Exploring the Best Local Casinos Around the World: A Journey Through Iconic Gaming Hubs
The allure of casinos transcends borders, drawing millions of visitors each year to experience the thrill of gaming, luxurious amenities, and vibrant entertainment. While global giants like Las Vegas and Macau often steal the spotlight, local casinos in various countries and cities offer unique experiences deeply rooted in their cultural and historical contexts. These establishments not only provide world-class gaming but also serve as cultural landmarks, reflecting the essence of their regions. Let’s embark on a journey to explore some of the best local casinos around the world, delving into their locations, offerings, and what makes them stand out.
1. Casino de Monte-Carlo – Monte Carlo, Monaco
Nestled on the glamorous French Riviera, the Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco is a beacon of sophistication and history. Opened in 1865, this iconic casino is a masterpiece of Belle Époque architecture, designed by Charles Garnier, the architect behind the Paris Opera House. Located in the heart of Monte Carlo, a city synonymous with luxury and wealth, the casino attracts high rollers, celebrities, and tourists alike. Its opulent interiors, adorned with marble columns, gilded ceilings, and intricate frescoes, create an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
The gaming floor offers a variety of options, including over 300 slot machines, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and poker tables. The casino is particularly renowned for its Salle Blanche, an exclusive room for high-stakes players, where bets can reach astronomical figures. Beyond gaming, the Casino de Monte-Carlo is a cultural hub, hosting opera performances and ballet in its adjacent theater. Interestingly, Monaco’s citizens, known as Monegasques, are prohibited from gambling here, preserving the venue as a playground for international visitors. The casino’s strict dress code—no flip-flops or casual attire—ensures its elite ambiance, making it a must-visit for those seeking a taste of old-world glamour.
2. The Hippodrome Casino – London, United Kingdom
Situated in the bustling heart of London’s West End, on the corner of Cranbourn Street and Charing Cross Road, the Hippodrome Casino is a local gem that combines history with modern entertainment. Originally built in 1900 as a performance venue, the Hippodrome has undergone several transformations, finally emerging as one of London’s premier casinos in 2012. Its rich history and prime location in the City of Westminster make it a favorite among locals and tourists seeking a quintessential British gambling experience.
The Hippodrome boasts three floors of gaming, with over 60 table games, including blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, as well as a dedicated poker room hosting regular tournaments. The casino’s slot machines, numbering over 100, cater to a range of budgets. What sets the Hippodrome apart is its vibrant atmosphere, blending gaming with entertainment. It features a cabaret theater hosting live performances, from jazz nights to burlesque shows, and is a popular spot for NFL fans in London, with large screens broadcasting every game on Sundays. The rooftop terrace, offering panoramic views of the city, is another highlight, providing a perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail. With over 20 casinos in London, the Hippodrome stands out for its blend of history, accessibility, and diverse entertainment options.
3. Resorts World Genting – Genting Highlands, Malaysia
Perched 6,000 feet above sea level in the Genting Highlands, Resorts World Genting is Malaysia’s only legal land-based casino, making it a unique local attraction. Located about an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, this sprawling resort is a haven for both gaming enthusiasts and families seeking a mountain retreat. The casino, part of a larger integrated resort, opened in 1971 and has since grown into a major destination, drawing millions of visitors from Malaysia, Singapore, and beyond.
The gaming floor at Resorts World Genting spans 204,514 square feet, featuring over 400 table games and 3,000 slot machines. Popular games include baccarat, roulette, and blackjack, with dedicated high-stakes rooms for VIP players. The resort’s First World Hotel, with over 7,300 rooms, holds the title of the largest hotel in the world by room count, making it a convenient base for visitors. Beyond gaming, the resort offers a theme park, shopping malls, and a cable car ride with stunning views of the surrounding rainforest. Resorts World Genting’s monopoly on casino gaming in Malaysia, due to the country’s strict gambling laws, ensures its status as a local favorite, blending gaming with a family-friendly escape.
4. The Borgata – Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA
On the East Coast of the United States, Atlantic City has long been a gambling hub, often dubbed the “Las Vegas of the East.” Among its nine casinos, the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa stands out as a local favorite and a top destination for both residents and visitors. Opened in 2003, the Borgata is the largest casino in Atlantic City, with a gaming floor spanning 161,000 square feet. Located along the city’s iconic Boardwalk, it combines modern luxury with the charm of a seaside resort.
