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Argosy Casino Alton

Updated 1 month ago

Review Highlights

“ I've been to the Alton Belle twice now, but I only made the mistake of eating at their buffet once. ” in 4 reviews

“ Me and grandma get to spend quality time hopping around the penny slots. ” in 2 reviews

“ drawing prizes, free lunch/dinner buffets, free concerts & best of all no smoking ! ” in 3 reviews

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Alton, IL 62002

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About the Business

Argosy Casino Alton was the first casino in St. Louis and is still the best! Located just 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis in historic Alton, Illinois. Find out why our customers always feel at home. Not only do we have the friendliest staff, hottest slots and live table games action, our customers rave about their dining experiences. …

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I don't gamble, but I do frequent rundown non-Vegas casinos for their fantastic selection of 80s acts. I've been to the Alton Belle twice now, but I only made the mistake of eating at their buffet once. It was...less than acceptable. If you like to people-watch, you'll be pleased with the odd array of folks that hang out here. It's NOTHING like a Vegas casino. We're talking disabled people who don't appear to have moved from a single slot machine in years, retirees blowing their Social Security checks on the penny slots, gap-toothed cocktail waitresses, and good ole boys from the nearby farming communities acting like they're in Ocean's 11 or something as they puzzle their way through the basics of blackjack. There are exceptions, of course, but overall, this place is kind of a freakshow. Anyway, I've been twice now because they do occasionally have really good concerts. I saw Air Supply here in 2007, along with Loverboy a bit later. It's an extremely small venue, and if you get there early, you can usually snag a decent seat (but be warned, the front seats are typically reserved for people who have some kind of special relationship with the casino. Acoustically, it's an imperfect venue. For seating, it's even worse (all of the seats are level, so if someone tall is front of you...too bad). Still, the acts they bring in are worthwhile and the venue feels very intimate. I should also mention that thanks to wonderful new regulation in Illinois, smokers are not welcome inside the casino. You'll still get the occasional whiff of it from someone whose clothing is tainted, but the bigger concern these days is body odor. Now if they could just outlaw that one...

So I was in the casino approximately three weeks ago, and supposedly was betting more than the table maximum for over five hours with multiple dealers and multiple pit bosses paying out big wins, and no one said anything until the end of the night did not ask for the money back went back yesterday Was asked to pay back over $4000 and after refusing to do so have been banned from every location. Had I not won and over bet all night it's highly doubtful They would have reimbursed me all my over bets. So you are punishing me because I won and your dealers and pit bosses actually paid out my bets for five hours.

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Business Owner

Feb 14, 2024

We're very sorry to see that your experience with us was only worthy of one star. Please reach back out to discuss how we can better your experience in the future. Thank you.

This wasn't one of my tops casinos. Felt like none of us won but lost all our money hahaha. It is cool that it is on a boat though. What a fun experience.

Pre Warning!! I've got a lot to say, all of which needs to be said.. ALL of the staff on the floor are absolutely amazing!!! Super friendly and with so many personalities it's impossible to not laugh, smile and feel welcomed from the moment you are greeted by security at the entrance. To the huge bright hello at the bar and the laughs you will have at the food counter. Its usually not too crowded so it makes it easy to enjoy your visit. There are literally not enough stars to show just what a great group they have daily. Now as a veteran in the industry I have a hard time not noticing certain things but just chuck it up to that's just the way it is. However I am a firm believer that a team is only as strong as its leader. The only Food / Beverage managers you will see on the floor or behind the bar are Mike and Tara. Both handle the overload of obstacles in the most professional manor and both will jump from the bar, to the food counter, to putting orders together, to running food down to guests, cooking if need be and it's not odd to see either with a mop in their hand cleaning up a mess in the main area. Both do their job with little to NO support from the actual food and beverage manager. Ashley presents herself very very rarely and when she does she does not show a very hospitable attitude. The hostess has never once even introduced herself to guests on the floor. Most don't even know there is a host. While there is no VIP lounge it is sad that she doesn't even attempt to at least somewhat show interest in any of the Elite and Owner card holders. The whistle is being blown here..

June is fantastic but other bartenders are slow & forgetful. There are very few tables open these days & with the mostly poor service while sports betting I'd recommend using DraftKings on your phone unless you're want slots or crap food.

