Looking to try your luck in Cowtown? As a major city, Calgary offers world-class gaming and entertainment experiences to satisfy every player’s needs. But with over half a dozen casinos in the area, how do you know where to place your bets? Which venues offer the hottest slots and table games?
Which roll out the red carpet for their VIP guests? And crucially, which provides the most thrilling atmosphere to match the risks and rewards? This definitive guide to Calgary’s top casino resorts will lead you through their stand-out features, gaming options, dining, entertainment, and more to uncover the city’s premier destinations for both casual fun and high-stakes action.
So gather your chips and get ready to go all in on the best Calgary has to offer – the rest is up to Lady Luck. Where will you play first?
What's the History of Casinos in Calgary?
Casino gambling in Calgary, Alberta, has a rich history that dates back to the gaming activities permitted on the midways of traveling carnival shows. The first permanent, privately operated charitable casino in Alberta opened in Calgary in 1980. This was followed by the opening of Elbow River Casino in 1989.
In 1996, slot machines were introduced into Alberta’s charitable casinos, and Frank Sisson’s Silver Dollar Casino opened in Calgary. The Silver Dollar Casino was later purchased by Century Casinos in 2010 for $10.5 million and rebranded as Century Casino Calgary.
Another notable casino in Calgary is the Century Downs Racetrack and Casino, which opened in April 2015. It is one of two “A-level” horse racing venues in the province of Alberta.
List of Best Casinos in Calgary
1. Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino, Alberta's Rocky Mountains gem, opened its doors on June 10, 2008. Owned by the Stoney Nakoda Nations and managed by Stagewest Hospitality, this resort is a unique blend of comfort, adventure, and premier casino gaming. Located just 35 minutes west of Calgary, it's the only casino in the Alberta Rockies, offering over 250 slot machines and a variety of table games.
The resort, recently renovated in 2023, provides a family-friendly environment with first-class service, warm hospitality, and stunning views, making it a perfect getaway
Key Features of Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
- Over 250 slot machines.
- Variety of table games.
- Off-track betting.
- Cocktail service throughout the casino.
- 105 beautifully appointed rooms and suites.
- An exhilarating pool, hot tub, and waterslide.
- Family-friendly dining and a sports lounge.
- Rooms equipped with dedicated Wi-Fi, a security safe, a minimum 43” HD TV, a mini fridge, and a microwave.Stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.
- First-class service and warm hospitality.
Games Available at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
- Slot Machines: The casino features over 250 slot machines. Players insert coins, cash, or a paper ticket into the machine and press a button or pull a lever to spin reels marked with symbols. Winning combinations of symbols result in payouts.
- Poker Room: The casino has a poker room where players can participate in Texas Hold'em cash games and tournaments. In Texas Hold'em, each player is dealt two private cards, and five community cards are dealt face-up on the “board”. The player makes the best five-card poker hand using any combination of their own two cards and the five community cards.
- Off-Track Betting: This allows patrons to wager on horse racing events taking place at other locations.
- Table games: Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino offers a variety of table games for its patrons. These include popular games like Blackjack, where players aim to get a hand total as close to 21 as possible without going over, and Roulette, where players place bets on a number, a range of numbers, or the colors red or black. Other games include Baccarat, Ultimate Texas Hold'em, Three Card Poker, and Extreme 21, a variant of blackjack.
Pros and Cons of Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
Pros
- The unique location is nestled in the Rocky Mountains with stunning views.
- Newly renovated (2023) rooms and amenities.
- Family-friendly amenities like pools, waterslides, and dining options.
- First-class service and hospitality.
Cons
- Some negative reviews mention small casino size, and limited dining.
- The location may be remote for some visitors.
2. Grey Eagle Resort and Casino
Grey Eagle Resort and Casino, a premier gaming destination in Alberta, was launched by the Tsuut'ina Nation in partnership with Sonco Gaming (Alberta) Ltd. in 2007. Situated on the Tsuut'ina First Nation just outside Calgary, the casino boasts a vibrant gaming floor with over 900 slot machines, 40 table games, and a poker room. The resort offers a unique experience with its modern amenities, excellent customer service, and picturesque backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
Key Features of Grey Eagle Resort and Casino
- An 84,000-square-foot casino with a wide range of gaming options.
