Arizona Casinos - Best Gambling Locations in AZ

In the diverse landscape of US gambling laws, Arizona holds a unique position with its approach to land-based casinos. Arizona’s legal framework has a rich history, reflecting agreements with various Native American tribes that have resulted in a number of brick-and-mortar casinos spread throughout the state. As per the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, these tribal casinos offer a range of games under specific compacts, contributing to the state’s economic and cultural vitality. 

The gambling age by state varies, but in Arizona, individuals must be 21 years of age to participate in casino gambling. While some states have embraced expansive changes in the gaming sector, Arizona maintains a careful stance on gambling, focusing solely on the regulation and growth of its AZ land-based casinos without venturing into online platforms or sports betting.

Most Popular Arizona Land-Based Casinos

Casino Del Sol

Casino del Sol, located in the heart of Tucson, Arizona, is a premier gaming destination that offers an array of gaming options and facilities. Opened in 2001, this casino spans over 160,000 square feet of gaming space and reflects the rich culture of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. 

Visitors to Casino del Sol can choose from a vast selection of games including over 1,300 slot machines, numerous table games like Blackjack and Roulette, and a dedicated poker room. Popular games hosted in the casino encompass classics like Texas Hold’em and Baccarat.

Aside from gaming, the casino offers additional facilities such as multiple restaurants, a luxurious spa, and a world-class golf course. Despite its wide-ranging amenities, a soft complaint raised about the casino pertains to occasional crowdedness during peak hours, which some guests have found inconvenient. 

Additionally, Casino del Sol hosts one of the best Arizona online sportsbooks, adding to the diversity of gambling experiences for patrons. However, the focus remains on the main gaming floor, presenting a combination of favorite games and new experiences, catering to both seasoned players and newcomers alike.

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is a prominent gaming establishment located in Maricopa, Arizona. Part of the Ak-Chin Indian Community, it opened its doors in 1994 and offers a sizeable gaming floor that spans over 40,000 square feet. 

Within this space, you can explore a plethora of gaming options, including more than 1,100 slot machines, video poker, and a variety of popular table games such as Blackjack, Pai Gow Poker, and Keno. The casino has carved out a reputation for hosting crowd-favorite games and providing top-notch entertainment. 

Alongside the gaming attractions, Harrah’s Ak-Chin boasts other facilities like a luxurious hotel, a multifunctional events center, and a selection of dining options that cater to various tastes. While the casino is well-received by most, a common complaint centers around the smoking areas within the gaming space, which may not be suitable for all guests. 

Although the casino does not host a card room or sportsbook, the diverse mix of traditional and modern gaming options ensures that Harrah’s Ak-Chin remains an appealing destination for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic and engaging gaming experience in Arizona.

Cliff Castle Casino

Cliff Castle Casino, situated in Camp Verde, Arizona, is a gaming oasis that has become a popular attraction for both residents and tourists. Opened in 1995, this casino is nestled within the Verde Valley’s scenic beauty and spans an impressive 114,000 square feet of gaming space. 

Operated by the Yavapai-Apache Nation, Cliff Castle Casino offers an extensive variety of gaming options, including over 650 slot machines, blackjack tables, and live poker, making it a hub for both classic and contemporary gaming enthusiasts. Popular games like Texas Hold’em can be found alongside the latest themed slots, ensuring a vibrant mix for players. 

In addition to gaming, the casino is home to diverse facilities like a 122-room hotel, a bowling alley, a kids’ play area, and several dining options, ranging from casual to fine dining. Despite its wide range of amenities, a minor complaint some patrons have raised pertains to the casino’s ambiance, with occasional remarks about dated décor in certain areas. 

While the casino does not feature a sportsbook, its multifaceted gaming offerings and supplementary facilities make Cliff Castle Casino an appealing destination for those seeking an all-inclusive entertainment experience in Arizona.

Casino Arizona

Casino Arizona, nestled in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community near Scottsdale, Arizona, is a notable gaming destination that has been a part of the state’s gaming scene since its opening in 1998. 

Occupying over 100,000 square feet, this casino offers an array of gaming choices for the enthusiastic gambler. Players can try their luck on more than 900 slot machines, multiple blackjack tables, and other popular table games such as Pai Gow Poker and Let It Ride. Among the crowd-pleasers, Bingo has a particularly strong following, with sessions running daily in the casino’s spacious Bingo Hall. 

Beyond gaming, Casino Arizona extends its offerings to include multiple dining venues, live entertainment, and a showroom featuring regular performances. A minor critique from some patrons pertains to the casino’s smoke-filled environment, which may not appeal to non-smokers or those with sensitivities. 

Casino Arizona does not operate a sportsbook or a card room but its diverse array of traditional gaming options, combined with entertainment and dining amenities, ensures that it remains an inviting destination for those seeking a comprehensive gaming experience in Scottsdale.

