted renovations and new amenities. Projects scheduled from summer 2026 into 2027 will update hotel rooms, expand RV parks with full hookups, refresh dining areas, and introduce a waterpark plus sports bar at the main Sault Ste. Marie location. These changes are positioned to strengthen the properties' role as regional destinations for both gaming and leisure activities.