The City of Casey recently announced the results of a market feasibility study, indicating a strong opportunity for the City of Casey to retain more of its estimated 150,000 annual visitors. The city’s “Big Things in a Small Town” attractions draw visitors from across the midwest and beyond throughout the year.
Mayor Mike Nichols said the study confirms Casey can support a hotel and stated that the City is ready to work collaboratively with investors and developers.
The study recommends the development of an upper midscale to upscale hotel with approximately 50 to 60 rooms. Suggested amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast service, fitness facilities, and business or meeting spaces to meet the needs of both business and leisure travelers.
“Given Casey’s prime location and the growing number of visitors drawn to our attractions, a full-service hotel would significantly enhance our ability to support local and regional businesses, tourism, and recreation,” said Tom Daughhetee, Director of Economic Development. “We frequently hear from neighboring communities that visitors spend the day in Casey but stay overnight in their hotels. This presents a great opportunity for developers to capture immediate and sustained demand.”
No major infrastructure or utility upgrades are anticipated to support a new hotel development. It is still too early to estimate a timeline, but the city has already received interest from at least one developer.
The study, initiated by the City in late 2025, included a site visit and stakeholder engagement led by Sara McKay of Core Distinction Group. During her visit, McKay met with local business leaders, tourism stakeholders, and community representatives to assess market conditions and growth potential.
“Casey demonstrates two critical factors we evaluate when assessing lodging demand: strong regional business activity and a growing leisure tourism base,” said McKay. “Combined with the current lack of lodging options, supportive amenities, and proactive community leadership, Casey is a compelling opportunity for hotel development.”
Core Distinction Group is a hospitality advisory firm, headquartered in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, specializing in hotel feasibility studies and lodging market analysis.
