Property Review: Cliff Castle Casino Hotel

Yavapai-Apache Nation
Camp Verde, AZ

Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s picturesque Verde Valley, Cliff Castle Casino Hotel offers guests an exciting mix of entertainment offerings, culinary experiences, and culture. Since its inception in May 1995, the casino has not only enhanced the local economy, but also catalyzed a profound transformation within the Yavapai-Apache Nation.

Originally operating as a Best Western in the 1980’s, the facility underwent a dramatic transformation to become Cliff Castle Casino Hotel. In 1995, the conference rooms and front entrance area were redesigned, marking the beginning of its journey as a casino. By 2000, the casino moved to its current building ushering in a new era for the property, and introducing restaurants, bars, a bowling center, and the Stargazer Pavilion, an outdoor concert facility, and enhancing its appeal as a total entertainment destination.

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Cutting-edge slot machines, table games and exciting promotions deliver an unforgettable gaming experience at Cliff Castle Casino Hotel.

The addition of a 122-room luxury hotel in February 2018 and an extensive makeover of the casino floor completed in June 2021, highlight the continuous growth and modernization efforts to enhance guest experiences. With 122 well-appointed rooms, the Tower is the first six-story hotel in the Verde Valley. The property offers a variety of suites, including premier king and double-queen rooms, all featuring the DreamCatcher signature mattress with luxurious Tencel+Plus bedding, spa-like Raindance shower, Keurig coffee maker, media hub, and a 43” high-definition TV. Amenities include an indoor pool and spa, fitness center, business center, multi-purpose event center, coffee shop, and a 300-space parking garage.

Whether lounging at the indoor pool or working out at the fitness center, guests can enjoy the scenic surroundings and attentive service. The Tower offers luxury accommodations without the expensive Sedona price tag. Guests can play and stay in comfort and style while enjoying the many attractions Sedona and the Verde Valley have to offer. Accommodations also include an 80-room Lodge, offering a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for visitors. With easy shuttle access to the casino, an outdoor pool and lounge area and pet-friendly accommodations, the Lodge has a casual family friendly, fun vibe.

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With 122 well-appointed rooms, the Cliff Castle Hotel Tower is the first six-story hotel in the Verde Valley.

Featuring a vibrant casino floor, Cliff Castle Casino Hotel offers an array of gaming options, including 650 slot machines, a sportsbook, blackjack, and a high-limit room, catering to casual and serious players alike. While the primary casino floor and property venues are non-smoking, the casino offers a large, designated smoking slot area, giving guests additional choice.

“Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is more than just a destination for entertainment and leisure; it’s a cornerstone of our community,” said Rojelio “Ro” Rubio, General Manager of Cliff Castle Casino Hotel. “We take great pride in contributing to the prosperity and growth of our area, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and participating in community initiatives. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve and make a positive impact every day.”

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel offers guests four restaurants – from the fine dining experience at Storytellers, featuring exquisite dishes like Ribeye and Seafood Trio, to the casual, themed dining at Mountain Springs Buffet. Johnny Rockets brings a nostalgic touch with its 50’s-style diner ambiance, while Three Sisters and The Café offer quick, delicious bites for those on the go.

Cliff Castle_Conference
The Gathering, a 4,600 sq. ft. event center, is well-equipped to handle events, big or small.

The property is also a haven for family fun, featuring Shake, Rattle & Bowl, a 20-lane bowling center, Orbits Arcade, and Kids Quest, an onsite daycare center. The Stargazer Pavilion and Dragonfly Lounge serve as prime venues for live entertainment, hosting renowned acts and providing a stage for comedy and music that cater to diverse tastes. The Gathering event center also hosts acts, highlighting the casino’s role as a premier entertainment hub in the region.

The development of Cliff Castle Casino Hotel has created profound economic and social change within the Yavapai-Apache Nation and the surrounding community. By providing employment opportunities, enhancing local infrastructure, and supporting education through scholarships, the casino has played a pivotal role in improving the quality of life for the tribal members and contributing to the local economy.

“We are proud of Cliff Castle Casino Hotel and its economic impact to the Yavapai-Apache Nation and the Verde Valley,” said Chairwoman Tanya Lewis of the Yavapai-Apache Nation. “For more than 25 years, Cliff Castle Casino Hotel has generated a positive social and economic impact to the Nation, supporting the Nation’s vision of creating a sustainable future for generations to come.”

Cliff Castle Casino Hotel’s commitment to community welfare is also evident through its significant contributions and philanthropic activities. The casino has been instrumental in supporting local causes, such as Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Y.E.S. the Arc, through fundraising events like golf tournaments. These efforts underscore the establishment’s role in fostering community development and support beyond entertainment.

Through its diverse entertainment offerings, commitment to community welfare, and continuous growth, Cliff Castle Casino Hotel remains a vital part of Arizona’s Verde Valley, inviting guests to experience the thrill of gaming, the joy of family entertainment, and the warmth of a community committed to prosperity and progress.

For more information about Cliff Castle Casino Hotel, visit cliffcastlecasinohotel.com.