From late nights in Vegas to the shores of Lake Tahoe, here are the best historic casinos to visit in the USA.

The history of humans and gambling is compelling. The Mesopotamians invented dice games millennia ago, the Chinese were playing cards centuries back and the first modern-day casino opened in Venice in the 17th century. This long history speaks volumes of the human desire to win, our belief in fate or perhaps, our need to beat the odds. 

In my journeys across the world, I’ve always found something alluring about visiting historic casinos, whether it’s to play or simply to soak up the atmosphere. I’ve walked through the extravagant interiors of Monaco’s Monte Carlo Casino and I’ve felt the buzz at late-night poker games in London’s Leicester Square. 

But nowhere has so wilfully indulged and advanced the age-old history of gambling than the USA, where you can find some of the world’s most historic casinos. Some of the historic casinos in the list below now only stand as memorials to their golden ages, but many more have been revitalised, continuing to welcome travellers through their doors to this day. Here are 10 historic casinos you can visit in the USA.

1. Golden Gate Hotel and Casino (1906), Las Vegas, Nevada

The Golden Gate Hotel and Casino, established in 1906, holds the title of Las Vegas’s oldest operating casino. Originally known as the Hotel Nevada, it opened during the early days of the city’s development as a railroad town. In 1931, the property embraced Nevada’s newly legalised gambling scene, adopting the name Sal Sagev (Las Vegas spelt backwards). It became the Golden Gate in 1955, cementing its place in the city’s burgeoning casino culture.

Located on Fremont Street, the Golden Gate witnessed the transformation of Las Vegas from a small settlement into a global gambling and entertainment hub. Its vintage charm and historical significance make it a unique fixture in the city. The casino has retained much of its original character, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past while continuing to evolve with modern times. 

The Golden Gate Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

2. Cal Neva Lodge & Casino (1926), Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California

The Cal Neva Lodge & Casino, established in 1926, straddles the state line between California and Nevada on the shores of Lake Tahoe. This unique positioning allowed it to offer gambling and entertainment options in both states. The lodge gained significant fame during the 1960s when it was owned by Frank Sinatra. During Sinatra’s ownership, the Cal Neva became a glamorous retreat for celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe and members of the Rat Pack.

Sinatra’s tenure, however, was not without controversy. His association with reputed mob figures led to the revocation of his gambling license in 1963. Despite this, the Cal Neva continued to operate and remains a symbol of the golden age of Hollywood and mid-20th century Americana. Although it’s now long past its glory days, there are increasing reports that it’s set to be revitalised

Glorious Lake Tahoe. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

3. Riverside Casino (1931), Reno, Nevada

Riverside Casino, located in Reno, Nevada, opened its doors in 1931, the same year Nevada legalised gambling. Founded by prominent businessman George Wingfield, it quickly became a cornerstone of Reno’s emerging gambling industry. The casino was part of the Riverside Hotel, a historic property that has been a significant fixture in Reno since the early 20th century.

The Riverside Casino played a crucial role in establishing Reno as a major gambling destination before Las Vegas rose to prominence. The casino’s classic design and prime location along the Truckee River attracted a diverse clientele, from locals to tourists seeking the thrill of gambling.

Although the original casino operations have ceased because of the advent of new kind of casinos, such as the online ones that you can compare https://www.oddschecker.com/us/casino and that are replacing, step by step, the terrestrial ones in terms of revenues and success, the Riverside building remains a notable historical site. Its legacy endures as a reminder of Reno’s rich gambling history and the Riverside continues to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era of American gambling.

Reno’s iconic archway. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

4. Harrah’s Reno (1937), Reno, Nevada

Harrah’s Reno, established in 1937 by William F. Harrah, stands as one of the most iconic casinos in Reno, Nevada. Harrah’s began as a modest bingo parlour and quickly expanded into a full-scale casino, becoming a cornerstone of Reno’s gambling industry. William Harrah’s emphasis on exceptional customer service and innovative entertainment set new standards in the casino business, fostering a loyal clientele and spurring significant growth.

Harrah’s Reno was instrumental in shaping the modern casino experience, introducing new concepts such as rewards programs and top-tier entertainment acts. The casino became a hub for locals and tourists, contributing to Reno’s reputation as a gambling and entertainment destination.

Over the decades, Harrah’s Reno evolved, reflecting broader trends in the industry while maintaining its historic charm. Although it closed in 2020, you can still see the building in Reno. Its legacy lives on too, highlighting the significant role it played in the development and popularisation of casino culture in the United States.

