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MotorCity Casino

Operator
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Founded
1999-01-01 in 2901 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA
Headquarters
2901 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA

MotorCity Casino Hotel is a premier land-based casino and luxury hotel located in Detroit, Michigan. Opened on December 14, 1999, the property occupies a historic building that once housed the Wagner Baking Company, maker of Wonder Bread. Originally developed by Mandalay Resort Group, the casino became wholly owned by Marian Ilitch in 2005 after she purchased the majority stake for $525 million, adding to her initial 25% ownership. Ilitch Holdings, the family holding company that also owns the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings, now controls the property. The casino spans 100,000 square feet of gaming space with approximately 2,500 slot machines, 59 table games, and two poker rooms. Accommodations include a 400-room hotel tower opened in November 2007. Beyond gaming, MotorCity offers a 13,000-square-foot spa, 67,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, and Sound Board, a 2,400-seat live music theater. The property's design, shaped by custom-car designer Chip Foose, blends automotive heritage with a 'Future Retro' aesthetic, notably a 304-foot stainless-steel roof ribbon. In 2025–2026, MotorCity launched a $65 million renovation called 'Elevate the Escape,' touching all guest rooms, conference spaces, restaurants, and casino entrances. The casino is also home to a two-story FanDuel Sportsbook. MotorCity remains the only Detroit casino that is locally owned, positioning itself as a cornerstone of the city's entertainment and hospitality scene.

Detailed Review

History

MotorCity Casino Hotel opened on December 14, 1999, in a historic building that once housed the Wagner Baking Company, the original baker of Wonder Bread. The casino was originally developed by Mandalay Resort Group, which built a 75,000-square-foot gaming floor. In 2005, Marian Ilitch purchased the remaining 75% stake for $525 million, becoming the sole owner and adding to her initial 25% ownership. The hotel tower was added in November 2007, and the property has since undergone multiple expansions and renovations, including a $65 million initiative announced in early 2025 called 'Elevate the Escape' that is ongoing through 2026.

Gaming and Entertainment

The casino floor covers more than 100,000 square feet and features approximately 2,500 slot machines, 59 table games (including blackjack, craps, roulette, and three-card poker), and two poker rooms. A high-limit area and a first-floor smoking facility were added in recent years. In partnership with FanDuel, MotorCity operates a two-story retail sportsbook offering in-person sports betting. Entertainment is anchored by Sound Board, a 2,400-seat theater that opened in 2008 with Anita Baker and features a d&b Line Array sound system and Yamaha PM7 Rivage consoles. The venue hosts concerts, boxing events, and product launches.

Accommodations and Amenities

The hotel comprises 400 guest rooms and suites in a 14-story tower, all undergoing a full refresh as part of the Elevate the Escape renovation. The property also includes a 13,000-square-foot spa with treatment rooms, sauna, and fitness facilities, as well as 67,000 square feet of meeting and convention space. Dining options range from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, and multiple bars and lounges provide lively social spaces.

Recent Developments and Loyalty

MotorCity's loyalty program, Club Metro, rewards frequent guests with comps, Reward Play credits, and exclusive promotions, managed through the MYMotorCity mobile app available on iOS and Android. The 2025-2026 $65 million renovation covers all guest rooms, the Conference Center, several dining outlets, and casino entrances, with upgraded finishes, lighting, and technology. As the only locally owned casino in Detroit (under Detroit Entertainment, L.L.C., part of Ilitch Holdings), MotorCity distinguishes itself from competitors MGM Grand Detroit and Hollywood Casino at Greektown by emphasizing its deep community roots and long-term commitment to the city.

Key Products

  • Casino gaming floor

    More than 100,000 sq ft of gaming space with ~2,500 slot machines, 59 table games, and two poker rooms. Includes high-limit area and smoking facility.

  • FanDuel Sportsbook

    Two-story retail sportsbook offering in-person wagering on sports events.

  • Club Metro loyalty program

    Players club that awards comps, Reward Play credits, and exclusive promotions; can be managed via the MYMotorCity app.

  • MYMotorCity mobile app

    Official companion app for account management, offers, and mobile check-in; available on iOS/Android.

  • Sound Board theater

    2,400-seat live music venue with advanced sound and lighting systems, hosting concerts, boxing, and product launches.

  • Hotel (400 rooms)

    Luxury accommodations in a 14-story tower; currently undergoing a full renovation.

  • Spa & wellness

    13,000 sq ft spa offering treatments, sauna, and fitness facilities.

  • Conference & banquet facilities

    67,000 sq ft of meeting space for conventions, weddings, and corporate events.

  • Dining & bars

    Multiple on-site restaurants and bars ranging from casual to upscale, plus a VIP dining lounge.

Offices & Headcount

3000 employees (approx.)

Key Persons

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