United States Casinos Near Me

The Top US Land-Based Casinos

Although there is a lot to be said about the allure and convenience of online casinos, land-based casinos in the US are as popular as ever… centers of entertainment that blend exciting gaming, luxurious accommodations, and a whole host of amenities for a superb all-round experience. Now found in lots of U.S. states, these establishments provide something for all tastes – from classic table games and contemporary slot machines to poker tournaments and more. 

Recognized for their extravagance and exhilaration, these casinos attract players from all over the country – and the world, with their incredible atmospheres, live entertainment, leisure facilities, fine dining and sometimes even sports betting.

Here, we take a look at the very best U.S. land-based casinos and everything you need to know about the world of brick-and-mortar casinos in the United States of America.

List of the Best Casinos in the United States

Let’s dive into the world of the most celebrated brick-and-mortar casinos throughout the USA. This comprehensive list highlights some of the most iconic destinations that provide the very best gaming experiences and unparalleled entertainment. So, check out the very best and most well-known casinos, each one with its unique charm and allure…

Overview of Land-Based Casinos in the United States

Las Vegas has certainly emerged as a real tourist magnet thanks to the establishment of its gambling halls in 1931. It experienced massive growth after World War II – and it marked this by the construction of its seriously luxurious hotels. 

The minimum gambling age varies between 18 and 21 across the 38 different states in which they now legally operate.

Key Points:

• Land-based casinos in the USA offer a diverse array of gambling experiences – including slot machines, poker games, tournaments, blackjack, roulette, dice games, lotteries, bingo, sports betting, and all sorts of different live casino games.

• The betting limits in these casinos cater to all different budgets, with minimum bets starting as low as $0.01 and maximum stakes going all the way up to $50,000 and more, accommodating various gambling preferences and bankrolls.

• The United States boasts approximately 1,500 to 2,200 land-based casinos scattered across the country, each one offering its own particular brand of entertainment and gaming experiences.

• Among these, the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas is considered to be one of the very best casinos in the U.S., renowned for its opulence, incredible range of gaming options, and first-class services.

The Most Popular Land Based Casinos

Caesars Casino – Atlantic City

At Caesars Casino Atlantic City, you can expect a very varied gaming experience – with the casino boasting over 2,000 slot machines offering a diverse range of themes and betting preferences. 

Furthermore, the casino features more than 15,000 square feet, completely dedicated to sports betting, creating the perfect environment for sports fans to place bets on their favorite player or team. This effervescent establishment is always on hand to offer an atmosphere of thrilling action. From slot machines – with bets ranging from $0.1 to $100 to classic table games such as Blackjack, Roulette, Poker, Poker Tournaments, and Craps, guests can take advantage of an exhilarating and varied gaming landscape at Caesars Casino Atlantic City.

Golden Gate Casino, Las Vegas

As the oldest casino in Las Vegas, the Golden Gate Casino proudly embodies a stunningly rich heritage while embracing the modern era. From the Roaring ’20s, where flappers paraded non-conformity, to the present day, the casino offers the most impressive blend of gambling and entertainment with a sprinkling of nostalgia. 

Featuring an impressive range of slot machines, traditional table games – and the allure of captivating Dancing Dealers, guests can really immerse themselves in the excitement of Las Vegas’ most historic hotel. With the chance to experience the most thrilling moments… such as witnessing the largest roulette spin in Vegas history and the opportunity to win as much as £250,000, the Golden Gate Casino promises a gaming experience you’ll never forget.

MGM Casino, Las Vegas, Las Vegas

Probably one of the most renowned U.S. casinos ever, located at the heart of the world-famous Las Vegas Strip, the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino offers an unrivalled gaming experience. With an impressive range of games – including slots, poker, blackjack, roulette, table games and sports betting, this incredible casino boasts some of the largest progressive jackpots in history. From single-machine progressive wins to multimillion-dollar prizes that are exclusive to MGM Resorts International, the possibilities for life-changing wins are endless. 

For those who like to raise the stakes and play big, the High Limit Slots provide a luxurious haven with private lounges and an exceptional level of personalized service, offering serious opportunities with bets ranging from $5 to $100 and jackpots surpassing £500,000. Then there’s the MGM Grand Poker Room – which is the premier destination on the Strip for Texas Hold’em, providing an impressive gaming environment for anyone on the hunt for both fun and thrills. 

