Land-Based Casinos in the United States
Land-based casinos in the United States refer to all types of brick-and-mortar casinos that are not solely focused on horse and dog racing or off-track betting. These casinos offer a wide variety of games of chance, including slot machines, table games, and card games. Some of the most popular land-based casinos in the United States include the Bellagio and the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, and the Foxwoods Resort Casino in California.
Commercial Casinos
Commercial casinos are the most common type of land-based casino in the United States. These casinos are owned and operated by private companies and offer a variety of games of chance, including slot machines, table games, and card games.
Las Vegas-Style Casinos
Las Vegas-style casinos are a type of commercial casino that offer a wide range of games of chance, as well as luxurious amenities like spas, fine dining restaurants, and world-class entertainment venues. The Las Vegas Strip is home to some of the largest and most iconic casinos in the world, including the Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and the MGM Grand.
These casinos are known for their opulent décor, high-stakes gaming tables, and themed attractions that transport visitors to exotic locations around the world.
In addition to their extensive gaming options, Las Vegas-style casinos also offer a variety of entertainment options, including live music performances, magic shows, and other theatrical productions. These casinos often attract top performers from around the world, including famous singers, comedians, and other entertainers.
The dining options at Las Vegas-style casinos are also a major draw for visitors. These casinos typically offer a wide range of dining options, from high-end restaurants to fast food chains, to cater to different tastes and budgets. Some of the world’s most renowned chefs have opened restaurants in Las Vegas-style casinos, offering guests an unforgettable dining experience.
The accommodations at Las Vegas-style casinos are also top-notch, with luxurious suites and rooms that offer stunning views of the city skyline or the surrounding desert landscape. These rooms often come equipped with amenities like high-speed internet, flat-screen TVs, and luxury bedding to provide guests with a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Another feature that sets Las Vegas-style casinos apart from other types of land-based casinos is their extravagant theme and decor. Some casinos are designed to resemble ancient Rome or Egypt, while others feature modern and futuristic designs. These themes are reflected in the casino’s architecture, lighting, and even the dealers’ uniforms, creating an immersive and memorable experience for visitors.
Regional Casinos
Regional casinos are a type of land-based casino that are typically smaller and more localized than Las Vegas-style casinos. These casinos are popular in areas where gambling is legal but may not have the same level of tourism as major gambling destinations like Las Vegas or Atlantic City.
Regional casinos can be found in many states across the United States, with some of the largest markets being in California, Louisiana, and Mississippi. According to the American Gaming Association, there were 524 regional casinos operating in the United States in 2020, generating over $23.6 billion in annual revenue.
One example of a regional casino is the Ameristar Casino Resort Spa in Black Hawk, Colorado. The casino features over 1,250 slot machines, table games, and a sportsbook. The property also features a hotel with over 500 rooms and several dining options.
Another example is the Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana. The casino features over 2,000 slot machines, table games, and a poker room. The property also features a hotel with over 500 rooms, a golf course, and several dining options.
Regional casinos are subject to the same regulations and oversight as other types of land-based casinos. They typically offer a variety of gaming options and amenities, but on a smaller scale than Las Vegas-style casinos.
Riverboat Casinos
Riverboat casinos are a type of land-based casino that are located on boats or ships that are moored or anchored in a river. These casinos offer visitors a unique gambling experience and are particularly popular in states that border major rivers like the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers.
According to the American Gaming Association, there are currently 22 riverboat casinos operating in the United States. These casinos generated over $1.2 billion in annual revenue in 2020.
One example of a riverboat casino is the Horseshoe Southern Indiana in Elizabeth, Indiana. The casino features over 1,700 slot machines, table games, and a sportsbook. The property also features a hotel with over 500 rooms, several dining options, and a nearby golf course.
Another example is the River City Casino & Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri. The casino features over 1,900 slot machines, table games, and a poker room. The property also features a hotel with over 200 rooms, several dining options, and a fitness center.
Riverboat casinos are subject to the same regulations and oversight as other types of land-based casinos. They are often required to adhere to additional regulations related to their location on the water, including safety and environmental regulations.
Native American Casinos
Native American casinos are a type of land-based casino that are owned and operated by Native American tribes or nations. These casinos are typically located on tribal land and are governed by tribal gaming commissions, rather than state or federal gaming commissions.
One example of a Native American casino is the Foxwoods Resort Casino, located on the Mashantucket Pequot Indian Reservation in Connecticut. The casino offers over 5,500 slot machines and a variety of table games, as well as a high-stakes bingo hall and a poker room. The resort also features a hotel, several restaurants, and a theater that hosts live entertainment shows.
