Viejas Casino & Resort Outlets now includes a world-class hotel.

Viejas Casino & Resort Outlets are one of a kind

By Diana Saenger

Viejas Casino & Resort in San Diego County is a highly sought-out destination for visitors. Along with a casino noted for its “best of” distinctions and a chic and trendy outlet center, the Resort now includes a world-class hotel making the Viejas Casino & Resort a property unmatched by the majority of its competitors.

The Viejas Outlets is the only wholly owned and operated free standing Native American outlet center in the U.S. “Outlets typically partner with large developers,” said Peter M. Cortese, the General Manager of Viejas Outlets and the VP of Property Management. “Viejas was also the first to introduce outlet shopping on a Native American reservation in conjunction with a Casino product. Many developers have followed suit since.”

Cortese’s expertise on the project together with partners such as the Was Group acquiring leasing contacts, has brought in dynamic retailers such as; Coach, Brooks Brothers, Eddie Bauer, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger and many others.

The new hotel across the street from the Outlets is the crown jewel that completes a prefect destination for Viejas guests.  “The addition of Viejas Hotel is a major milestone on our journey together,” Tribal Chairman Anthony Pico said.

The five-story hotel has 29 luxury suites and 99 rooms, each reflecting a high-end décor. It features a pool, hot tub, cabanas, business center and fitness room. The lobby has a huge fireplace and artistic décor reflecting the Kumeyaay heritage.

Outlet centers require a lot of real estate, which today is limited. “Having a hotel, casino and Outlets on the same property is the next growth area for tribal properties,” Cortese said. “The casino pairs up well with the Outlets and now with the new hotel product creates an excellent crossover market which had been marginal in the past.”

The success of the Viejas Outlets is due to its out-of-the-box added value to retailers and eateries. There’s a laser show court, bowling center, and huge winter ice-rink. A beautiful one-acre park with fountains and beautiful sculptures stages community events such as fashion shows, festivals, bands or movies.

Plans are in the works to add more hotel rooms and for the player’s card to earn rewards for shoppers as well. Marketing programs include busing and a welcome bag with special offers from all three of the Viejas properties. Busses arrive all day long at Viejas, some that travel 200 miles from Los Angeles.

Cortese is very proud of the Viejas growth and vision of the tribe. “We have created an exciting energy here, and people follow energy,” he said.