Gambling On Motown

Motown officially went Vegas October 2nd as the $800 million MGM Grand Detroit – said to be the first supersized casino resort in a major city – opened with fireworks, celebrity chefs and Grand Garden lighting.

The MGM Grand Detroit boasts all the indulgences of a Vegas resort, including a hotel with 400 rooms and suites, in-room electronic concierge service and a full-service spa.

Celebrity chefs Wolfgang Puck and Michael Mina will operate three restaurants, with Puck providing the 24-hour room service.

Jim Murren, president and COO of MGM Mirage, said the facility is not only a casino and hotel but an "entertainment destination."

The MGM Grand is but the first of three casino resorts planned in the Detroit area. Greektown Casino is spending $475 million to expand its existing facility and build a 20-story hotel and parking structure to open next year. And MotorCity Casino is pouring $275 million into a 17-story hotel to open later this fall.

In addition to its slice of the gambling pie, MGM Grand Detroit emphasizes non-gaming features including a two-story, 20,000-square-foot Immerse Spa, five lounges and bars, and 30,000 square feet of space for private parties, conferences and events.