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The Group Travel Leader Going on Faith Select Traveler

Casino resort enjoys “Superior” location


Courtesy Bayfield CVB

BAYFIELD, Wis. — The builders of Legendary Waters Resort and Casino have made the best of the property’s perch on Lake Superior.

When the year-round casino resort opened in mid-August, guests marveled at its views of the lake, the resort’s marina and the Apostle Islands beyond.

The lake can be seen from each of the 47 guest rooms, the dining room and the bar, and the casino.

The casino hotel is owned by the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippawa, who have been trying to build a new casino to replace their old, outdated one for at least 15 years. Already, the tribe is considering adding another 50 or so guest rooms. The hotel’s meeting space, a 5,000-square-foot ballroom, is also used for the casino’s live entertainment.

The resort’s Northwoods location is reflected in its design. Large limestone fireplaces and local art, including a handmade canoe in the lobby, enliven the decor. A heritage wall highlights local and tribal history.

Legendary Waters’ free shuttle will transport guests to Bayfield, a village three miles south that has been recognized as one of America’s Best Small Towns. Outdoor activities are a draw, among them mountain biking, bonfires on the beach, kayaking around the lake and hiking red sandstone cliffs along the lake.

A recycling program, biodegradable cleaners and shampoos, and low-casting outdoor lights that reduce light pollution are some of the measures taken by the resort to protect the environment.

800-226-8478
www.legendarywaters.com

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — The Hotel Mead was bought by Balmoral Realty this summer, after the hotel landed in receivership. The firm plans to continue operating the 154-room hotel, built in 1951 by Consolidated Paper, until a stable owner is found.

Jeff Gellerman, vice president of Balmoral, said his company will continue to operate the hotel and make improvements to the physical plant and the guest experience.

“Local businesses and individuals have expressed solid support for Hotel Mead since we became involved, and we’re pleased for that vote of confidence,” said Gellerman. “We’ve enjoyed this experience and look forward to seeing the hotel continue to be a tremendous asset for Wisconsin Rapids for many years to come.”

The property includes meeting and special event facilities, two on-site restaurants, and a pool and fitness center.

715-423-1500
www.hotelmead.com

MADISON, Wis. — A 48-room, all-suite hotel has opened across from the University of Wisconsin’s Camp Randall Stadium, home of Wisconsin Badgers football.

The boutique-style HotelRED, under construction for several years, ran into financial challenges but was opened in August by a new owner. The property is managed by Inn Development Management Group of Fort Atkinson, Wis. In addition to guest rooms with compact kitchens and Euro-style baths, the hotel has meeting space for 100 and views of the university’s historic field house.

608-819-8228
www.hotelred.com