Desert Diamond Casino West Valley

Desert Diamond Casino West Valley, located in Glendale, Arizona, is a premier gaming venue offering a blend of entertainment and leisure. Opening its doors in 2015, it spans over 75,000 square feet of gaming space and is part of the Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment chain operated by the Tohono O’odham Nation. 

Players can explore over 1,000 slot machines, an enticing selection of table games, including blackjack, roulette, and poker, ensuring a variety of gaming experiences. Some of the casino’s most popular games are progressive slots that offer substantial jackpots.

Beyond the gaming floor, Desert Diamond Casino West Valley boasts several dining options, ranging from casual bites to gourmet cuisine, along with a vibrant nightlife scene. A soft complaint occasionally cited by patrons involves longer-than-expected wait times at certain dining venues during peak hours. However, the wait time is still short enough to make this a great alternative for the best real money online casinos.

While the casino doesn’t specifically house a card room or sportsbook, its broad array of traditional gaming opportunities and entertainment options continue to make it a popular destination. Desert Diamond Casino West Valley’s commitment to providing a unique and enjoyable experience sets it apart as a significant attraction in the Arizona gaming landscape.

B&M Casinos in Arizona

Arizona’s rich gaming culture is reflected in its numerous land-based casinos, offering a wide array of gaming experiences across the state. Here’s a comprehensive list of the brick-and-mortar casinos in Arizona:

Biggest AZ Casinos

Arizona’s land-based casinos are known not only for their wide array of gaming options but also for the expansive gaming spaces that host these games. Some of the largest casinos in Arizona rival those found in other prominent gaming destinations, reflecting the state’s rich gambling culture.

One notable example is Casino del Sol in Tucson, which offers an impressive 160,000 square feet (14,864 square meters) of gaming space. It stands out as one of the state’s largest casinos, hosting numerous gaming options and additional entertainment facilities.

Similarly, Cliff Castle Casino in Camp Verde provides an expansive gaming environment, encompassing 114,000 square feet (10,591 square meters). These large areas enable casinos to provide a more diverse range of games and entertainment amenities, appealing to a broader audience.

Desert Diamond Casino West Valley in Glendale is another significant establishment in terms of size, offering over 75,000 square feet (6,967 square meters) of gaming space. These massive gaming floors are not just about the number of games they host but also about the experience and comfort they offer to players.

Here’s a table highlighting 20 of the largest casinos in Arizona by size:

Arizona Casinos with the Most Games

When it comes to offering a diverse range of gaming experiences, several Arizona casinos stand out for hosting an impressive count of games. From slots and table games to specialty games, these establishments ensure that players have plenty of choices, catering to different preferences and playing styles. 

The best land-based casinos often match Arizona online casinos in game selection, while allowing you to experience the social side to casino gaming. Casino del Sol, for example, boasts a vast array of games, making it a hub for gaming enthusiasts. Its game count extends into the thousands, encompassing various slot machines, poker variants, blackjack, roulette, and more.

Similarly, Desert Diamond Casino West Valley is known for its rich assortment of games. With over 1,000 slot machines alone, the casino ensures that players never run out of options. The addition of table games only enhances its appeal to different types of gamers.

Casino Arizona also stands tall among its counterparts with an extensive collection of gaming options. From popular table games to specialized offerings, it ensures that players have a broad spectrum of choices.

Here are 20 of the Arizona casinos known for their extensive game counts:

Casinos in Arizona with Hotels

Casinos with hotels provide a seamless experience for visitors, allowing them to enjoy gaming, entertainment, dining, and relaxation all within the same complex. In Arizona, several casinos offer not just a place to play, but a place to stay, with large, comfortable, and often luxurious accommodations available.

For instance, the Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale has become a prime destination due to its expansive hotel facility, offering numerous rooms along with various amenities like spas, pools, and fine dining options.

Casino del Sol in Tucson is another key player, providing a hotel experience that’s designed to meet the highest standards. Its accommodation options range from standard rooms to suites, ensuring that visitors have choices that align with their needs and budgets.

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in Maricopa offers a vast number of rooms and suites, providing visitors with ample options for relaxation after a day or night at the gaming tables.

These integrated hotel-casino complexes offer more than a place to sleep; they create a comprehensive resort experience that caters to various needs and desires, enhancing the overall visitor experience in Arizona’s gaming scene.

Here are the best Arizona casinos with hotels:

Casino Games in Arizona

Arizona’s land-based casinos host a wide variety of games, appealing to both seasoned gamblers and newcomers alike. From classic favorites to innovative new offerings, including the best real money casino apps, the state’s casinos ensure that players have plenty of choices, catering to different preferences and playing styles. Below, we explore some of the most popular game categories found in Arizona’s casinos.

Slots

Slot machines are a staple in Arizona’s casinos, with a vast array of options available for players. From traditional reel slots to modern video slots with interactive features, the choices are virtually endless.

