Published on: April 9, 2026, 01:25h.
Updated on: April 9, 2026, 01:25h.
- MotorCity Casino Hotel embarks on a $65 million refurbishment
- Majority of the funds will be allocated to revamping hotel rooms and suites
- Detroit casino is owned by billionaire Marian Ilitch
The MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit is set to undergo a comprehensive $65 million renovation aimed at enhancing the overall experience for guests.
Located on Grand River Avenue at the Lodge Freeway, MotorCity stands out as the sole locally owned casino in Detroit. Unlike MGM Grand, operated by MGM Resorts from Las Vegas, and Hollywood Greektown, managed by Penn Entertainment from Pennsylvania, MotorCity is under the ownership of billionaire Marian Ilitch.
The renovation plans aim to heighten the casino’s appeal by modernizing all 400 hotel guest rooms and suites, enhancing the Conference Center for larger events and gatherings, and upgrading dining experiences across the property.
“MotorCity has always been a destination for fun. We’re enhancing what guests already appreciate while introducing fresh experiences that exude vibrancy and excitement, tailored to modern preferences for relaxation and enjoyment,” stated John Policicchio, general manager of MotorCity Casino Hotel.
Policicchio has named the $65 million initiative the “Elevate the Escape” project.
Ilitch, who also owns the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings, along with a 50% stake in Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, built her wealth with her late husband by creating the Little Caesars pizza franchise.
Recent feedback on hotel accommodations suggests that the update is necessary.
“The room was adequate, but not as expected for the price. The bathroom cleanliness was lacking,” mentioned a review from March.
Recovery in Revenue and Market Share
MotorCity opened its doors in late 1999 under the Mandalay Resort Group, with the Ilitch family initially holding a 25% share. The family fully acquired Mandalay in April 2005 for $525 million, shortly after which they initiated a $300 million expansion and renovation project that concluded in 2008.
In addition to hotel rooms, dining spaces, and conference facilities, the $65 million budget will also modernize gaming operations, refreshing casino entrances, finishes, and lighting. MotorCity’s loyalty program, Club Metro, will include new perks for members.
Prior upgrades to the gaming floor included the introduction of a new high-limit area, a dedicated smoking facility on the first floor, an expanded VIP dining lounge, and a two-story FanDuel Sportsbook.
MotorCity has experienced varied gaming revenue results over recent years.
In 2025, the casino’s revenue from slot machines and table games totaled $376.1 million, reflecting a 2.5% decline from 2024, which saw revenues of $385.8 million. The 2023 revenue was $373.3 million, compared to $396.5 million in 2022, and $438.2 million in 2021.
For many years, MotorCity has ranked in the middle among the three city casinos. MGM Grand Detroit has consistently led, achieving a GGR of $605.3 million in 2025, marking its second consecutive year above $600 million in casino revenue.
Hollywood Greektown achieved its highest revenue since 2021, reaching $292.8 million in 2024.
These figures do not include income from sports betting, online betting, or iGaming.
Revenue Insights for March
According to the Michigan Gaming Control Board, total casino revenue in Detroit for March amounted to $112.3 million, marking a 4.5% drop compared to March 2025.
MotorCity’s in-person revenue decreased by 2.7% to $34.9 million, while MGM Grand experienced a 3.5% dip to $51.9 million.
March 2025 had an extra weekend day compared to March 2026.