Its centerpiece was a beautiful marble soda counter, which was tragically pounded to pieces in 1972 during a misguided attempt at modernizing the historic structure. The casino was one of the most popular attractions on the island. The current Casino, designed by Van Leyen & Schilling - not Albert Kahn, as often misattributed - continues the tradition of serving as a meeting place and event spot, hosting everything from fairs to weddings. When the current structure opened in May 1908, the old one was demolished. This historic venue offers a unique blend of vintage charm and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. With the city’s fortunes and population both swelling, a decision was made to build a new, larger casino nearby. The Belle Isle Casino is a historic landmark located in Detroit, Michigan. However, it was made entirely of wood, and after only two decades, was already showing its age. In the spring of 1908, a new casino, designed by the firm Van Leyen & Schilling, opened just to the south of the old one.

The city’s first stab at a casino was designed by the firm Donaldson & Meier, and offered Detroiters a place to rest, grab a bite to eat or seek shelter from nasty weather. There was no gambling in this type of casino, which relies more on the traditional definition of the word, meaning a building used for meetings, entertainment, dancing and the like. One of the first structures built on Belle Isle after it became a park was the first Belle Isle Casino, opening in June 1887.

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