Detroit (WWJ/AP) -- The new Motor City Casino Hotel rolls out the welcome mat at 3 p.m. Wednesday.
A day ahead of the grand opening, Marian Ilitch told WWJ's Florence Walton that the 400-room, 17-story tower represents the best of what Detroit has to offer, including an automotive theme. "The theme is very subtle, it screams Detroit, with the lights and the LED (lights), and the action. It's not only Detroit, it's the Midwest.
It's part of the gambling hall's ongoing $300 million expansion project.
"We're probably not going to do anything different except make them feel they're comfortable, know that it's the finest we can put out and that we are Detroit, we are friendly," Ilitch said.
Ilitch plans to check-in the first guests, and Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and others are expected for the opening.
Costing about $5,500 a night, the Presidential Suite features high ceilings and expansive windows, a large room for entertaining, personal workout space and even a television hidden in the glass of a bathroom mirror, so guests can catch the news and wash up at the same time.
"You look at this view, this site. It's just beyond my expectations,'' Ilitch said.
MotorCity, MGM Grand Detroit Casino and Greektown Casino are spending more than $1.5 billion on expansions. They opened temporary facilities in 1999 and 2000, and MGM Grand opened its $800 million permanent complex in October. Greektown's permanent complex is expected to open next year.
The casino's premier restaurant, Iridescence, soon will move to the hotel's top floor, offering views of the Detroit skyline through 30- to 40-foot glass walls. MotorCity also is adding a lounge, a premium spa, conference and banquet space, a theater, new retail and dining and more parking.
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