Casino Review Suggestions

If there are any suggestions for specific portions of properties to review (e.g. High Limit, Video Slots, Table Games) or restaurants to visit please drop me a note as I am currently planning my December schedule.

Regards,

Mr. Casino Reviewer

Little River Layoffs

Not much of a surprise up in Manistee...

The Little River Casino announced a ~100 layoffs that were 'economic in nature'. I would figure to see a bit more of this as the recession continues...

Casino lays off 100

However while they are laying off current operations employees, their strategic vision is still going strong with the acquisition of the former 'Great Lakes Downs' racetrack and adjoining properties. Fully expect to see a major casino being constructed in Muskegon in the next several years as this is the only potential development opportunity that 'The Musk' has on the horizon.

Indian tribe rolling dice on land acquisitions

Greektown Casino Sets Record Straight

As I've stated previously, I don't have any fear that this will impact Casino Operations, this just has the potential for the 'Perception Becomes Reality' effect to further impact their finances...

From Greektown Casino Press Release:

DETROIT — The following can be attributed to Joe McCoy, Chairman, Greektown Casino Management Board. McCoy is commenting on recent developments and reports of Greektown Casino’s Chapter 11 reorganization.

Contrary to certain exaggerated claims you may have read or heard in the news media, Greektown Casino is open for business, will continue to be open for business, and is not in danger of "running out of cash" and "closing in December." Such claims are false.

It is widely known that in May, Greektown Casino filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, a process that allows a company to continue operating normally while reorganizing its business debt and business plan. Hundreds of the nation's and Michigan's largest companies are now in Chapter 11 or teetering toward it. Chapter 11 cases are always complicated and often contentious. During high-profile Chapter 11 cases, incomplete, false or speculative information finds its way into the news media. Again, claims made this week in the Greektown Casino case that we are "running out of cash" and about to close or unable to pay the construction company building our new hotel are speculative and false.

Next Friday, we will open Greektown Casino's renovated VIP gaming area. In early
February, we will open our 400-room Greektown Casino-Hotel. In recent months, many of
the nation's most venerable companies have failed due to the world economic crisis and other economic circumstances. Greektown Casino, like an increasing number of gaming and other companies, is also working through difficult and significant financial issues.

Greektown Casino Almost Out of Cash?

From the "Not so Good" file comes this...

Free Press Article

I find it absolutely incomprehensible how any casino in a 'protected' gaming market can have financial difficulties. The situation seems very elementary to me. You have revenue generators (casino games) that are 'fixed' in your favor and can be statistically quantified to forecast how much you'll earn, and you still loose money. That says one big thing to me... Bad Management. Do they understand the terms 'Cost Containment'?

There is a separate article in the Detroit News about how the City of Detroit is trying to direct a forced sale. Normally, when it comes to the City, I'm very skeptical, but in this case I can't blame them.

As I've stated before, I enjoy Greektown, but this situation is beginning to look very bad. When the word on the street is that they are low on cash, you can only help but wonder how this will effect patron visits. If someone hits a progressive jackpot (Wheel of Fortune or MegaBucks), do they say "We'll pay you next month when we have the cash?". I'm sure the MGCB (and progressive slot contracts) don't allow that, but perception can become reality in a hurry.

Detroit Casino Revenue Reports - October

The October Revenue reports are in for the Detroit Casinos and (not surprisingly) it wasn't a good month. The market share is shifting around a bit, with MGM losing out to MCC and GTC up slightly. The remarking thing to me is the revenue taxes paid out. Both MCC and GTC paid out approximately $3M in tax while MCC had $13M more in revenue. That my friend is the benefit of the permanent hotel. No wonder the Detroit Casinos aren't worried about filling the rooms, the are getting $1M-$2M a month just for having the rooms there, whether they are filled or not. I'm interested in the insight and comments from others, please feel free to post comments below.



Also interesting to note is the trending in Market Share. While GTC was up slightly versus Oct 2007, when you analyze the monthly trending, they are clearly (not surprising) losing their traction in the Market. This may be the ultimate 'clarification of the obvious', while MCC is holding steady, MGM is the improving their foothold in the market. We'll see if GTC can turn things around with the opening of their hotel in early 2009.

Source: MGCB Website

Greektown Casino Hotel - Now Accepting Reservations

Greektown Casino-Hotel is now accepting room and meeting space reservations for 2009.

The 400-room Greektown Casino-Hotel will open in early February 2009. Not to mention the best location to stay for fans attending the 2008-2009 NCAA Final Four basketball tournament at Ford Field. The hotel will feature 10,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting space available immediately when the hotel opens. Call 877-GCH-5554 for rooms reservations and group events

Casino Press Release

A few highlights:

The Romance Package: Deluxe overnight accommodations plus breakfast in bed, chocolate covered strawberries and champagne delivered to your room on arrival, and Bath and Bodyworks sensual amber aromatherapy products. $189 per night (Double Occupancy)

“Let the Party Begin” package: Deluxe overnight accommodations plus dinner for two in Bistro 555 and $75 in bonus play. $229 per night (Double Occupancy)

Bed and Breakfast Package: Deluxe overnight accommodations plus breakfast for two in Bistro 555. $119 per night (Double Occupancy)

I'm looking to be doing some in depth reviews of the new Detroit Casino hotels (GTC, MCC, MGM & CW) and related amenities over the next couple months. Stay tuned for additional detail. If you're interested in seeing a particular property, please drop me a note.

Greektown Trip Report 16Aug2008

So Mrs. Casino Reviewer and I made a visit down to Greektown Casino on Saturday evening and were pleasantly surprised to find a casino in transition with a very enjoyable vibe. The Tigers had a home game this evening we knew that it would be busy, so we were anticipating a very crowded casino. We had yet to visit since they opened the new parking structure so didn't know what to expect, but hit the jackpot in the parking lottery and found a space on the 5th floor. With the Casino Entrance on the 3rd floor this made for very quick entry. The new entrance was very airy open and brightly lit (in contrast to the other portions of the casino). As customary, we ordered a round of Coors Light's at the first open bar and were very quickly served by the bar staff.

