Have a Vegas Style Weekend Without Going to Vegas

You don’t have to fly to Vegas anymore to be able to bet a hand of Blackjack or play a game Roulette.  The rise of Indian Reservation based casinos in California and beyond have opened the door for people to be able to get their gambling fix closer to home.  While a lot of these casinos used to be small venues with limited gaming, things in recent years have changed. The casinos are seeing their chance to get their share of the Vegas pot by offering amenities  like upscale spa services, luxurious rooms, concerts, shopping, special events, craft beer and cocktails, award winning dining options, resort style pools and even Vegas style pool parties. The demographic for these casinos has grown from being a generally older crowd, to include a wide variety of people from young to old.  So, no matter your age group or interest, the Indian Casinos have a little something for everybody and are giving people less of a reason to plan that Vegas vacation.

San Deigo

San Diego casinos sprawl from south of the 8, inland to Escondido and north to Temecula.  From luxury spas to raging pool parties, concerts to events, these casinos have it all covered.

Harrah’s

Harrah’s claim to fame is its summertime pool parties and craft beer and wine events.  Float the lazy river and enjoy the swim up bar. If you are there on a weekend there is bound to be a famous DJ spinning at the pool.  Harrah’s is also known for its upscale restaurant, Fiore. Enjoy oysters and drink specials at the bar for happy hour or indulge in an amazing steak and wine dinner.  

Sycuan

The recently redesigned pool and spa at the Willows at Sycuan boast the most luxurious accommodations this side of the Nevada state line.  Since the remodel is recent, they run a lot of promotions that include a spa credit with a stay of 2 nights or more. Enjoy the new luxury that is Sycuan.  

Pechanga

Pechanga is known for its concert hall, sprawling grounds and great restaurants.  Their upcoming concert lineup includes shows like Pit Bull, Chaka Kahn and the Go Go’s. Friday and Sunday nights enjoy a lovely Italian dinner at Paisano’s and receive a complimentary entry to the Comedy Club at Pechanga’s.  Aside from great gaming, Pechanga’s has the Vegas-style entertainment down.

Los Angeles

LA is about as close to Sin City as you can get without being in Vegas.  When you get tired of movie premiers and the hottest bar scene on the West Coast, venture out to one of these casinos to get your gambling fix.

Commerce Casino

Just outside of Downtown LA is the posh Commerce Casino.  Offering every table game under the sun, from Pai Gow to No Limit Hold Em, and Blackjack to Baccarat, there is something fun for everyone.  Commerce is also known for its Sports Bar, Arena Sports Bar & Grill, that serves up craft cocktails and delectable bites, right off the casino floor.

Bicycle Hotel & Casino

Complete with a 4-star hotel, the Bicycle Hotel & Casino is a great alternative to travelling all the way to Sin City for the weekend.  They are even the World Poker Tour’s only Los Angeles stop this year. Watch your favorite Poker players compete for huge winnings, up close and personal.

Hollywood Park Casino

Located in the spot where the demolished Hollywood Park racetrack used to be, this casino offers a Vegas-style casino floor experience.  There are also great restaurants and a lounge for when you want a break from the gaming.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Indio and Rancho Mirage come together to offer some of the most Vegas-like casinos in the entire state of California.  When you’re tired of laying by the pool, freshen up and head to one of the area’s many amazing casinos.

Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage

Luxurious and award-winning casino.  Agua Caliente is known for its big-name comedy lineup. This year you can see comedians like Jo Koy and Gabriel Iglesias.  Book a poolside cabana and visit the Cigar Lounge. Agua Caliente will make you feel like you’re at the Bellagio.

Fantasy Springs

This place lives up to its name.  It has great gaming options, an indoor and outdoor pool and a breathtaking golf course.  There is plenty to do at Fantasy Springs to keep you busy for a night or 2 or even longer.  Many people choose to stay here when attending Coachella or Stagecoach because of its convenient proximity to the Empire Polo Club in Indio.

Morongo

Located right next to the ultimate shopping experience in Cabazon, Morongo has everything Vegas has, and more.  Enjoy the hot dry weather, the sparkling pool, the amazing shopping, dining, entertainment and gaming, all just off the 10 freeway.  

Make sure to sign up for whatever Player’s Club your casino of choice has.  This will allow the casino to track your play and begin offering you perks from food and beverage credit, to complimentary stays.  They are following Vegas’ lead, using these programs to promote loyalty and lure high stakes gamblers to their casino versus the competition.  Almost every casino mentioned has high roller/high stakes areas for those who take their gambling a little more seriously. Most Indian casinos used to be in the boonies, but many of them are in areas that have much to do in the surrounding areas, like shopping, wine tasting and upscale eateries.