The Gila River Indian Community (GRIC) has officially announced the grand opening of its newest casino venture, Santan Mountain, in Chandler, Arizona, scheduled for June 30, 2024. This remarkable project represents the fourth casino establishment within the GRIC’s gaming portfolio.
A $180 Million Gaming Marvel
Santan Mountain, the $180 million casino, earned approval through the reinstated and amended gaming compact in Arizona in May 2021. Groundbreaking for this exciting development commenced in December 2021, and construction has taken approximately 18 months to transform the picturesque site located near Chandler at Gilbert Road and the upcoming Santan Mountain Drive, just south of Hunt Highway.
This impressive gaming destination features a spacious 33,000-square-foot gaming floor adorned with more than 800 slot machines, guaranteeing an engaging and electrifying gaming experience. The casino also houses three dedicated pits for table games, including a high-limit table games section. In the high-limit area, visitors will find a roulette table featuring an elegant white roulette wheel, setting the stage for a luxurious gaming atmosphere. To complement this high-end gaming space, there’s a dedicated bar, Premia, which includes an inviting indoor/outdoor area with a connection to a charming garden.
BetMGM Sportsbook and Exciting Dining Options
Santan Mountain Casino embraces the enthusiasm for sports betting with its 7,000-square-foot BetMGM sportsbook. This well-designed sportsbook facility offers comfortable booths and individual seating, making it the perfect place to watch your favorite games or events. Additionally, the sportsbook provides booth rental options for guests, ensuring an enjoyable and customized viewing experience. For those seeking culinary delights, the sportsbook features an Upper Deck Deli, where patrons can savor a delectable range of snacks and meals.
As a testament to the commitment to local and diverse offerings, the casino introduces a new dining gem, Honey and Vine, which takes pride in sourcing ingredients locally from the Gila River Indian Community. In addition to this distinctive restaurant, a dynamic three-restaurant food court is available for guests to explore. The main bar, known as the Hive, serves as a vibrant hub for guests looking to unwind and socialize.
A Destination Beyond Traditional Gaming
Blake Katsnelson, the general manager of Santan Mountain Casino, emphasized the role this establishment plays in providing entertainment and a much-needed destination for residents of Gilbert, Queen Creek, Chandler, and San Tan Valley. According to Katsnelson, Santan Mountain Casino is redefining traditional gaming expectations, pushing the boundaries to create a unique and unparalleled gaming experience.
As the casino prepares for its grand opening, job fairs have been organized to recruit approximately 700 skilled individuals to staff the facility. Cooks and chefs at various levels represent some of the most in-demand roles within the casino.
Santan Mountain Casino’s arrival promises to provide an exciting blend of gaming, sports betting, delectable dining, and an entertainment experience that breaks new ground in the Arizona gaming landscape. The casino eagerly anticipates its grand opening on June 30, 2024, welcoming guests to an unforgettable gaming journey.