The largest gaming enterprise in the valley, Gila River Resorts & Casinos, will host grand opening celebrations on June 30 and July 1 in honor of its newest location, Santan Mountain Casino. Guests can expect elevated amenities, giveaways, Las Vegas-style showgirls, aerial drone shows and concerts with country music star, Gabby Barrett.
Ranking Arizona: Top 10 casinos for 2023
The grand opening festivities are a culmination of a 20-month $180 million project designed and built by Steelman Partners, PENTA Building Group and Tynan Group, bringing more than 700 new jobs to the east valley.
The new property features floor to ceiling windows, 33,000 square feet of gaming floor, 813 slot machines, 25 table games, BetMGM Sportsbook (the largest casino sportsbook in the state), outdoor gardens, event space and new food concepts including Mein Dish, Upper Deck Deli and Honey & Vine. The sit down restaurant Honey & Vine, features an outdoor patio, coffee bar, all day food service as well as a live DJ on special occasions.
“We are excited to break the mold with traditional casinos and bring a stunning new property to our loyal guests,” said Kenneth Manuel CEO of Gila River Resorts & Casinos. “With views of the Santan Mountains, modern touches, and elevated amenities, there is not a gaming destination like this in the state of Arizona. The growth aligns perfectly with the enterprise’s mission of driving economic stability for the Gila River Indian Community and the State of Arizona.”
With the addition of the fourth property, revenue from the enterprise directly funds infrastructure, education and public safety for the Gila River Indian Community. Additional revenue from the enterprise is dispersed throughout the state for the Arizona Tribal State Gaming Compact to support local cities, towns and counties.
Guests can join in on the fun for the multi-day events on June 30 and July 1 featuring Las Vegas-style showgirls, fire breathers, stilt walkers, live DJs, and special performances by country music star and American Idol alum, Gabby Barrett. The country concerts will kick off each night at 8 p.m. and as a thank you to Gila River’s loyal guests, tickets are only $20.23 each. The drone shows will immediately follow the concerts in the outdoor garden.
On July 2, the first 150 guests to visit the Magic Lamp slot machines can place three max bets for free and keep any earnings. Additionally, guests will receive a commemorative t-shirt.
Santan Mountain Casino is located on the southeast corner of Hunt Highway and Gilbert Road at 7101 S. Gilbert Road Chandler, AZ 85249. For more information on grand opening festivities visit playatgila.com/santan-mountain.
