Downstream Casino Resort Hotel: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Downstream casino resort hotels have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a unique combination of gaming, entertainment, and hospitality experiences. They are often located in rural or suburban areas, away from the hustle and bustle of major cities. This article provides a comprehensive guide to downstream casino resort hotels, covering everything from their history and development to their impact on the local economy and amenities.
Definition and History
A downstream casino resort hotel is a casino that is located in a rural or suburban area, away from the hustle and bustle of major cities. These casinos are often built in areas with limited access to other forms of entertainment, such as movie theaters or shopping malls.
The first downstream casino resort hotel was opened in 1988 in Coushatta, Louisiana. The Coushatta Casino Resort was an immediate success, and it helped to spark a wave of development of downstream casinos in other states. Today, there are over 50 downstream casino resort hotels in the United States, and they are a major source of revenue for many rural and suburban communities.
Development and Impact
Downstream casino resort hotels have had a significant impact on the local economy in many areas. They have created jobs, increased tax revenue, and stimulated economic growth. A study by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas found that downstream casinos in Louisiana generated over $1 billion in economic activity in 2019.
In addition to their economic impact, downstream casino resort hotels have also had a positive impact on the quality of life in many communities. They have provided new entertainment options for residents, and they have helped to attract tourists to the area. A study by the University of Missouri found that downstream casinos in Missouri helped to increase tourism spending by over $200 million in 2018.
Economic Impact of Downstream Casinos on Local Communities:
| State |
Number of Casinos |
Economic Impact (in billions) |
| Louisiana |
13 |
$1.1 |
| Mississippi |
20 |
$1.8 |
| Missouri |
13 |
$1.0 |
| Oklahoma |
15 |
$1.2 |
| Texas |
10 |
$0.9 |
Amenities and Services
Downstream casino resort hotels offer a wide range of amenities and services to their guests. These amenities typically include:
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Casino gaming: Downstream casino resort hotels offer a variety of casino games, including slots, table games, and poker.
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Hotel accommodations: Downstream casino resort hotels offer a range of hotel accommodations, from standard rooms to luxury suites.
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Restaurants: Downstream casino resort hotels offer a variety of restaurants, from casual dining to fine dining.
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Entertainment: Downstream casino resort hotels offer a variety of entertainment options, such as live music, comedy shows, and movies.
In addition to these amenities, many downstream casino resort hotels also offer other services, such as:
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Spa services: Downstream casino resort hotels often offer spa services, such as massages, facials, and body treatments.
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Fitness centers: Downstream casino resort hotels often offer fitness centers, which include a variety of equipment and classes.
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Golf courses: Downstream casino resort hotels often offer golf courses, which are available to guests and the public.
Responsible Gaming
Responsible gaming is a key priority for downstream casino resort hotels. They have implemented a number of measures to help prevent problem gambling, including:
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Player education: Downstream casino resort hotels provide information about responsible gaming to their guests.
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Self-exclusion program: Downstream casino resort hotels offer a self-exclusion program, which allows guests to ban themselves from gambling.
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Employee training: Downstream casino resort hotels train their employees on responsible gaming practices.
Downsides and Controversies
Despite their economic and social benefits, downstream casino resort hotels have also been the subject of some controversy. Some critics argue that they can lead to increased crime and social problems. However, research has shown that there is no clear link between downstream casinos and crime.
Another concern is that downstream casinos can be addictive. However, responsible gaming measures can help to prevent problem gambling.
The Future of Downstream Casinos
The future of downstream casino resort hotels is bright. The industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, as more states legalize casino gambling. Downstream casinos are well-positioned to take advantage of this growth, as they offer a unique combination of gaming, entertainment, and hospitality experiences.
Stories and Lessons Learned
Story 1: The Coushatta Casino Resort
The Coushatta Casino Resort is the first downstream casino resort hotel in the United States. It opened in 1988 in Coushatta, Louisiana. The casino was an immediate success, and it helped to spark a wave of development of downstream casinos in other states.
Lesson learned: Downstream casinos can be successful in rural and suburban areas.
Story 2: The Isle of Capri Casino Resort Kansas City
The Isle of Capri Casino Resort Kansas City is a downstream casino resort hotel located in Kansas City, Missouri. The casino opened in 2008, and it is one of the most successful casinos in the state. The casino has created jobs, increased tax revenue, and stimulated economic growth in the area.
Lesson learned: Downstream casinos can have a positive impact on the local economy.
Story 3: The Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs
The Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs is a downstream casino resort hotel located in Council Bluffs, Iowa. The casino opened in 2012, and it is one of the most popular casinos in the state. The casino has attracted tourists to the area and it has helped to boost the local economy.
Lesson learned: Downstream casinos can help to attract tourists and boost the local economy.
Effective Strategies for Downstream Casino Resort Hotels
Downstream casino resort hotels can implement a number of effective strategies to improve their success, including:
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Focus on customer service: Downstream casino resort hotels should focus on providing excellent customer service to their guests. This includes providing friendly and helpful staff, as well as clean and comfortable accommodations.
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Offer a variety of amenities and services: Downstream casino resort hotels should offer a variety of amenities and services to their guests, such as a casino, hotel, restaurants, and entertainment options.
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Promote responsible gaming: Downstream casino resort hotels should promote responsible gaming practices to their guests. This includes providing information about responsible gaming, offering a self-exclusion program, and training employees on responsible gaming practices.
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Partner with local businesses: Downstream casino resort hotels should partner with local businesses to promote tourism and economic development in the area.
How to Start a Downstream Casino Resort Hotel
Starting a downstream casino resort hotel is a complex and challenging process. However, it can be a rewarding experience for those who are successful. Here are a few tips for getting started:
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Develop a business plan: The first step is to develop a comprehensive business plan. This plan should include a market analysis, a financial plan, and a marketing plan.
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Secure financing: The next step is to secure financing for your project. This can be done through a variety of sources, such as banks, private investors, and government grants.
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Obtain zoning approval: You will need to obtain zoning approval from the local government in order to build your casino resort hotel. This process can be complex and time-consuming.
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Hire a qualified team: You will need to hire a qualified team of professionals to help you develop and operate your casino resort hotel. This team should include architects, engineers, contractors, and casino operators.
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Market your casino resort hotel: Once your casino resort hotel is open, you will need to market it to potential guests. This can be done through a variety of channels, such as advertising, public relations, and social media.
Conclusion
Downstream casino resort hotels are a rapidly growing industry. They offer a unique combination of gaming, entertainment, and hospitality experiences that are attractive to guests from all over the country. Downstream casinos have had a positive impact on the local economy in many areas, and they are expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