Another example is the Mohegan Sun, located on the Mohegan Indian Reservation in Connecticut. The casino offers over 5,000 slot machines and a variety of table games, as well as a poker room and a sportsbook. The resort also features a hotel, several restaurants, and a concert venue that hosts live music performances.
Native American casinos are popular in part because they often offer a unique and authentic gambling experience that is rooted in Native American culture. Many of these casinos also feature artwork, architecture, and décor that reflect the cultural traditions and history of the tribe that operates the casino.
According to the National Indian Gaming Association, there are currently over 500 Native American casinos in the United States, generating over $33.7 billion in annual revenue. These casinos provide significant economic benefits to the tribes that operate them, as well as to the local communities where they are located.
Native American casinos are subject to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which was passed by Congress in 1988 to provide a framework for the regulation of tribal gaming operations. The act requires that tribal gaming be conducted in a manner that is consistent with the goals of promoting tribal economic development, protecting tribal sovereignty, and ensuring the integrity of gaming operations.
Here are some of the most popular Native American gaming tribes in the US:
- Mashantucket Pequot Tribe (Foxwoods Resort Casino)
- Mohegan Tribe (Mohegan Sun)
- Seminole Tribe of Florida (Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino)
- Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (Choctaw Casino & Resort)
- Navajo Nation (Fire Rock Navajo Casino)
- Cherokee Nation (Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort)
- Chickasaw Nation (WinStar World Casino and Resort)
- Pueblo of Isleta (Isleta Resort & Casino)
- San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (San Manuel Casino)
- Oneida Indian Nation (Turning Stone Resort Casino)
- Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe (Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort)
- Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (Mystic Lake Casino Hotel)
- Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians (Pechanga Resort Casino)
- Ak-Chin Indian Community (Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino)
- Ho-Chunk Nation (Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells)
- Osage Nation (Osage Casino Hotel Tulsa)
- Poarch Band of Creek Indians (Wind Creek Casino & Hotel)
- Seneca Nation of Indians (Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino)
- Lumbee Tribe (Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel)
- Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe (First Light Resort & Casino)
- Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa (Black Bear Casino Resort)
- Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians (Red Hawk Casino)
- Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (Wildhorse Resort & Casino)
- Coeur d’Alene Tribe (Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel)
- Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians (Kewadin Casinos)
- Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe (Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort)
- Swinomish Indian Tribal Community (Swinomish Casino & Lodge)
- Yavapai-Apache Nation (Cliff Castle Casino Hotel)
- Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel)
- Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe (Mashpee Wampanoag Casino)
Racinos
As a visitor to a racino, you will experience a unique combination of horse racing and electronic gaming. Racinos are a type of land-based casino that offer slot machines and other electronic gaming devices in addition to live horse racing events.
When you visit a racino, you will have the opportunity to watch live horse races from the racetrack located on the property. You can place bets on the races and also enjoy a variety of electronic games, including slot machines, table games, and sports betting.
One of the most well-known racinos in the United States is the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races in West Virginia. The racino offers over 2,500 slot machines and a variety of electronic table games, as well as live horse racing events. You can also enjoy several dining options and a hotel with over 150 rooms.
Another popular racino is the Saratoga Casino Hotel in New York. The racino offers over 1,700 slot machines and a variety of electronic table games, as well as live horse racing events during the summer months. The property also features a hotel with over 100 rooms and several dining options.
Racinos are subject to the same regulations and oversight as other types of land-based casinos. In some states, racinos are required to donate a portion of their revenues to support horse racing and other equestrian activities.
Horse Racing Tracks with Slot Machines
These types of facilities are popular in states where both horse racing and gambling are legal.
You will have the opportunity to place bets on live horse races as well as enjoy a variety of electronic games, including slot machines, video poker, and electronic table games. Some facilities also offer sports betting.
One example of a horse racing track with slot machines is the Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort in West Virginia. The facility offers live horse racing from March through December, as well as over 1,100 slot machines, table games, and sports betting.
Another example is the Remington Park Racing & Casino in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The facility offers live horse racing from August through December, as well as over 700 electronic games, including slot machines and electronic table games.
Horse racing tracks with slot machines are subject to the same regulations and oversight as other types of land-based casinos. They are often required to donate a portion of their revenues to support horse racing and other equestrian activities.
Electronic Table Games
Electronic Table Games (ETGs) are a type of land-based casino game that combine the excitement of traditional table games with electronic technology. ETGs use a digital interface to simulate the experience of playing a traditional table game like blackjack, baccarat, or roulette.
