The Sycuan Casino and Resort may have originated as “a humble bingo palace,” but the property in El Cajon, San Diego County, California has grown into a premier tourist destination and literal oasis in the desert.

Operated by the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, the property recently embarked on a major $226 million expansion that will add a 12-story luxury hotel with 300 rooms including 50 opulent suites. The contemporary tower in the semi-arid climate of the San Diego Valley will be surrounded by lush greenery, gardens and palms; a pool and garden area with cabanas; a bar and grill; a rolling lazy river feature; and dedicated adult and family pools. The hotel will also feature an 8,000-square-foot spa and fitness area with full-service treatment rooms offering steam and sauna.

A multi-purpose 11,400-square-foot ballroom will do at least triple duty, serving as a conference space, a 1,200-capacity concert hall, and banquet facilities with seating for 700. A junior ballroom overlooking the pool, gardens and surrounding hills will be the picture-perfect spot for weddings, parties and other social functions. A mix of restaurants will include everything from fast-casual to fine dining and a craft brewery.

The expanded casino floor space will accommodate a total of 2,500 Class III machines, 300 Class II machines and 80 table games. An additional 21,000 square feet of gaming space will be added in a planned Phase II expansion, which will also add an additional hotel tower.

“It is with great excitement and pride that we are making this investment,” says Cody Martinez, chairman of the Sycuan Tribal Council. “This is not only on behalf of the tribe, but on behalf of our team members and our guests. We are taking Sycuan to the next level.”

The expansion will be complete in December 2018.

Owner-Operator: Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation
Architect: HBG
General Contractor: Swinerton Builders
Project Management Consultant: PMA
Investment: $226 million