Since opening its doors in February, the Chin’an Gaming Hall has been a bit of a local sensation. Long lines, jam-packed weekends, and even the occasional waitlist — not something you expect to see in a quiet part of Alaska. But for the Native Village of Eklutna, it’s more than just a business. It’s a statement.
“It’s hard to explain the support,” said Ryan Walker, the general manager of the gaming hall. “We knew people would be curious, but the turnout? It’s blown us away.”
Walker’s not exaggerating. On any given evening, dozens of cars fill the parking lot, the air buzzing with laughter, music, and the unmistakable chime of slot machines. There’s a new energy in Eklutna, and it’s running on adrenaline, chips, and a strong sense of local pride.
A Homegrown Operation With a Purpose
The Chin’an Gaming Hall isn’t just another business venture. It’s run by the Native Village of Eklutna, Alaska’s only federally recognized tribal government in the Anchorage area. Most of the staff? Tribal members.
People like Bonnie Lopez, a slot ambassador with a ready smile and a deep connection to her roots.
“It’s more than just a job,” she said one evening on the floor. “It feels like we’re doing something important — for the tribe, for the community, for the future.”
The name “Chin’an” comes from the Dena’ina Athabascan word for “thank you.” And that spirit of gratitude, staff say, runs through the hall’s operations. It’s not about flashy glitz or imitation Vegas vibes — it’s about creating a space that feels local, welcoming, and real.
One guest even called it “Anchorage’s best-kept secret,” though that status might not last much longer.
Legal Tangles in the Background
Of course, the excitement hasn’t come without friction. A couple of lawsuits have popped up since the gaming hall’s opening — questions around tribal sovereignty and the legal framework for operating gambling establishments in the state.
But the tribal council says they’re not worried. At least not yet.
“It’s part of doing anything new,” one council member said. “People question it, they push back. That’s expected. We’re confident in where we stand.”
So far, no court has ordered operations to stop. The hall keeps running — and thriving.
Just don’t expect the council to reveal too much about the legal side. “Ongoing litigation” is the official phrase, and beyond that, lips stay sealed.
Locals Say: ‘Finally, Something for Us’
One big reason Chin’an is working? Locals were tired of having to fly south to gamble.
“The Lower 48 was the only real option,” Walker said. “Vegas, Seattle, wherever. People want entertainment. They want that experience. And now they can get it right here.”
That feeling pops up again and again from patrons. Some drive up from Anchorage, others from the Valley. For many, it’s a quick evening out without the hassle of a long trip.
“I don’t gamble heavy,” said Tina O., a retired teacher from Wasilla. “But I like the vibe. I like seeing our people running things.”
Key visitor feedback, according to staff, includes:
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Appreciation for a safe, well-run local venue
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Surprise at the variety of machines and games
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Praise for friendly staff and quick service
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Strong support for tribal-led initiatives
And it’s not just casual praise. The repeat crowd is already forming.
Economic Hopes Riding on the Buzz
The Eklutna tribal government isn’t just looking to entertain — they’re looking to build.
Revenue from Chin’an is expected to support a range of tribal programs, from healthcare to youth education. Though exact earnings haven’t been made public, internal sources suggest the hall is beating early projections.
“We’ve already had to think about expansion,” Walker admitted. “That wasn’t even in our six-month plan.”
A quick look at the impact:
| Category | Before Chin’an | After Opening (Est.) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Tribal Employment | Low | Up 65% |
| Monthly Visitors | N/A | 3,000+ |
| Revenue for Tribal Projects | Minimal | Growing Monthly |
| Off-site Gambling Travel | High | Decreasing |
For many tribal members, it’s the first time they’ve seen a major economic engine rooted right in their own community.
Bigger Dreams — But Measured Steps
There’s talk. More machines. A larger building. Even the possibility of expanding to other parts of Alaska. But leadership isn’t rushing.
“We’re focused on doing this one thing well first,” a council representative said. “Growth is great, but only if the foundation holds.”
Still, the ambition is hard to ignore. Chin’an may have started with humble goals, but the vision is growing.
And the lawsuits? For now, they’re just background noise.
