Gambling and a tour of the United States inevitably means a lengthy stay in Vegas. But there are plenty more iconic cities and spots outside of this gambling mecca that casino tourists should visit.
The United States has long had an on-off relationship with gambling. Its checkerboard of state-by-state rules and regulations, often changing, has led to interesting sights and places to visit. Many believe that gambling stops and ends with Las Vegas, but they couldn’t be more wrong. There are a host of other places that should be on your casino-themed road trip.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Atlantic City has long been the main rival to Vegas in terms of being the United States casino capital. Arguably, it has a much more interesting history and probably has more to show outside of its casinos. Even its gambling floors have items of historical significance, such as the first slot machine ever brought to the city. Installed in 1978, it was placed in the Resorts Casino. It is still in the lobby today, though behind glass. Occasionally the casino will fire it up and let players take a go.
The concept of slots has changed drastically in the modern era. They now come with different themes and complex mechanics like expanding reels and scatter symbols. Most also have free spins, which allow players access to exciting bonus rounds. The best online casinos will have a wide range of these. Yet at their heart, they all have the concept in mind pioneered by these early devices: Spinning reels to match symbols.
Of course, there is much more to do besides casinos. A lot of it is centered on the famous boardwalk. This is where the best restaurants and entertainment areas are. Some places, such as the infamous Chef Volas, remain famously hidden. A former speakeasy, it is not listed and has no phone number. Reservations must also be made months in advance.
Robstown, Texas
There really isn’t much to do in Robstown. This small Texas outpost has some shops and a few good barbeque and taco restaurants. However, it is a pilgrimage for many casino lovers, as it birthed the most famous of poker variants: Texas Hold’Em.
In 2007, a resolution in the Texas state legislature declared this town the official home of the game. The first hand was dealt here back in the early 1900s. However, there is very little evidence to support this. If it was true, it would make the town as old as the rules themself.
An interview with legendary gambler Johnny Moss dated the game as being played between 1926 and 1930. There were also accounts that stated originally it was named “Hold Me Darling,” and that it may have come from nearby Waco or Corpus Christi. However, even these details are sketchy so it seems that Robstown retains its claim, and the odd tourist because of it.
New Orleans, Mississippi
New Orleans was the first gambling city in the United States. Accounts from the 1800s have descriptions of French settlers playing a game called Poque, which had similar rules to draw poker. The first casino was opened in 1822 by an Opera director John Davis. Providing poker, cards, food, and other pleasures, the area soon had a host of similar venues and was known as The Swamp. Laws were put in place to stop it, and warrants were issued, circumvented, and repealed. It soon became known as ‘The Wickedest City in the Union’.
It is believed this was also the first place Roulette arrived from France. Travelling down the Mississippi, at some point it gained the extra 0 on the wheel to give a bigger house advantage. This is what differentiates French and American versions today.
Today there are still a few casinos you can visit. There is even one situated on a riverboat, should you want to really experience classic New Orleans traditions. Of course, the city is steeped in culture and history, so you are sure to have a great time wherever you decide to roam.
Black Hawk, Colorado
Black Hawk, Colorado, is a living tribute to the Old West. Its prospector history is still strong, and its initial gold rush was what brought gambling to the town. You can even visit the Gold Rush Masonic Lodge. Still standing, it oddly enough still hosts meetings. Venturing further afield can also take you to places like Russell Gulch where you can explore real ghost towns.
The town itself is very small but manages to pack in quite a host of tourist attractions and casinos. Two of the biggest are the Monarch Casino Resort Spa and Ameristar Black Hawk. You can also take yourself out into the Rockies and explore this pristine wilderness if you want to get some fresh air.
The US is so vast and different, that there is no best time to do this trip. Late spring and early Autumn get the best weather and miss crowds, but some places are always busy. Book in advance to save money and plan your journey. You may even win big on the way.