A quick tangent, if I may... One of the reasons why Mrs. Casino Reviewer prefers Greektown is the fact that the bars and lounges are not overly crowded. When we've been to MGM & MotorCity, we've routinely had to wait in excess of 5 minutes for a drink. With our limited availability of time (we only go for a 2-3 hours) and waiting 15 minutes for drinks does not constitute an enjoyable customer experience. Now back to the review...

Since we entered on the second level, we did a loop and walked around to a check out any new gaming areas. The newest area was the slot expansion on the south side of the building. It was the same motif as the other areas but with a more modern feel. There were $1, 0.25, and 0.05 slots all around. The $15 table minimums for this night were much lower than I would have expected. As I have stated in previous posts, we like to play cards, but the $25/hand at MGM & MotorCity is a bit excessive in my book (especially when we're both playing). While it did tempt us to sit down for some Blackjack, only single seats were available and we like to play together if possible.

After playing some $1 slots for a while, we wandered downstairs and bounced from slot to slot for a bit. Mrs. Casino Review found a new slot machine she REALLY likes called 'Nothing but Sixes'. It's a standard slot, but with a modified bonus game. It was pretty slick if you ask me and even as an observer it was fun to watch. We continued to wander downstairs and then the Tiger game wrapped up and the crowd noticeably increased. The decor of downstairs has not changed one bit since the casino opened in 2000. The only major change is that that the High Roller area has shifted downstairs in the short term until construction is complete.

We headed back upstairs and meandered around from machine to machine and called it an early night at around 11pm- midnight. There was a fair amount of residual traffic following the baseball game but nothing out of the ordinary.

Despite all of Greektown's most recent struggles, I do feel that the property is at the top of my list from a customer service perspective. While MGM & MotorCity are luxurious and flashy, Greektown wins when it comes to providing the most enduring and enjoyable experience to the customer.

Appreciation Plus

We'll have to see what this means, but how much do you want to bet it's another Players Club leather card holder. :-)

MGM Grand Detroit Appreciation Plus

I love s.w.a.g. but C.A.S.H. is king baby...

Four Winds Blowing Strong

Unfortunately I wasn't able to visit Four Winds during my visit to Southwest Michigan last week, however in the local paper, there was an article about how the casino is going strong despite to softness in the regional economy... The intersting thing is that Four Winds had more average revenue (per month) than Greektown pulled in June 2008. Also interesting is the current legal battle of the compact's Revenue Sharing agreement. Since the casino has been opened, not one penny has been shared. This will be interest to observe as the story develops.

Here's the link:

Slowing economy? Not at the Four Winds Casino

Feedback to Patron Experience Letter Sent to Soaring Eagle

A received a note from a good friend who had a poor service experience at the Soaring Eagle Casino earlier this spring. I won't get into all of the details about the actual experience right here and now, but let's just say that the response to his letter from the Soaring Eagle was extremely satisfactory. The letter came from the CEO's office and provided a line by line response to his concerns. In the end, a token of appreciation was extended and my friend will definitely be returning to Mt. Pleasant.

A note to all the Casino Experience employees in Michigan who might read this. Small tokens of appreciation extended to players who followup their experiences with detailed written letters with satisfactory documentation (not just complaining on the spot) will yield benefits & dividends many times their minimal cost.

Revenue Decline at MotorCity & Greektown, Up at MGM

The June Revenue reports are in for the Detroit Casinos and it doesn't look pretty for Greektown and MotorCity. I actually feel that MotorCity is a bigger disappointment since these comparisons are against 2007 when their permanent casino wasn't opened (although their larger gaming floor was opening at the time). I think the quote from the Greektown spokesman is also telling, saying that customers had the mistaken perception that the casino was closed immediately after it filed for bankruptcy protection. Whoops that would be a problem. Meanwhile, despite these problems, the MGM Grand continues to saunter along with a healthy 25% increase in their revenue...

		$ Revenue				% of Market
	Jun-07	Jun-08	Change		Jun-07	Jun-08	Change
MGM	38.6	48.7	26.2%		35.3%	44.3%	9.0
MCC	42.3	38.0	(10.2)%		38.7%	34.6%	(4.1)
Greektown	38.6	48.7	26.2%		26.1%	21.1%	(4.9)
Total	28.5	23.2	(18.6)%

Detroit Free Press Article

USA Today Snippet on Caesars Windsor

A 'brief' write-up in the USA Today on the opening of Caesars Windsor...

Ontario's Caesars Windsor casino opens after $439 million fix-up

I personally enjoyed the photograph on the Roman Soldiers and Cleopatra running down the streets of Downtown Windsor. Chalk that one up to something you don't see everyday.

Harrah's Total Rewards @ Caesars Windsor

This is another in the series of reviews of the various 'Amenity Programs' that are sponsored by the Michigan Area Casinos…

Overview
Caesars Windsor is a participating casino in the Harrah’s Total Rewards Program. The Harrah’s Total Rewards Program is by one of the two amenity programs in the area that links patron play at other casinos (The other being the MGM Mirage Players Club at MGM Grand Detroit). The Harrah’s Total Rewards Program links patron play at the following casinos:

Arizona
Harrah's Phoenix Ak-Chin Casino

California
Harrah's Rincon Casino

Illinois
Harrah's Joliet Casino
Harrah's Metropolis Casino

Indiana
Horseshoe Southern Indiana
Horseshoe Casino Hammond

Iowa
Harrah's Council Bluffs Casino
Horseshoe Council Bluffs Louisiana Casinos
Harrah's Louisiana Downs
Harrah's New Orleans Casino
Horseshoe Casino Bossier City

Mississippi
Grand Biloxi
Harrah's Tunica
Horseshoe Casino Tunica
Sheraton Casino & Hotel (Tunica)

