North Dakota’s Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation Leaders Tour Son of star Casino Site
WHITE SHIELD, ND – Leaders of the Three Affiliated Tribes Business Council toured the construction site of the Son of Star casino near White Shield on Friday, Oct. 10, gaining a firsthand look at the progress of the planned gaming and entertainment facility. While still in the early stages of advancement, the project is moving forward with a planned opening in 2026.
The 37,000-square-foot casino, announced by the MHA Nation in September 2023, is envisioned as a cultural centerpiece reflecting the traditions of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation. The tour, led by DSGW architect Erik Wedge, featured digital renderings of the completed building, allowing tribal leaders to visualize the future space and offer input as construction continues.
“The building is an open canvas at this point,” Wedge explained, emphasizing the possibility to incorporate feedback and refine the design. “Recommended changes can be incorporated as work continues.”
Located just south of the powwow grounds, the Son of Star casino aims to boost economic development within the MHA Nation and provide a unique destination that honors the tribe’s heritage. Details of the project were initially reported in the Minot Daily News.