ETGs are popular in casinos because they offer a more cost-effective option than traditional table games. With traditional table games, casinos need to employ dealers and croupiers to run the games. ETGs, on the other hand, can be run with minimal staff and offer a faster pace of play.
One example of an ETG is the electronic blackjack table. Players sit at a digital table with a video screen displaying virtual cards and a digital dealer. Players make their bets and the dealer deals the cards electronically. The game play is the same as traditional blackjack, with players trying to get a hand as close to 21 as possible without going over.
Poker Rooms
Poker rooms are a type of land-based casino that is specifically designed for playing poker, and they offer a wide range of games and stakes for players. For example, at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, the poker room offers games with a minimum buy-in of $200 and a maximum buy-in of $10,000. In addition, they offer a variety of games including no-limit Texas hold’em, pot-limit Omaha, and seven-card stud.
The stakes in poker rooms can vary widely, froma minimum bet of $2 to high-stakes games. For example, at the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles, they offer low-limit games with a minimum bet of $2 and high-stakes games where the minimum bet is $500 and the maximum bet can be as high as $2,000.
Many poker rooms also offer tournaments, which are a popular way for players to compete for large cash prizes and the chance to earn bragging rights as the best poker player in the room. The World Series of Poker, held annually in Las Vegas, is the largest poker tournament in the world and attracts thousands of players from around the globe.
Poker rooms are popular among serious poker players, who appreciate the high skill level and the chance to compete against other skilled players. They are also popular among casual players, who enjoy the social atmosphere and the chance to improve their skills while playing for low stakes.
Most Popular Casinos in the United States
Best Slots Casinos
When it comes to slot machines, casinos in the United States have plenty to offer. You can find a wide variety of games with popular themes and brands, such as Wheel of Fortune and Monopoly. Some of the most well-known slots casinos include Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, The Venetian in Las Vegas, and Borgata in Atlantic City.
These casinos feature a range of slot machines with different denominations, from penny slots to high-limit machines that accepts hundreds of dollars, and offer player rewards programs that can help you get more out of your playing experience. Whether you’re a casual player looking for progressive jackpots or a serious gambler in search of a high-variance slot machine, there’s sure to be a slots casino that suits your style and preferences.
Best Blackjack Casinos
Blackjack casinos in the United States offer a variety of games, ranging from standard blackjack to variations like Blackjack Switch and Double Attack Blackjack. Some of the most popular blackjack casinos in the country include the Bellagio in Las Vegas, Foxwoods in Connecticut, and Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. These casinos offer a range of table minimums and maximums, as well as player rewards programs and promotions to help maximize winnings. Bets range from $5.00 to the tens of thousands of dollars at the high-stakes tables.
Best Video Poker Casinos
If you’re looking for a different type of casino game that offers a mix of luck and strategy, video poker may be just what you need. Video poker casinos in the United States provide a unique gaming experience that blends the thrill of slots with the intellectual challenge of poker. You can find a wide range of video poker games in these casinos, from the simple and classic Jacks or Better to the more complex and exciting Deuces Wild and Bonus Poker.
Some of the most popular video poker casinos across the country include the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas, Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, and Borgata in Atlantic City. These casinos offer a variety of video poker machines with different denominations and pay tables, as well as player rewards programs and promotions that can help you maximize your winnings and have more fun.
One of the biggest benefits of playing video poker at a casino is the potential for high payout rates. Unlike most slot machines, video poker machines can have a payout rate of over 99%, depending on the specific game and pay table. This means that if you make the right moves and use a smart strategy, you could potentially win big and walk away with a hefty payout.
Best Keno Casinos
For centuries, Keno has been a beloved game of chance that has attracted many gamblers around the world. In Keno casinos across the United States, players get to select a set of numbers and hope that they match the numbers drawn by the casino’s Keno machine. These casinos typically offer a variety of Keno games with different denominations and rules, such as Power Keno and Super Keno. Some of the most well-known Keno casinos in the country include the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut, and the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. These casinos provide a range of player rewards programs and promotions that can help you boost your winnings and enhance your gaming experience.
One of the reasons Keno is such a popular game among gamblers is the potential for large jackpots and high payout rates. Depending on the specific game and the number of numbers you select, Keno jackpots can reach into the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. Furthermore, Keno games usually have a high payout rate, which means that even if you don’t hit the jackpot, you still have a decent chance of winning something.
