MotorCity Casino Hotel: Solid Experience In 2021, But Still In Pandemic Recovery Mode

Despite many parts of America reopening during the vaccination phase of the coronavirus pandemic, I still have doubts about whether we have truly returned to “normal.” This sentiment was particularly evident during my recent visit to the MotorCity Casino Hotel in downtown Detroit.

As of late June, Michigan casinos have lifted their capacity restrictions. Additionally, individuals who have received full COVID-19 vaccination are no longer required to wear masks.

However, despite taking those steps towards familiarity, there was still a slight sense of unease during my one-night stay at the Grand River Avenue property. It is important to note that this discomfort had nothing to do with the casino property itself.

The truth is, the same inconspicuous cloud followed me during my visits to the MGM Grand Detroit and Greektown Casino-Hotel. Although they were operating and seemingly bustling with energy, it was clear that they hadn’t fully regained their former glory. It seems we are all in the process of rediscovering the joy of entertainment, taking cautious steps before we can fully immerse ourselves once again.

Note from the editor: Due to the rapidly changing nature of the COVID-19 recovery situation, please be aware that hotel services and features may undergo alterations. The information provided in this report is based on the amenities, operating hours, and price ranges observed by the author during their visit.

MotorCity Casino ambience

I reached MotorCity Casino Hotel a little after 7 p.m. on a Tuesday, and the initial indication of its ongoing recovery was the absence of valet parking. Even though I didn’t require it since the primary covered public parking area, with ample available spots, was conveniently linked to the establishment, it was still a noticeable detail.

Receiving my room key and stepping into my standard-level suite was the true indication, as I noticed that the literature, detailing the available amenities, extended onto a second page, yet to be uncovered.

Apart from the valet parking, all the other amenities at the casino including the Iridescence Restaurant, Assembly Line Buffet, and D. Tour Spa remained closed. The Sound Board theater was also not open, and the Amnesia nightclub on the hotel tower was yet to reopen.

As I entered my immaculate and roomy space, I noticed a few additional indications of its meticulous preparation to meet pandemic standards. The generously-sized walk-in shower exuded a sense of openness, while the king-size bed provided just the right amount of bounce. Although the carpet displayed faint signs of wear, I only noticed this when I accidentally dropped my room key and stooped down to retrieve it.

Food and beverage scene

Properties that are opened up but not operating at full capacity will feature a recurring concept of a rotating list of food items and restaurants available on specific days.

During my stay at MotorCity Casino Hotel on a Tuesday, I had the choice of enjoying a late dinner from either the Little Caesars pizza station or the Grand River Deli and Burgers to-go smorgasbord located in the off-casino food court.

The service was prompt, and I found my chicken Caesar salad and mac and cheese combo (don’t judge, it had been a tiring day!) delicious and reasonably priced, including a drink, for under $20. Both locations had extended evening hours (please note that hours may differ).

On this particular evening, all the employees in the food service industry were wearing masks. It was observed that about half of the customers in the food court area were also wearing masks. The only deviation from the expected protocols occurred with the technology used for ordering. The kiosks, which were specifically designed to facilitate socially distanced and efficient ordering, experienced multiple malfunctions when I tried to charge the expense to my room. Consequently, I had to locate a different kiosk before I could finally make payment using my credit card.

On the Wednesday morning before I left, I returned to the food court for breakfast. I decided to have an omelette and crispy hash browns at The Lodge, a restaurant that opened at 6 a.m. Once again, I received quick and efficient service, and there were only a few other customers enjoying their meal on this mid-week morning.

MotorCity Casino floor

When it comes to dining and facilities, the majority of places are making efforts to adapt during this early phase of recovery. However, the casino floor remains a crucial area where a physical establishment must truly excel.

MotorCity Casino can be grateful that their vast number of machines, exceeding thousands, spanning across two floors, perfectly catered to the current situation. Taking a comprehensive stroll through the two-floor arrangement just before 10 p.m., it was observed that approximately 30 to 40% of the machines were occupied, indicating a decent level of occupancy in the casino.

The Ultimate Fire Link and Buffalo Gold slots were the main attractions, drawing a large crowd. Despite the presence of plastic partitions between the slots, the casino floor maintained a spacious layout. However, taking pictures of the casino floor itself was not encouraged.

The MotorCity Casino layout is incredibly spacious. If I may use the perception-is-reality cliché for a moment, it made me feel like it was the largest among the three in-city properties. While this is both a compliment and a frustration, I must admit that I found myself getting lost multiple times while trying to locate the sportsbook, cashier, or even a specific section of games I wanted to revisit during my observations.

On one hand, the job has been executed effectively. On the other hand, there is a need for additional signage on the floor.

Having said that, after locating the desired destination, I noticed that the different types of casino and table games were organized efficiently. The Mini Baccarat and Craps tables had the most activity, once I located them. The high-limit room was sparsely populated, and there were about six tables in the adjacent poker room, out of a total of approximately ten, where the action was taking place.

FanDuel Sportsbook

FanDuel Sportsbook has taken the lead in the handle race during the initial six months of Michigan online sports betting. However, the retail competitions among FanDuel, BetMGM, and Barstool sportsbooks are closely contested.

However, FanDuel Sportsbook’s offering at MotorCity Casino is certainly a commendable addition. The main viewing area was filled with approximately two-thirds of the chairs occupied by patrons engrossed in an Eastern Conference Finals NBA playoff game, finding amusement in Charles Barkley’s latest remarks.

Furthermore, the main viewing area hosted a total of eight baseball games simultaneously. The sportsbook also reflected this two-floor arrangement, although the upper level remained mostly empty throughout my visit. Moreover, a row of kiosks intended for placing physical bets were hardly utilized, as mobile betting took precedence in the modern era.

Overall impressions

During these hopeful later stages of the pandemic, MotorCity Casino seemed to be in the process of recovering. However, due to staff and virus protocol limitations, some of the available options to have a good time in the evening were limited. Nonetheless, the employees on site were polite and efficient.

Different areas of the hotel also had different levels of activity. In particular, the room directly opposite mine was filled with at least six voices that were loudly having a good time even past 1 a.m. It was almost enough to keep me awake, but strangely enough, it served as a reminder that parts of our normal entertainment are once again vibrant and lively.

Motor City offers great value, especially considering its affordable price of around $150 per night. Despite some missing features during this period of limited amenities, Motor City compensates with its overall value. As the industry gradually recovers and more features become available, you’ll surely recognize and appreciate the value Motor City provides.