Would not open the game we wanted because it didn't fit their schedule. Total asses when asked why. Last time I will try to spend my money here. Horrible service. Don't date your time

I just visited Argosy Alton Belle Casino's web site and unless my eyes deceive me the gaming floor and buffet pictured in the photos are of a totally different casino. A much nicer one. Unfortunately, this is a locals boat that doesn't seem to do much business during the week. The third floor gaming floor (slots) is only opened on weekends. The restaurant The Journey is closed Mondays thru Wednesday. The Captain's Table buffet is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Too close to their big sister property (Hollywood Casino) I guess. Plus, no on site hotel.

To quote Tina Turner( your simply the best better than all the rest) i would like the owner of the alton belle casino to know that in Reno Nevada the peppermill casino in Reno Nevada has a 4 times tier multiplier on Wednesdays and that includes comps multiplier as well, this might bring more people to this location if enacted. I look forward to frequently enjoying your establishment as i am moving to alton and buying a home. Rest assured i am a proper attired man with proper casino decorum.

I was very disappointed! My husband and I were going to dinner in the restaurant on the upper level. However, the restaurant is now for VIP only. I have always eaten at this restaurant and was disappointed that they are discriminating against the regular casino players. We should not have to come there every week and spend a lot of money to eat in the restaurant.

Oh....Alton Belle....you are...well....you're a casino on a boat in Alton.... I usually find myself at the Alton Belle after I have stuffed myself with junk food and cheap beer at Fast Eddie's across the street. It just seems like the logical way to end the evening for some reason. Maybe it's because we feel as though we really need to "make the most out of our drive." I have no idea....but I do know that when we decide it's a great night to go the casinos, no one ever says, "HEY, how about the Alton Belle, it's my favorite!" I mean, it's not that the Alton Belle is bad. It's not bad. It doesn't have all the "glam" (if you can call it that) of Ameristar or Harrah's, and yes, it tends to cater to the geriatrics among us...but it has some upsides to it as well. Because it's in Illinois, it's non-smoking. I personally love this since most casinos are gigantic smoke boxes. Also, you don't have to have one of those ridiculous cards to get into the casino here. I always lose my card and then I have to stand in line to get a new one while my group goes in and starts their gambling. Usually by the time I get inside, everyone is in a bad mood because they have lost all their money and want to go home. See, no card necessary, no problem...I do like that about the Alton Belle. Otherwise, it's your run of the mill riverboat casino...slots, tables, cheap watered down drinks...the whole nine yards. I don't think I need to explain much more...

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Argosy Casino Alton is a Yelp advertiser.

Argosy Casino Alton is a stationary boat smoke-free casino boat in Alton, Illinois and is open daily 8am-6am. The casino boat's 23,000 square foot gaming space features 746 gaming machines and twelve table games. The property has three restaurants and one bar.

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Thirty years ago, a gambling boat created history in Southern Illinois

The Argosy Casino in Alton.

A Q&A with former Illinois Sen. Denny Jacobs

  EDITOR’S NOTE: Thirty years ago, September 1991, Illinois’ first riverboat gambling facility, the Alton Belle Casino, opened in Alton, thus launching a statewide gaming industry that evolved into storefront and social club video terminals, online gaming and sports betting. Taken together, the enterprises have forever changed the tax structure that the state and host communities now depend upon. The IBJ caught up with the original sponsor of the legislation, retired former state Sen. Denny Jacobs, 83, a Democrat from East Moline, for a lookback on the significance of the birth and growth of legal gambling in Illinois.

Jacobs: That’s for sure. I didn’t think I’d be alive for that long.

IBJ: How did you get behind the original legislation on this?

Jacobs: It was a simple thing for me. Iowa had passed riverboat gaming and we went over there for their inauguration and saw all the excitement it brought. I said, ‘Hell, we can’t give that to Iowa.’ I thought we had to do this in order to be in a competitive situation. That’s basically the reason.

IBJ: Obviously you were thinking about a revenue stream that would help your community and other communities in the state. What was your thinking there?

Jacobs: In the beginning, it was an incubator idea. Have the old riverboats and the pilots, and we could have a lot of fun with it. Yet at the same time, it had a serious side to it, which most certainly was the revenue stream.

IBJ: How long did it take to get the original bill passed?

