Yaamava’ (formerly known as San Manuel Casino) is a large Native American casino located in Highland, California, within the San Bernardino Mountains foothills. The property has undergone significant transformations since its inception and currently offers an array of amenities to cater to diverse tastes and interests.
Overview and Definition
San Manuel Casino was founded by the Serrano Band of Mission Indians in 1986 join now with a modest gaming area featuring about two hundred slot machines and a handful of table games. Over the years, it has expanded extensively under tribal management, becoming one of the most prominent casino resorts on the West Coast. The name Yaamava’, derived from the Chumash word ‘ya’ma,’ signifies an abode by or near the water. This theme reflects its location adjacent to Interstate 15 and visibility for travelers passing through.
History and Evolution
The property’s initial success spawned a series of expansions, driven primarily by increased demand for gaming facilities in Southern California during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Between 2008 and 2011 alone, San Manuel Casino invested over $800 million into new construction projects, more than doubling its original size.
Gaming Options
Yaamava’ offers a comprehensive selection of games and betting options across both table and electronic platforms:
- Over fifteen hundred slots: The casino floor is predominantly populated by various types of slot machines featuring progressive jackpots, classic reels, video poker variants, and branded titles like Marvel-themed slots.
- More than twenty-six tables for card games and roulette: These include Texas Hold’em Poker, Blackjack, American Roulette, Craps, Baccarat, and Let it Ride among others. Special sessions are also held specifically for tournament enthusiasts.
Yaamava’ Casino Resort Amenities
Beneath the gaming areas lie an array of attractions catering to entertainment preferences across various demographics:
- Dining & Nightlife: The property hosts several upscale restaurants – such as Cabaret, Garden Walk Café and Ursa Major – each serving cuisine from regions around the world.
- Hotel Accommodations
- Yaamava’ offers four luxury hotel rooms designed with Serrano artwork to enhance guests’ overall experience.
- Entertainment:
- The casino features a theater for live music performances, comedy shows and other events that range from concerts of regional artists.
- Wellness Center
Yaamava’ has introduced various activities such as outdoor movies in the summer months, seasonal festivals like ‘Serra’s Fall Fiesta,’ among others to encourage guest participation.
Transportation
The casino provides on-site valet parking for guests staying at its hotels. Free self-parking is available across several nearby lots connected by a walking path along with other public transportation options to assist visitors who do not drive themselves.
Conclusion
Yaamava’ Casino Resort has evolved significantly over the years, embracing growth and responding positively to shifting consumer interests while maintaining its core values based on Native American heritage. Visitors seeking diverse entertainment experiences including gaming have multiple reasons to visit this high-profile destination within Southern California’s casino landscape.
