One of Michigan’s biggest casino resorts, FireKeepers Casino is located in Battle Creek and has undergone major development in the last few years.

Owned and operated by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi, FireKeepers is now largely considered a mega resort with two hotel towers, a casino, sportsbook, poker room, pool complex, lots of bars, and restaurants and its own event space too. 

After hearing lots of great things about the casino and the hotel in recent months, I wanted to go along and see for myself whether it lived up to expectations. 

FireKeepers originally opened in August 2009 as a standalone casino. The first hotel tower followed three years later in December 2012, and the second hotel tower was unveiled in August 2021.

Along with hotel developments came a series of other resort expansions. This included the pool complex, new restaurants, an events centre, a convenience store, gas station, food pantry, sportsbook, and a brand new shiny lobby. 

Driving up to FireKeepers Casino, I couldn’t help but be impressed. With two large glass fronted hotel towers, connected by a central hub, each with a striking red fascia across the top and down the outside edge, it was instantly eye-catching. Even from the highway. It looked like a brand new casino.

It appeared sleek, contemporary, and attractive – so much so, it wouldn’t seem out of place in Las Vegas. 

Outside of the entrance was an attractive fire and water sculpture and inside the main entrance was just as impressive. The bright, modern, well-designed lobby felt very up-scale and made a really good first impression.

Location

FireKeepers Casino is located along Interstate 94 at Exit 104 in between Battle Creek and Marshall.

It is positioned 29 miles east of Kalamazoo, 45 miles south of Lansing and 70 miles west of Ann Arbor.

Parking is available on site at one of the 2,600 parking spaces plus there’s free valet parking too.

If you are travelling with an RV, the ‘FireKeepers Pit Stop’ gas station has five sites with electrical hook up for $20 a night.

Public transportation isn’t great in Michigan, but you can catch an Amtrak train from Dearborn to Battle Creek four times a day which takes around two hours.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Grand Rapids to FireKeepers Casino which takes just under five hours. 

If flying in, the closest airports are located in Kalamazoo (25 miles), Grand Rapids (47 miles), South Bend (76 miles) and Detroit (88 miles). 

I’d recommend flying into Detroit (DTW) Airport and catching a train to Battle Creek which takes around three and a half hours.

FireKeepers Casino has around 110,000 square feet of gaming space. If you’re familiar with Las Vegas, that’s similar to the Wynn casino floor so you can tell straight away that it’s going to offer plenty of variety.

Speaking of Las Vegas, the interior of FireKeepers Casino would also not look out of place in Sin City. 

Okay, so it wouldn’t compete with the elegance of the Venetian or Bellagio for design, but the neon-filled interior, feature lighting, and quirky architecture certainly gave me Planet Hollywood or LINQ vibes.

The casino is packed full of slots and table games and has various bars, shops and a sportsbook in there too. It is a really busy and bustling place with the games packed quite closely together.

The casino floor is smoke-free though, so although it might be quite crowded at times at least the air is clean. 

Around the casino I saw various touches relating to the FireKeepers theme. Some architectural flames on the wall, a floor-standing art installation that looked like a lit torch, and various bits of lighting like looked like lanterns and even burning embers. The carpet was also a fiery burnt orange colour.

As is the case with most mega-resorts, FireKeepers Casino was a hive of activity. As well as people playing on slots and at table games, the bars and restaurants were busy, there were people playing poker and bar-top games, people sports-betting and just lots of hustle and bustle throughout the casino. It certainly seemed like a very popular place to come. 

Table Games Selection

With around 65 live tables, there’s a good selection of games to play at FireKeepers Casino.

I saw blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, plus some different poker pit variations too.

The tables were busy when I visited and there was a good lively atmosphere. The standard of the tables and chairs was good and the dealers I saw were interacting well and having fun with the players.

A 26-table poker room is available every day from 9am with regular games and daily tournaments. If you enjoy No Limit Texas Hold’em then daily tournaments run from 12.15pm, and there are other variations including Pot Limit Omaha, Mega Stack No Limit Hold’em, and Crazy Pineapple.