Jacobs: Really, we passed it in that first year (enacted in 1990). I think it was close to my first year in office. To have something like that go through (so quickly) was good, old-fashioned luck. And the fact that we had a tremendous House sponsor, Zeke Giorgi. He was the guy who took charge. Zeke was (House Speaker) Mike Madigan’s right hand/left-hand man. (Giorgi died in 1993.)

IBJ: Wasn’t there a lot of opposition?

Jacobs: There was, but it was the obvious opposition. It was the Democrats saying, ‘Most of these river towns are Democrats, and what are we getting out of this?’ Everyone always takes that attitude, unfortunately. Even back then. And the religious sector was vigorously opposed to it.

IBJ: How important was the concept of riverboat vs. land-based?

Jacobs: I don’t think we could have gotten land-based passed. The riverboat aura took the “stench off,” if you want to call it that. Riverboat gave it a little bit of excitement, I think.

IBJ: How did Alton come to be the first? It was quite a race.

Jacobs: (Laughing). That (expletive) Jim McPike! (The retired House majority leader from Alton guided the bill through the legislature and played a substantial role in the outcome).

IBJ: Did you come to Alton when they launched the boat down here?

Jacobs: Yeah, I did, unfortunately (laughs). No, I thought it was great, I had no qualms, I knew ours was coming to Rock Island (in 1992). But you know Jim. He’s for his district and he got a lot for his district. He’s a good friend.

IBJ: What do you think of how gambling has taken hold, all the various formats, video, online — could you ever have conceived of that?

Jacobs: No, I never thought it would be like this. My brother and I were in the vending business, and we had pinballs. Before we took the business over, you had gambling pinballs – you could gamble on the pinballs. We bought the business about the time they passed a law for cease and desist on gaming pinballs. But we could see what kind of revenue that could bring on the local level, on something as minor as that was.

IBJ: If you hadn’t pushed this when you did, do you think legalize gambling would have taken hold in Illinois regardless?

Jacobs: Oh, yeah. Nationally it was taking hold. I’m not keen on having it on the TV lines and the internet. That’s not too people friendly, so to speak. It’s awfully easy to sit at home and lose your money, whereas if you have to go out and lose your money it’s a different story.

The big argument we had after we passed riverboat was, this money was not going to education (as supporters had promised). That’s a half-assed true argument. Whenever you put money in (the state coffers), you can take it out anywhere else. You can drop money from the general fund, as example, for education. Did it all go to education? My response is ‘no,’ but I think most of it did.

IBJ: Do you think the industry is regulated correctly now?

Jacobs: I think so. When I left office (in 2005) it was starting to get in shape with the gaming board. Anytime you have a board overlooking anything it can be a risky proposition. Who do you select on your board? That’s always iffy.

IBJ: Where would Illinois stand now if this hadn’t been approved back then?

Jacobs: That’s the question of the day. I don’t like the idea of every bar and every whip snitch whether it’s a bar or not, getting a liquor license and start gaming. That’s a little bit hairy as far as I’m concerned. But that’s the way of the times. I’d rather have it at the local level than nationally on the internet.

IBJ: Alton was able to build a new police station and other things with gaming money. And East St. Louis, it’s hard telling where they would have been without it.

Jacobs: I can remember that was one of the issues. East St. Louis had just sold City Hall when this was going on. The riverboat saved East St. Louis, you’re right. I think they also helped Rock Island in particular with their share of taxes.

IBJ: What do you think of the license expansions in the works?

Jacobs: I think Chicago should definitely have a casino, if we’re going to have casinos in the state. I remember I was for it at the time but in my discussions with Mayor (Richard) Daley, he said, ‘Uh-uh, we don’t want any part of it.’ There are a lot of little stories I could tell you, the people who didn’t want a riverboat in their town. They’d say, ‘We have our gambling in town and we’re satisfied with it.’

IBJ: Is there anything you would have changed after that first bill, and how you see the industry now?

Jacobs: I don’t know, I think the cat’s out of the bag, and I don’t think we can do anything about it. I never thought of it reaching the extent that it has. From a financial standpoint, you’ll get to the point where you’ve got so many that nobody’s making any money. If that’s the case, you’ve wasted all your time on this effort.

