6 Iconic Gambling Destinations in the United States
The United States houses the most popular 24-hour casinos in the world. Gambling, in general, is welcomed and enjoyed by many Americans. In fact, in 2022, the gambling industry in the US has recorded more than $54.9 billion in revenue. Casinos, in particular, are the most favorite gambling activity in the country.
In addition, the industry has generated 1.8 million jobs, which translates to $74 billion in labor income. In a 2021 survey, it was revealed that 73% of visitors in Las Vegas, the gambling capital of the country, have gambled in the area. This means that its casinos have become one of the most sought-after tourist spots in the US.
Let’s learn more about the most iconic gambling destinations in the US and discover what they offer to their patrons.
1. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” With its vibrant casino culture and rich gambling history, it’s no wonder many gamblers worldwide flock to the city to test their luck.
Every year, millions of visitors visit Las Vegas to gamble. Be it casual gamblers or high-rollers, the gambling community in Las Vegas is all-inclusive.
The most popular spots can be found along The Strip. It is a 4.2-mile gambling hub outside the city limits. You can choose from world-famous resorts and casinos with extensive gaming floors. Moreover, there are also high-end sportsbooks in the area that generate high revenue every year.
There are over 200 land-based casino to try around the area, so you will need a map to navigate the place and find your perfect gambling spot. The most common types of gambling you can encounter in the city are bingos, craps, roulette, blackjack, poker, and slots, with the first four being the best games for beginners.
2. New Jersey
The gambling laws in New Jersey are among the least restrictive in the United States. You can enjoy various games in the area: amusement games, charity gambling, horse racing, off-track betting, lottery, and casino gambling.
The state is also famous for online gambling. New Jersey began to allow all-state online gambling in 2013. In addition, in the current year, 23 licensed sportsbooks are operating in the state.
The most iconic gambling city in the state is Atlantic City. You can find nine casinos in the area, which draw in 28.5 million gambling visitors and employ 33 thousand workers. The revenue for these nine casinos reached $3.4 billion, with $278 million paid in taxes.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana
Gambling in New Orleans was legalized in the 1990s, but the culture has thrived for many decades. The state is unique for its riverboat casinos, legalizing them to add local flavor to the thriving gambling industry. These boats were used to transport tourists to and fro the Mississippi River and are now repurposed as gambling sites.
At present, most forms of online betting are illegal in New Orleans. However, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Nevada are beginning to legalize online betting. If New Orleans continues to open its doors for online betting, local gamblers wouldn’t have to sign up for offshore betting, paying more taxes to the area and bringing in more revenue in the industry.
4. Philadelphia
The first casinos in Philadelphia opened in 2010. After two years, Philadelphia became the second-largest gambling market in the United States. From casual players to serious enthusiasts, there are many games to enjoy in Philly. Poker rooms, slot machines, and table rooms are the most crowded gambling scenes in the area.
What’s more, Philadelphia is also considered a sports-centric city, which is why it is popular for rich and diverse sports betting options.
5. Chicago
Chicago is one of the gambling capitals in the United States. You can play the most popular casino games in riverboats, as they are the primary gambling places around the area. These boats aren’t cruising but are only situated on the dockside or barges.
Currently, online gambling is considered illegal in Illinois and Indiana. However, if you are into sports, you may enjoy the recently permitted online sports betting in Chicago. You can find nine casinos in the area, with four located near Indiana and five within Illinois.
6. Colorado
Legal gambling activities in Colorado include the Colorado lottery, live and off-track betting on horseracing events, bingo, raffles, and social and charity games. In 2008, casinos were permitted to operate 24 hours a day. Later, in 2021, sports betting was also permitted in Colorado. Black Hawk, Central City, and Cripple Creek are the three towns that host the biggest casinos in Colorado.
Final Thoughts
With so many legitimate land-based and online casinos accessible in the US, gambling has become a favorite pastime of many Americans. With many states legalizing casinos as a regulated marketplace, more and more individuals are confidently signing up for online betting sites and showing up in gambling places like the ones mentioned here. The industry is expected to grow continuously in the coming years, prompting more players to crowd the top gambling destinations in the United States.