- There are over 40 table games and more than 1000 slot machines.
- World-class concerts and entertainment at the Grey Eagle Event Centre.
- An indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, and a modern fitness center.
- Located near Kananaskis Country and Banff National Park, it has panoramic views of the Tsuut’ina Nation.
Games Available at Grey Eagle Resort and Casino
- Slot Machines: The casino has over 900 slot machines, providing a variety of games from classic reels to the latest video slots.
- Table Games: . The casino features over 40 table games, including popular ones like Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, Craps, Three Card Poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold'em.
- Poker Room: The casino has a dedicated poker room offering games like No Limit Texas Hold'em and Pot Limit Omaha. The poker room is open for cash games and occasionally hosts tournaments.
- Bingo: Grey Eagle also features a bingo hall with games running 7 days a week.
- High-Limit Gaming: For those looking for higher stakes, there is a high-limit private gaming room with a selection of table games.
Pros and Cons of Grey Eagle Resort and Casino
Pros
- Four-star hotel with modern amenities and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
- Four restaurants offer diverse dining experiences.
- Complimentary parking and other resort amenities.
Cons
- Alcohol and food can be expensive, especially during events.
3. Cowboys Casino
Cowboys Casino, located in the heart of downtown Calgary, is a vibrant gaming and entertainment destination. Opened in 2002, the casino offers a dynamic gaming experience with over 350 slot machines and 30 gaming tables. Operated by the Cowboys Casino Ltd., it is known for its lively atmosphere, excellent customer service, and diverse gaming options. The casino is also a popular spot for events and concerts, adding to its appeal as a premier entertainment destination.
Key Features of Cowboys Casino
- Over 370 slot machines provide a variety of games from classic reels to the latest video slots.
- A 24-hour poker room caters to poker enthusiasts with various poker games.
- A digital gaming pit enhances the gaming experience with digital versions of popular casino games.
- A private high-limit lounge, offering a more exclusive gaming experience for high rollers.
- An open-concept bar and eatery, allowing guests to enjoy food and drinks while experiencing the energy of the gaming floor.
- Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike.
Games Available at Cowboys Casino
- Slot Machines: The casino has over 370 slot machines, providing a variety of games from classic reels to the latest video slots.
- Table Games: Cowboys Casino features 30 table games, including popular ones like Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Baccarat, Fortune Pai Gow, Tile Pai Gow, Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em, and EZ Bac.
- Poker Room: The casino has a 24-hour poker room, catering to poker enthusiasts with various poker games including Texas Hold ‘Em, Omaha, and Pineapple for both limit and no-limit games.
- Digital Gaming Pit: The casino enhances the gaming experience with digital versions of popular casino games.
- High Limit Lounge: For those looking for higher stakes, there is a private high-limit lounge offering a more exclusive gaming experience
Pros and Cons of Cowboys Casino
Pros
- Open seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 2 am.
- Regular events and concerts add to the entertainment offerings of the casino.
- Good benefits include dental, vision, prescription, and massage.
Cons
- Some reviews mention management issues and little room for advancement.
- Some customers have reported dissatisfaction with the service.
4. Deerfoot Inn & Casino
Deerfoot Inn & Casino, a full-service hotel and gaming venue, opened its doors in 2005 in Calgary, Alberta. Operated independently, it features 188 guest rooms and a 60,000-square-foot casino space. The casino is equipped with 791 gaming machines, 37 table and poker games, and 24 video lottery terminals, offering a wide range of gaming experiences. Known for its professional dealers and diverse game selection, Deerfoot Inn & Casino also provides amenities like an indoor water park and multiple dining options, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
key Features of Deerfoot Inn & Casino
- A 60,000 square foot gaming space with 791 gaming machines, 37 table and poker games, and 24 video lottery terminals.
