Owned and operated by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, the spectacular new 166,341-sq.-ft. We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort boasts state-of-the-art gaming, a variety of specialty fine and casual dining restaurants, and live entertainment. The attached AAA Four Diamond hotel offers 246 luxurious guestrooms and suites; 25,000 square feet of meeting space; relaxing spa treatments at the Amethyst Spa & Boutique; and two resort-style outdoor pools.
The sophisticated new casino replaces the original Fort McDowell Casino that initially opened in 1984 as a bingo hall. When building the new casino, the designers were mindful to incorporate design elements of earth, water, fire and basket-weaving that are so important to the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation culture.
The casino features a number of dining options led by acclaimed chefs and offers something for everyone. Ember is the destination fine-dining experience, serving the highest quality of steaks and seafood prepared over wood-fired grills. The menu is complemented by a specialty cocktail menu, whiskey library and an extensive wine list. The staff at this restaurant is impressive, led by critically acclaimed Chef De Cuisine Richard E. Pelz. Utilizing his 31 years of experience, Sommelier Dennis Payne can help you pick the perfect glass or bottle of wine to pair with your meal.
Other dining options include the casual American restaurant, Ahnala, led by passionate Chef de Cuisine Ian Anderson. The Market is the quick-serve restaurant that offers items on the go for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is open 24 hours a day. The Buffet, which is set to reopen in the near future, will feature an open concept plan with live cooking stations, where you can watch your food being prepared fresh to order right in front of you. Finally, sports bar WKP Sports & Entertainment is a great spot to catch your favorite sporting events, live entertainment and enjoy creative pub fare and craft beer. There is also a Bingo Snack Bar and Casino Center Bar to grab a bite or drink.
Gaming options include 850 state-of-the-art slot machines; a 400-seat smoke-free bingo hall with 50-in. monitors; 22 action-packed blackjack tables; and a spacious poker room featuring five tables with live games and tournaments.
We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort is connected to a new four-story covered parking structure and the existing 246-room hotel that has received the coveted AAA Four Diamond award every year since it opened in 2006.
While most casinos in Arizona are smoke-free now, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort is the only casino in Arizona that has never been smoked in. There are four comfortable outdoor areas designated for smokers.
For more information about We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, visit wekopacasinoresort.com.