EDITOR’s NOTE: As of 2019, Illinois was home to 10 commercial casinos, as well as more than 7,000 locations with electronic gaming devices. Commercial casinos in the state had $1.4 billion in revenue in 2019, down 1.5 percent from a year earlier. Tax revenue from casino gambling totaled $455.2 million the same year, also 1.5 percent below the previous year’s level. The bulk of casino revenue collected by the state goes towards Illinois’ Education Assistance Fund, and the remainder to local governments that host commercial casinos. Declines in commercial receipts have been attributed to the increase in gaming machines in bars and taverns.

Lotto ticket spending in Illinois totaled $3.0 billion in 2019, which, in combination with commercial casino spending, totaled $4.3 billion. We did not include numbers from 2020 because casinos and many slot establishments were closed for at least three months because of the pandemic.

This story appears in the September edition of the Illinois Business Journal. For more stories from that issue, go to the Current Edition link at ibjonline.com

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Golden Eagle Ferry

Golden Eagle Ferry Ferry Road Golden Eagle, Illinois 62036

Ferry Road Golden Eagle, Illinois 62036

• Phone: (618) 535-5759
• Hours: Monday - Thursday: 5 a.m to 9 p.m. Friday - Saturday: 5 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Ferry across the Mississippi River for access from Missouri to Calhoun County, Illinois. A one-way ride is $9 or $17 for the roundtrip. Easily accessible from Hwy 94 near St. Charles. Take the Golden Eagle Ferry as a shortcut to Grafton and Calhoun County. Ride the ferry to get fresh fruits and cider from roadside stands and local orchards during the summer and fall. Ride the ferry to look for eagles that feed along the rivers during the winter season. The ferry is open year-round seven days a week.

From Brussels, IL take Ridge Rd. to Mississippi River Road to the town of Golden Eagle, then Ferry Rd. to the landing on the river.

Prices: (Cash Only) Vehicles: $9 one-way or $17 round-trip Dual over 1-ton: $10 Tandem: $11 Semi: $14 Motorcycle: $6 one-way or $11 round trip Bicycle: $5 Foot Passenger: $4

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Illinois Casinos - Best Gambling Locations in IL

Read reviews and compare the top casinos in the prairie state.

Illinois offers fully-legalized brick-and-mortar casino gaming. The state plays home to over a dozen legal casino locations, from riverboat casinos to brand-new resorts. The best news is that a full range of slots, table games, and jackpot games are available at all Illinois casinos. 

Most Popular Casinos in Illinois Reviewed 

IL casinos offer a mix of traditional gaming tables, slots, and now poker. Sports betting was legalized too as part of the state’s move to liberalize the land-based gaming scene. 

Many of the top resort operators now run B&M casinos in Illinois, with many more to come. Temporary casinos have sprung up recently as part of larger building developments. 

#1 Harrah’s Casino Joliet 

Harrah’s Casino Joliet, located in Joliet, Illinois, is a premier destination for gambling enthusiasts. Since its opening in 1993 as a small riverboat casino with just a few slots and table games, it has grown to become one of the biggest casinos in the state. 

The gaming floor space at Harrah’s Joliet is now around 40,000 square feet – enough room to accommodate over 1,000 slot machines and table games from the biggest manufacturers. 

In addition to the vast slot machine collection, Harrah’s Casino Joliet offers a variety of other table games, including blackjack, roulette, and craps. There’s also a dedicated poker room for the Hold’em enthusiasts to get their fill of cash games and tournaments.  

In addition to the poker room, Harrah’s Joliet offers a new sportsbook, allowing you to place bets on your favorite sports events and cheer for your team.

For those looking to extend their stay, Harrah’s Casino Joliet provides a comfortable and luxurious hotel experience. The hotel offers a total of 200 rooms, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay for all guests. Additionally, the casino boasts several restaurants, including the acclaimed Flavors the Buffet and The Reserve Steakhouse where you can indulge in culinary delights.

Customer reviews for both the hotel and casino are consistently positive, highlighting the exceptional service, comfortable accommodations, and thrilling gaming experience. The staff at Harrah’s Casino Joliet go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels welcomed and satisfied.

To reward loyal patrons, Harrah’s Casino Joliet offers a comprehensive rewards and loyalty program. By participating in this program, you can earn points that can be redeemed for various perks, such as complimentary meals, discounted hotel stays, and exclusive access to special events. Additionally, the casino features happy hour deals, allowing you to enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers during specific hours.