Missouri
Harrah's North Kansas City Casino
Harrah's St. Louis Casino

Nevada
Bally's Las Vegas
Bill's Casino Lake Tahoe
Caesars Palace (Las Vegas)
Flamingo Las Vegas
Harrah's Lake Tahoe Casino
Harrah's Las Vegas Casino
Harrah's Laughlin Casino
Harrah's Reno Casino
Harveys Lake Tahoe Casino
Imperial Palace
O'Sheas Casino Las Vegas
Paris Las Vegas
Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino

New Jersey
Bally's Atlantic City
Caesars Atlantic City
Harrah's Resort Atlantic City
Showboat Casino
North Carolina Casinos
Harrah's Cherokee Casino

Ontario
Caesars Windsor

Pennsylvania
Harrah's Chester

South America
Conrad Punta del Este

Earning Points
When playing at Caesars Windsor, you earn 1 Base Reward Credit for every $5 played on slot machines and for every $10 Canadian played on video poker. Earned credits that are played while on the respective machine also earn Base Reward Credits. At various times, Bonus Reward Credits can also be earned based on available promotions and level of play. Reward Credits earned while playing table games are based on length of play, average bet and type of game. A breakdown of the Rewards Credits earned at Table Games was not able to be ascertained at the time of publishing. Due to the exchange rate changes between the US and Canadian Dollar, exact Reward Credit redemption rates at Caesars Windsor may vary. The Total Rewards program also has the Total Rewards Platinum Plus Visa amenity credit card that earns patrons 1 point for every $1 (USD) charged to the card.

Benefits & Status Levels
Four tiers of players exist within the Total Rewards Program. All players are given ‘Gold’ status upon registration within the Total Rewards Program. If you earn 4,000 Base points in one calendar year, you earn ‘Platinum’ status. If you were to earn 11,000 Base points you are granted ‘Diamond’ status. If you earn 100,000 Base points in a Calendar year, you are granted ‘Seven Stars’ status. A breakdown of the tier benefits is below:

Gold
· 10% Skyline Gift Shop Discount (Excludes Tobacco Products and Sundries)
· Comps Based on Your Rated Play
· Cash-back Based on Your Rated Play
· Cash Offers in the Mail Based on Rated Play
· Invitations to Special Events Based on Your Rated Play

Platinum
· 15% Skyline Gift Shop Discount (Excludes Tobacco Products and Sundries)
· Comps Based on Your Rated Play
· Cash-back Based on Your Rated Play
· Cash Offers in the Mail Based on Rated Play
· Invitations to Special Events Based on Your Rated Play
· Exclusive Tier Renewal Gift Based on Your Rated Play
· Exclusive Birthday Offer
· Special Values on Select Brand Name Gifts (Using Reward Credits)
· Invitation to Choice of Winterfest or Summerfest Slot Tournaments (Platinum Member Events in Las Vegas, 2 Nights, Based on Availability)

Diamond
· 20% Skyline Gift Shop Discount (Excludes Tobacco Products and Sundries)
· Comps Based on Your Rated Play
· Cash-back Based on Your Rated Play
· Cash Offers in the Mail Based on Rated Play
· Invitations to Special Events Based on Your Rated Play
· Exclusive Tier Renewal Gift Based on Your Rated Play
· Exclusive Birthday Offer
· Special Values on Select Brand Name Gifts (Using Reward Credits)
· Invitation to Choice of Winterfest or Summerfest Slot Tournaments (Diamond Member Events in Las Vegas, 3 Nights, Subject to Availability)
· Express Hotel Check-in
· Priority Restaurant Seating
· Priority Cage Service
· Priority Slot Service
· Priority Service at Total Rewards Center
· Diamond Member Preferred Parking Area (Subject to Availability)

Seven Star
· 20% Skyline Gift Shop Discounts (Excludes Tobacco Products and Sundries)
· Comps Based on Your Rated Play
· Cash-back Based on Your Rated Play
· Cash Offers in the Mail Based on Rated Play
· Invitations to Special Events Based on Your Rated Play
· Exclusive Tier Renewal Gift Based on Your Rated Play
· Exclusive Birthday Offer
· Special Values on Select Brand Name Gifts (Using Reward Credits)
· Invitation to Choice of Winterfest or Summerfest Slot Tournaments (Diamond Member Events in Las Vegas, 3 Nights, Subject to Availability)
· Express Hotel Check-in
· Priority Restaurant Seating
· Priority Cage Service
· Priority Slot Service
· Priority Service at Total Rewards Center
· Diamond Member Preferred Parking Area (Subject to Availability)
· Priority Turn-Down Service with Hotel Stay

Point Redemption
The Total Rewards program has multiple types of redemption opportunities. While traditional casino comps (hotel rooms, meals & entertainment) can be redeemed, the exact breakdown of the traditional comp opportunities was not available at the time of publishing. However 100 points can be redeemed for $1 cash back or $2 in comps. In addition to traditional comps, the Total Rewards program has a merchandise catalog where members may redeem their points for a wide variety of merchandise. Furthermore to the standard merchandise catalog, Total Rewards has a Premium Catalog that has a wide variety of luxurious redemption opportunities. The Total Rewards program also offers targeted promotions and point redemption opportunities for cash, hotel, restaurant, and food.

MGM MIRAGE Players Club @ MGM Grand Detroit

This is the first of hopefully many reviews of the various 'Amenity Programs' that are sponsored by the Michigan Area Casinos…

Overview
The MGM MIRAGE Players Club is by one of the two amenity programs in the area that links patron play earned at other casinos (The other being Harrah's Total Rewards at Caesars Windsor). In addition to MGM Grand Detroit the MGM MIRAGE Players Club links patron play at the following casinos:

Las Vegas
Bellagio
Excalibur
Luxor
MGM Grand
Mandalay Bay
The Mirage
Monte Carlo
New York-New York
TI

Mississippi
Beau Rivage
Gold Strike

Earning Points
A fully qualified breakout of the earnings schedule has not been published, but the following a recap of the information obtained from a variety of sources. When playing at the MGM Grand $2 slot and $6 video poker play earns 1 Players Club point. Additionally, Players Club points can be earned at table games. Awarded points are based on length of play, average bet and type of game. An accurate estimate of the Players Club points earned at table games was not able to be ascertained at the time of publishing.