The History of U.S. Casinos

The history of casinos in the U.S. goes back decades – and here, we’re going to look at a basic but comprehensive timeline. From the origins and expansion of these establishments, following them on their journey from inception to their present-day brilliance, here’s how the casino industry has grown into the behemoth that it is in the U.S. today.

In The Beginning…

Casino legalization in the United States started back in 1906 when Nevada started to pave the way for betting and entertainment. The Golden Gate, the country’s very first gaming establishment, became hugely significant amidst Nevada’s blossoming casino scene. Located on Fremont Street, this iconic venue offered spacious 10’x10′ rooms and a luxurious setup – which is reflected in its longevity and continued allure… and as evidenced by its recent $12 million renovation.

Casinos Go Underground

However, in the early 20th century, organized crime syndicates started to take control over the U.S. gambling landscape. With the legalization of gambling in Nevada, out came the most notorious mobsters, such as Benjamin ‘Bugsy’ Siegel, Frank Costello, and Meyer Lansky, who transitioned from bootlegging to the development of the infamous Las Vegas Strip. This era saw the industry expand massively, mainly because of these infamous figures who ended up shaping the early growth of the gambling industry.

The Growth of Casinos

Taking its cue from Nevada, New Jersey became the second state to legalize gambling, and thus we saw the introduction of the state’s world-famous gambling hub in Atlantic City in 1977. The super-fast transformation of hotels into world-class casino resorts symbolized the city’s commitment to embracing the industry. The integration of gambling establishments with beach vacation spots quickly saw Atlantic City becoming the second-largest casino destination in the U.S. – almost up there with the star power of Las Vegas.

An Enduring Love

The history of gambling in the United States takes us from a time when gambling was done in dodgy saloons to a time when casinos and casino resorts were some of the most luxurious and expensive buildings in the U.S. 

Despite the undeniable rise of online casinos, land-based casinos are still the very foundation, heart and soul of the industry… as evidenced by the ever-growing revenues. This resilience shows that these beautiful buildings have an enduring appeal and that the importance of traditional casinos will never waver, even as technology changes and the industry evolves.

A History of the Most Popular U.S. Casinos

Let’s take a look at the history of some of the most iconic and historical casinos in the U.S.:

• 1906:– Golden Gate Casino, Las Vegas: Regarded as the oldest casino in Las Vegas, the Golden Gate Casino opened its doors back in 1906 and became the backbone of the Vegas gambling world.

• 1946: Flamingo Las Vegas, Las Vegas: Founded by mafioso Benjamin ‘Bugsy’ Siegel, the Flamingo Las Vegas became a famous fixture on the Vegas Strip, playing a huge role in shaping the gambling landscape in the city.

• 1978: Resorts Casino Hotel, Atlantic City: This was the first casino to open in Atlantic City after New Jersey legalized gambling, and, as such, it signified the start of the city’s transformation into a popular East Coast gambling destination.

• 1998: The Bellagio, Las Vegas: Famed for its elegance and iconic fountain show, The Bellagio opened its doors in 1998 and became the new benchmark for luxury and sophistication.

• 2003: Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Atlantic City: After its opening in 2003, the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa welcomed a new era of upscale gambling in Atlantic City with its opulent amenities and contemporary design.

• 2005: Wynn Las Vegas, Las Vegas: The brainchild of casino tycoon Steve Wynn, this world-class establishment opened up in 2005, offering a fusion of luxury, entertainment, and innovation.

• 2010: The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Las Vegas: The Cosmopolitan opened its doors in 2010, bringing with it a fresh, new approach to casino hospitality.

• 2016: MGM National Harbor, Oxon Hill, Maryland: Situated near Washington D.C., this casino opened up in 2016 and soon became a popular casino destination on the East Coast.

• 2018: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City: Entering Atlantic City’s casino scene in 2018 with its music-themed ambience and entertainment, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino provided its own unique experience.

• 2020: Circa Resort & Casino, Las Vegas: Opening its doors in 2020, Circa Resort & Casino created a whole new era in downtown Vegas with its modern amenities and a focus on sports betting and fun.

