Potawatomi Casino | Hotel Project Champions Sportsbook

The largest retail sports betting venue in the Midwest opened at Potawatomi Casino | Hotel in April 2024, transforming 28,820 square feet of the Milwaukee gaming destination.

The project demolished the Northern Lights Theater to make way for the new 9,000-square-foot Potawatomi Sportsbook, featuring a 2,000-square-foot curved LED screen capable of displaying more than 30 events simultaneously. The renovation also included refreshing the 44,000-square-foot Four Seasons gaming area with new theming, finishes, games and a 14-table poker room.

The Fire Pit Sports Bar & Grill underwent a renovation to serve as the sportsbook restaurant, while remaining areas were converted into additional gaming space. To improve guest experiences, new escalators were installed connecting the hotel and casino, and all casino cashiers were centralized into one area.

A significant challenge was maintaining operations throughout construction. Meticulous phasing ensured the maximum number of gaming machines remained operational while minimizing disruption to guests. The project achieved an exemplary safety record, with over 128,000 trade hours completed without any lost-time incidents.

The renovation addresses the growing demand for sports betting in Wisconsin, where current law requires wagering to be placed in person. The new sportsbook creates a destination for guests in southeast Wisconsin, rivaling retail betting spaces found in Las Vegas.

Beyond providing enhanced entertainment options, the project contributes to economic growth in the region. The joint venture between Gilbane Building Co. and Greenfire Management Services represents a partnership that has redefined the casino space.

The project streamlined operations by adding new service bars, beverage stations and restrooms, while reconfiguring existing facilities to ensure a seamless guest experience. The sophisticated retail betting space, complete with broadcast booth, has set a new standard for casino entertainment in Milwaukee.