In 1990, Milwaukee’s Menomonee Valley was severely degraded, marred by abandoned industrial sites. That year, the Forest County Potawatomi, an indigenous tribe with a deep-rooted history in Wisconsin, reclaimed seven acres within the valley and promptly began remediation efforts.
In 1991, the tribe inaugurated Potawatomi Bingo, marking it as the first off-reservation casino in the U.S. The grand opening attracted a huge crowd to its 45,000-square-foot facility, which featured a 2,500-seat bingo hall, laying the groundwork for what would become an expansive entertainment hub.
Today’s Potawatomi Casino Hotel has evolved significantly from its original form, now encompassing over 500,000 square feet filled with restaurants, concert spaces, gaming options, and a sportsbook, solidifying its position as a landmark in the revitalized Menomonee Valley, a thriving area for business and development.
“This 34-year journey started with a modest bingo hall, and we are now focused on future enhancements for gaming, sports, music, and entertainment, benefiting our community and tribe,” stated Dominic Ortiz, CEO and general manager of Potawatomi Casino Hotel. “Our mission drives us to create exceptional experiences for our guests.”
The venue has seen multiple renovations and expansions since its inception. A significant expansion in 2000 added 250,000 square feet, introducing new gaming options. In 2008, another notable renovation included a $240 million investment for dining options and a central bar area, followed by the opening of a 381-room hotel in 2014.
In recent years, a total of $190 million has been directed towards further enhancements, introducing new dining establishments, a VIP lounge, and a revamped gaming area. The highlight came last year with the launch of the Potawatomi Sportsbook and a renovated Poker Room, now the largest betting venue in the Midwest, featuring 200 seats and state-of-the-art viewing technology.
—as stated by James Crawford, chairman of the Forest County Potawatomi Community Tribal Council. The venue hosted its inaugural Potawatomi Amplified Concert Series last year, featuring well-known artists. The casino aims to uphold its legacy of top-tier entertainment while continuing to enhance its offerings for visitors to Milwaukee.
“Our goal is to elevate the gaming experience in a welcoming environment,” Ortiz elaborated. “As Milwaukee garners more attention, we are committed to being viewed as a premier destination for entertainment, attracting visitors both locally and from afar.”
Potawatomi Casino Hotel
1721 W. Canal St.
800-847-7400