Benefits & Status Levels
No publicly listed tiers or status levels exist within the MGM Mirage Players Club.

Point Redemption
Unlike the other MGM Mirage locations, the only published point redemption opportunities for exclusive MGM Grand Detroit players are traditional casino comps (hotel rooms, entertainment, meals). The most recently known published information shows that 100 points can be redeemed for $1 cash back. For traditional non-cash comps the rate is approximately 50 points for $1 in comps. In addition to the exclusion from the MGM Mirage Holiday Gift Shoppe, some players have also noted that since the new MGM Grand Detroit permanent location has been opened, lower end players are being shut out of any high end non-cash comps (e.g Bourbon Steak & Saltwater). While this comment has been circulated, it cannot be substantiated at this time.

More on Caesars Windsor

A couple of new articles this morning on the re-branding of Casino Windsor as Caesars Windsor...

Caesars Windsor beckons Americans

Acts Booked at the Colosseum

New Name, More Space

Caesars Windsor puts all its chips into $430M expansion

Detroit News: A tour of Caesars Windsor's hotel rooms, ballroom, theater

Map of Caesars Windsor




More news and headlines to come as the official re-opening occurs on June 19th. I'm definitely going to be keeping my eyes open for promotions and packages after the initial 'glow' for the re-branding wears off. My guess is that you'll start seeing decent values as we enter the Post-Labor Day to Pre-Thanksgiving season.

MGM Grand Detroit - Grand Destination Package

I received an email from the MGM Grand Detroit late last week about a new package that they are offering. It is called the 'Grand Destination Package' and seems to be a decent deal. The publicized rate is $349 and the package includes a $50 Gas Card as well as a $100 credit towards Restaurant, Shopping or Spa services.

MGM Grand Detroit Package Link

All in all the room price nets out to about $199 and if you were planning on utilizing the spa services or dining on-site you can definitely come out ahead on this. To me my favorite part of this package is that it is available for Friday and Saturday nights (that seems to be a rarity for the decent package deals that I've seen publicized.)

From what I've seen so far, this is the best hotel package that has been publicly promoted by any Detroit area casino. Mr. Casino Reviewer likes this deal and will hopefully be taking advantage of this in the near future.

Four Winds in New Buffalo

I'm a little late on posting the update to this, but the Detroit News had an interesting article on the newest Native American Casino in Michigan.

Here's the link to their article:

Detroit News Article

The most interesting point in the article is a discussion that the casino has been so successful that they are already talking expansion. I think that speaks volumes to the degree of planning to locate this casino in a under-saturated demographic and heavily traveled corridor of Michigan. Oh, yeah, just a couple of hours outside of Chicago...that never hurts. One thing that I've noticed during my travels to Lake Michigan over the past couple years is that the Chicago based tourism has expanded to St. Louis, Missouri and the surrounding suburban areas. I'm sure that that patron base has also found their way to Four Winds.

Due to the overwhelming success of the casino so far, it would be realistic for the hotel rates (currently around $299) to stay high and for player promotions to be minimal. It's not to say that deals won't exist, but expectations should be set that, in the short term, the true values for patrons will be few and far between.

I'm hoping to have a chance to post a personal review of the property when I visit Southwest Michigan in July. Stay tuned as summer progresses.

Caesars Windsor

June 19 will be a mark a symbolic shift in the Michigan / Ontario casino market. On this day, the first non-Native American Casino brand in the market (Casino Windsor) will officially be rebranded as Caesars Windsor. This transformation has been several months in the making (December 2006) and will stake new territory for the Caesars brand, with this being their first Canadian property and also their first entry into the Michigan Casino market.

Several new developments have been added to the Windsor the property. The most striking additions being the new 27 story Augustus tower with its 369 luxury rooms and the 5,000 seat Coliseum Theater. In addition, the property 100,000 of convention space, which will give it a very large presence in the Michigan and Ontario convention landscape. The new additions give the property 758 hotel rooms and suites along with almost 100,000 in gaming space.

So what does this mean for Michigan Casino patrons? More competition for your gaming dollar? Not really, as Casino Windsor has existed since the casino has existed since 1994 and there isn't a material change in gaming activity. Ever since the exchange rate went south, the advantages to playing in Windsor has significantly deteriorated. Back in the day, a US resident could gamble for 65 cents on the dollar and a hotel room on a Friday night could be had for less than $100 USD. Nowadays, you're lucky to get a weekend room for less that $300 USD in the summer time. The 35% discount that was enjoyed when the USD to CAD rate was in the $0.65 range is ancient history. One real competitive advantage that the property does offer is their 'Legends Sports Book'. From a gaming perspective, is it a 'great deal'... No way. But it does offer the only on site legal North American sports betting outside of Las Vegas. But what do all of these changes mean?

Overall, the property upgrades are welcome as the physical property was approaching 10 years in age. But at the present time, to the Michigan Casino patron, Caesars Windsor, does not present any material advantages to venture across the border.

Greektown's Lucky 777

Details

Not a bad promotion, but awful odds. You just have show up on Saturday May 31 or June 28 between 10am and 8pm. Register at the Club Greektown Desk and get 1 entry that is good for the remaining drawings that day; a maximum of Forty-One. (Yes I know the Official Rules say 40, but their are 41 drawings that day.) Every 15 minutes they draw a $777 winner from the drum. You have to claim your prize in 5 minutes or the prize rolls over.

I don' t know about you but I have a feeling the casino floor near the entry drum will be awfully crowded all day long.

Overall, it's not a bad deal. You may just have to sit around for all 10 hours of the marathon.

Especially with the Red Bull Air Races being downtown in May, it may be a very busy day for Greektown. I wonder how much the Chapter 11 filing from Friday will effect their business.

Greektown Casino Triple Points

Now thru June 30.