- A full-service spa offering a variety of treatments for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Daily housekeeping services to ensure a clean and comfortable stay.
- Free Wi-Fi access throughout the property.
- Some rooms feature special design features, like a separate living room.
Games Available at Deerfoot Inn & Casino
- Slot Machines: The casino features 785 slot machines and 24 Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs), providing a wide range of slot gaming experiences.
- Table Games: There are 37 table games available, including Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Pai Gow Tiles, Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em, and EZ Baccarat.
- Poker Room: Deerfoot Inn & Casino has a poker room with 10 tables, offering poker games and tournaments.
Pros and Cons of Deerfoot Inn & Casino
Pros
- Multiple dining options, provide a variety of culinary experiences.
- An indoor pool and water park, offering leisure activities for guests.
- Accessible location in Calgary, Alberta.
Cons
- Some guests have reported issues with sleep quality due to firm mattresses.
- Some reviews mention slow service in the restaurant.
5. ACE Airport Casino
Launched on November 25, 2022, ACE Airport Casino is a luxurious gaming destination in Calgary, Alberta, operated by ACE Casinos. The casino is situated at 40 Aero Crescent NE, just two minutes from the Calgary International Airport.
The expansive venue boasts over 800 parking stalls and offers a diverse range of gaming options, including 638 slot machines, 26 gaming tables, 12 VLT machines, and a 12-table poker room. The interior is adorned with stylish upscale restaurants and a sports bar, complete with a 40-foot TV wall.
key Features of ACE Airport Casino
- A 72,000 square foot gaming and entertainment space.
- A total of 638 slot machines, provide a wide range of slot gaming experiences.
- 26 gaming tables for various table games.
- 12 Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs).
- A 12-table poker room for poker enthusiasts.
- Multiple dining options are available, including “The Kitchen,” “The Buffet,” and “ACE Sports Bar“.
- A sports bar featuring a 40-foot TV wall.
Games Available at ACE Airport Casino
- Slot Machines: The casino features 638 slot machines, providing a wide range of slot gaming experiences.
- Table Games: There are 26 table games available, including Roulette, Blackjack, EZ-Baccarat, and Ultimate Texas Hold 'em.
- Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs): The casino has 12 VLT machines for additional gaming options.
- Poker Room: ACE Airport Casino has a 12-table poker room, offering a variety of poker games and tournaments.
Pros and Cons of ACE Airport Casino
Pros
- Two exclusive VIP salons for a more private gaming experience.
- Over 800 parking stalls for the convenience of guests.
- A versatile multi-purpose room for hosting private gatherings and live entertainment events.
Cons
- Some reviews mention disorganized and inexperienced ownership, poor communication, and a lack of value for staff.
- Some guests reported the casino as being expensive.
6. Century Downs Racetrack and Casino
Century Downs Racetrack and Casino, located in Rocky View County, Alberta, is a premier destination for horse racing and casino action. Opened in April 2015, it is operated by Century Casinos and owned by Vici Properties. The casino features a vibrant atmosphere with 550 slot machines, seven VLTs, and an off-track betting area.
It also offers dining facilities, including a lounge and the Mid City Grill restaurant. The venue is known for its live Standardbred races and is one of two “A-level” horse racing venues in Alberta. The casino was acquired by Vici Properties in September 2023.
key Features of Century Downs Racetrack and Casino
- Over 650 slot machines and VLTs.
- Homestretch Room and Derby Restaurant.
- Live Standardbred races.
- Located just five minutes from CrossIron Mills.
- Dining facilities include a lounge and the Mid City Grill restaurant.
- The venue is one of two “A-level” horse racing venues in Alberta.
- The casino was acquired by Vici Properties in September 2023.
Games Available at Century Downs Racetrack and Casino
- Slot Machines: The casino features 550 slot machines, providing a wide range of slot gaming experiences.
- Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs): The casino has seven VLT machines for additional gaming options.
- Off-Track Betting: Century Downs offers an off-track betting area that simulcasts both Standardbred and Thoroughbred races from around the world.