The Borgata offers over 4,100 slot machines and nearly 300 table games, including blackjack, poker, and roulette. Its poker room, one of the largest in the region, hosts major tournaments, attracting professional players from across the country. The casino’s sportsbook, in collaboration with DraftKings, provides a state-of-the-art betting experience, with numerous kiosks and large screens for live sports viewing. Beyond gaming, the Borgata is renowned for its 2,000 hotel rooms, 17 restaurants—ranging from casual eateries to fine dining—and a luxurious spa. Atlantic City’s gambling revenue, which reached $2.8 billion in 2024, underscores the Borgata’s role as a key player in the local economy, offering a sophisticated gaming experience with a distinctly American flair.
5. Casino Baden-Baden – Baden-Baden, Germany
Tucked away in the scenic Black Forest region of Germany, the spa town of Baden-Baden has been a retreat for Europe’s elite since the 19th century. At its heart lies the Casino Baden-Baden, a venue that epitomizes elegance and tradition. Opened in 1824, this casino is one of the oldest in Europe and has welcomed historical figures like Marlene Dietrich, who famously called it “the most beautiful casino in the world.” Its location in a charming town known for thermal baths and lush landscapes adds to its allure.
The Casino Baden-Baden features 130 slot machines and a variety of table games, including roulette, blackjack, and poker, all set within a lavish interior of chandeliers, red velvet, and gold accents. The casino’s poker rooms are particularly notable, hosting high-stakes games in an intimate setting. Unlike modern mega-casinos, Baden-Baden focuses on quality over quantity, offering a refined gaming experience. Visitors can also enjoy the casino’s fine dining restaurant and bar, which serve regional German cuisine and wines. The casino’s strict dress code—jackets for men, elegant attire for women—preserves its upscale ambiance, making it a perfect stop for those exploring Germany’s cultural heritage.
6. Sun City Casino – Sun City, South Africa
In the heart of South Africa’s North West Province, Sun City is a luxurious resort that houses one of the continent’s most extravagant casinos. Opened in 1979, the Sun City Casino is part of a larger complex that includes hotels, a water park, and golf courses, making it a popular getaway for South Africans and international visitors. The resort’s proximity to Johannesburg, about a two-hour drive, ensures a steady flow of local patrons.
The casino’s gaming floor spans 125,000 square feet, offering over 40 table games, including blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, as well as 850 slot machines. The Salon Privé, an exclusive area for high rollers, provides a private gaming experience with higher stakes and personalized service. Sun City also offers a gaming school for beginners, teaching casino etiquette and game techniques, which is a unique feature among local casinos. Beyond gaming, the resort’s entertainment options include safaris in the nearby Pilanesberg Game Reserve, water sports, and live concerts, making it a well-rounded destination. With 42 casino licenses across South Africa, Sun City remains a standout for its blend of gaming and leisure in a uniquely African setting.
7. Casino de Montreal – Montreal, Canada
As the largest casino in Canada, the Casino de Montreal is a local treasure located on Notre Dame Island in Montreal, Quebec. Opened in 1993, the casino is housed in a striking building originally constructed for Expo 67, with a modern design that includes a glass dome and panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River. Its accessibility to Montreal residents and its diverse offerings make it a beloved local spot.
The Casino de Montreal spans 526,488 square feet across five floors, featuring over 3,200 slot machines and 120 table games, including blackjack, baccarat, and poker. The casino’s Keno lounge and electronic gaming areas add variety, while its live entertainment, from concerts to comedy shows, keeps the atmosphere lively. The casino is also known for its four gourmet restaurants, such as Le Montreal, which offers fine dining with river views, and numerous bars serving craft cocktails. With over 10 million visitors annually, the Casino de Montreal is a cornerstone of the city’s entertainment scene, offering a sophisticated gaming experience in a distinctly Canadian setting.
8. Crown Casino – Melbourne, Australia
Located on the banks of the Yarra River in Melbourne, the Crown Casino and Entertainment Complex is Australia’s largest casino and a local icon. Opened in 1997, the casino spans 510,000 square feet, making it one of the largest gaming floors in the Southern Hemisphere. Melbourne, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, provides the perfect backdrop for this sprawling entertainment hub.
The Crown Casino offers over 2,500 slot machines and 500 table games, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and a private poker room hosting major tournaments like the Aussie Millions. The casino’s Mahogany Room, an exclusive area for VIPs, is renowned for its luxury and privacy. Beyond gaming, the Crown complex features five-star hotels, world-class restaurants like Nobu and Rockpool, and entertainment venues hosting live performances and sports screenings. The casino’s annual revenue, which exceeded $1.5 billion in 2024, highlights its significance to Melbourne’s economy, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
