Imagine that the glacier that created Five Island Lake also created another smaller prairie pothole lake and created a sixth island—the island found at The Wild Rose Casino and Resort. Built through the team effort of the Palo Alto County Gaming Development Corporation and Wild Rose Entertainment, this resort site will include an extensive wetlands and short and tall grass prairie ecosystems recreating the land found by the earliest settlers of Emmetsburg.

With a little imagination, you can visualize this unique tribute to the history and traditions of Emmetsburg. The entry to the casino/resort recaptures the historic approach to Five Island Lake along a gracious tree lined boulevard. This boulevard is flanked by burr oak trees and fields of prairie wildflowers.

The exterior architectural design of the casino takes its cues from the stately masonry buildings that were built as Emmetsburg grew. The front of the casino looks like a series of independent three-story buildings, drawing its architectural inspiration from buildings of downtown Emmetsburg.

The casino is connected to the hotel by a modern glass link that allows views through the building to the lake beyond.

The former Waverly Hotel provided inspiration for the three-story hotel. The Waverly was an outstanding example of the grand old hotels of the early 20th century and is being recreated here to provide guests with that same level of ambiance and service.

The 28,000 square-foot casino will be state of the art, designed for the comfort and convenience of its guests. Cashless gaming technology and state-of-the-art security are cornerstones of the quality facility.

A step into the authentic Wild Irish Rose pub is reminiscent of times past in the old country, County Dublin. Built just like they would have done it in Ireland, the pub will seat up to 205 guests seven days a week, featuring live entertainment on the weekends.