The Tulalip Tribes have announced its second major renovation and expansion project for the Tulalip Resort Casino, 45 miles north of downtown Seattle in Washington. Over the next two years, the property will undergo more than $300 million in upgrades to celebrate its 20th Anniversary and set the stage for continued growth.
The Native American group announced that the upgrade will include constructing a new 70,250-square-foot addition to the casino floor as well as complete interior and exterior renovations of the existing 192,000-square-foot gaming space. This follows the footsteps of Bally’s Corporation, which announced a $48 million project that will see its Kansas City property add 35,000 square feet of gaming floor.
Tulip Casino’s transformative project, slated for completion by late 2025, promises new amenities and modernized facilities while preserving the resort’s rich cultural heritage and cementing its dominant position in the Pacific Northwest. However, the tribe has not given specific details about other parts of the project or the reason for the extra space.
A Legacy of Innovation and Community
Tulalip Resort Casino in Quil Ceda Village, WA, is a AAA Four Diamond-rated casino and hotel. The casino first opened in July 1992, with the hotel opening in August 2008.
A property-wide renovation worth $15 million was completed in 2016. The tribal resort casino has since enjoyed tremendous success over the past two decades, becoming one of the premier gaming and entertainment destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
With its round-the-clock operation, the casino floor currently features an array of 2,400 slot machines, over 35 tables for various games, a bingo hall, and a DraftKings sportsbook. In addition to five restaurants, the Tulalip Tribes-owned resort offers a 12-story hotel with top-quality amenities and three venues, including a 2,000-seat outdoor amphitheater.
The tribal group claims the gaming floor, which is run in partnership with DraftKings sportsbook, makes more than $5 million in monthly jackpot payouts. The resort offers various dining and leisure choices, including a sizeable 14,000-square-foot spa, fitness center, and pools, as well as added amenities like the Tech Center and the marketplace.
Over the years, Tulalip has consistently pushed boundaries, introducing new gaming experiences, diverse restaurants, and world-class entertainment acts. Its commitment to the local community is equally impressive, with Tulalip actively supporting tribal education, cultural programs, and environmental initiatives.
The Tulalip Tribes of Washington own two additional properties, the Tulalip Bingo & Slots and Quil Ceda Creek Casino, both sister establishments to the Tulalip Resort Casino.
New Project Marks Tulalip Casino’s 20th Anniversary
As it enters its third decade, the Tulalip Casino will celebrate the milestone with a $300 million expansion and renovation project spanning two years. The tribe has revealed that the project will include various new features and upgrades inside and outside.
One notable addition is the installation of a planetarium-style domed ceiling above the Center Bar in the casino. The upgrade will add over 70,000 square feet of new casino space, including 10,000 square feet dedicated to new dining options.
A new 5,000-square-foot entertainment venue will host live music and comedy shows. The hotel will also receive upgrades like refurbished guest rooms and suites. Nearly 200,000 square feet of existing casino gaming floor will be renovated with new slot machines, table games, and a sportsbook. The move represents a deviation from the practices of similar properties, such as Hollywood Casino in Morgantown, PA, which has recently reduced the number of slot machines.
The Tulalip Tribe began a $15 million renovation of the casino resort in 2016, which included the revitalization of the hotel rooms. This project not only refurbished the existing accommodations but also resulted in the creation of five new suites.
The renovation and expansion project promises a kaleidoscope of upgraded offerings. The additional 70,250 square feet will house a state-of-the-art convention center, slated to become a magnet for major events and conferences.
In addition to that, the project will introduce a luxurious new spa, offering a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can also anticipate a plethora of new restaurants and bars catering to diverse palates and culinary preferences.
Expected Economic Impact
The expansion is expected to create over 500 new jobs during construction and another 150 permanent positions once completed. Casino properties operated by Native American tribes in Washington State are estimated to generate more than a billion dollars in economic activity for the region, with Tulalip Resort Casino at the forefront.
The resort is one of the largest private-sector employers in Snohomish County. The project will provide additional training and career opportunities that benefit tribal members for years.
What’s to Come
The renovated property is scheduled for completion in late 2024 or early 2025. New dining concepts in the expanded food court will include options for quick bites alongside full-service restaurants.
The new entertainment venue is designed for intimate concerts and headline comedy acts. Hotel guests will enjoy modernized rooms and suites with the latest amenities. Tribal leaders are excited to debut the fully transformed resort and push for a more significant piece of the $60-billion casino industry.
20th Anniversary Celebrations
To mark two decades, a series of celebrations are planned throughout 2023. Kicking off in January will be a Founder’s Weekend recognizing early supporters with special events.
The resort will host its annual Tulalip Days Festival in August with live music, activities, and fireworks on the waterfront. A Gala in November will celebrate the official grand re-opening of the expanded property before the holidays.
Summing Up
As it celebrates 20 years of excellence, Tulalip Resort Casino embarks on a transformative expansion and renovation, unveiling a new era of entertainment and economic prosperity for the Pacific Northwest. Tribal Chairwoman Teri Gobin expressed gratitude to the community for their support over 20 years. She said the expansion was undertaken to further the organization’s mission of promoting self-sufficiency while investing in developing its most valuable asset – its people.