#2 Rivers Casino Des Plaines 

Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, Illinois, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It opened its doors in 2011 and boasts a vast gaming floor spanning 144,000 square feet – certainly making it the biggest Illinois casino in terms of space. 

Inside Rivers Casino, you can find a wide array of gambling options. They include around 1,300 slot machines in total – one of the largest collections at an Illinois casino. 

Games range from classic favorites to the latest video slots. WMS, IGT, and Light & Wonder are some of the big-name developers who now grace the gaming floor at Rivers Casino Des Plaines.

In addition to slot machines, the casino offers various table games, such as blackjack, roulette, and poker. You can also enjoy video poker machines like Deuces Wild and Joker Poker.

Rivers Casino often provides a dedicated poker room for enthusiasts looking to participate in live poker games and tournaments. Additionally, there is a Penn National Gaming-powered sportsbook 

If you’re planning to stay overnight, Rivers Casino usually offers a luxurious hotel with around 300 rooms. 

Customer reviews for both the hotel and casino experience at Rivers Casino are generally positive. Visitors often praise the friendly staff, clean facilities, and enjoyable gaming atmosphere.

When it comes to rewards and loyalty programs, Rivers Casino has its own unique system. The Rush Rewards program will be familiar to you if you know about the best real-money casino apps . However, don’t dismiss the Happy Hour deals that run throughout Rivers Casino’s bars and restaurants.

#3 Argosy Casino Alton 

The Argosy started life as the Alton Belle, a small riverboat that launched in 1991 offering a few hundred slots and table games. The casino changed names as it became permanently moored in the late 1990s. 

Argosy Casino Alton now offers several hundred slot machines and table games, in addition to a new sportsbook that operates under the state’s new gambling laws. You can also take advantage of big-money promotions throughout the year, including $100,000 in Free SlotPlay, and the same amount in the casino’s pro football picks contest. 

You’ll love Argosy Casino if you like slots. There are now over 800 slot machines on board, including a range of progressives. Blackjack, roulette, and 21+3 round out the table game offerings, although the sportsbook is among Illinois’ best. There are over 35 HDTVs displaying the biggest sports. 

Monthly promotions are also the name of the game, thanks to the casino’s deal with Penn National Gaming. You can rack up PENN bonus dollars every time you play for real money at this Illinois casino. 

You may then redeem bonus bucks for real cash or SlotPlay to use on machines of your choice. It’s just like playing and winning at online casinos for real money . 

#4 Hollywood Casino & Hotel Joliet 

Billed as “the best Illinois casino near Chicago,” Hollywood Casino brings all the expertise of Penn National Gaming to the state. The casino overlooks the Des Plaines River, while Chicagoland Speedway is just a short car ride away.  

The gaming floor at Hollywood Casino spans a vast 50,000 square feet, providing ample space for excitement and entertainment. You’ll find yourself surrounded by a plethora of slot machines, including popular titles such as Raging Rhino and Buffalo Gold.

In addition to slot machines, the casino also boasts a variety of table games, including classics like blackjack and American Roulette. Though there are only around 20 table games, there is a high-limit section aimed at VIPs.

For poker enthusiasts, Hollywood Casino Hotel Joliet features a dedicated poker room where you can test your skills against fellow players. Additionally, if you’re interested in sports betting, the casino offers a state-of-the-art sportsbook where you can place wagers on your favorite teams and events.

When it’s time to unwind, the hotel offers comfortable and well-appointed rooms for a restful stay. With a range of room options to choose from, you’ll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. The hotel also features a variety of restaurants, catering to different culinary preferences, ensuring that every guest’s taste buds are satisfied.

Customer reviews for Hollywood Casino Hotel Joliet have been overwhelmingly positive, with guests praising the friendly staff, clean and spacious rooms, and exceptional service. The casino’s rewards and loyalty schemes provide additional perks and benefits for frequent visitors, allowing you to make the most out of your gaming experience.

#5 Grand Victoria Casino Elgin

The Grand Victoria Casino is one of Illinois’ original riverboat casinos, opening its doors back in 1994. It may have changed hands since then via several takeovers and mergers, but the Grand Victoria continues to provide excellent gaming across its 30,000-square-foot gaming floor. Plus, you get to enjoy the beautiful Fox River after a night’s gambling. 

