Best Casinos in Michigan

Updated on: January 3rd, 2025

Casinos in Michigan are a mixture of tribal and commercial casinos. There are over 20 gambling establishments in the state. This places Michigan as one of ten American states with the most casinos. The multi-billion industry is based on the state’s commercial casinos, which bring in billions of dollars in revenue yearly. Apart from all casinos in Michigan, the state also has horse racing tracks. There are 12 different tribes who own several casinos with each tribe owning one or more casinos.

The entertainment centers offer the best casino games and have a number of sought-after amenities. From reward games and live entertainment, to luxury resorts, restaurants and hotels, Michigan is a great gambling destination. As a liberal gambling state, Michigan permits a few gambling options. The casinos in Michigan are spread across 22 counties with Wayne County having the most casinos. All the casinos in the Great Lake State are located near local must-see sites, only making the casino all the more attractive.

Gambling Laws in Michigan

While Michigan may be a liberal gambling state, there are penalties in place for those who do not adhere to the state’s gambling laws. Games of skill are considered gambling when played for money, which is prohibited in the state. The gambling options permitted in the state include horse racing regardless of it being at racebook, on mobile apps, or licensed race tracks. It doesn’t end there. Players take part in the state lottery, electronic table games, video poker, slots, as well as card games deemed legal by the Michigan gaming control board. The regulatory board also ensures that all games are fair and that there is honest gaming in the state. The tribal casinos in the state does not fall under Michigan gaming control. However, they are regulated by the National Indian Gaming Commission. Between the 21 gambling crimes, which are considered misdemeanors, as well as the eight felonies, no players are looking to get on the wrong side of the casinos in Michigan.

Online Gambling in Michigan

There are currently no laws that prohibit players from making wagers on their favorite online casino games. There is no set framework that has been regulated that deals with online casinos or gambling. Players are free to join offshore casinos and place wagers. Michigan does not have its own regulated web-based casino sites. However, there has not been a story of a player getting into trouble for gambling at internet casinos in the state.

In 2014, Michigan launched its range of internet gaming, which was a first for the state. As it currently stands, the legalization of web-based poker is still in limbo since its introduction in 2016. Two bills are on offer from both legislative houses. The laws could possibly see internet poker, casino games and sports betting get legalized. In the interim, players can enjoy Draw games, keno, pull tabs, and instants all available from the Michigan lottery websites.

List of Casinos in Michigan

Michigan Gaming History

Pari-mutuel racing was used to boost the state revenue in the 19th century during the Great Depression. Then, lottery was approved in 1972 by voters and the first ticket was sold three years later. Commercial casinos where legalized three years after the first casino was opened in 1988.

The first tribal casino was opened in 1993, and the gambling industry extended and spread over to a dozen more tribes. A smoking ban was enacted in 2004 but exempted Detroit’s casinos.

FAQs about Michigan Gambling