Graton Resort & Casino in Rohnert Park, California: A Comprehensive Overview
The Graton Resort & Casino is a large resort hotel and casino located in Rohnert Park, California, approximately 45 miles north of San Francisco. Opened on gratonresortcasino.ca November 5, 2013, the resort has since become one of the most popular entertainment destinations in Northern California.
History and Ownership
The Graton Resort & Casino is owned by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR), a federally recognized tribe based in Sonoma County. The casino’s development was made possible through a collaborative effort between FIGR and Station Casinos, a Nevada-based gaming company that specializes in Native American casinos.
Land Acquisition and Development
In 2006, the Federal Bureau of Indian Affairs granted FIGR permission to acquire approximately 273 acres of land in Rohnert Park for commercial development. Following several years of environmental review and planning, construction on the resort began in 2011.
Facilities and Amenities
The Graton Resort & Casino spans over 340,000 square feet and features a vast array of amenities catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Some notable attractions include:
- Gaming Area : With over 3,700 slot machines and table games (including roulette, craps, baccarat, and poker), visitors can indulge in an extensive selection of traditional casino experiences.
- Hotel Accommodations : The resort boasts a five-star hotel with 200 luxurious rooms and suites, many offering scenic views of the surrounding area or interior courtyards. Guests enjoy amenities such as pillow-top mattresses, flat-screen TVs, safes, refrigerators, microwaves, free Wi-Fi, and in-room coffee makers.
- Dining Options : The resort features several dining establishments, including:
- Charlie Chaplin’s : An upscale restaurant offering contemporary American cuisine with live music performances.
- Smoking Room : A casual eatery serving classic comfort foods.
- Terra Café : A 24-hour diner providing snacks and light meals.
Accolades and Recognition
The Graton Resort & Casino has garnered numerous awards and recognitions since its opening, including:
- Best New Property at the 2014 Indian Gaming Awards
- AAA Four Diamond Award
- Travel + Leisure’s Top 10 Casinos in the US
Impact on Local Community
The Graton Resort & Casino has become a significant economic driver for Sonoma County, generating revenue through tax payments to local governments and providing employment opportunities for area residents.
Tribal Economic Development and Job Creation
The casino’s establishment has contributed significantly to FIGR’s growth, enabling the tribe to expand its commercial development projects in Rohnert Park. In addition to creating over 2,000 direct jobs at the resort, Graton Rancheria has also generated hundreds of indirect employment opportunities throughout Sonoma County.
Environmental Considerations and Sustainability Efforts
In recognition of environmental responsibility and community stewardship, FIGR implemented numerous sustainability initiatives during construction:
- Rainwater Harvesting : A water conservation system collects rainwater for non-potable uses like flushing toilets.
- High-Efficiency Equipment : LED lighting, HVAC systems, and other high-performance equipment are employed to minimize energy consumption.
Public Transportation Options