FireKeepers Casino recently hosted the Mid-States Poker Tour, which is the largest poker tournament in the Midwest, attracting 2,717 entrants with a total prize pool of $2,633,990.

Classic table games:
 

• Blackjack
• Roulette
• Craps
• Baccarat
• Three Card Poker 

Variants:

• Mississippi Stud Poker
• Crazy 4 Poker
• Ultimate Texas Hold’em
• Pai Gow Poker

I saw both 6:5 and 3:2 blackjack available with table minimums starting from $10. 

I also noticed signs advertising a mini-baccarat tournament with a prize pool of $50,000. So, if baccarat is your game, be sure to take a look at the promotions board.

Slots Selection

If you love slots, then you’re going to love FireKeepers Casino. With 2,900 slots it is a slot-lovers paradise. If we consider that in Vegas terms once again, even the largest casino floors Bellagio and Aria only have 2000 slots in comparison.

What it also highlights, though, it just how jam-packed the casino floor is and I often found myself playing elbow-to-elbow and back-to-back with other players.

I personally don’t like that in a casino. I prefer more space, but I couldn’t fault the variety.

Although I found some traditional three and five-reel games, the majority of the floor was taken up by modern video slots and lots of progressive jackpot games too. These included:

• Dragon Link
• Buffalo
• Lightning Link
• Quick Hits
• Wheel of Fortune
• Wolf Gold
• Hot Stuff

A member of the casino team told me that if I downloaded the property app, there is a slot finder tool on there. All you have to do is type in the slot game you want to play and it will show you on a map exactly where to find that game in the casino.

I played Lightning Link (High Stakes version) and Buffalo Gold for a while and hit a few bonuses but ended up down overall. Oh well there’s always next time!

If you love video poker, then you will be spoilt for choice at FireKeepers. I saw at least 13 different games including Quick Quads Poker, Ultimate X Poker, and Spin Poker Deluxe. 

There’s also regular slot and keno tournaments, so make sure you check the casino promotions for details. 

Bar-Top Gaming

I found bar-top gaming in three different bars at FireKeepers Casino. 

Kabaret bar is a quirky, open plan bar right beside the cashiers cage. Featuring several above-bar TV screens, a sleek finish and surrounded by flame-red lighting, it is a striking place to grab a drink and play some bar-top games.

The Poker Bar is another great pit-stop right in the centre of the casino. You can soak up the lively casino atmosphere while playing a few games of video poker at the bar.

Finally, Dacey’s Sportsbook and Tap House is an action-packed place to play bar-top games. With large screen TV’s showing all kinds of sports, you can also place bets and enjoy a tasty restaurant menu while you play games at the bar.

Bar-top games vary depending on the bar, but generally you can choose between a small selection of video poker games, keno, blackjack and slots.

To play, just take a seat, put your money in, and choose your game. Unlike Las Vegas where bar-top gaming comes with comped drinks, this isn’t the case in Michigan as it goes against state laws.

However, bar-top gaming does give you very easy access to drinks and is a lovely social way to spend an afternoon.

FireKeepers Sportsbook

Dacey’s Sportsbook and Tap House is a modern and lively place to take in all the sports action you could want. 

Located near to the poker room, the sportsbook is open seven days a week, has multiple screens to watch the biggest games, and is smoke-free too.

As well as seating for 125 on the main floor there’s also a mezzanine floor too which overlooks the casino below. 

If you want to place bets, you can use one of the self-service kiosks or place them directly with one of the sports book representatives at the three betting windows. Minimum wagers at the live windows are $25.

I popped in here for some food and to take a breather from the casino and it was a really cool place. The server was friendly and warm and I ordered a southern chicken basket that came with fries and sauce. The portions were really big and it was tasty too.

