Since 1990, Flandreau, South Dakota, has had something bright lighting up the town, bringing excitement with games, live entertainment, and big wins.
What began as a bold vision of fun and music became Royal River Casino & Hotel — South Dakota’s most successful Indian gaming operation.
When Royal River opened for the first time on October 2, 1990, the world of gaming on reservations had barely begun. Because of this uncertainty, the community wasn’t sure if success was on the horizon. Was the casino going to bring in the economic promise of a new industry? Would gambling harm the community and its members? Was it bound to flop?
Luck was on Royal River’s side.
Only 35 minutes from South Dakota’s largest city, Sioux Falls, Royal River Casino & Hotel brings in hopeful guests from all over the Midwest.
This October, Royal River Casino celebrated its 34th year in business with various events, including the chance for loyal guests to win a share of a $34,000 prize.
“As far as why it has been successful, the loyal guests who continue to come here year after year, along with the new guests. The great employees who take such wonderful care of this place and their guests. We make our guests feel welcome and important — just like family.” —Cathy Z., Cage Department at Royal River
Let’s take a moment to look back at the history that made the casino into a gaming oasis.
Gaming on reservations began in 1987 with a tribe in California. With a U.S. Supreme Court ruling and negotiation in each state, bright, lively casinos started to pop up on reservations all over, aiming to bring in revenue for those who lived there.
For South Dakota, limited gaming in Deadwood allowed our reservations to negotiate for the same gaming on reservations — starting with the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe.
Upon opening, the Royal River Casino floor offered a mere 180 machines to light up the faces of patrons, as the casino was not allowed any more in their hard-won compact with the state. But a continued flood of guests proved that gaming was sought after, bringing in more machines.
Seven years later, Royal River moved to where it currently stands — a vast gaming and entertainment haven. A revised compact in 2011 authorized more machines. Today, the casino boasts more than 400 slot machines, multiple Blackjack and specialty poker tables, and a roulette table. The many gaming opportunities, slot machines, concerts, comedians, and more continue to draw guests to Flandreau.
It's safe to say that Royal River has truly hit the jackpot with loyal guests, dedicated employees, and a supportive community. Happy Anniversary, Royal River! Here’s to many more years of big wins, fun games, and unforgettable experiences at Royal River Casino & Hotel.