Read more: 10 Most Visited Cities in the USA

5. Saratoga Casino Hotel (1941), Saratoga Springs, New York

Saratoga Casino Hotel, located in Saratoga Springs, New York, has a long history dating back to 1941 when it originally opened as the Saratoga Raceway. Known for its harness racing, the venue became a prominent part of Saratoga Springs’ storied tradition of thoroughbred racing and leisure. In 2004, the facility expanded its offerings by introducing video lottery terminals, marking its transformation into a full-fledged casino.

This development revitalised the historic site, blending the legacy of horse racing with modern gaming. The addition of a hotel in 2016 further enhanced its appeal, providing luxurious accommodations for visitors. Saratoga Casino Hotel has since become a year-round destination, offering gaming, live entertainment, and dining options.

Saratoga Springs, New York. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

6. The Flamingo (1946), Las Vegas, Nevada

The Flamingo Las Vegas opened in 1946, and it’s one of the most iconic and historic casinos on the Las Vegas Strip. Conceived by notorious mobster Bugsy Siegel, the Flamingo was designed to offer a level of luxury and sophistication unprecedented in Las Vegas at the time. Siegel envisioned a lavish resort that would attract Hollywood’s elite and transform Las Vegas into a premier entertainment destination.

The construction of the Flamingo faced numerous challenges, including budget overruns and intense scrutiny due to Siegel’s connections with organised crime. Despite these hurdles, the Flamingo opened its doors on December 26, 1946. Although the initial opening was not a financial success, it soon gained popularity and set the standard for future resorts on the Strip.

Over the decades, the Flamingo has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, maintaining its status as a beloved Las Vegas landmark. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city’s transformation from a small desert town into a world-renowned entertainment capital.

Read more: How Many Countries Are in North America? Everything You Need to Know.

7. Caesars Palace (1966), Las Vegas, Nevada

Caesars Palace is one of the most renowned casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, and it opened its doors way back in 1966. Founded by Jay Sarno, the resort was designed to evoke the grandeur of ancient Rome, offering guests a lavish experience reminiscent of a Roman emperor’s palace. With its opulent decor, including marble columns, classical statues, and expansive gardens, Caesars Palace set a new standard for luxury and themed resorts in Las Vegas.

From its inception, Caesars Palace has been synonymous with high-stakes gambling and world-class entertainment. The resort’s Colosseum has hosted legendary performers such as Frank Sinatra, Celine Dion, and Elton John, solidifying its reputation as a premier entertainment venue.

The Vegas skyline. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

8. Boulder Station (1977), Boulder, Colorado

Boulder Station Casino, located in Boulder, Colorado, opened its doors in 1977, shortly after the legalisation of gambling in the state in 1972. Known for its distinctive Western-themed decor, Boulder Station quickly established itself as a local favourite, offering a unique blend of gaming and entertainment.

The casino features a wide array of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and poker, catering to both casual players and serious gamblers. Boulder Station is also renowned for its vibrant entertainment scene, hosting live music, comedy shows, and events that draw visitors from across the region.

Boulder, Colorado. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

9. Mount Airy Casino Resort (1980), Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania

Mount Airy Casino Resort, located in Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, originally opened in 1980 as Mount Airy Lodge, a renowned honeymoon destination. The resort was famed for its romantic ambience, featuring heart-shaped bathtubs, luxurious accommodations, and picturesque surroundings in the Pocono Mountains.

In 2007, the property was transformed into the Mount Airy Casino Resort, blending its historic charm with modern gaming and entertainment amenities. The new resort introduced a state-of-the-art casino floor, offering a wide range of slot machines, table games, and poker, attracting a broader clientele.

Mount Airy. Photo credit: depositphotos.com.

10. The Greenbrier (2009), White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

The Greenbrier, located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, has a rich history that dates back to 1778 when it was established as a resort destination known for its healing mineral springs. Early visitors believed in the therapeutic benefits of the springs, which led to the development of a luxurious retreat. By the 19th century, the Greenbrier had become a popular destination for Southern aristocracy, including many U.S. presidents and prominent figures.

The resort’s reputation for elegance and exclusivity grew throughout the 20th century. During World War II, it was temporarily converted into a hospital for wounded soldiers. Post-war, the Greenbrier was restored to its former grandeur and expanded. One of the most intriguing aspects of its history is the Cold War-era bunker constructed beneath the hotel in the 1950s, designed to serve as an emergency shelter for the U.S. Congress. This secret facility was decommissioned in 1992 and now serves as a fascinating historical tour for guests.

The casino, however, is a relatively recent addition, opening its doors in 2009. This development added a modern flair to the historic resort, which has long been known for its luxurious accommodations and as a retreat for American presidents, celebrities, and other notable figures.

There you are, the best historic casinos to visit in the USA. Where will you be playing first?