The bar staff in Dacey’s were fabulous. I saw lots of fun interaction with other customers and it was a really upbeat and relaxed atmosphere throughout. I’d definitely recommend it, even just to grab a drink and people-watch in the casino for a while. 

Waitress Service

Waitress service was available at FireKeepers Casino although it wasn’t as frequent as I would normally like.

I ordered one drink (malibu and diet) and the friendly waitress returned with it quickly which was great. However, she must have then finished her shift as I didn’t see her again and no other waitresses approached me for a drink while I played. 

Alcoholic drinks do not come complementary when you gamble in Michigan, so you have to pay when you order. And, of course, always make sure you leave a tip.

Complimentary soft drinks and coffee were available on the casino floor though, as I saw a couple of self-service stations darted about.  

High Limit Gaming

When the casino was developed in 2021, the new Aurora High Limit Lounge was opened at FireKeepers.

Situated just off the main casino, the high-limit space is actually quite large and includes around 60 high-limit slot machines, table games, and a private lounge.

Although the gaming area is available to anyone who is willing the bet at a higher level, the lounge is only open to high tier members of the Red Hot Rewards loyalty program.

I played for a little while in here, doing $5 spins at the slots. If that is within your budget then feel free to give high-limit areas a try. They aren’t only for the big spenders. 

The Aurora High Limit Lounge was modern, sleek and attractive and it did provide a little more space between slots, but still not loads. I had a little luck in here and ended up $100 up which is always a good thing.  

Cash and Payment Options

To gamble at FireKeepers Casino, you need cash. That also means you get your winnings quicker than even fast payout online casinos, though. 

To play at the slots, you’ll insert cash into the machine and to play at the tables, you’ll hand cash to your dealer.

Slots do operate a voucher system so once you cash out, it will print out a ticket which is the equivalent of casino currency. If you want to continue playing you can just insert that voucher into a new slot. If you want to cash out, then you can do so at a redemption machine.

With table games, the currency is chips. So, when you have finished playing, take your chips and cash them out at the cashier cage. 

FireKeepers Casino does have ATM’s on site, so if you need to get cash out, you can. Just be aware that they charge enlarged withdrawal fees in the casino. 

For all non-gambling activity at FireKeepers Casino, you can use card payments as usual. 

The original FireKeepers hotel tower has 243 rooms and the second, newer tower has 203, giving it a total of 446 rooms over 8 floors.

From the outside, the hotel looked modern, attractive, and up-scale and this continued inside thanks to the 2021 renovation.

The lobby was sophisticated with polished floors, decedent lighting, classic neutral tones and quality finishing throughout. There was luxury leather seating and glass display cabinets while the check-in staff were professional and welcoming.  

FireKeepers has received a 4 Diamond Rating, due to a combination of its style and refinement, extensive amenities and quality hospitality, so you know you can expect a certain standard of service. However, the prices do reflect this and did seem quite pricey to me.

FireKeepers Rooms

I booked a Classic King Room and was given a room in the original hotel tower.

Size-wise I would say it was just about right. It didn’t strike me as particularly big or small and the overall décor was pleasing on the eye. 

The room itself had a king bed, bedside table, large TV unit with drawers, and a desk area with a chair. There was an additional table and chairs towards the window and an extra seating area. 

The walls were white, while the carpet, drapes and soft furnishings were all burnt orange, in keeping with the FireKeepers theme.

The bathroom was fairly big, with his and hers granite-top sinks, a large walk-in shower, and a separate water closet. However, it didn’t strike me as particularly luxury or modern. It was just okay.

Room amenities included flat screen TV, iron/ironing board, hairdryer, safe and bathroom toiletries. There was also an extra couple of nice touches with the robe and the coffee maker. 

The window could have been bigger, as it only took up around half of the wall space and the view was just of the main freeway, but obviously that’s unavoidable considering the location.

All-in-all, the hotel room was very comfortable, immaculately clean, and more than satisfactory. But, to be honest, I didn’t get that luxury feel from it that I was hoping for. The room didn’t match the stylish lobby, or the price tag, but maybe that was because I was in the old tower. 

