San Manuel Casino, one of Southern California’s most prominent gaming and entertainment venues, is situated in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. Officially located in Highland, California, this casino has been a cornerstone of tribal economic development and a major entertainment hub since its opening.
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Location Overview
It is operated by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, a federally recognized tribe. The physical address of the casino is:
Address:
San Manuel Casino
777 San Manuel Blvd
Highland, CA 92346
United States
Key Location Details
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| City | Highland |
| County | San Bernardino County |
| State | California |
| Nearest Major City | San Bernardino (approx. 8 miles) |
| Distance from L.A. | ~65 miles northeast |
| Accessibility | I-10 and CA-210 Freeways |
A Brief History
San Manuel Casino was opened in 1986 as a high-stakes bingo hall. Over the decades, it has grown into a full-fledged casino resort, competing with major Las Vegas casinos in terms of entertainment, hospitality, and gaming offerings.
The casino is a part of a larger vision by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians to achieve economic self-sufficiency and provide jobs for the community.
Key Historical Milestones:
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1986 | Opened as a Bingo Hall |
| 2001 | Expanded to full casino operations |
| 2016 | Began major expansion project |
| 2021 | Opened luxury hotel and expanded amenities |
| 2021 | Renamed as Yaamava’ Resort & Casino |
Note: While still often referred to as San Manuel Casino, the official name is now Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel.
Amenities and Features
The casino now offers a world-class experience with a wide variety of games, dining, and luxury accommodations.
Gaming Options:
| Type of Game | Details |
|---|---|
| Slot Machines | Over 7,000 machines – largest on West Coast |
| Table Games | Blackjack, Baccarat, Pai Gow, and more |
| High Limit Rooms | Exclusive VIP areas for high-stakes players |
| Poker Room | Variety of tournaments and cash games |
| Bingo Hall | Remains a popular attraction |
Hotel and Resort:
In 2021, the venue expanded to include a 17-story hotel tower, featuring:
- Over 400 luxury rooms and suites
- Full-service spa and wellness center
- Elevated pool deck and cabanas
Dining & Entertainment:
San Manuel offers a diverse range of restaurants, including:
- The Pines Modern Steakhouse
- Serrano Buffet
- Tukut Lounge (live entertainment)
- Casual eateries and bars
How to Get There
San Manuel Casino is located in Highland, CA, just northeast of San Bernardino. The most common routes for travelers are via I-10, I-215, or CA-210. The casino provides ample parking and valet service.
Driving Directions from Major Cities
| City | Approx. Distance | Main Route | Time (No Traffic) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 65 miles | I-10 East | ~1 hour 15 mins |
| Riverside | 25 miles | I-215 North to CA-210 East | ~30 minutes |
| Palm Springs | 55 miles | I-10 West to CA-210 East | ~1 hour |
| Las Vegas, NV | 225 miles | I-15 South to I-215 South | ~3.5 to 4 hours |
Economic and Cultural Impact
San Manuel Casino has had a transformational impact on both the San Manuel Tribe and the surrounding Inland Empire region. It has become one of the largest private employers in the region.
Economic Contributions
| Category | Impact |
|---|---|
| Employment | Over 6,500 employees (as of 2024) |
| Tribal Revenue | Significant funding for healthcare & education |
| Local Economy | Boost to tourism, hospitality, and retail |
| Philanthropy | Donations to local schools, hospitals, and causes |
The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has invested heavily in community development, not just within the tribe but also in broader Southern California communities. This includes funding scholarships, supporting first responders, and partnering with hospitals and universities.
Nearby Attractions
If you’re planning a trip, you might want to explore other attractions near the casino:
- Big Bear Lake – Popular mountain retreat (1-hour drive)
- San Bernardino National Forest
- Route 66 History in San Bernardino
- California State University, San Bernardino
Recent Developments
The casino has continued to evolve. In addition to its rebranding as Yaamava’, recent developments include:
- A concert venue: The Yaamava’ Theater hosts world-class acts and live performances.
- Sustainability initiatives: The resort is investing in green technologies and efficient waste management.
- New loyalty rewards: The Club Serrano card offers upgraded rewards for frequent visitors.
San Manuel Casino, now officially known as Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, is located in Highland, California, in the Inland Empire region. Over the years, it has transformed from a modest bingo hall into one of the largest and most luxurious tribal casinos in the U.S.
With its wide array of games, fine dining, hotel amenities, and cultural richness, it’s more than just a gaming destination—it’s a pillar of community development and tribal sovereignty.
Whether you’re coming for the slots, a steak dinner, a concert, or a relaxing weekend getaway, the resort’s convenient location and exceptional offerings make it a top-tier destination in Southern California.