Details

Are they serious with this one? Triple points? No, that's not the big news... The BIG news is that this only from Monday - Thursday from 8pm to 8am. Yep, you read that one right, only from 8 P-M to 8 A-M. Moonlight slots anyone? This is quite possibly one of the most ridiculous promotions that I have ever seen.

Greektown Casino Files for Chapter 11

The writing for this has been on the wall for a while, but still... It's never an exciting thing...

Link Detroit Free Press article

One will see what this eventually will mean for the Casino market in Michigan, but someone will surely be interested in providing financing. How many ways can you say, "Don Barden"?

Only time will tell....

------

A followup to this story. It looks like this had more to do with access to cash than with any real issue in the operations of the casino. As the tab increased for the new hotel across the street, their balance sheet was beginning to look 'out-of-whack'. For you accounting geeks out there...A liability growing faster than the asset, who by the way was not generating any cash to pay down the liability. At the end of the day the ownership group filed Chapter 11 so that they could restructure their loans and no be forced to sell the casino the Michigan Gaming Control Board. Much ado about nothing? Hardly, but it doesn't signify anything other than a financial move by the ownership group.

MGM Grand Detroit - 'Swipe the Cash'

Here is a link to the promotion details at the the MGM Grand Detroit's website:

MGM Grand Detroit - Swipe the Cash

Q: In few words, what is this really?
A: Just another standard promotion from MGM Grand Detroit.

On Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday you show up and swipe your card at any Players Club kiosk to register for this promtion. Then on every other Thursday, you must show up for the 6pm live drawing and see if you're one of the ten winners. Each winner then gets to select one (1) of thirty (30) envelopes, one of which has a $10,000 prize. If no one claims the $10,000 envelope, the prize rolls over and is added to the top prize for the next drawing (in two weeks).

Overall, it nice to have a no-cost way to possibly win $10,000, but on the other hand, it's not a promotion that will guaranteed have people banging down the doors to get in.

Promotion Rating: ** (Two out of Four Stars)

MGM Grand Detroit Packages

The current packages at the MGM Grand Detroit. The rates at the MGM are about 40% higher than the Motor City Casino. Is it worth it? I would say at first glance that the packages at Motor City appear to be a better value, but I'll let you know the next time I stay at both.

Immerse Spa One Pkg
Available Dates: June 1, 2008 - December 29, 2008
Package Details: Experience the comfort you crave and the amenities your lifestyle demands with Hotel & Spa Package at the MGM Grand Detroit. Book a room in our ultra chic hotel and enjoy a treatment at our resort-style spa. Please call 1.877.888.2121 to schedule your 50 minute massage. You can choose from any of the following options, Aroma, Calm, Sport, or Stone.
Rate: ~$399 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Comment: So you get a $100 massage in addition to the $300 hotel room. Eh...


Immerse Spa Two Pkg
Available Dates: June 1, 2008 - December 29, 2008
Package Details: Experience the comfort you crave and the amenities your lifestyle demands with a Hotel & Spa Package at the all new MGM Grand Detroit. Book a room in our ultra chic hotel and enjoy a treatment at our resort-style spa. Please call 1.877.888.2121 to schedule your Choice 2 Aroma ,Stone,Calm,Sport treatment Services
Rate: ~$499 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Comment: So you get ~$200 in Spa Services in addition to the $300 hotel room. Double eh...

Romance!
Available Dates: May 25, 2008 - July 31, 2008 (Excluding Saturdays)
Package Details: Keep the romance alive and runaway together with our custom rendezvous for two. Turn on the “Do not Disturb” and turn down the lights as your epic evening begins with a chilled bottle of champagne and decadent mood elevating chocolate. Reconnect in our spacious marble shower which features a dual rain head shower fixtures and unique “Peek a Boo” reveal. Whether action is your aphrodisiac or you prefer an intimate fireside lounge, you’ll find all the elements necessary to create some sparks of your own at MGM Grand Detroit. Even with a late stay of 2 pm the following day, check-out will come too soon.
- Luxury king Guest Room
- A welcome amenity of champagne and chocolate
- 2 p.m. late checkout
- Complimentary Valet Parking, Access to Spa and Fitness Center and Wi-Fi Internet.
- Complimentary transportation to/from downtown sports and entertainment venues (based on availability)
Rate: ~$329 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Comment: The $300 hotel room, plus a few other amenities that I would say exceed the $30 incremental cost. An OK value.

The Big Game Package
Available Dates: May 25, 2008 - December 30, 2008
Package Details: From the roar of the crowd to the crack of the bat, cheer on your favorite team at the center of excitement. With the BIG GAME Sports Package you’ll arrive in style with an MGM Grand cap, logo t-shirt and complimentary transportation to and from the event. After the game, turn your guest room into your private box seats where you’ll catch all the highlights on your in-room plasma television. Then enjoy a complimentary breakfast before you hit the showers in our oversized glass and marble bathrooms. This season, don’t watch from the sidelines - get in on all the action at the ultimate entertainment experience!
- Luxury king or double queen Guest Room
- A welcome amenity of two MGM Grand caps & shirts
- Complimentary Breakfast ($50 food credit at Wolfgang Puck Grille)
- Complimentary, Valet Parking, Access to Spa and Fitness Center and Wi-Fi Internet.
- Complimentary transportation to/from downtown sports and entertainment venues (based on availability)
Rate: ~$339 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Comment: Looks like the best deal so far... The $50 Credit plus apparel definitely exceed the $40 incremental cost.

Ovation Travel
Available Dates: May 25, 2008 - December 29, 2008
Package Details: Welcome Ovation/Lawyers Travel! We are excited to extend a special room rate offer of $219. Book Now!
Rate: ~$219 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Comment: Best deal by far. Whether or not you can book this and check in with this rate remains to be seen. But if you can. This rate beats any casino in Michigan for value.

