Eagle River Hotel Whitecourt

HISTORY

The Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, also known by the names of Assiniboine and Stoney, is an Indigenous community residing in four locations across the northern half of Alberta. The Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation has over 1 200 members and is known for its rich cultural traditions which include drumming, dancing, and storytelling. They are committed to preserving their natural resources and promoting sustainable development through initiatives such as eco-tourism and land conservation. Since 2008, the Eagle River Casino and travel plaza have been providing the community and its visitors with entertainment, delicious food, and memorable experiences. The existing facility, however, is insufficient to accommodate the growing number of visitors, while much of its equipment and infrastructure has been ageing and becoming obsolete. 

VISION

The client approached our team with the dream of adding to and elevating the existing establishment, which included a hotel, banquet hall, and renovations to the existing casino. The new project would help to showcase the community, its history and culture, and demonstrate the Nation as a premier travel destination in northern Alberta. The new facilities will be family oriented, inclusive, and offer guests an experience like no other! 

AN ADVENTURE FOR EVERYONE! 

As was established early in the project phases, the Casino will offer an experience that is family friendly, inclusive to all people of differing backgrounds and abilities, and that is sustainably built with local labour and materials. In addition to providing a gaming area to Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation and the surrounding communities, the Eagle River Casino and Travel Plaza will be a place of gathering for the local community, hosting events such as concerts, community engagements, and private parties. The Casino is expected to open in 2025!