One of the main attractions of the Grand Victoria Casino is its extensive gaming floor. Visitors can try their luck at a variety of table games, including blackjack, roulette, poker, and craps. 

For those who prefer slot machines, the casino boasts a vast selection of both classic and modern games, providing endless opportunities for fun and potential winnings.

In addition to the gaming options, the Grand Victoria Casino offers several dining choices to suit various tastes. From casual dining at the Indulge Show Kitchen Buffet to upscale experiences at Buckingham’s Steakhouse and Lounge, visitors can indulge in a diverse range of culinary delights. The casino also features a variety of bars and lounges, perfect for enjoying a drink and socializing with friends.

Furthermore, the Grand Victoria Casino hosts live entertainment events regularly, adding an extra layer of excitement to the overall experience. From live music performances to comedy shows, guests can enjoy a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere while taking a break from the gaming action.

The casino also takes pride in its commitment to responsible gaming. It offers resources and assistance for individuals who may need support in managing their gambling habits, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons. 

List of All Casinos in Illinois 

There are now over a dozen Illinois casinos spread around Chicago and further afield. New casinos now jostle for space with older riverboat casinos. 

Biggest Casinos in Illinois 

Smaller riverboat casinos in Illinois don’t cover a lot of ground. However, riverboat casinos that became permanently moored, and newer brick-and-mortar destinations, cover a lot more space. New temporary casinos, such as Bally’s at Medinah Temple and Hard Rock Casino Rockford, will be among Illinois’s largest gaming sites when they are completed. 

Illinois Casinos with the Most Games 

Most of the best Illinois casino sites offer over 500 slots and games. The big brands like Rivers Casino (Rush Street) and Harrah’s (Caesars) tend to spread the largest number. A total of 500–700 slot machines is a standard count, in addition to 20–40 table games per casino.

B&M Casinos in Illinois with Hotels 

Not all Illinois casinos have hotels attached, particularly some of the older riverboats that can accommodate gaming only. Here are some of the best options for casino-hotels in Illinois. 

Casino Games in Illinois 

Illinois casinos spread an enormous selection of slots, table games, and video poker across their floors. Sportsbooks are now legal in the state, as is poker. 

You can find Texas Hold’em games at all the top Illinois casino locations that have poker. It’s the next best thing to playing at Illinois poker sites . 

Slot Machines

Slots dominate the gaming floors at all Illinois casinos. It’s just like playing at Illinois online casinos but you get to see the lights and gameplay up close. Progressives are also offered by most of the top IL casinos. 

Look out for slot-themed promotions at some of the top casinos in the state. Daily drawings, prize giveaways, and loyalty points are offered at some casinos, such as Harrah’s Joliet. You can also pick up reward credits when you play the most popular slot machines.

• White Orchid
• Wheel of Fortune
• Siberian Storm

American Roulette is the main game at most Illinois casinos. You’ll know about the US gambling laws by state that list all permitted games in Illinois. Unlike some other states, it’s perfectly legal to try roulette for real money. However, you’ll find it hard to play lower-edge games like European Roulette in an Illinois casino.  

• American Roulette

Classic blackjack isn’t the only game in town at a good Illinois casino: you can choose between games with side bets (e.g. 21+3) and progressive games. It’s a little like playing against the house online live dealer casinos , except you will have to find space at the table before you play. 

• Classic Blackjack
• 21+3 side bets

Dice games like classic American craps are permitted in Illinois. You can play the game at some of the larger Illinois casinos. 

Be the shooter and set the point, then bet against the dice to win a payout. Always be aware of responsible gambling before you hit the tables. 

Video Poker

Anyone who’s of the right gambling age will know all about video poker. It’s the easy-to-play version of Five-Card Draw that you play on an electronic gaming terminal. Make a royal flush and you will win the set jackpot according to the paytable. Variants include Deuces Wild and Bonus Poker, each carrying a range of different prizes. 

• Deuces Wild
• Jacks or Better
• Bonus Poker

Casino Poker Games

Of the 40–50 table games offered by the largest IL casinos, roulette and blackjack form the bulk of the options available. However, you can still try your hand at some interesting table games that pit you against the house. Three-Card Poker and Four-Card Poker are generally offered alongside at least one variant of baccarat. Mississippi Stud is available at many of the riverboat casinos too. 