Dining Package
Available Dates: May 25, 2008 - December 29, 2008
Package Details: Treat yourself to a Grand opportunity to stay at the MGM Grand Detroit. Enjoy great food, along with a great room. Stay between Sunday and Thursday and receive $100 food/beverage credit at either of our fabulous Michel Mina signature restaurants, Saltwater or Bourbon Steak.
Book Friday or Saturday and receive $100 food/beverage credit at our popular Wolfgang Puck Grille. Book now and get ready to Ignite Your Senses!
Rate: ~$369 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Comment: So you get a $100 food credit in addition to the $300 hotel room. Another Eh... The kicker for me is that with a $100 food credit, you always blow more than that amount at dinner and with Saltwater / Bourbon Steak, you could do that by yourself.

Bed With Breakfast
Available Dates: June 1, 2008 - December 29, 2008
Package Details: Package includes luxury guest Room,$50.00 food credit to Wolfgang Puck, 2pm late checkout,complimentary valet parking,access to Spa and fitness center and Wi-fi internet.
Rate: ~$319-369 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Comment: So you get a $50 food credit in addition to the $300 hotel room. Similar to the other Dining Packages, not a great value, but if you can get it for $320 a decent deal.

Information Here is Not Guaranteed, Contact MGM Grand Detroit Casino for Package Availability and for Official Rate Information & Cancellation Policies.

Motor City Casino Package Summary

Below are the Hotel Packages available at the Motor City Casino (as of 25May2008).

Overall the packages are pretty decent. Rates starting at $209 and going up from there. As a disclaimer, information here is not guaranteed, contact Motor City Casino for package availability and for official rate information & cancellation policies.

Girl's Night Out Spa Package
Available Dates: 04/07/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: Girl's Night Out Package includes deluxe overnight accommodations for two adults with $400 toward your choice of Spa treatments to split between both ladies.
Rate: ~$545 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation

I Fish You Were Here
Available Dates: 05/01/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 -- 10 Nights.
Package Details: I Fish You Were Here package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two adults, 8 Hour Guided Great Lakes Bass Fishing trip. Round trip transportation to your launch point. For more information as well as Fishing License
Rate ~$524 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation. Additionally, Purchase of Fishing of License Required Prior to Arrival

MUD & Music Spa Package
Available Dates: 04/07/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: MUD & Music Spa Package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two, MotorCity MUD Bar and MotorCity Music treatments for both of you.
Take the Urban Spa Experience to a new level with our signature MotorCity MUD Bar, designed to detoxify, mineralize and revitalize! Enjoy a self application of your choice of MUD. Then feel the beat of Detroit with "So Sound" therapy massage. "D"Tour Drive custom blended oil Massage with vibrational music pulsing through the table from six speakers, connecting the rhythm of your heart to the tonality of the music.
Rate ~$379 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation


One Day Getaway Spa & Gaming Package
Available Dates: 04/07/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: One Day Getaway includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two adults, $40 in Slot Machine Reward Play and $125 in Spa Services.
Rate ~$309 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation


Romantic Spa Retreat
Available Dates: 04/07/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: Romantic Spa Retreat includes Deluxe accommodations for two adults, Champagne and six chocolate dipped strawberries and, "D"TOUR Couple's Suite package.
"D"TOUR Couple's package includes: Spa couture for couples! MotorCity's ultra-private couple's two-room suite begins with your choice of "D"TOUR Scrubs to awaken the senses. Then enjoy a private soak together in our illuminated hydro-therapy tub. Paint each other with our MotorCity MUD Bar then rinse together in our double Rain Dance full body shower. Finish off with our MotorCity Music couples massage.
Rate ~$705 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation


Your Choice Spa & Gaming Package
Available Dates: 04/07/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: MotorCity Casino Hotel's Your Choice Package allows you to choose how you spend your time. Your package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two, $200 in "D"TOUR Spa treatments, $100 in Casino Play and $150 toward food and beverage at any of MotorCity Casino's food establishments.
Rate ~$589 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation


Take Me To The Ball Game Package
Available Dates: 04/07/2008 - 09/28/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: Take Me To The Ball Game Package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two adults, $50 credit in the Gift Shop to purchase your Tigers merchandise, Roundtrip transportation to Comerica Park on game day, Breakfast for two the next morning. **Game tickets are not included in this package.**
Rate ~$229 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Changes or cancellations must be made 24 hours prior to your arrival date to avoid penalty charge. All Shuttle riders must be at least 21 years of age. Tickets to the Tigers game are not included in this package. If you are interested in purchasing tickets, please contact our Concierge at 1-866-STAY-MCC.


Amore Chocolate Package
Available Dates: 03/21/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: Amore Chocolate Package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two; Two Chocolate Martinis and six chocolate covered strawberries delivered to your room upon arrival; Chocolate scented bath bubbles; Specialty turndown service including Chocolate scented linen spray and a box of Godiva Chocolates; Oreo cookies and chocolate milk delivered to your room at bedtime.
Rate ~$229 per Night (Double Occupancy)


The Color Purple
Available Dates: 05/20/2008 - 06/01/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: The Color Purple Package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two adults, round trip transportation to Fox Theatre, two tickets for The Color Purple, playing at Fox Theatre. All Shuttle riders must be at least 21 years of age
Notes: Reservation must be prepaid at the time of booking. Reservation is non-refundable. Due to ticket availability, this package must be reserved at least 48 hours in advance.
Rate ~$329 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation


Suite Beginnings Honeymoon Package
Available Dates: 03/21/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: Suite Beginnings Honeymoon Package includes Deluxe Suite accommodations for two, Champagne with six chocolate covered strawberries delivered to you room upon arrival; bubble bath and scented soap rose petals to sprinkle over your bubbles; dinner for two through Room Service, up to $160 including tax, delivery and service charges; two MotorCity Casino Hotel robes to keep; Breakfast for two through Room Service, up to $50 including tax, delivery and service charges; Valet Parking.
Rate ~$559 per Night (Double Occupancy)