The States Where You Can Find Legal Land-Based Casinos

Currently, the legal framework for land-based casinos in the United States now includes as many as 38 states. These states include:

• Alabama, 
• Arizona, 
• Arkansas, 
• California, 
• Colorado, 
• Connecticut,
• Delaware, 
• Florida, 
• Georgia, 
• Idaho, 
• Illinois, 
• Indiana, 
• Iowa, 
• Kansas,
• Louisiana, 
• Maine, 
• Maryland, 
• Massachusetts, 
• Michigan, 
• Minnesota, 
• Mississippi, 
• Missouri, 
• Montana, 
• Nebraska, 
• Nevada, 
• New Hampshire, 
• New Jersey, 
• New York, 
• New Mexico, 
• North Carolina, 
• Ohio, 
• Oklahoma, 
• Oregon, 
• Pennsylvania, 
• Rhode Island, 
• South Dakota, 
• West Virginia,
• Wyoming

Each of these states has brought in legislation that permits and regulates land-based casinos – and benefits from the enormous contributions the industry makes to their economies.

Native American U.S. Casinos

Native American casinos – which include casinos, bingo halls, and any other gambling establishment that is situated on Indian reservations or tribal lands, hold a very important position in the U.S. due to tribal sovereignty. 

Codified by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) of 1988, these territories all hold the authority to host gambling operations with limited state intervention. In 2011, there were around 460 gambling operations managed by 240 tribes, which generated a huge annual revenue of $27 billion. 

IGRA’s implementation – after being signed in by President Ronald Reagan increased Native gaming revenue massively, from $100 million in 1988 to a mind-blowing $16.7 billion by 2006. However, this came with a certain amount of controversy. In 2006, the Jack Abramoff Indian lobbying scandal exposed corruption and illegal practices involving lobbyists and Native casinos. Congress has since sought to introduce legislation to protect casino interests, while the Bureau of Indian Affairs faces increasing pressure to refine regulatory policies concerning casino approvals, balancing community influence and tribal sovereignty in the casino siting process.

Currently, Native American Casinos can be found in:

• California,
• Oklahoma, 
• Connecticut, 
• Idaho, 
• New York, 
• Indiana, 
• Minnesota, 
• South Dakota, 
• Wyoming, 
• Florida.

U.S. Racinos

A racino is a gaming destination located at horse or greyhound racing tracks, offering different types of gambling options, including slot machines, blackjack, roulette, poker, etc. 

These racinos can offer all sorts of amenities, including off-track betting on races as well as bars and restaurants – while some even provide entertainment and even a place to spend the night. Racinos regularly host major races, and while some states only offer racino gambling rather than the full-scale land-based casinos you’d find in Vegas, many states have followed in the footsteps of Rhode Island, the first state to open a racino in 1992. 

With different laws in different states regarding which gambling activities are legal, these establishments vary depending on where you live. However, they usually allow slot machines and selected table games that aren’t restricted in that particular state. 

States with racinos include:

• Arkansas,
• Delaware, 
• Florida, 
• Indiana, 
• Iowa, 
• Louisiana, 
• Maine, 
• Maryland, 
• Massachusetts, 
• New Mexico, 
• New York, 
• Ohio, 
• Oklahoma, 
• Pennsylvania, 
• Rhode Island
• West Virginia

Some of these racetracks operate as Native American casinos, while others have special laws allowing racetracks to offer slots gambling. 

Racino Name Location

Mohegan Sun Pocono Pennsylvania

Saratoga Racino Hotel New York

Delta Downs Racetrack & Casino Louisiana

Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino Iowa

Delaware Park Racetrack Delaware

Jack Thistledown Racino Ohio

Riverboat and Cruise Casinos

Riverboat gambling in the United States also has a pretty fascinating history. Originating from the era of boat cruises that were famed for live music and dance, riverboats soon evolved into places you could go to gamble, providing players with an escape from the busy city casinos. 

Initially focused on card and table games, riverboat casinos eventually started to offer slot games. The roots of riverboat gambling can be traced all the way back to the Mississippi River, where the river setting created a gray area for gambling laws.

The early 20th century saw a massive shift as states, recognizing the economic potential, started to ease restrictions on gambling. The era of riverboat gambling blossomed, and casinos had to be situated on ships that sailed from docks. However, regulations tightened in 1951, and the transportation of gambling devices across state borders became more restricted, which had a big impact on riverboat casinos.

