Hollywood Casino at Greektown

Stepping into the dazzling world of Hollywood Casino at Greektown, one can almost hear the whispers of fortunes won and lost. Hollywood Casino at Greektown stands as a testament to Detroit’s resilience. It has weathered economic storms and ownership changes, emerging as a vibrant entertainment hub. Originally opened in 2000 as Greektown Casino-Hotel, it quickly became a landmark in the historic Greektown neighborhood. The casino’s story is interwoven with the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. They were the majority owners, making it the only Native American-controlled casino in Detroit at the time. The early 2000s were a time of growth, but the Great Recession brought financial challenges. This led to the casino’s bankruptcy and subsequent sale in 2008. Hollywood Casino at Greektown is more than just a casino. It’s a microcosm of Detroit’s history. The original structure housed Trappers Alley, a unique shopping center. Some of its architectural features are still visible today, adding a touch of nostalgia to the modern casino. Over the years, Hollywood Casino at Greektown has undergone extensive renovations. A 30-floor hotel tower offering stunning views of the Detroit River and Canada was added in 2007. This expansion also included a much-needed parking garage, addressing the increasing number of visitors. In 2008, the casino expanded its gaming area over Lafayette Street. This increased the total gaming space to an impressive 100,000 square feet, filled with the thrill of nearly 3,000 slot machines and video poker games. Hollywood Casino at Greektown continued to evolve. It added convention space and a grand ballroom in 2009, catering to a wider range of events. The casino’s ownership changed hands several times, reflecting the dynamic nature of the industry. Dan Gilbert’s Rock Gaming purchased the casino in 2013. It aimed to contribute to the revitalization of downtown Detroit. The casino was nearly renamed Jack Detroit Casino-Hotel Greektown in 2016 but remained Greektown Casino-Hotel. Finally, in 2019, Vici Properties and Penn National Gaming acquired the property, marking another chapter in its history. In May 2022, the casino was rebranded as Hollywood Casino at Greektown. This aligned it with Penn’s broader portfolio and signaled a new era for this Detroit icon.