Upgraded rooms are also available such as Deluxe and Fireside Rooms as well as Studios and Suites, so it might be worth looking at those if you want something a bit more special. 

Something to point out is that you are not permitted to bring your own alcohol into your hotel room. While I was checking in, another guest had a cooler with them and staff actually asked to inspect it to make sure that it didn’t include alcoholic drinks.

Also, if you want to bring your pet along with you, unfortunately they won’t be allowed. Only service animals are permitted. 

Bars

There are four bars at FireKeepers casino – Kabaret, The Poker Bar, Dacey’s Sportsbook and Tap Room and the recently renovated Lobby Bar.

Kabaret and The Poker Bar are open bars right in the heart of the casino action. The Poker Bar is more of a quick pit-stop offering one small bar and around six or seven bar stools with bar-top games. 

While Kabaret is a large square bar with TV’s, bar-top gaming and lots of style, it feels like somewhere you could stay for a while and soak it all up. 

Dacey’s Sportsbook and Tap Bar is more like a good old-fashioned sports bar with lots of TV’s, good food, lively banter and a buzzing atmosphere but in a cool modern setting. My food here was delicious and the servers and bartenders were full of character.

Finally, the hotel Lobby Bar is a stylish, contemporary and sophisticated bar located at the entrance to the hotel. With sleek, curved architecture, bar seating and table seating, it sets the tone for the resort as soon as you walk in. 

The Lobby Bar is open from 3pm to 11pm every day and there’s a daily happy hour from 4pm to 7pm with $2 off all drinks. 

Buffets and Restaurant

There are two main restaurants at FireKeepers Casino. 

Smoke ‘n Fire is just off the hotel lobby and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a comfortable setting. 

Newly renovated, this place has a reputation for serving mouthwatering dishes. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to sample it on my visit but it looked immensely popular.

Nibi is a more up-scale dining option and is FireKeepers’ signature restaurant. 

Situated in the hotel lobby, the restaurant is bathed in natural light with luxury surroundings and a high-class menu to match with the likes of Lobster Thermidor, oysters and classic steaks. Think of it as more of a special-occasion restaurant.

Outside of these there are a range of more casual dining options including Dacey’s Sportsbook and Tap House, the Café and Fortune 8 Noodle Bar.

If quick eats are on the menu, then you can try Gapi Coffee and Sweets or Chi Mon-Ee’s Food Court where you can grab a burger or pizza on the go. 

Unfortunately, the FireKeepers buffet is no longer available as it was a casualty of covid.

Shows and Entertainment

The Event Center is where most of the live entertainment happens. The 2,100 seated venue hosts shows all year round from music to comedy, country to classic rock. 

At the time of writing, the line-up includes country music stars Walker Hayes and Cole Swindell, plus comedians Daniel Tosh and Nikki Glaser. 

Outside of this, the Lobby Bar has live entertainment on Tuesdays 6pm to 8pm. 

If you enjoy a spot of retail therapy then FireKeepers has two shops. At Swarovski you can browse the high-quality crystal product collections. While at Trader’s Blanket Gift Shop, you can check out Native American wares and FireKeepers branded merchandise to take home gifts and souvenirs.

Pool

FireKeepers hotel features a bright, modern pool area for all hotel guests. Open form 7am until late, the complex has a multi-level indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna and steam room.

I had a look in and this area was a really nice place to hang out. Full of natural light, white tiles and plenty of loungers, it was clean, relaxing and contemporary. 

Although available to under 18’s they must be accompanied by an adult and guests under 21 must leave by 9pm, leaving it as an adult only pool from 9pm – 11pm.

Spa

There isn't a Spa at FireKeepers, but there is a fitness centre with all of the modern state-of-the-art machines open 24-hours a day. Although why anyone would want to be training at all hours through the night when there is a huge casino next door is anyone’s guess!

