Greektown Casino Hotel

Greektown Casino Hotel Detroit: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Detroit, Michigan, Hollywood Casino at Greektown (formerly Greektown Casino Hotel) stands as a dynamic anchor of the historic Greektown district. This comprehensive guide provides visitors and locals with all the essential details needed for a memorable visit—from history and architecture to visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and travel tips. Whether your interest lies in Detroit’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant gaming and entertainment, or the unique blend of old and new that defines Greektown, this guide is your go-to resource (Greektown Detroit History, MI Betting: Detroit Casinos, Cleveland.com: Detroit’s Casino Hotels).

Introduction
Greektown’s Origins and Transformation
Greektown Casino-Hotel: A New Era
Architectural Highlights and Renovations
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions and Special Events
Visitor Tips and Transportation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Greektown’s Origins and Transformation

Greektown’s story begins in the early 19th century, first developed by German immigrants. The district’s Victorian-era storefronts and the historic Old St. Mary’s Church (est. 1841, rebuilt 1885) provide a tangible link to this era (Greektown Detroit History). By the early 1900s, a wave of Greek immigrants led by figures like Theodore Gerasimos transformed the area, infusing it with the culture and energy that still characterizes Greektown today. Businesses flourished, and the facades of German-built structures were given Greek-inspired details, a tradition that continues.

By the 1920s, Greektown had shifted from residential to a primarily commercial district, maintaining its ethnic vibrancy even as its population diversified. Urban renewal in the mid-20th century brought both challenges and opportunities; while some historic structures were lost, Greektown’s core identity as a center of hospitality, cuisine, and entertainment endured.

Greektown Casino-Hotel: A New Era

In November 2000, Greektown Casino opened, becoming Detroit’s third commercial casino and propelling the district into a new era of urban revitalization (MI Betting: Detroit Casinos). Owned initially by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, the casino leveraged its location within a pre-existing entertainment hub—unlike its competitors, it was part of an established neighborhood, not a standalone destination (Cleveland.com: Detroit’s Casino Hotels).

The 30-story hotel tower, completed in 2009, introduced 400 rooms and panoramic city views, further elevating Greektown’s profile as a hospitality destination.

In May 2023, the property was rebranded as Hollywood Casino at Greektown following acquisition by Penn Entertainment, accompanied by a $30 million renovation that refreshed public areas, introduced new dining and lounge experiences, and rolled out Michigan’s first casino cashless payment system, “mywallet” (Patch: Greektown Casino Renamed, Hour Detroit: Greektown Casino Renamed).

Architectural Highlights and Renovations

Designed by Rossetti Architects and HBG Design, with input from Paul Steelman, the hotel tower’s blue glass façade has become a Detroit icon (BuildingsDB). The curtain wall panels evoke the Detroit River’s hues, while the street-level brick base maintains continuity with the historic neighborhood.

A $50 million upgrade completed in 2022 modernized guest rooms, public spaces, and amenities, preserving the property’s boutique luxury feel (Crain’s Detroit).

Interior Features:

Boutique-style lobby with local art and neon-lit automotive themes
Three-level casino spanning new construction and the adaptive reuse of historic Trappers Alley, featuring exposed brick and metal walkways
400 guest rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, modern comforts, and local artwork (Booking.com, HVS Design)

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Hours of Operation

Casino Floor: Open 24/7
Dining Venues: Generally 11:00 AM–midnight; check the official website for specific hours
Hotel Check-in/Check-out: Check-in from 3 PM; check-out by 11 AM

Tickets and Admission

Casino: No admission fee; visitors must be 21+ with valid ID
Events: Tickets required for concerts and special events; available online or at the box office
Tours: Several local operators offer guided walking tours of Greektown and its monuments

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators, and guest rooms with roll-in showers and accessibility features (HotelsCombined)
Service animals allowed per ADA guidelines
Accessible public transit options, including the Detroit People Mover’s Greektown Station

Nearby Attractions and Special Events

Greektown Monument: Honoring Greek-American heritage with symbolic artwork and inscriptions; open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Detroit Opera House, Comerica Park, Ford Field: All within walking distance
Detroit Riverwalk: Scenic trails for walking or biking
Eastern Market & Detroit Institute of Arts: Short drive or transit ride away
Annual Greektown Festival: Summer event with music, dance, and Greek cuisine

Visitor Tips and Transportation

Getting There

By Car: Convenient from I-75, 25 minutes from Detroit Metro Airport (Oyster)
Parking: Complimentary garage with 3,000 spaces; valet available for hotel guests (Casinos.com)
Public Transit:
- People Mover: Greektown Station connects to downtown
- Bus: DDOT and SMART routes stop nearby (Moovit)
- QLine: Short walk to Woodward Avenue streetcar (Lonely Planet)
- Rideshare/Bike-Share: Uber, Lyft, and MoGo bikes widely available

Dining and Entertainment

Five in-house restaurants, including the acclaimed Prism steakhouse
Lobby speakeasy bar, sports bars, and 24/7 casual dining
Reservations recommended for dinner and event nights

Safety and Practical Advice

Greektown and downtown Detroit are generally safe, but remain alert after dark (Lonely Planet)
Dress for weather—cold winters, humid summers
Room rates fluctuate; December often yields the best hotel deals

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the casino’s visiting hours?
A: The casino is open 24/7. Dining and entertainment hours vary.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, but you must be 21+ with valid ID for casino entry.

Q: Is Greektown accessible by public transit?
A: Yes; the People Mover, bus routes, and QLine all serve the area.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Service animals are welcome; check hotel policies for other pets.

Q: What are the best photo spots?
A: The Greektown Arch, neon-lit Monroe Avenue, and the hotel’s blue tower are favorites.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Hollywood Casino at Greektown exemplifies Detroit’s fusion of historic preservation and contemporary excitement. With its 24/7 gaming, diverse dining, accessible amenities, and proximity to Detroit’s premier cultural and sports attractions, it remains a top destination for both visitors and locals. For the best experience, plan ahead for peak times, transportation, and dining. Enhance your trip with digital resources like the Audiala app for guided tours and real-time updates.

Start your journey into Detroit’s Greektown today—immerse yourself in a district where heritage, hospitality, and modern entertainment create unforgettable memories.