Son of Star Casino Opens in White Shield, Marking Major MHA Nation Investment

The Son of Star Casino opened in 2026 just south of the powwow grounds in White Shield, representing a significant economic development initiative for MHA Nation. The 37,000-square-foot facility was designed by DSGW Architecture and incorporates a distinctive circular, domed structure with sections themed around earth, water, wind, and fire—elements central to Arikara heritage.[5] The casino features 230 slot machines, six table games, a sports book, poker room, restaurant, gift shop, and 24-hour coffee shop, according to plans announced by MHA Nation, 4 Bears Casino, and project partners.[1][6] The facility was engineered with future expansion in mind, with preliminary phases planned to include a convenience store, 80-room hotel, additional gaming space, golf simulators, arcade games, and bowling.[5] White Shield, a small community located in McClean County on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation off Highway 1804, has positioned itself as an emerging gaming and entertainment destination in western North Dakota.[5] The project reflects broader tribal economic development efforts across the region, complementing the $95 million renovation of 4 Bears Casino & Lodge in nearby New Town, which features a new seven-story hotel tower with 264 rooms and opened in summer 2025.[2][4] MHA Nation developed the Son of Star Casino in collaboration with 4 Bears Casino management, leveraging expertise from Wenaha Group, a Native-owned owner's representative firm, and TBE Architects, a St. Louis-based and Native American-founded design firm.[4] The project underscores tribal sovereignty in gaming and hospitality ventures while creating employment opportunities for reservation residents.