In the latter part of the 20th century, states that initially prohibited land-based gambling started to permit riverboat casinos – and thus, there was a revival of the golden era of riverboat gambling. Iowa led the way in this, followed by Mississippi, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, and Missouri. Although there are nowhere near as many riverboat casinos as land-based casinos, by 2018, there were 63 in operation.

These riverboats play a massive role in local economies through state taxation on winnings. However, tax rates vary by state. 

Casino Cruise Number of Games

The Amelia Belle, Louisiana 15 table games

Grand Victoria, Illinois 29 table games

Casino Queen Marquette, Iowa 8 table games

Ameristar Casino, Mississippi 27 table games

Top U.S. Online Casinos

If you want to get some practice in before heading over to your preferred casino, here are some of the very best online casinos you can play in the U.S.

The Best US Land-Based Casinos: Conclusion

The United States has embraced the world of casinos – and it is now a stunning tapestry of gaming experiences, appealing to those who are passionate about gambling to those who are just looking for a bit of fun. From the luxury of Las Vegas to the history of riverboats and the thrills of racetrack-casino hybrids, the variety is unmatched. 

The country is filled with Iconic casinos – like The Bellagio in Las Vegas, Mohegan Sun Pocono in Pennsylvania and Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut – which all raise the standards of elegance and refinement. They offer luxurious accommodations, an impressive gaming selection – and, of course, plenty of entertainment and dining options. These all totally embody sophistication and attract millions from across the world with incredible nightlife, amazing performances, and, of course, serious high-stakes gaming.

The world of land-based casinos in the USA embodies a real diverse tapestry of experiences. Every single destination has its own appeal, from the grandeur of Vegas to the culture of Native Indian casinos, the charm of riverboats and the thrills of racinos. The wide range of options means that anyone can find their own gaming paradise.

FAQs

What are the Most Popular Land-Based Casinos in the U.S.?

There are literally hundreds of amazing casinos in the U.S. However, some of those that stand out include the Bellagio, Caesars Palace, The Venetian, Wynn Las Vegas, MGM Grand, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, Aria Resort and Casino Las Vegas, Nevada and The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas.

How Many U.S. States Have Legalized Land-Based Casinos?

Although the legal landscape of casinos in the U.S. is changing, at the time of writing, land-based casinos are legal in approximately 38 states in the United States. Each state has its own set of laws regulating gambling, including the legalization and regulation of land-based casinos. Some states are permitted to offer full-scale commercial casinos. In contrast, others only allow casinos that are located on Native American tribal lands or racetracks, with a few offering limited casino-style gambling options.

What States Offer Native Indian Land-Based Casinos in the U.S.?

Indian casinos are legally authorized to operate gaming facilities on tribal lands within the following states – California, Oklahoma, Connecticut, Idaho, New York, Indiana, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wyoming and Florida.

Are Riverboat Casinos Different From Standard Land-Based Casinos?

Riverboat casinos are different because they are located in water and generally operate on rivers or waterways. Situated on boats or ships, these casinos are often designed to look like traditional casino vessels and are all subject to very specific regulations regarding their operations due to their historical association with navigable waterways. Riverboat casinos typically have certain restrictions on when and how gambling activities can occur – often requiring the vessel to be sailing along the water while gambling is in progress rather than in the harbour or dock.

How Are Racinos Different to Land-Based Casinos and Which States Permit Them?

Racinos are a fusion of racetracks and casinos and are legal in numerous states in the United States. States with racinos include Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia. 

Racinos are different from traditional casinos due to their location at horse or greyhound racing tracks, integrating slot machines and other gambling options such as blackjack, roulette, or poker alongside live racing events.

What Types Of Games Will I Find at Land-Based Casinos?

The top land-based casinos in the U.S. provide a wide selection of games, including:

• Slot Machines: Casinos feature a wide variety of slot machines, including classic three-reel slots, video slots and progressive jackpot games.
• Table Games: You’ll find an assortment of table games like blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, and poker commonly available at casinos.
• Poker Rooms: There are often dedicated poker rooms that cater to poker enthusiasts by offering various poker games like Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Seven Card Stud.
• Poker Tournaments: Casinos frequently host poker tournaments with varying buy-in levels, formats, and prize pools.
• Bingo: Many casinos have dedicated bingo halls or areas where patrons can participate in traditional paper card games or electronic bingo.
• Lottery: Some casinos offer lottery-style games or kiosks offering scratch-off tickets and other lottery-based entertainment.