WAYLAND, Mich. — The opening of Gun Lake Casino’s highly anticipated hotel resort is set to transform the region, with business owners and community leaders counting down to the grand opening this Friday. The expansion, which began in 2022, marks the fifth phase of development for the casino and introduces a new 15-story, 252-room hotel that promises to elevate the area’s appeal to both tourists and locals.
Despite ongoing construction, the buzz surrounding the resort is palpable. Business owners in neighboring areas are already preparing for a surge in visitors. Terry Cole, the owner of Chief Noonday Carpark in nearby Yankee Springs, has seen firsthand how eager tourists are to embrace the new offerings. Cole’s business, which specializes in classic car storage and services, has already received shipments of vehicles from clients planning to drive through West Michigan once the hotel opens.
“These car owners are excited about the new hotel,” Cole said. “They’re already making reservations to stay at the casino, and they’ve sent me their cars ahead of time, ready for their summer road trips. The hotel isn’t even open yet, but people are already planning their visits.”
The arrival of the hotel also brings with it an economic boost for local businesses. Cole noted that car clubs from across the country are now eyeing West Michigan as a destination. This influx of tourists is expected to positively impact local restaurants, shops, and services, as visitors explore the region’s attractions.
“The expansion of the Gun Lake Casino is a major development for the area,” Cole continued. “More people will come, and local businesses are getting ready to cater to them. It’s a win for everyone.”
In downtown Wayland, the excitement is shared by restaurant owners and other local entrepreneurs. Denise Behm, executive director of the Wayland Area Chamber of Commerce, expressed optimism about the resort’s impact on the community.
“The grand opening of the Gun Lake Casino’s hotel marks an exciting new chapter for our community,” Behm said. “This vibrant destination is set to boost area tourism, energize local businesses, and provide a premier entertainment experience for both residents and visitors.”
While the hotel opens this week, the expansion is far from complete. Gun Lake Casino is also preparing for the launch of The Wawyé Oasis, a more than 32,000-square-foot waterpark scheduled to open in May. The family-friendly waterpark will feature a range of activities, including a 21+ VIP pool, further enhancing the resort’s appeal to a diverse range of visitors.
As the resort prepares to open its doors, all eyes are on what this new chapter will bring for Wayland and the surrounding communities. The addition of a world-class entertainment venue, along with the expected influx of visitors, is poised to invigorate the local economy and establish the region as a top destination for tourism in West Michigan.