A Rose is a Rose Package
Available Dates: 03/07/2008 - 12/31/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: A Rose is a Rose Package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two adults, Valet parking, one dozen roses with a bottle of Rosé Champagne in your room upon arrival, rose scented bubble bath, rose scented soap petals to sprinkle over the bath, specialized turndown includes rose scented linen spray and a 24K Gold dipped Forever Rose.
Rate ~$335 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation


MotorCity Movie Madness Package
Available Dates: 01/18/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 -- 10 Nights
Package Details: MotorCity Movie Madness Package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations with a Microwave, Valet parking, 4 In-Room movies, 1 Large pizza of your choice, 4 sodas, 2 bags of Microwave popcorn, and a Novelty popcorn bowl.
Rate ~$219 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: 24 Hour Cancel Policy


Romantic Getaway
Available Dates: 12/18/2007 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 -- 3 Nights
Package Details: Romantic Getaway includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two; small bottle of Champagne delivered to your room upon arrival with six chocolate dipped strawberries; Room Service Dinner for two, one heart shaped Bath Bomb; Full Breakfast in Classics Buffet for two; Valet parking
Rate ~$409 per Night (Double Occupancy)


Anniversary Package
Available Dates: 02/01/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 -- 10 Nights
Package Details: Anniversary Package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two, an Anniversary Cake, Champagne, six chocolate covered strawberries delivered to your room.
Rate ~$229 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation


Birthday Package
Available Dates: 02/01/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 -- 10 Nights
Package Details: Birthday Package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two, Birthday Cake, 4 sodas, One dozen latex balloons delivered to your room.
Rate ~$219 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation


Stay and Play Package
Available Dates: 02/08/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: Stay and Play Package includes Deluxe overnight accommodations for two adults, two $20 vouchers for Casino Play and Valet parking.
Rate ~$219 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: 24 Hour Cancel Policy


Breakfast Package
Available Dates: 11/28/2007 - 12/31/2008
Duration: 1 -- 10 Nights
Package Details:
Rate ~$209 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: Full Advance Non Refundable Deposit Required at Time of Reservation


Detroit Institute of Arts Package
Available Dates: 03/26/2008 - 12/30/2008
Duration: 1 Night
Package Details: Open your mind at the Detroit Institute of Arts. This special package includes Deluxe accommodations for two adults, two tickets to the Detroit Institute of Arts and breakfast for two in Classics Buffet. Additional tickets to the museum may be purchased through our Concierge desk. The Detroit Institute of Arts is closed on Monday and Tuesday each week. For more DIA information visit www.dia.org
Rate ~$219 per Night (Double Occupancy)
Notes: 24 Hour Cancel Policy

Information Here is Not Guaranteed, Contact Motor City Casino for Package Availability and for Official Rate Information & Cancellation Policies.

Soaring Eagle Trip Report - May 2008

Visit Duration: 3 Days, 2 Nights
Room Rate: $249 - Spring Bouquet Package
Package Details: $50 in Slot Play and $25 in Restaurant Credits per person, per night. Bottle of Champagne, Assorted Cheeses with Crackers, and Dried Fruits with Nuts delivered nightly.

Arrival was on Thursday and with no construction between the Novi area and Mt. Pleasant we made decent time (just over two hours via I-96 and US-127. We arrived just after 4pm and were promptly greeted by a very friendly casino host. The assigned room was exactly has booked, my upgrade request was denied and our room was at the far end of the building away from the casino (quite a hike). Not an 'exciting' start to a trip, but nonetheless it is tough to complain about receiving services exactly as booked. :-)

The main selling point for me on the 'Spring Bouquet' package (versus a standard reservation) was Slot Play and Restaurant Credits. So although the rate was $249 per night (instead of averaging $180) the additional credits more than offset the incremental per night cost. In a surprise to me we could have used the Slot Play credit for Table Credits as well; an unexpected bonus in my opinion. In addition to the Bouquet Slot Credits, Soaring Eagle was also giving $10 in Slot Play to all new Players Club members. All-In-All, Mr & Mrs Casino reviewer started the trip with a total of $220 in Slot Play compliments of Soaring Eagle. One small issue about the whole slot play process at Soaring Eagle. Not all slots are equipped with redemption software for use of Slot Play credits. Of course Mrs. Casino Reviewer's favorite game, Wheel of Fortune $0.25 was one of the 'older' machines without this capability.

Our evening started with some miscellaneous slot play and just walking the casino floor. We had been to Soaring Eagle in the past and were pretty familiar with the layout. As with any modern casino the floor is dominated by slot machines. The one unique factor to the Soaring Eagle is that they have three 'virtual' table games where I haven't seen elsewhere. One is a $2 Virtual Black Jack and the other is Virtual Roulette. It is the same format to a live give; semi-circle table with seating for six, but the dealer is a video projection and in my opinion is quite cheesy. While the blackjack dealer is cheesy, the roulette dealer is straight out of Max Headroom. Not something I would normally do, but definitely unique.

After perusing the floor we had dinner at Siniikaung Steak & Chop House. Dinner was very average. It started off great with a wonder Mushroom Bisque, but my Prime Rib, ordered Medium (pink with a touch of brown), was Well Done. I decided it wasn't worth the additional time to re-prepare a new entree, so I just let it go. As for the dining staff, punctuality was not their forte and they were disappointing. Our food was presented jointly with a table across the room and at on the serving tray for a couple of minutes while the other table requested their entrees be returned to the kitchen for adjustments. Despite the dining issues Mrs. Casino Reviewer really enjoyed the Seafood Pasta with Scallops. To quote her, she said "It was something she wishes she could prepare." The meal total (before vouchers) was $70. The overall dining experience was disappointing and while I won't go as far as to say not to dine there, it will take a lot to get me back to Siniikaung.

Our casino play the rest of the evening consisted of all Blackjack. Mr. & Mrs. Casino reviewer enjoying playing at the same table and being a Thursday night, had no issues with this. All of dealers were extremely friendly and entertaining. A gold star does have to go to the pit boss Joe. He was absolutely awesome. Using our first names, asking us if there was anything he could do to assist. Joe is what I would hope to have as a Pit Boss (for customer service) at any casino.

