Potawatomi trip yields fresh look at gaming
Potawatomi Bingo Casino is more similar than different to its state-regulated counterparts, but it's those differences that set the property apart.
Decor that reflects mankind's harmony with nature is a charming hallmark of all Native American gaming destinations and Potawatomi is no exception. The "circle of life" gaming area is themed to represent the four seasons, plus there are images and historical artifacts from the people of the Forest County Potawatomi Nation beautifully displayed throughout the property.
Potawatomi's Nest of Life bingo hall is a cheerful and bright alternative to conventional gambling. There's seating for 1,600 players, including a spacious new non-smoking area separated by a floor-to-ceiling Plexiglas partition. Big screen TVs and snack bar food and beverage service add to the attractive venue's popularity.
Adjacent to the bingo hall is a live poker room that was recently expanded to 17 tables, and across the way is the new Sky Lodge non-smoking slot room.
The inventory of more than 1,600 slot machines includes none of the popular new wave multiline penny games, although there is a nice selection of nickel machines. Video poker is represented but not accentuated.
There's a heavy emphasis on table games, including blackjack, craps, roulette, and Let it Ride Bonus poker. On the morning I visited, there were $5 minimum games open.
The exclusive new Solstice Lounge on the mezzanine level caters to high rollers and top tier Fire Keepers players club members. Seven blackjack tables, grand baccarat with a $50 minimum wager, and more than 60 slots ranging from $1 to $100 fill the room. There's complimentary food and beverage service 24 hours.
The dining venues at Potawatomi include the elegant and award winning four-star, four-diamond Dream Dance restaurant, which features more than 600 varieties of wine by the bottle and signature dishes using fresh seafood and Kobe beef.
The Fire Pit Sports Bar & Grill, Buffet Restaurant, and 500-seat showroom, the Northern Lights Theater, are other highlights of the non-gaming amenities.
Although a hotel tower is not part of the ongoing multi-million dollar expansion project, many hotels in the area do offer shuttle service to and from the casino as well as stay-and-play promotions.
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John G. Brokopp is a local free-lance gaming writer. E-mail jbrokopp@comcast.net