Casino hotels have come a long way from their simple beginnings. Today’s best casinos offer so much more than the tables and slots that make them famous.
Kick back by a pool that feels like something from a movie, dine in restaurants that serve up food to make your mouth water, and catch a show that’ll blow your mind.
Las Vegas
The self-described Entertainment Capital of the World is truly something to behold. From buttoned-up business conventions to booze-fueled bachelor parties, it’s hard not to find yourself swept away by the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas.
Many of the resorts on the famous Las Vegas Strip feel like mini theme parks. The Venetian features gondola rides, fountain shows and even has its own replica of the Eiffel Tower. Similarly, the New York-New York hotel has its own mini Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty and also has its very own rollercoaster.
If you’re a serious gambler, it pays to concentrate your gambling at one casino hotel so they can comp you for rooms and other services based on the amount you spend. That way you’ll get the most out of your trip and can take advantage of all the other fabulous things this city has to offer. Shows to catch include Cirque du Soleil, Terry Fator and Mad Apple.
Atlantic City
If you want to gamble and visit a world-class hotel without spending an arm and a leg, Atlantic City is the place to go. Whether you’re looking to relive a post-prom rager, celebrate a bachelorette party or simply take in some sunshine and salty air, AC’s casinos offer a little bit of everything for every kind of traveler.
The casinos here are all over the map, from the opulence of Caesars Palace to the Cuba-inspired Tropicana Resort. But it’s the unique mash-up of experiences that makes Atlantic City special. You can ride a mechanical bull and slurp oysters in one minute, then enjoy a cocktail in a bar decorated with dry ice the next.
Plus, it’s easy to get around in this city. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars that are a quick car (or cab decked out in LED lights) away from the casinos. You’ll also find a few cool places to shop and catch a show.
Monte Carlo
Few casino resorts exude as much glamour as Monaco. This petite tax haven may not offer the mega-casinos of Las Vegas or Macau, but what it lacks in volume, it makes up for with understated class and a rich history.
Whether brushing shoulders with the elite during the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix or simply gazing at their luxury yachts and mega-yachts, high-rollers are spoiled for choice in this tiny country along the French Riviera. But a visit isn’t complete without visiting the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino.
Located on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it’s the perfect place to feel like royalty. In addition to the glitzy casino, you can also enjoy the promenade with its footprints of football stars and the Japanese Garden. To arrive in true high-roller style, hop aboard a Blade helicopter at Nice Airport for a quick, dreamy ride to Monte Carlo’s helipad. Then, it’s time to play. Or, you can choose to spend your time exploring the rest of Monaco with its morning marketplaces and rustic old-world charm.
Reno
Whether you prefer to bet the odds on a game of poker or the lights of a Cirque du Soleil show, these casino resorts are sure to please. They offer a winning mix of tried-and-true stateside contenders where Lady Luck rules the roost, as well as up-and-coming Asian hot spots that are raising the international stakes.
Unlike traditional casinos, many of these casino hotel vacations offer so much more than gaming. Non-gamblers go gaga for the upscale, rock-and-roll-themed Whitney Peak Hotel and Renaissance Reno, while gaming enthusiasts adore the Vegas-esque Grand Sierra Resort and Casino. It’s a one-stop shop for all your entertainment and gambling needs with ten restaurants, nightclubs, a movie theater, golf driving range, an arcade, outdoor pools, and wintertime ice skating arena.
And if you’re an art lover, don’t miss the prestigious Artown festival each July in downtown Reno. This month-long event is a showcase of dance, film, theater, workshops, and dozens of musical performances by rock, jazz, blues, latin, and reggae artists.
