Have you heard the news? Something BIG is coming to Beloit! Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit opens in October, adding a new chapter to the story of the People of the Sacred Voice. Did you know the Ho-Chunk Nation called these very landscapes home long before Beloit was Beloit? Read on to uncover a story that starts with one village along Turtle Creek and keeps going, right into today!
History & Roots: The Ho-Chunk Village
This Ho-Chunk story starts back in the late 1820s and early 1830s—before Beloit was Beloit. Back then, this area was defined by Turtle Creek, where the Ho-Chunk had a village of several hundred people. In fact, it was one of the biggest Ho-Chunk villages in the whole region!
It was called Ke-chunk, which means “turtle.” That name marked the Ho-Chunk village along the one-and-only Turtle Creek, nearby where it flows into the Rock River—what’s now Beloit and South Beloit.
Due to the aftermath of the 1832 treaty and its complications, the Ho-Chunk moved from the area. Even today, historians and archaeologists continue to explore the Turtle Creek and Rock River area, looking for more traces of Ke-chunk and keeping this story alive.
Coming Soon: Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit
Now, this story is getting another chapter: Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit. This state-of-the-art casino and resort is not only a generational project, but also the largest economic development project Beloit has ever seen.
It has everything you could ever want, plus more! Want to play? Hit the gaming floor with 1,500 slot machines and 44 table games. Want to turn it into a weekend getaway? Plan a stay for fall of 2027 at the 312-room hotel.
Did we mention there’s a rooftop lounge, three restaurants, a coffee bar, and a 90-seat bar? Those are just a few of the many highlights. And the 2,000-seat conference space is ready for shows and big events—so keep an eye out! Your favorites may be coming soon.
–
From the village on Turtle Creek to the lights of Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit, this is a remarkable story of resilience and return. Come see this new chapter unfold in October! Trust us—it’s going to be very special.
–
Hailey Marien: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.