Largest Casinos
The United States is home to some of the largest and most extravagant casinos in the world. These casinos offer a variety of games of chance, luxurious amenities, and exciting attractions that make them popular destinations for tourists and gamblers alike. Some of the largest casinos in the United States include the WinStar World Casino and Resort in Oklahoma, which spans over 500,000 square feet and features over 8,500 electronic games, 100 table games, and a 55-table poker room.
Another massive casino is the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut, which covers over 9 million square feet and includes six casinos, 380 table games, and 7,000 slot machines. The MGM Grand in Las Vegas is also a colossal casino, with over 170,000 square feet of gaming space, 3,500 slot machines, and 150 table games. These casinos and others like them provide endless opportunities for entertainment, gaming, and relaxation.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Casino to Visit
When it comes to choosing a land-based casino to visit, there are several factors to consider beyond game selection. Here are some of the most important factors to consider when comparing land-based casinos:
Hotel and Accommodation
Many US casinos offer world-class hotels and resorts with luxurious amenities like spas, pools, fitness centers, and fine dining restaurants. These hotels range in size and style, from boutique hotels to sprawling resorts, and cater to different budgets and preferences.
For example, the Bellagio in Las Vegas is a high-end hotel with over 3,900 rooms, 13 restaurants, and a 65,000-square-foot spa, while the Golden Nugget in Atlantic City is a more modest hotel with 728 rooms and four restaurants.
In addition to hotels, many US casinos offer other types of accommodations, such as RV parks, campsites, and villas. RV parks and campsites are popular options for those who prefer to bring their own accommodations, as they provide basic amenities like electricity, water, and sewer hookups, as well as access to the casino’s amenities and entertainment.
Villas are another option for those who want more privacy and space, as they typically offer multiple bedrooms, private pools, and other high-end amenities. Whatever your preferences, US casinos offer a range of accommodations to suit your needs and make your stay as enjoyable as possible.
Location
Location is a crucial factor in the success of a casino in the United States. Casinos need to be located in areas with high tourist traffic and a large local population to attract customers and generate revenue. Many casinos are located in popular tourist destinations like Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and Niagara Falls, where millions of visitors come each year to enjoy the attractions and entertainment. These areas offer a captive audience for casinos, as many tourists are looking for new and exciting ways to spend their time and money.
In addition to tourist destinations, many casinos are also located in areas with a large local population, such as major cities and suburbs. These areas provide a steady stream of customers who may visit the casino regularly for entertainment or gambling. Some casinos are also strategically located near major transportation hubs, such as airports or highways, to make them more accessible to visitors from other parts of the country. Overall, the location of a casino can greatly impact its success, and many casinos invest significant resources in researching and choosing the right location to maximize their potential revenue.
Parking
Parking is an essential consideration for US casinos, as it can greatly impact a customer’s experience and willingness to visit. Many casinos offer free parking to attract customers and make it easier for them to access the casino’s amenities and entertainment. However, parking can also be a source of frustration and inconvenience, especially during peak times when parking spaces may be limited.
For example, the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut offers free parking for over 13,000 vehicles, but during busy weekends and holidays, parking can be a challenge and customers may need to park in remote lots or wait for shuttle buses to take them to the casino.
To address these issues, many US casinos invest in parking infrastructure and services to improve the customer experience. Some casinos offer valet parking, which allows customers to drop off their vehicles at the casino entrance and have them parked and retrieved by attendants. Others offer self-parking garages with thousands of spaces and high-tech features like digital signage and license plate recognition.
For instance, the Wynn Las Vegas has a six-story parking garage with over 4,000 spaces, as well as a valet service and a mobile app that allows customers to reserve parking spaces and pay for parking from their phones. Overall, parking is a critical consideration for US casinos, and those that invest in quality parking infrastructure and services can gain a competitive advantage in the crowded gaming market.
Drinks
Beverages are an essential aspect of the casino experience in the United States, and many casinos strive to provide a diverse range of drink options to their patrons. Alcoholic beverages are often the most popular choice, with casinos frequently offering complimentary drinks to encourage customers to gamble longer and spend more money. This practice, known as “comping,” is especially common in Las Vegas-style casinos like the Cosmopolitan, where patrons can indulge in a range of complimentary drinks, including beer, wine, and cocktails, while playing on the casino floor. However, other casinos may limit drink options or only offer complimentary beverages to customers gambling at high-stakes tables.
In addition to alcoholic drinks, many US casinos offer non-alcoholic options like coffee, tea, and soda. These beverages may be available for purchase or provided as complimentary drinks, depending on the casino’s policies.
