Washington State, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, also boasts a vibrant gaming scene largely driven by tribally owned casinos. These establishments, integral to the economic development and cultural preservation efforts of various Native American tribes, offer a diverse range of entertainment options, from classic casino games to live performances and fine dining. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Washington Indian Casinos, highlighting their locations, ownership, and the unique experiences they offer.
The history of tribal gaming in Washington State is intertwined with the struggle for self-determination and economic sovereignty. The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) of 1988 provided a framework for federally recognized tribes to operate casinos on their sovereign lands, allowing them to generate revenue for essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Today, Washington Indian Casinos are significant contributors to the state’s economy, providing employment opportunities and attracting tourists from across the region.
Below is a detailed listing of tribal casinos across Washington, categorized by location:
Anacortes:
- Swinomish Northern Lights Casino: Located on Swinomish Casino Drive, this casino is owned and operated by the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community. The Swinomish Northern Lights Casino offers a range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and poker. Beyond gaming, the casino features dining options and often hosts live entertainment, providing a comprehensive entertainment experience. Guests can contact the casino at (360) 293-2691 for information on upcoming events and promotions.
Auburn:
- Muckleshoot Indian Casino: As one of the largest casinos in the state, the Muckleshoot Indian Casino is a prominent landmark in Auburn. Owned and operated by the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, the casino boasts an extensive selection of slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room. The casino also features multiple restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, making it a popular destination for both casual gamers and serious players. The Muckleshoot Indian Casino plays a crucial role in supporting the Muckleshoot Tribe’s community programs and initiatives. For inquiries, the casino can be reached at (800) 804-4944.
Bellingham:
- Lummi Casino: The Lummi Casino, located in Bellingham, provides gaming entertainment within Whatcom County. Further details regarding specific gaming offerings and amenities can be obtained by contacting the Lummi Nation.
Bow:
- Skagit Valley Casino: Owned by the Upper Skagit Indian Tribe and operated by Harrah’s Entertainment, the Skagit Valley Casino offers a blend of tribal ownership and corporate management. The casino features a variety of slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room. Additionally, the Skagit Valley Casino offers dining options and live entertainment, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. The casino can be contacted at (360) 724-7777.
Chewelah:
- Spokane Indian Bingo & Casino: Situated approximately 40 minutes north of Spokane on Highway 395, the Spokane Indian Bingo & Casino is owned and operated by the Spokane Tribe. The casino offers a mix of gaming options, including bingo, slot machines, and table games. This casino provides entertainment as well as economic opportunity for the Spokane Tribe. For more information, the casino can be reached at (800) 322-2788 or (509) 935-6167.
Coulee Dam:
- Coulee Dam Casino: Located in Coulee Dam, this casino is owned and operated by the Colville Confederated Tribes. The Coulee Dam Casino offers a range of gaming options, including slot machines and table games. The casino also provides dining options, making it a convenient destination for entertainment and relaxation. Guests can contact the casino at (800) 556-7294.
Davenport:
- Two Rivers Casino: Situated on Highway 25 South in Davenport, the Two Rivers Casino is owned and operated by the Spokane Tribe. The casino offers a variety of gaming options, including slot machines and table games, with views of the Spokane River. The Two Rivers Casino provides entertainment and contributes to the economic well-being of the Spokane Tribe. For inquiries, the casino can be reached at (800) 233-2573.
Deming:
- Nooksack River Casino: Located just 15 miles east of Bellingham on the Mount Baker Highway, the Nooksack River Casino is owned by the Nooksack Indian Tribe. The casino provides gaming entertainment with a focus on customer service. For information, the casino can be contacted at 360.592.5472.
Kingston:
- Point No Point Casino: Owned and operated by the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, the Point No Point Casino is located on Salish Lane NE in Kingston. The casino offers a range of gaming options, including slot machines and table games. The casino also features dining options and often hosts live entertainment. Guests can contact the casino at (360) 297-0070.
Manson:
- Mill Bay Casino: Located on Highway 150 in Manson, the Mill Bay Casino is owned and operated by the Colville Confederated Tribes. The casino offers a variety of gaming options, including slot machines and table games, with views of Lake Chelan. For inquiries, the casino can be reached at (800) 648-2946.