More Blackjack for the rest of night.

End of Day 1 ~ 2am

Start of Day 2 ~ 10am

I typically don't make a habit out of discussing bathroom fixtures in my writing, but you'll be 'blown away' by the shower head in the bathrooms at the Soaring Eagle It was incredible and Mr. and Mrs. Casino review are now looking for that brand for our new bathroom.

Back to things that matter...

The next morning we had breakfast sandwiches at the snack bar. $8 for two sandwiches and beverages.... Not outrageous. Food quality at the snack bar was not gourmet, but was very acceptable for quick service. After breakfast we migrated to the Casino Floor and split up. I found my 'Star Wars' video slots for a little guilty fun while my Mrs. Casino Reviewer found here Wheel of Fortune ($0.25).

We left for our afternoon spa appointment and were blown away at the massages we got. The masseuse was extremely professional and the hour long massage went way too fast. It was well worth the time and expense and great way to breakup the day. After our spa services we had lunch at the bar in the Water Lilly restaurant. For me it was a Burger with fries (just had a taste for it), for Mrs. Casino Reviewer it was the Reuben. The food took excruciatingly long to arrive but thankfully both sandwiches where worth the wait. A reoccurring theme became more apparent in our dining experiences Decent food but less than desirable service.

When I'm on vacation, I take advantage of my time and enjoy afternoon naps. Even though I'm a relative young man, afternoon naps rock. Sure enough, about 4:30, it was about that time. Next thing you know it's now 7:00pm.

We head downstairs and get a table at Water Lilly for dinner. Our appetizer was Lobster Chowder and it was sensational. For dinner, I order the Surf & Turf and Mrs. Casino Reviewer once again goes for Seafood Pasta, but this time with Lobster & Shrimp. To me, Surf & Turf is a Fillet with Lobster Tail. To the Soaring Eagle, it was New York Strip with Lobster Medallions. Once again the meat wasn't prepared exactly as requested, but it was acceptable. Our server was the exception to our prior experiences and was quite friendly and knowledgeable. Her punctuality diminished towards the end, but that may have been something to do with processing our dining vouchers.

While were on the subject of food vouchers...One complaint that I had about the program was the limitation of where they could be used... Only restaurant where the average entree was $25-$30. To me food is food, why does it matter where it comes from. Just limiting the credit usage to two restaurants wasn't a friendly measure.

Back to gaming... I hate slot machines at this point. Not winning a single thing. After experiencing this and speaking with others, I now have a hypothesis on Soaring Eagle slot payouts. Since the nearest casino competition is over 100 miles away, their slot payouts seem extremely low. I'm not the first one to say this, but I didn't see a single 'big winner' on the floor all weekend long. When I've been to the Detroit Casinos in the past, I've just about seen a 'big winner' ever time I've gone. Unfortunately, it's not me. :-) At the end of the day, it was good that their slot payouts were low, as it pushed me to the Blackjack table.


End of Day 2 ~ 1am

Start of Day 3 ~ 10am

Checkout time is the standard 11am. We get everything packed up and load up the car by 11am. We head to the Players Club to get our comp values from Slot & Table play and then go to check out at the front desk. Simply put, I've never been physically laughed at by a casino host in my life... Until today. While we had three hours (each) of table time on Day 1, six hours on Day 2 and then another two hours on Day 3. I was told that Mrs. Casino Reviewers comp balance was $2 and mine was $25. She then pointed to a stack of rating cards sitting behind her and said that they haven't entered any table ratings since Wednesday and their 'backed up' and won't be able to provide comps based on table during this visit. I reluctantly take my $25 down to the front desk and check out. After I walk away from the front desk, adding insult to injury, the front desk clerk didn't even take the $25 off. It was quickly fixed, but it just added to my frustrations.

Overall, I was moderately satisfied with the trip to the Soaring Eagle. While I was disappointed in the punctuality and 'sense of urgency' of several of the casino staff, the Blackjack dealers and Pit Bosses were rock stars. Without their efforts, the probability of a return visit would have been reduced.

Trip Highlights: Dealers & Pit Bosses

Trip Lowlights: Restaurant Staff, Package Value, Players Club

Ratings

Casino: *** (3 Stars)
Dealers & Pit Bosses: **** (4 Stars)
Food Quality: **1/2 (2.5 Stars)
Waitstaff: *1/2 (1.5 Star)
Hotel Facilities: *** (3 Stars)
Hotel Staff: *** (3 Stars)

Here We Go....

I Love Casino Gaming! I admit it. It's fun, exciting and thrilling. It's also immensely frustrating. In an effort to make your time and money go as far as possible (let's face it, in the long run, the house edge will eventually get us), the casino patrons need to know about the best deals and promotions available. In addition to that, all patrons should know where there business is valued. In the end, why do I love casinos in Michigan? Quite simply there is no other place in the the entire state where you can get any degree of on demand entertainment.


There are plenty of websites to turn to for review on the casinos of Vegas or Atlantic City. But I live in Michigan. If I want to play in Vegas or AC it's usually a two day minimum commitment and the last time I checked, airfare isn't getting any cheaper. I started the Michigan Casino Review because I play in Michigan and no other source like this exists. This blog is an attempt to provide insights and reviews of the Casinos and associated services within the entire State of Michigan. From the big city feel of the Detroit Casinos to the remote and tranquil resorts in the Upper Peninsula, I will provide first person accounts of the sights, sounds, experiences and services of each location.

The reason for starting this blog is very simple, I couldn't find the information that I wanted. My wife and I were planning to get away and I wanted a subjective review of a casino for us to stay at. Unfortunately, there was no single source of truth for us to turn to. In the end, I hope that this blog will serve a central website that will allow patrons to turn to when they need information about events, promotions and other news about the Casinos in Michigan. Thanks for reading and as always, please be sure to drop me a note if you have any questions, concerns or comments.