Furthermore, some casinos feature bars and lounges that provide a more intimate atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a wider variety of drinks. For example, the Horseshoe Casino in Baltimore has several unique bars, including a rooftop bar with a breathtaking view of the city, a sports bar, and a whiskey bar. Overall, drinks are an integral part of the casino experience in the United States, and casinos that offer high-quality beverage options, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, can enhance the overall experience of their customers.
Restaurants
Many casinos offer a wide range of dining options to their patrons. The best casinos in the country often feature world-class restaurants with renowned chefs, providing high-end dining experiences that are on par with some of the finest establishments in the world. For example, the Bellagio in Las Vegas is known for its AAA Five Diamond-rated restaurant, Le Cirque, which features French cuisine and an extensive wine list. Meanwhile, the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut has an array of dining options, including the upscale steakhouse Michael Jordan’s Steak House and the popular seafood restaurant, Jasper White’s Summer Shack.
Many casinos also offer more casual dining options for customers who want a quick bite or a more laid-back atmosphere. These restaurants can range from fast food chains to delis and cafes, and may be located within the casino or in nearby food courts or shopping centers. For example, the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut has a variety of fast food options, including a Dunkin’ Donuts and a Subway, as well as casual dining options like Guy Fieri’s Kitchen + Bar and Sugar Factory. Overall, restaurants are a crucial aspect of the casino experience in the United States, and the best casinos offer a diverse range of dining options to cater to the needs and preferences of their customers.
Some casinos may also offer swimming pools and other amenities for guests to enjoy.
Pet Policy
Pet policies at USA casinos vary widely depending on the individual casino’s rules and regulations. Some casinos may allow pets in designated areas, while others may have strict no-pet policies. For example, the Bellagio in Las Vegas allows pets weighing up to 50 pounds in designated rooms for an additional fee, while the MGM Grand only allows service animals on their property. Some casinos may also offer pet-sitting or walking services for customers who want to bring their furry friends but don’t want to leave them alone in their hotel room.
It’s important for pet owners to do their research before bringing their pets to a casino, as policies can vary widely and may be subject to change. Some casinos may require proof of vaccinations or specific types of insurance coverage, while others may have restrictions on the types of animals that are allowed.
Additionally, pet owners should be considerate of other casino patrons and ensure that their pets are well-behaved and properly supervised at all times. Overall, while some USA casinos may be pet-friendly, it’s important for pet owners to understand and follow the specific policies and guidelines in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Smoking Policy
Smoking policies at USA casinos vary widely and can depend on local and state laws as well as the casino’s own regulations. While some casinos may allow smoking on the gaming floor or in designated smoking areas, others may have strict no-smoking policies in all areas of the casino. For example, the Park MGM in Las Vegas has a completely smoke-free gaming floor, while the Winstar World Casino in Oklahoma allows smoking in designated areas only. Additionally, some states like California have statewide bans on smoking in all indoor workplaces, including casinos.
Casino patrons to be aware of the smoking policies in place at the casino they are visiting, as violations of these policies can result in fines or removal from the property. Some casinos may offer smoking cessation programs or provide resources for smokers who are looking to quit. Additionally, many casinos have installed high-tech air filtration systems to help reduce the negative impact of smoking on non-smokers. Overall, while smoking policies at USA casinos can vary widely, it’s important for both smokers and non-smokers to understand and follow these policies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons.
Overviews of The Most Popular Casinos in The United States
Bellagio
Caesars Palace
Forum Shops at Caesars Palace – Directory and Mall Hours
Shows and entertainment at Caesars Palace
Casino Royale
Cromwell Las Vegas
The D Las Vegas Hotel and Casino
Review of The D Las Vegas Hotel and Casino
Excalibur
Restaurants at the Excalibur Hotel and Casino
Flamingo Hotel and Casino
Review of the Flamingo Hotel and Casino
Harrah’s Las Vegas
Harrah’s Las Vegas Address & Resort Fees
Harrah’s Food Court: the Fulton Street Food Hall
Luxor
Mandalay Bay
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino
Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino Review
Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood
Wynn Las Vegas
Wynn Las Vegas Hotel and Casino
Wynn Las Vegas Bars and Nightclubs
Shopping at the Wynn Las Vegas
Miscellaneous Hotel and Casino tidbits
Largest sportsbooks in Las Vegas
Top 20 Biggest Casinos in Las Vegas
Las Vegas Hotels with Indoor Swimming Pools
The First Casino on the Las Vegas Strip
(Photo courtesy of Allie Caulfield via Flickr).
