Kewadin Casinos Launches Next Phase of Multi-Million Dollar Upgrades at Five Upper Peninsula Locations
The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians operates Kewadin Casinos and has announced the next phase of a multiyear upgrade program that spans all five Michigan properties in the Upper Peninsula, according to details released in June 2026. This initiative builds on prior work and allocates multi-million dollar resources toward hotel room renovations, RV park improvements with full hookups, and bar, restaurant, and deli enhancements across the sites, while adding a waterpark and sports bar specifically at the flagship Sault Ste. Marie location.
Work on these projects starts in summer and fall 2026 and continues through 2027, which aligns with broader efforts to strengthen family-oriented and regional visitor draw. The five properties include locations in Sault Ste. Marie, St. Ignace, Christmas, Hessel, and Manistique, each receiving targeted updates that fit their individual footprints and guest bases.
Project Details Across Properties
Hotel room renovations form a core element at every site, where updates focus on modernizing interiors to match current traveler expectations. New or improved RV parks receive full hookups at multiple locations, which expands options for guests who travel with recreational vehicles and seek extended stays. Bar, restaurant, and deli upgrades occur throughout the portfolio, with layouts and menus adjusted to accommodate varied dining preferences.
At the Sault Ste. Marie property, the additions stand out because a waterpark and dedicated sports bar join the existing facilities. These features integrate with the broader renovation schedule and position the location as a central destination for families and groups visiting the region. Construction timelines coordinate across sites so that operations continue with minimal disruption while crews complete the phased work.
Timeline and Implementation
Planning for this phase began earlier in 2026, with the formal announcement issued in June. Crews mobilize starting in summer and fall 2026, and activities extend into 2027 to allow for sequential completion of larger elements such as the waterpark. Project managers coordinate with local suppliers and contractors to maintain steady progress while adhering to tribal and state regulatory requirements.
Observers note that the schedule incorporates buffer periods to address weather conditions typical of the Upper Peninsula, which ensures that outdoor components like RV park expansions stay on track. Regular updates from the tribe keep stakeholders informed as milestones are reached.
Regional and Family Appeal Focus
The upgrades target enhanced family and regional appeal by expanding recreational options and improving overnight accommodations. Full-hookup RV sites accommodate longer visits from regional travelers, while the waterpark at Sault Ste. Marie provides an all-season attraction that draws families year-round. Restaurant and bar improvements introduce more variety in food and beverage service, which supports both casual diners and larger groups.
According to the Mining Journal report, these changes reflect ongoing investment by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians to maintain competitive facilities in a market that includes both local residents and tourists exploring Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Data from similar tribal gaming operations shows that such amenity expansions often correlate with increased visitation from surrounding states.
Operational Continuity During Construction
Management teams at each property have developed plans to keep casinos, hotels, and dining outlets open throughout the renovation periods. Temporary closures affect only specific sections as needed, and alternative access routes guide guests around active work zones. Staff training on new equipment and layouts begins ahead of each completion date so that service quality remains consistent once areas reopen.
Those who have tracked previous phases of the multiyear program note that earlier renovations followed similar patterns of phased implementation, which allowed properties to retain regular customer traffic while introducing updated features.
Conclusion
The June 2026 announcement marks a clear continuation of capital investment across the Kewadin Casinos network. With construction scheduled from summer and fall 2026 into 2027, the projects deliver measurable improvements in lodging, recreation, and dining at all five Upper Peninsula sites. The addition of a waterpark and sports bar at Sault Ste. Marie, combined with system-wide hotel and RV park upgrades, positions the properties to serve an expanding range of visitors. Further details on specific opening dates will emerge as work advances, according to updates from the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and coverage in industry directories.