The Red Hot Rewards program is in place at FireKeepers Casino. Just like all other rewards programs, you use this scheme to build up loyalty points which can then be used to claim rewards.

To join, you must be 21 or over and will need government issued photographic ID such as passport, driving licence or state ID. Just take this along to the rewards desk at FireKeepers Casino and fill in the application form.

All new members start at the basic tier which is called Smokin’ and you can then build up points by inserting your members card into the slots when you gamble.

I couldn’t get clarity on whether you can also earn points from table game play and other spend such as hotel stays, restaurants, bars and shops but my advice would be to always ask and have your card handy just in case.

Membership points can then be used in two ways – one, to elevate your tier status, and two, to gain benefits such as freeplay or to redeem against resort bills.

The Red Hot Rewards tiers are detailed below with a summary of eligible benefits:

• Smokin’ (0 – 19,999 points): 10% discount off restaurants and gift shop, complimentary valet parking and specialised offers
• Sizzlin’ (20,000 – 39,999 points): as above plus 15% discount, access to Aurora High Limit Lounge, exclusive prize draws and 50% off alcohol purchases
• Blazin’ (40,000+ points): as above plus 20% discounts, dedicated casino host, and priority customer service

An additional card exists not related to points which is the Patriot Card. This is exclusively for all veterans of the US Armed Forces and includes a range of benefits such as discounted hotel rates and eligibility to special promotions. 

FireKeepers Casino Red Hot Rewards members also get access to a range of promotions that take place in the casino throughout the year. At the time of writing there’s a Red Hot Ride Mustang giveaway to win four brand new Mustangs. 

There’s also Big Bonus Wednesdays, Senior Tuesdays and Birthday Giveaways available to members.

Should you join Red Hot Rewards?

Personally, I am a fan of joining rewards programs in general. If you are going to spend money in a casino resort then you might as well get something back in return. 

It’s free to join and it doesn’t cost you any extra money as long as you don’t go chasing higher tier levels. Just spend exactly what you planned to and use your card when you do. 

Playing on the slots is a guaranteed way of building up points, so ensure that you insert your members card into every slot machine before you spin. 

When you see your points balance rise you can use it in a number of ways. You can redeem points for Red Hot Credits which is basically slot freeplay. You can also redeem points for table games matchplay in $25 increments. 

But that’s not all. Members points can also be used towards the cost of restaurant, bar or shop bills in FireKeepers Casino.

The added benefit of joining Red Hot Rewards is that they often have a sign-up offer on for new members. At the moment, all new members receive $5 in Red Hot Credits (freeplay).

Plus, if you earn 100 points in your first day of becoming a member then you get to spin the wheel to potentially win up to $250 in Red Hot Credits too.

The downside to Red Hot Rewards is that it’s not linked to any other resort or casino, so if you want to build up points you are restricted to just using FireKeepers Casino. However, if you are a regular then you can build points fairly quickly .

Even if you just go occasionally, it’s always worth joining the rewards program. Once you are on the radar of the casino you can get emailed special promotions and all-member offers that can bring surprising benefits. 

FireKeepers Casino surprised me, and I mean in a good way.

Having visited quite a few tribal owned casinos in the Michigan area, I have found there to be huge variations in terms of size, style, layout and amenities so I never quite know what to expect.

But FireKeepers was up there with the best. Certainly among the ones I’ve been to anyway.

The overall design and standard of the casino was excellent. It oozed quality from the minute I saw the outside aesthetics and the inside just confirmed this even more.

Fair enough, there were negatives to the property. The location is hard to get to unless you drive, the slots are crammed in and the hotel wasn’t as luxurious as I’d hoped for the price tag.

But the customer service was amazing, the selection of bars and restaurants were fab and the number and variety of games on site was exceptional. Not to mention the lovely pool area too. It certainly offered an awful lot more than even the best online casinos. 

I think for anyone looking for a one-stop shop for gambling and leisure activities in this area, you can’t really go wrong. You’ll certainly never run out of slots to play that’s for sure!