The economy of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), a union of three Tribes: Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla, has certainly evolved — from intertribal trade, trade with fur companies, hunting, fishing and livestock prior to the 1855 treaty, to agriculture and natural resource development, energy, gaming, and entertainment today. Wildhorse Resort has likewise changed and expanded overtime, now encompassing a casino, hotel, RV Park, 18-hole golf course, and most recently, a family fun entertainment center.
A year in the making, Wildhorse Resort & Casino finally cut the ribbon on its Family FunPlex, featuring a bowling center, food court, and arcade, on September 24th. The heart of the FunPlex is Quaking Aspens Lanes, a 24-lane, state-of-the-art bowling center, whose namesake is inspired by Tribal history. The Cayuse called the area where the Tribe made its winter encampment “Nixyáawii”. Translated, it refers to the groves of quaking aspen trees that grew around the springs. The winter encampment was the base of celebrations, games, root digging, and horse racing.
Nestled between the food court and the bowling center, guests will find the new 2,500-square-foot Wildhorse Resort & Casino arcade, which features 30 games and experiences.
“The Tribe is very pleased to see our planning for the FunPlex move forward. We are very pleased to offer bowling as a sporting activity for the entire community,” Board of Trustees Chairman Kat Brigham said. “So many families love this sport and we all look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this entertainment venue.”
