DETROIT ~ The Belle Isle Casino reopened to the public Friday after a five-year renovation that restored one of Detroit’s most familiar gathering spaces. The ribbon cutting, part of a day long celebration on the island, marked the building’s first public use since its closure in 2020 for major structural and interior work.
The $7.3 million restoration revitalized the casino’s signature stained glass ceiling, replaced the clay tile roof, enhanced exterior lighting, and upgraded accessibility with a new sloped walkway and elevator. State officials said the updates addressed long standing maintenance needs and are part of a broader effort to preserve Belle Isle’s historic venues while making them more welcoming for modern public use.
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Feb. 26, 2026 ~ Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield helps introduce the Michigan DNR’s new “Detroit’s Back Yard” branding for Belle Isle Park, spotlighting its history, natural beauty, and status as one of Michigan’s most‑visited state parks.
(CONTINUED) First opened in 1908, the casino has long served as a community venue for weddings, reunions, fundraisers, and neighborhood celebrations. Its return follows a series of Belle Isle improvement projects supported by state investment and federal relief funding, including recent upgrades at the island’s conservatory and other cultural sites. Officials note that the casino’s reopening reflects a continued commitment to restoring beloved landmarks that draw millions of visitors each year.
Although the ribbon cutting coincided with Friday’s 313 Day festivities, the reopening stands as a milestone that will extend well beyond the weekend. With renovations complete, the building is once again available for public reservation and community programming, reinforcing Belle Isle’s role as a place where Detroiters gather, celebrate, and reconnect with one of the city’s most cherished public spaces.
