The Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino officially opened its doors on Thursday, located just west of Lake Okeechobee on the Brighton Seminole Reservation. The grand opening celebration featured performances by country music star John Anderson and rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd, along with a traditional Seminole alligator procession symbolizing prosperity.
“This grand opening is a proud moment for the Seminole Tribe of Florida, the Brighton Seminole Reservation, and the entire region,” said Marty Johns, General Manager of the new resort. “We are excited to welcome guests to a new era of gaming, dining, and entertainment that will enhance tourism and community growth.”
The resort replaces Seminole Casino Brighton, which had operated since 1980. The Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino is the first four-star resort in the area and one of six casinos owned and operated by the Seminole Tribe.
The 38,000-square-foot casino features:
- 640 slot machines
- 18 table games, including blackjack, craps, and roulette
- High-stakes bingo
- A smoke-free gaming area with 104 slot machines
- A high-limit section with 42 slot machines and four table games
The 100-room hotel, the first-ever to open on the Brighton Seminole Reservation, spans 72,000 square feet and offers a range of premium amenities. Guests can enjoy three luxury suites, a fully equipped fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool complete with a bar and an entertainment stage.
“The grand opening is not just about a new building, it’s about growth, opportunity, and a bright future for our community,” said Larry Howard, Brighton Reservation Councilman. “This project represents our commitment to honoring our heritage while embracing progress, and we are proud to welcome guests to experience the hospitality, culture, and excitement that make Seminole gaming truly special.”
The complex also features an indoor event space that can accommodate 400 guests for banquets or bingo and up to 900 for performances. Additionally, Brighton Bay Bowling, a 7,044-square-foot, 10-lane bowling alley, stands out as the first of its kind at a Seminole Casino. Guests can also admire artwork and photography that highlight Seminole history and culture.
Dining options include Josiah Steakhouse, renowned for its bone-in ribeye, and EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill, an American diner serving all-day breakfast, burgers, and comfort food. For a quick bite, Marketplace offers pizza, coffee, and grab-and-go snacks. Meanwhile, Center Bar provides a lively atmosphere with video poker machines.
The Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino is now one of the largest employers in the Lake Okeechobee region, with its workforce expanding to nearly 500 team members.
The resort’s name pays tribute to Fisheating Bay, a popular sportfishing site just three miles from the casino. The name originates from the Seminole term “Thlothlopopka-Hatchee,” meaning “the river where fish are eaten.”
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/02/07/94394-florida-39s-new-seminole-brighton-bay-hotel-casino-opens-with-grand-celebration
