Real money casinos in Arkansas
When it comes to real money casinos, Arkansas is a state that doesn’t disappoint. With a quartet of state-licensed casinos, this former gambling underdog is steadily building its reputation as a rising star on the casino stage.
First off, we've got Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, a historic gem that's been serving up thrilling horse races since 1904. Now, in addition to hosting some of the nation's top thoroughbreds, this institution boasts a fully-fledged casino where you can test your luck on everything from roulette to blackjack to slots.
Then, over in West Memphis, there's Southland Casino Racing. Once just a greyhound track, it's now a full-scale casino, offering not just a plethora of gaming tables, but also sports betting for those of you who love to wager on your favorite teams.
And let's not forget about Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff and River Valley Casino in Russellville. These new kids on the block, armed with state-of-the-art gaming machines, table games, and plush poker rooms, are putting Arkansas firmly on the casino map.
Each of these casinos is a beacon of excitement, offering countless ways to win big while enjoying the excitement of live gaming. So, for those who love the thrill of real money gaming, Arkansas is shaping up to be the place to be. It's game on, folks!
Online casinos
As it stands in 2023, online casinos remain prohibited in Arkansas. Yes, even in the age where we're streaming movies, ordering meals, and even attending virtual concerts, the Natural State is holding fast on its stance against online gambling. The state government has not legalized any form of online casino gaming – that means no online slots, no internet blackjack, and certainly no digital poker.
Now, if you're feeling a little deflated, don't be. Arkansas still allows online daily fantasy sports. Platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel are legal and popular across the state. Plus, social casinos - where you can play casino-style games for fun and not real money - are also available to residents.
It's a mixed bag, for sure. While it's frustrating for those waiting for the digital age of casinos to arrive in Arkansas, it's important to remember that the state takes its laws seriously. So, for now, if you're in the Natural State, you'll have to take a rain check on online casinos. Stick with the legal forms of gambling and keep the dice rolling!
Land-based casinos
If you've got a hankering for the bright lights and big wins of a real, physical casino, then Arkansas has got you covered. The Natural State is home to four state-licensed land-based casinos, each offering its own unique spin on gaming fun.
First up, we've got Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort and Southland Casino Racing. These two venues, originally famous for horse and greyhound racing respectively, have expanded their offerings to include a plethora of casino games. From slots that'll have you pulling levers till the cows come home, to poker and blackjack tables where you can bluff and bet to your heart's content, they've got it all.
And let's not forget about the newer entrants to the field - Saracen Casino Resort and River Valley Casino. Both offering state-of-the-art gaming facilities, these casinos bring a Vegas-like experience right to the heart of Arkansas. So, if you're game for some real-life gambling fun, these establishments are ready to roll out the red carpet for you!
Tribal casinos
In many states, tribal nations operate some of the most successful casinos, but due to the specific tribal history and legal agreements in Arkansas, there are currently no tribal-run casinos in the state. The Quapaw Nation has made significant strides with the development of the Saracen Casino Resort, but it's important to note that this is a state-licensed casino, not a tribal one under the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.
So, if you're in the Natural State and itching for some casino action, you'll need to head to one of the four state-licensed casinos: Oaklawn, Southland, Saracen, or River Valley. While it's not the tribal gaming experience found in other states, you're sure to find plenty of excitement and hopefully a little bit of that gambler's luck!
Shipboard and floating casinos
If you're looking to hit the jackpot while floating down the mighty Mississippi, I've got some news for you: shipboard or floating casinos in Arkansas are as scarce as hen's teeth. While it might be a romantic notion to place your bets while cruising down the river, the state laws of Arkansas don't see eye to eye with this idea.
Currently, all casinos in the Natural State are land-based, meaning you'll have to keep your sea legs at bay. The four licensed establishments – Oaklawn, Southland, Saracen, and River Valley – are all firmly anchored to terra firma.
This doesn't mean you can't enjoy a little river time while in Arkansas, just that you'll need to save your betting for dry land. But who knows? As the state continues to evolve its gaming industry, maybe we'll see Arkansas roll the dice on floating casinos in the future. Until then, we keep our gambling feet on solid ground!
Racinos
Arkansas is home to two unique establishments, fondly known as 'racinos'. These venues perfectly mix the heart-pumping excitement of racing with the bright lights and fun of casino gaming.
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs is a titan in this field. With its roots in horse racing that go back to 1904, Oaklawn has added a bevy of casino games, ensuring that every moment spent here is as exciting as a horse sprinting down the final furlong.
Over in West Memphis, there's Southland Casino Racing, a venue that once only hosted greyhound races but has since expanded its repertoire to include a wide array of casino games. From the thrill of the race to the spin of the roulette wheel, these Arkansas racinos offer the best of both worlds. So, put on your best poker face, pick your favorite steed, and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Off-track betting
Alright, let's turn our attention to off-track betting (OTB) in Arkansas. Now, if you're the type who loves the thrill of the race but can't always make it down to the track, OTB was made for you. In the Natural State, off-track betting is largely facilitated through the state's racinos - Oaklawn and Southland. They both offer simulcast racing, allowing you to wager on races happening across the country right from the comfort of the racino.
Whether you're keen on thoroughbreds, harness, or greyhound racing, these racinos have you covered. Imagine yourself at Oaklawn, a hotdog in one hand, a betting slip in the other, eyes glued to the big screen as the horses you've wagered on vie for the lead at a track halfway across the country. It's the kind of excitement that makes off-track betting a favorite among many Arkansans. It's the next best thing to being there in person!