Ho-Chunk Gaming in Baraboo, Wisconsin recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony, complete with fireworks, in honor of its 18-month, $50 million renovation. The project includes new smoke-free and VIP gaming areas, buffet and grill, bingo hall, gift shop, main entrance and hotel lobby, plus new furniture and décor.
In response to guest feedback, the casino doubled its non-smoking gaming area, even though the Ho-Chunk Nation is exempt from Wisconsin’s indoor smoking ban. A separate air-filtration system was installed there to give casino guests a completely smoke-free gaming experience, Executive General Manager Casey Fitzpatrick said.
In addition, electronic blackjack and craps and other new games were added to the 1,600 slots and table games on the casino floor. The new VIP lounge offers privacy and upgraded service for higher-stakes gamblers but it’s open to all players, for high-rollers who prefer to spend more money than the average person and get a higher-caliber of service; however, the VIP lounge is open to all gamers. “We always want to make sure that we have the latest and greatest games and technology on the floor. We always want to deliver what the guests want,” said Senior Manager of Public Relations Dave Abangan.
The Stand Rock Buffet was relocated to the first floor, with a new fire-brick pizza oven and action stations where guests can watch their meals being cooked. “Fresh is best,” Fitzpatrick said. “Our action stations allow your meals to be cooked right before your eyes. It also helps to reduce waste and our impact on the environment.”
The renovated hotel lobby features a new elevator and gift shop. The hotel offers 300 updated rooms plus a swimming pool. And the new bingo hall offers classic and electronic bingo. Fitzpatrick noted the Ho-Chunk Nation entered gaming 35 years ago with a single bingo hall, and now owns six Wisconsin casinos with a $34.8 million payroll just in Sauk County.
