The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation are taking a giant leap forward in the gaming and hospitality industry with a groundbreaking $100 million expansion of the Wildhorse Resort & Casino. Nestled in the scenic beauty of Eastern Oregon, this expansion is not just about size; it’s about setting a new standard in luxury and entertainment in the tribal gaming sector, heralding a new era for the Wildhorse Resort Casino.
Unveiling a New Dimension of Luxury and Entertainment
Key Features of the Expansion
- Hotel Tower: A towering addition with a 10-story hotel, offering 214 elegantly designed rooms.
- Convention and Event Center: A sprawling 15,000-square-foot space tailored for a wide range of events, from corporate conferences to weddings.
- Dining Excellence: A new restaurant and banquet kitchen, set to provide unparalleled culinary experiences.
Owned by the federally recognized tribe, the Wildhorse Resort & Casino operates under a Class III gaming compact with the State of Oregon. The expansion is aimed at enhancing the Las Vegas-style gaming experience, a testament to the tribe’s dedication to offering superior casino services.
A Vision for the Future: Words from the CEO
“A consistent, high-quality casino experience is what sets us apart in the region,” says Gary George, CEO of Wildhorse Resort & Casino, emphasizing the strategic investments made to create unforgettable experiences for guests.
Upon completion, the resort will boast over 400 rooms and the new event center will have the capacity to host up to 1,500 guests for live music and other events, further cementing Wildhorse’s reputation as a top entertainment destination in Eastern Oregon.
This expansion is the largest investment since the opening of its $45 million hotel in October 2011, showcasing the Umatilla Indian Tribe’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation since 1999.
More Than Just a Casino: A Comprehensive Entertainment Hub
The resort’s amenities are impressive, featuring:
- Over 1,100 slots and 14 table games, along with live keno, bingo, and a poker room.
- A Family FunPlex, complete with bowling alleys, arcades, movie theaters, and diverse food courts.
- An exquisite 18-hole golf course, offering leisure activities beyond the casino floor.
While sports betting remains an unexplored avenue due to slim profit margins, the resort’s comprehensive offerings cater to a wide audience, from families to avid gamers.
The Future of Tribal Gaming in Oregon: A New Benchmark
Oregon is home to nine federally recognized tribes, with all but one operating casinos. The state’s regulatory framework ensures that tribes contribute to infrastructure improvements and engage in philanthropy, as seen with initiatives like the Wildhorse Foundation.
This expansion by one of Oregon’s leading tribal casinos exemplifies the sector’s drive towards creating world-class entertainment destinations that significantly contribute both economically and socially within their communities.
Conclusion: A Beacon for Luxury Tribal Gaming
The Wildhorse Resort Casino expansion is a clear indicator of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s vision and commitment to excellence. As the project unfolds, it sets a new precedent for innovation and luxury in the tribal gaming industry, promising to redefine entertainment and hospitality standards in the region. The future of tribal gaming in Oregon looks bright, with Wildhorse Resort & Casino leading the way.
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