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 live 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
Games Available at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
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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
Games Available at Grey Eagle Resort and Casino
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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
Games Available at Cowboys Casino
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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
Games Available at Deerfoot Inn & Casino
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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
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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
Games Available at Century Downs Racetrack and Casino
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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
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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
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.
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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 transforming 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
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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, 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
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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
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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' 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 role. 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.
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 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?