• Three-Card Poker
• Four-Card Poker
• EZ Baccarat
• Mississippi Stud
• Casino Hold’em

Riverboat Casinos in Illinois 

The law on riverboat Illinois casinos only changed in 1999, a few years after the Riverboat Gambling Act was passed. Where before they had to keep moving constantly along a waterway, the rule change meant that casinos could become permanently moored. Some of the 11 IL land-based casinos on rivers merely resemble the old steamer boats but are now firmly on land. 

Indian Gaming Tribes in Illinois

There are currently no Indian casinos in the state of Illinois. However, several Native American tribes in Illinois have been vying for contracts on new casinos since the Rebuild Illinois Act of 2019 was passed. 

Up to six new Illinois land-based casinos were slated to be built in locations like Chicago, Rockford, and Waukegan. So far, a new Golden Nugget casino in Danville and a Hard Rock in Rockford (owned by the Seminole Tribe) have opened their doors with temporary structures. 

• Ho-Chunk Nation
• Poarch Band of Creek Indians
• Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
• Seminole Tribe

Gambling Taxes in Illinois 

Casino gambling in Illinois is tightly regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board . They ensure that all casino games are fair across the state, but that also covers the way that taxes are enforced. 

The Illinois tax rate on gambling winnings is around 4.95%. However, it’s important to note that you can’t usually write off gambling losses when you complete your tax return. That’s an important difference with some other states. 

So, whether you’re playing casino games, or betting at Illinois online sportsbooks , you’ll need to keep accurate records. Don’t forget that casinos will withhold larger winnings too for federal tax if you win over $600 (or 300x your stake). That applies when playing the Illinois State Lottery.  

Illinois Gambling FAQ 

When was casino gambling legalized in illinois.

Riverboat casino gaming has been legal since the 1990s. In 1999, floating casinos were allowed to be permanently moored. Some of the largest Illinois casino sites are now riverside properties that have been recently expanded. 

What is the legal gambling age for casinos in Illinois?

You must be 21 or over to enter IL land-based casinos to place bets. Since UIGEA , most online gambling has been illegal, but you can now place bets at regulated online sportsbooks. 

Can I smoke in Illinois casinos?

No. Illinois is one of a handful of US states that has restricted smoking at casinos. Illinois is also smoke-free at charitable gambling facilities that provide bingo games.  

Are there horse racing betting facilities in Illinois?

Yes, pari-mutuel wagering is permitted in The Prairie State. It’s overseen by the Illinois Racing Board, and betting is allowed in person at racetracks like Hawthorne Racecourse or at OTB (Off-Track Betting) facilities spread across Illinois. 

Is there dog racing and betting in Illinois?

No. There are no greyhound racetracks in Illinois, nor is simulcast betting permitted at OTBs around the state. 

What other legal restrictions are there for gambling in Illinois?

Illinois has legalized sports betting in recent years, and that covers online and mobile play, too. You can also access Illinois betting apps wherever you are in the state. 

How many B&M casinos are there in Illinois?

There are over a dozen brick-and-mortar casinos and riverboat casinos in Illinois. New B&M casinos are being built, with some temporary locations now up and running. Major operators include Harrah’s and Hollywood Casino. 

Is charitable gambling allowed in Illinois?

Yes, charitable games like gin rummy are legal in Illinois. You must pay a $400 license fee to run a non-profit charity game. 14 games are allowed, including poker, keno, and roulette.

What was the first Illinois casino to open?

A riverboat casino in Alton, IL, was the first legal casino to go live following the Riverboat Gambling Act of 1990. Under the law, riverboat casinos had to move up and down waterways, though the rules were relaxed in 1999. 

Do casinos in Illinois have free parking?

Yes, parking is free at most Illinois casino locations. Valet parking is also offered by the larger Illinois B&M casinos.  

What’s the tax revenue for Illinois casinos?

The State of Illinois collected nearly $2B in total revenue for gambling for the year 2022. Casinos added around $360M in tax to the state coffers. 

Are any new casinos coming to Illinois?

Yes. Up to six new casinos are due to be built and completed by 2026. Some temporary new casinos have already been constructed in Danville, Chicago, and Rockford. 

Is there help for problem gambling in Illinois?

Yes. There are a variety of charities in IL that assist problem gamblers. These include the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling , which has a problem gambling screener on its website. It’s a self-administered test to evaluate your gambling behavior.  

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