- Electronic Table Games: The casino offers state-of-the-art electronic table games.
Pros and Cons of Century Downs Racetrack and Casino
Pros
- Provides electronic table games.
- Features an off-track betting lounge for simulcast racing.
- Hosts over 60 days of Standardbred racing annually.
Cons
- Some reviews mention unprofessional and irresponsible management.
- Some reviews mention rude and pushy staff.
7. Pure Casino Calgary
Pure Casino Calgary, a vibrant gaming facility in Calgary, Alberta, was launched in 1997 by Pure Canadian Gaming. Spanning 57,000 square feet, it houses over 852 slot machines, 30 live-action table games, and a 24-hour poker room. The casino is renowned for its friendly staff, regular promotions, and a high-limit gaming room.
It also has four restaurants and bars, offering a comprehensive entertainment experience. In 2023, the casino's real estate assets were acquired by Vici Properties, further enhancing its appeal.
Key Features of Pure Casino Calgary
- Over 852 slot machines.
- 30 live-action table games.
- 24-hour poker room with 10 tables.
- 57,000 square feet gaming facility.
- Acquired by Vici Properties in 2023.
Games Available at Pure Casino Calgary
- Slot Machines: The casino features 852 slot machines, providing a wide range of slot gaming experiences.
- Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs): The casino has 10 VLT machines for additional gaming options.
- Live-Action Table Games: Pure Casino Calgary offers 30 live-action table games, including Blackjack, Craps, Caribbean Stud Poker, Baccarat, Pai Gow, and Roulette.
- Poker: The casino features a 24-hour poker room with 10 tables, offering both Limit and No-limit games.
Pros and Cons of Pure Casino Calgary
Pros
- 24-hour poker room.
- Four restaurants and bars for dining and entertainment.
- High-limit gaming room for VIP experience.
Cons
- Some reviews mention preferential treatment to regulars.
- Some guests reported issues with the speed and efficiency of service.
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8. Casino Fun Inc
Casino Fun Inc., based in San Antonio, Texas, has been delivering the excitement of Las Vegas to various events since its establishment in 2000. Operated by Richard and Sylvia Owen, this company is one of the oldest and most trusted providers of casino party experiences.
Known for its high-quality equipment and friendly dealers, Casino Fun Inc. offers popular games like Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and Texas Hold'em, ensuring a realistic and unforgettable casino night. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction has earned it a reputation as a premier choice among casino party companies in San Antonio.
Key Features of Casino Fun Inc
- Offers popular Las Vegas-style casino games.
- Provides services for various events such as company parties and fundraisers.
- Uses high-quality casino party equipment to ensure a realistic casino experience.
- Carries a $2,000,000 general liability insurance policy to meet all venue requirements
- Established in 2000.
Games Available at Casino Fun Inc
Table games: Table games in casinos offer diverse entertainment. Blackjack aims for a hand near 21, while Craps involves dice wagers. Roulette bets span numbers, colors, and groups. Texas Hold'em showcases poker skills in betting rounds.
3 Card Poker pits players against the dealer, and Let it Ride Poker combines personal and communal cards for a winning hand. Chuck a Luck, played with three dice, relies on the chance for outcomes.
Pros and Cons of Casino Fun Inc
Pros
- Employs friendly and experienced dealers.
- Carries proper insurance to meet venue requirements.
Cons
- The number of tables and specific games offered may vary by event.
9. Cash Casino
Cash Casino, Alberta's oldest casino, has been serving the Calgary gaming community for over 30 years. Operated by Cash & ACE Casinos, it was recently acquired and is undergoing a transformation to position it as a high-growth, best-in-class operator of casinos.
The casino is open 24 hours on weekends and offers an exhilarating gaming experience with over 637 slot machines, VLTs, and a variety of table games. It also features a VIP slot room and high-limit table games for those craving high-stakes action.
Key Features of Cash Casino
- Over 30 years of operation, making it Alberta's oldest casino.
- Operated by Cash & ACE Casinos.
