Places to Gamble in Louisiana: A Comprehensive Guide
Louisiana is famous for its vibrant culture, rich history, and lively entertainment scene—especially when it comes to gambling. The state offers a variety of legal gambling options, ranging from riverboat casinos to horse track racinos and commercial casinos. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a curious traveler, here’s a detailed guide to the best places to gamble in Louisiana.
1. Types of Legal Gambling in Louisiana
Louisiana permits three main forms of gambling:
Horse Race Betting (Racinos): Legal at racetracks with slot machines and table games.
Riverboat Casinos: Must operate on navigable waterways (e.g., the Mississippi River).
Commercial Casinos: Located in cities like New Orleans and Lake Charles.
2. Top Gambling Venues
A. Riverboat Casinos
Riverboats are iconic in Louisiana gambling. They offer slots, table games (blackjack, poker, roulette), and often live music. Popular options include:
Harrah’s New Orleans Riverboat (Mississippi River): Combines gaming with fine dining and live jazz.
Golden Choice Casino & Hotel (Lake Pontchartrain): A floating casino with a relaxed atmosphere.
Tip: Most riverboats require a short ride (15–30 minutes) from land-based hotels.
B. Horse Track Racinos
Champion Race Track & Casino (Opelousas): Features slots, poker, and live horse racing.
Lafayette Race Track & Casino (Lafayette): Known for its French-Creole cuisine and gaming.
C. Commercial Casinos
Harrah’s New Orleans (French Quarter): A luxury casino with 80+ tables, 2,000+ slots, and a spa.
Golden Nugget Lake Charles (Lake Charles): Offers high-stakes poker rooms and a 24-hour casino.
Horseshoe Casino Biloxi (near New Orleans): Renowned for its poker tournaments and luxury amenities.
D. Unique Options
New Orleans’ French Quarter & Boardwalk ( slots and poker in historic buildings).
Cajun Cardroom (Baton Rouge): A poker-only venue with a local flavor.
3. FAQs About Gambling in Louisiana
Q: What’s the legal gambling age?
A: You must be 21+ to gamble.
Q: Can I play poker for free?
A: Some venues offer free poker tournaments or “play money” tables, but real money games require chips purchased with cash.
Q: Are riverboats required to stay on the water?
A: Yes—gaming must occur on a moving vessel, though many dock overnight.
Q: Are there Native American casinos?
A: No—Louisiana’s casinos are operated by commercial companies or racetracks.
4. Tips for Gamblers
Budget First: Set a spending limit and stick to it.
Learn the Rules: Practice games like blackjack or poker at lower stakes.
Combine Entertainment: Many casinos host concerts, festivals, or dining deals.
Book in Advance: Popular venues like Harrah’s fill up quickly during peak seasons.
5. Final Thoughts
Louisiana’s gambling scene blends Southern hospitality with high-energy entertainment. From riverboat excursions to the glitzy lights of New Orleans, there’s something for every gambler. Just remember to play responsibly and enjoy the unique culture along the way!
Safe gambling, Louisiana-style!
Note: Rules and venues may change. Always check official sources before visiting.
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