Isleta Resort & Casino is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of growth from a modest bingo tent into one of New Mexico’s most diverse gaming, hospitality, recreation, and entertainment destinations.
The anniversary celebrates more than the growth of a business. It recognizes the vision of the Pueblo of Isleta, the opportunities created for Pueblo members and employees, and Isleta’s lasting contribution to Albuquerque and communities throughout New Mexico.
The Pueblo of Isleta was established in the 1300s and has remained an important part of New Mexico’s history, culture, and economy for centuries. Isleta Resort & Casino is wholly owned and operated by the Pueblo of Isleta and is not managed by a third-party gaming company. Pueblo leadership oversees the enterprise and determines how its success can support the Pueblo, its people, and future generations.
“Forty years ago, the Pueblo began with a bingo tent and a vision for creating opportunity,” said Andrea Padilla, Isleta Resort & Casino Executive Assistant. “Today, Isleta Resort & Casino supports employment, economic independence, and community investment while welcoming visitors from across New Mexico and beyond. Its success remains directly connected to the Pueblo and its people.”
Over four decades, Isleta Resort & Casino has created employment and career opportunities in gaming, hospitality, food and beverage, entertainment, recreation, administration, security, facilities, and guest services. Revenue generated by the enterprise helps the Pueblo support essential services, economic development, and programs that improve the lives of Pueblo members.
The resort and casino also contributes to the broader regional economy by attracting visitors, purchasing goods and services, supporting local businesses, and providing a destination where guests can stay, dine, attend events, and experience New Mexico.
More Than a Casino
While Isleta may not be New Mexico’s largest gaming property, few destinations offer as many experiences in one location. The property includes a full-service casino, hotel, sportsbook, poker room, bingo, the Isleta Showroom, Triple Sevens nightclub, casual and fine dining, a gift shop, salon, and full-service spa. Guests can also enjoy a separate gaming area where alcoholic beverages are available.
Beyond the main resort and casino, Isleta offers outdoor and recreational experiences through Isleta Lakes, Isleta Golf Club, and the Isleta Lakes RV Park. Visitors can fish, walk the trails, play golf, camp, attend a concert, enjoy a spa day, celebrate over dinner, or spend a weekend exploring the property.
These amenities help strengthen New Mexico tourism by giving both residents and out-of-state visitors more reasons to stay, dine, attend events, and enjoy the state’s landscape and hospitality.
“Our impact is not measured only by the size of our casino floor,” said Calvin Jiron, Director of Table Games. “Guests come to Isleta for concerts, golf, fishing, dining, celebrations, relaxation, and gaming. Together, these experiences have created a destination that is distinctly New Mexican and proudly owned and operated by the Pueblo of Isleta.”
Supporting New Mexico Sports and Communities
Isleta’s impact extends well beyond the resort through its support of sports, tourism, veterans, and community organizations. Isleta Resort & Casino is the title sponsor of the Isleta New Mexico Bowl, helping bring national attention, visitors, and economic activity to Albuquerque through the annual postseason college football game. Isleta also supports the Albuquerque Isotopes, the New Mexico Chupacabras, the New Mexico Goatheads, and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. These partnerships strengthen local sports and entertainment, support family-friendly experiences, and help showcase New Mexico to visitors from around the country.
Community involvement has remained an important part of Isleta’s mission. The resort and casino supports organizations assisting veterans with housing and stability and recognizes active-duty and retired military members through programs such as Military Mondays.
Through sponsorships, charitable giving, employment and tourism, Isleta has become an important part of Albuquerque and New Mexico while remaining grounded in the Pueblo’s values and commitment to its people.
“Isleta Resort & Casino has changed tremendously over the past 40 years, but its purpose remains the same,” said Staci Chafins, Senior Director of Marketing. “We are here to create opportunities for our people, contribute to New Mexico and provide memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.”
For more information about Isleta Resort & Casino, visit www.isleta.com.