- Over 637 slot machines and VLTs.
- a variety of table games, including Blackjack, Baccarat, Craps, Tile Paigow, Ultimate Texas Hold-em, Four Card Poker, Deuces Wild, and Texas Hold-em.
- VIP slot room and high-limit table games.
- Open 24 hours on weekends.
Games Available at Cash Casino
- Slot Machines: The casino features a selection of slot machines for players to enjoy.
- Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs): In addition to slot machines, the casino has VLTs available.
- Table Games: A range of table games is offered, including Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, EZ Baccarat, Pai Gow Tiles, Ultimate Texas Hold'em, Four Card Poker, and Deuces Wild.
Pros and Cons of Cash Casino
Pros
- Convenient location in Calgary, easily accessible by private vehicle and public transit.
- Offers dining options in their two restaurants and one bar.
- Friendly staff.
Cons
- Some users have described the casino as “dingy“.
- Specific numbers and types of games may vary.
10. Happy Go Lucky Casino
Happy Go Lucky Casino is a casino party service launched by Debbie that specializes in bringing the thrill of Las Vegas gaming to events in Calgary, Alberta. Offering popular casino games like Blackjack, Roulette, and Texas Hold'em with fun money, it ensures an exciting casino night experience. Known for excellent customer service and high-quality casino equipment, Happy Go Lucky Casino carries proper insurance for venues.
While specific details on the variety of games are limited, the company aims to provide an unforgettable casino-themed party that leaves guests thrilled.
Key Features of Happy Go Lucky Casino
- Casino party service for events in Calgary.
- Use of fun money rather than real cash and prizes.
- Provides casino-themed entertainment for various events.
- Operated by Debbie, who focuses on customer satisfaction.
- Offers a memorable and exciting experience for guests.
Games Available at Happy Go Lucky Casino
- Table Games: Blackjack is a classic casino card game where the goal is to have a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer's without exceeding 21. Roulette is a game of chance where players bet on where a ball will land on a spinning wheel.
- Happy Go Lucky Slot: This is an online slot game developed by GMW (Game Media Works) and Ready Play Gaming. It features a 5-reel, 50-line layout with a variety of features including bonus rounds, bonus spins, and a progressive jackpot.
Pros and Cons of Happy Go Lucky Casino
Pros
- Offers popular casino games like Blackjack, Roulette, and Texas Hold'em.
- High-quality service and excellent customer satisfaction.
- Carries proper insurance for venue requirement.
Cons
- Winnings and losses are pretended, reduces thrill for some guests.
11. Elbow River Casino
Elbow River Casino, located in Calgary, Alberta, is a premier gaming destination. Launched as the Silver Dollar Casino, it's now a hotspot on the Red Mile, just a block from Victoria Park train station. The casino offers a Vegas-style gaming experience, world-class entertainment, and excellent dining options.
It's known for its friendly and attentive staff. The casino's gaming space, featuring a Roman theme, can accommodate 890 gamblers at a time. It operates within Alberta's charitable gaming model, splitting net proceeds with charitable organizations.
Key Features of Elbow River Casino
- A 24-hour poker room offering round-the-clock gaming action.
- Over 600 slot machines with a range of denominations and progressive jackpots.
- Off-track betting facilities, providing more races than any other location in Calgary.
- Multiple dining options including Sammy's Sports Bar and Jester's Buffet.
- Convenient location in downtown Calgary, next to VictoriaPark LRT station.
- A Roman-themed gaming space with the capacity to host 890 gamblers at a time.
Games Available at Elbow River Casino
- Slot Machines: The casino features over 600 slot machines, with denominations ranging from one penny to one dollar. Some of these machines are tied to progressive jackpots.
- Table Games: Elbow River Casino offers a variety of Vegas-style table games including Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, and Roulette. Baccarat is a comparing card game played between two sides, the “player” and the “banker“, while Blackjack is a classic casino card game. Craps is a dice game, and Roulette is a game of chance where players bet on where a ball will land on a spinning wheel.
