As we drove past the former Vee Quiva casino on our way to attend the grand opening of the all-new Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino, the difference in size and grandeur between the two was astonishing to me.
The new Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino, which opened on July 2, is all about offering an all-encompassing entertainment experience. As Public Relations Manager Melody Hudson commented, “It’s no longer the day of a casino floor and a buffet; it’s offering a wide variety of amenities from dining to entertainment to a hotel, etc.”
There was excitement in the air as the CEO of Gila River Casinos, John James, thanked those who contributed to the project and counted down to the ribbon cutting, officially opening the new facility to the public. There has been great anticipation leading up to the unveiling of this state-of-the-art entertainment facility, and it did not disappoint.
As you walk in the main entrance, you notice the elegant, changing lights in the ceiling that are illuminating the casino floor. The room is also adorned with Frank-Lloyd-Wright-style décor, making it uniquely Arizonan. The casino area is extensive. Gamers can choose from over 950 slot machines, 36 table games, a 550-seat bingo hall and a 16-table poker room.
Just off the casino floor is the first Ditka’s restaurant in the Western United States, founded by NFL head coach Mike Ditka. A local favorite, Los Reyes de la Torta, is also a featured dining option. Vee Quiva is one of three valley locations for this authentic Mexican restaurant. Man vs. Food’s Adam Richman came all the way to Arizona to try their “Torta del Rey.” A cozy coffee shop, Panda Express, Fat Burger and Dunkin’ Donuts make up the remainder of the food court area.
Guests can also enjoy live music at two different entertainment venues: VQ Live, a luxurious yet comfortable lounge, and a separate event center that will host various performances. Both venues have the capability of opening up to the outside so guests can enjoy entertainment under the stars during the cooler months.
In addition to the gaming, dining and entertainment features, guests can relax in the 90-room boutique hotel that accompanies the casino. A fitness center and pool are also available. As Hudson mentioned, there are not many boutique hotels on the West side, making Vee Quiva, located just south of Laveen, especially unique.
With the endless casino games, both local and familiar cuisine, live entertainment and a luxurious place to relax, the Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino definitely delivers on its promise to provide an all-encompassing entertainment experience for both Arizonans and out-of-state visitors alike.
