Travelling to NY: 5 fabulous casinos to visit and enjoy nearby
When folks imagine casinos, Vegas instantly comes to mind, those sprawling, flashy resorts baking under the Nevada sun. But New York? Oh, it plays by its own rules. Gambling here was pretty much off-limits for ages, except for those smoky speakeasy joints back in Prohibition days where dice rolled under dim lights. Then, bam, recent law changes flipped the script. The Big Apple, the city that never sleeps, despite the recent legalization of gambling, still offers historic venues and casinos of undeniable charm, worth a visit even just to enjoy the tinkling of slot machines. If you prefer to play at an online casino, perhaps on the banks of the Hudson or on the Brooklyn Bridge, you can take advantage of the free spins to win real money offered by gambling sites: for a quick comparison of offers, just visit oddschecker at the page linked above.
Now, if you’re up for mixing history with your high-roller fantasies, here’s where to go, no passport needed, just MetroCard energy.
Turning Stone Resort Casino: Verona’s quiet giant
Way up in Verona, a solid four-hour drive from Manhattan, Turning Stone’s been holding it down since ’93, kinda wild, right? Back then, gambling wasn’t even fully legal. Run by the Oneida Nation, it’s got that resort feel without the Vegas pretence. Slot machines? Over 2,000 of ’em. Tables? Plenty. But honestly, it’s the little things: like their steakhouse that rivals any Midtown spot, or summer concerts on the lawn. You won’t find skyscrapers here, just maple trees and that Upstate calm. Worth the trek if you wanna gamble and breathe fresh air afterward.
Empire City Casino by MGM resorts: yonkers’ electric heartbeat
Don’t sleep on Yonkers. Empire City sits where an old racetrack once thundered, and man, does it keep that energy alive. Slots buzz 24/7, and the vibe’s upbeat, like a Times Square party crammed into one massive hall. No live dealers (thanks, NY law quirks), but the electronic tables move fast, and the people-watching? Top-tier. Grab a pretzel from their food court, then hit the slots near the glass walls overlooking Yonkers Avenue. Oh, and check their events, sometimes they throw harness racing nights, which is basically horse drama meets casino buzz.
Saratoga casino hotel: old money, new thrills
Saratoga Springs screams history, think Gatsby-era glam with diehard horse racing fans. The casino, built in 1941, fits right in. It’s cozier than the big resorts, but man, does it ooze charm. Crystal chandeliers, plush carpets, and a vibe that whispers, “Bet slow, drink slower.” Their racebook’s legendary during August’s thoroughbred season. Pro tip: Skip the summer crowds and visit in fall, you’ll still catch races, but with crispy leaves crunching underfoot outside.
Resorts World New York City: Queens’ runway ruckus
Right by JFK Airport, Resorts World NYC lets you gamble while jets roar overhead, kinda surreal, kinda awesome. It’s enormous, with enough slots to make your head spin, and a food hall that’s shockingly gourmet. Craving sushi at 2 a.m.? They’ve got you. Plus, the vibe’s pure NYC hustle. While table games aren’t live yet, rumor has it they’re pushing lawmakers to change that. Until then, sip cocktails at RW Twenty Four and pretend you’re at a Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant fusion pop-up.
Resorts World Catskills: mountains meet midnight chips
Okay, Monticello’s a hike, two hours north, but dang, is it pretty. Resorts World Catskills juts out of the forest like a glass castle, all modern angles against misty peaks. Opened in 2018, it’s got live dealers (finally), luxury suites, and views that’ll steal your focus from the poker table. Skiers flock here in winter, but summer’s sneaky-good, hike Kaaterskill Falls by day, then try your luck at baccarat by night. Feels fancier than the city spots, but hey, treat yourself, you’re on vacation.
The final spin
New York’s casinos? They’re not about neon overload. They’re gritty, historic, and packed with stories, like the city itself. Whether you’re digging into Saratoga’s racing legacy or chasing jackpots under airplane lights in Queens, it’s the blend of old and new that hooks ya. Win or lose, you’ll leave with tales to tell. Need more getaway inspo beyond casinos? Check out this guide to the perfect destination spots for spring. Just remember: tip your dealers, folks.
