Wind Creek Chicago Southland, Casino, Resort & Spa – the Lap of Luxury

From the moment I stepped into the Wind Creek Chicago South Land property I felt it. The it I am talking about is the glitz and glamour of the resort property. Wowza! The Wind Creek Casino opened in 2024, and hotel in 2025. The property is brand spanking new, with amazing staff, there to assist your every need. This stop was a press trip prior to attending the 2026 Midwest Travel Network Conference.

I was part of a small group of travel bloggers. The group included Sheila Jenkinson of Growing Small-Town Nebraska podcast, Stan Wiebe of The Drive by Tourist, Robin O’Neal Smith of Travel, Food and More! and Liz May of Get Lost in the USA. We were hosted by Scott Rude of Visit Chicago Southland.

The Wind Creek hotel

The Wind Creek Hotel consists of 255 rooms. They offer 43 luxury suites, and the hotel is located just south of the city.

Check in was three. I arrived a bit early and was able to park in the fully covered parking garage. I spent time walking around and perused the casino lobby and gift shop. The shop carried everything from Swarovski crystal jewelry, to Marc Jacob’s handbags, to headache medicine. From the luxe to the everyday they have you covered.

After checking in, it was a trip taking the elevator from the lobby to my room on the 11^th floor. With the new technology, this is a smart hotel. On the elevator, you put your card under the sensor, pick the floor you are traveling to. Very posh.

To make us feel even more honored we all had a gift bag waiting!

The rooms are amazing. Large, bright and sunny with a huge shower, comfy chairs and more.

While there I took the time to visit the Fitness room, and viewed the beautiful indoor pool.

Dining Options

Arriving early, I decided to check out the dining options. All epicurean adventures are in partnership with the Chef, Fabio Viviani. While the Food Bazaar looked inviting, I was drawn to Shuck It Oyster Bar. At this wonderful seafood restaurant, I sat right up at the bar. From there, I watched them prepare my shrimp scampi. Yum!

I viewed in the casino the swanky looking Ivory Noodle Bar. This looked like a fun late night dining spot.

There is also a fun Starbucks where you can get morning tea and breakfast sandwiches. The ultimate dinner with the group was at the Alto Steakhouse. The Italian steakhouse sits atop the 17th floor. Our hostess met us as soon as we got off the elevator.

Alto Steakhouse

You can see prime cuts of meat on display, and once you get past that, the beauty of the restaurant is only surpassed by the view!

We had a grand time at Alto’s. With great service, amazing food we had a chance to sample quite an array of food choices. Dining on mushrooms, filet crab cakes and more. Then it was topped off with a delectable selection of desserts.

Best of all, the chef took a minute to stop by our table.

Alto Steakhouse is also going to be featured in the upcoming book Unique Eats & Eateries of Illinois. Published by Reedy Press, the book is written by me and Carrie Steinweg. This is Carrie’s 2nd Unique Eat book; she wrote the Unique Eats and Eateries of Indiana. The Illinois version will be released in early fall 2027.

The Casino

The Casino at Chicago Southland is one of 11 distinct properties. There are properties located in both the US, and the Caribbean. The 70,000 square foot Wind Creek Casino in the town of Hazel Crest is perfectly located near to the Windy City. However, the area is a quieter, simpler area to navigate. Even this farm girl didn’t have any issues finding my way.

This world class casino offers entertainment, and gaming space that included 56 tables and over 1400 state of the art machines, a sportsbook, poker room and more.

Meeting Space

Our little group met in one of the smaller meeting places. Our breakfast was catered to us. The area was so nice. There was a small bar to accommodate our drink requests. The room was quiet as we planned out our day. The art at Wind Creek is worth a visit alone.

Take note meeting planners. The Wind Creek property offers over 12,000 square feet of meeting space that can accommodate groups of all sizes. With dining, entertainment and lodging options it can all take place on this single property.

The Spa!

I saved the best for last! The Wind Creek Spa Experience was the best. With 11,000 square feet of space and a view of the city skyline, it is memorable. I had a Swedish Massage with Jasamine who was excellent. After the spa, we had time to rest and relax in the whirlpool area that also offered heated showers. I enjoyed the snacks, and the hot tea as I recouped. Pampered is the best word I have to describe my spa treatment.

Ultimate Getaway!

This is a getaway for the books. One place, one space to do it all! Have you been to the Wind Creek property? If so, I’d love to hear all about it! To my gal pals, if you need a plus one, I’m on speed dial.