Marysville:
- Tulalip Casino: Owned and operated by the Tulalip Tribes, the Tulalip Casino is a large and popular casino resort in Marysville. The casino boasts an extensive selection of slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room. The casino also features multiple restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, including a concert hall that hosts major acts. The Tulalip Casino is a major economic driver for the Tulalip Tribes and the surrounding community. For information, the casino can be reached at (888) 272-1111 or (360) 651-1111.
Neah Bay:
- Makah Nation Bingo: Located on Highway 112, approximately 75 miles west of Port Angeles, the Makah Nation offers bingo. This gaming option provides entertainment and contributes to the economic well-being of the Makah Nation. The contact number is (360) 645-2201.
Okanogan:
- Okanogan Bingo Casino: Situated on Appleway Road in Okanogan, this casino is owned and operated by the Colville Confederated Tribes. The Okanogan Bingo Casino offers a range of gaming options, including bingo and slot machines. Guests can contact the casino at (800) 559-4643.
Rochester:
- Lucky Eagle Casino: Located 16 miles south of Olympia on Highway 12 West, the Lucky Eagle Casino is owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation. The casino boasts a wide selection of slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room. The Lucky Eagle Casino also features multiple restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. For inquiries, the casino can be reached at (360) 273-2000.
Sequim:
- Seven Cedars Casino: Owned and operated by the Jamestown S’Klallam Indians, the Seven Cedars Casino is located on Highway 101 in Sequim. The casino offers a variety of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room. The Seven Cedars Casino also features dining options and often hosts live entertainment. Guests can contact the casino at (360) 683-7777.
Shelton:
- Little Creek Casino Resort: Owned and operated by the Squaxin Island Tribe, the Little Creek Casino Resort is located on State Route 108 in Shelton. The casino offers a comprehensive resort experience, with a wide selection of slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room. The Little Creek Casino Resort also features multiple restaurants, bars, a hotel, a spa, and a golf course. For information, the casino can be reached at (360) 427-7711.
Spokane/Airway Heights:
- Northern Quest Resort & Casino: Owned and operated by the Kalispel Tribe, the Northern Quest Resort & Casino is located in Airway Heights, near Spokane. The casino boasts a vast selection of slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room. The Northern Quest Resort & Casino also features multiple restaurants, bars, a hotel, a spa, and an entertainment venue that hosts major concerts and events. This Washington Indian Casino is a major employer in the region and contributes significantly to the Kalispel Tribe’s community programs. For inquiries, the casino can be reached at (888) 603-7051 or (509) 242-7000. Their website is www.northernquest.com.
Suquamish:
- Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort: Located on Agate Pass, the Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort is owned and operated by the Suquamish Tribe. The casino offers a variety of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room, with views of Puget Sound. The Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort also features multiple restaurants, bars, a hotel, and a golf course. For information, the casino can be reached at (360) 598-3311.
Tacoma:
- Emerald Queen Casino: Owned and operated by the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, the Emerald Queen Casino has two locations in Tacoma and Fife. Both casinos offer a variety of gaming options, including slot machines and table games. The Emerald Queen Casino is a major economic driver for the Puyallup Tribe and the surrounding community.
Toppenish:
- Legends Casino Hotel: Owned and operated by the Yakama Nation, the Legends Casino Hotel is located on Fort Road in Toppenish. The casino offers a wide selection of slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room. The Legends Casino Hotel also features multiple restaurants, bars, a hotel, and an entertainment venue. The Yakama Nation uses the revenue generated by Legends Casino Hotel to support various community programs and initiatives. This Washington Indian Casino provides entertainment and economic opportunities for the tribe. For inquiries, the casino can be reached at (877) 7-COME-11 or (509) 865-8800.
Conclusion:
Washington Indian Casinos offer a diverse range of gaming and entertainment options, while also serving as vital economic engines for the Native American tribes that own and operate them. From the bustling casinos in urban areas to the more intimate gaming establishments in rural locations, these casinos provide a glimpse into the rich culture and heritage of Washington’s tribal communities. When visiting these establishments, remember that your patronage directly supports the tribes and their efforts to preserve their traditions and improve the lives of their members.