- Poker: The casino's Poker Room is open 24/7, specializing in Texas Hold'em and Omaha Poker. In Texas Hold'em, players compete against each other to win the community pot. Omaha Poker is a variation on Texas Hold'em, using four hole cards as opposed to two.
- Off-Track Betting: Elbow River Casino also offers off-track betting, showing more races than anywhere else in the city
Pros and Cons of Elbow River Casino
Pros
- Multiple dining options and free live entertainment are available on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Free underground parking is available for guests.
- Operates within Alberta's charitable gaming model, splitting net proceeds with charitable organizations.
Cons
- Some employees have reported that the management is not flexible or willing to work with them.
- Some employees have also reported that it can be hard to take breaks sometimes.
Online Casinos Vs. Local Casinos in Calgary
Calgary, a city in Alberta, Canada, has seen significant growth in both online and local casinos. The city offers a variety of gambling options for residents and visitors, with a surprising range of offline gambling options for a city of its size. There are 7 land-based casinos in Calgary, including popular venues like Grey Eagle Drive, Deerfoot Inn And Casino, and Elbow River Casino.
Local Casinos
Local casinos in Calgary offer an authentic, interactive experience. They provide a physical space for gamblers to interact, socialize, and engage in various games. The Century Casino Calgary, for instance, offers over 500 slot machines, table games, and off-track betting. The growth of local casinos has been steady, with Alberta's gambling revenues growing by $4 million in 2018, driven mainly by increased use of video lottery terminals.
Online Casinos
On the other hand, online casinos have been gaining popularity due to their convenience and accessibility. They offer multiple payment options and online bonuses, making them an attractive option for many players. Online casinos in Calgary have seen record numbers of new players joining, with more people than ever before using part of their free time to play casino games or wage some money online.
Online casinos in Calgary are rated and reviewed based on a variety of criteria, including the range of games and software, promotions, site security, customer support, and more. They are fully licensed by reputable authorities, ensuring fair gaming and the security of players' personal details.
Growth of Casinos in Calgary
The growth of casinos in Calgary can be attributed to several factors. The increase in the availability of gambling options, both online and offline, has played a significant role4. The rise of internet casinos has also been influenced by the global pandemic, which has led to more people staying at home and seeking entertainment options online.
Alberta's gambling revenues have seen a surge, with legal gambling by Albertans increasing nearly 5% in a year. The province's gaming and liquor commission is now looking at proposals to create an Internet betting site that could add an estimated $150 million more in revenues each year.
FAQs on Calgary casinos
What kinds of games can you find in Calgary casinos?
Calgary casinos provide slot machines, table games such as blackjack and roulette, poker rooms, and other games. Some casinos also provide horse racing and sports betting.
What services do Calgary casinos provide?
Calgary casinos provide slot machines, table games such as blackjack and roulette, poker rooms, and other games. Some casinos also provide horse racing and sports betting.
Is there an age limit for gaming at Calgary casinos?
The legal gambling age varies by state however, in the majority of Calgary states, the minimum gambling age is 21. Individual games or casino sectors may also have age restrictions at some casinos.
What is the dress code at casinos in Calgary?
The dress code in Calgary casinos varies for every casino, but most are casual. While some casinos require dressier clothes for fine dining restaurants or special events, the majority let guests to wear casual clothing such as jeans and t-shirts.
Wrapping Up on Best Casinos in Calgary
Looking to try your luck in Cowtown? As a major city, Calgary offers world-class gaming and entertainment experiences to satisfy every player’s needs. But with over half a dozen casinos in the area, how do you know where to place your bets?
Which venues offer the hottest slots and table games? Which roll out the red carpet for their VIP guests? And crucially, which provides the most thrilling atmosphere to match the risks and rewards?
This definitive guide to Calgary’s top casino resorts will lead you through their stand-out features, gaming options, dining, entertainment, and more to uncover the city’s premier destinations for both casual fun and high-stakes action. So gather your chips and get ready to go all in on the best Calgary has to offer – the rest is up to Lady Luck. Where will you play first?