Examples:

• Classic three-reel slots
• Progressive jackpot slots
• Video slots with bonus rounds
• Themed slot machines

Casino Poker

Poker remains a favorite among many casino-goers in AZ, including at Arizona online poker sites. Various poker variants are offered, providing a strategic and engaging experience for players of all skill levels. Whether at a physical casino or through Arizona poker sites, players can find options that suit their preferences and expertise.

Example:

• Texas Hold’em
• Omaha
• Seven Card Stud
• Three Card Poker

Roulette

Roulette is a classic casino game that has found its place in Arizona’s gaming scene. Players can place bets on numbers, colors, or various combinations, hoping the spinning ball lands in their favor.

Examples:

• American Roulette
• European Roulette
• French Roulette

Blackjack

Blackjack is one of the most popular card games in Arizona’s casinos. Its blend of skill and chance makes it appealing to a wide range of players.

Examples:

• Classic Blackjack
• Double Exposure Blackjack
• Spanish 21
• Blackjack Switch

Dice Games

Dice games offer a unique gaming experience, combining elements of luck and strategy. Several variations are found in Arizona’s casinos, providing exciting options for players.

Examples:

• Craps
• Sic Bo

Other Games

Arizona’s casinos also host a range of other games that cater to different tastes and preferences. These include specialty games and unique offerings that add to the diverse gaming experience.

Examples:

• Baccarat
• Pai Gow Poker
• Keno
• Bingo

Arizona’s extensive game offerings ensure that players have a rich and diverse gaming experience, catering to different preferences and skill levels. Whether you’re a fan of the classic games or looking to try something new, Arizona’s casinos offer something for every type of player, including some of the best Arizona no-deposit bonuses to enhance the gaming experience.

Riverboat Casinos in Arizona

Riverboat casinos, a unique and historic aspect of the gambling landscape in some parts of the United States, are not present in Arizona. The state’s geography and legislation have not supported the development of this type of casino. 

Arizona’s gambling scene primarily consists of land-based casinos, many of which are situated on Native American reservations, offering a wide array of gaming options. Consequently, there are no riverboat casinos in Arizona. The focus within the state remains on traditional brick-and-mortar establishments, providing an extensive range of gaming, entertainment, and resort amenities.

Indian Gaming Tribes in Arizona

Indian gaming in Arizona has a complex history going back several decades. The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 established the framework for Native American tribes to operate casinos on reservation lands. This opened the door for tribes in Arizona to establish gaming facilities as a way to generate revenue and jobs for their communities.

The first Indian casino in Arizona opened in 1991 when the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation opened Fort McDowell Casino on their reservation northeast of Phoenix. Several other tribes soon followed by opening small casinos on their lands. However, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that Indian gaming really took off in Arizona. Prop 202, passed in 2002, allowed expansions of casino gaming for some tribes. Major casino resorts were constructed including Talking Stick Resort, Casino Arizona, and Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino.

Today, there are over 20 Indian casinos in Arizona operated by 17 federally recognized tribes. These are:

• Tohono O’odham Nation
• Gila River Indian Community
• Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
• Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation
• Ak-Chin Indian Community
• White Mountain Apache Tribe
• Yavapai-Apache Nation
• San Carlos Apache Tribe
• Tonto Apache Tribe
• Cocopah Tribe
• Fort Yuma-Quechan Tribe
• Hualapai Tribe
• Pascua Yaqui Tribe 
• Navajo Nation
• Colorado River Indian Tribes
• Fort Mojave Indian Tribe
• Yavapai Prescott Indian Tribe

The success of Indian gaming has provided critical revenue and jobs for tribes. However, it has also led to disputes over water rights and clashes with the state government over gaming regulations and revenue sharing. Nevertheless, Indian casinos now make up a major portion of Arizona’s gaming industry.

Gambling Taxes in Arizona

Gambling winnings are considered taxable income under Arizona gambling laws, as well as in the United States as a whole. Alongside this, responsible gambling practices are encouraged within the state to promote a healthy gaming environment. It’s essential for players who win at casinos within Arizona to understand their tax obligations. Here’s a detailed overview:

Tax on Winnings

1. Federal Taxes: At the federal level, all gambling winnings are subject to a flat tax rate of 24%. This applies to lottery winnings, raffles, slot machines, poker tournaments, and more. If the win is over a certain threshold ($5,000 for sweepstakes, lotteries, and wagering pools, or $1,200 from a bingo game or slot machine), the payer is required to withhold this percentage.
2. State Taxes: In addition to federal taxes, Arizona residents must pay state taxes on gambling winnings. The state’s individual income tax rates range from 2.59% to 4.50%, depending on the taxpayer’s income level.

Reporting Winnings

1. W-2G Form: Certain gambling winnings will result in the issuance of a W-2G form. This form will detail the amount won and the taxes withheld, and recipients should receive a copy if they win:
   • $1,200 or more from a slot machine or bingo
   • $1,500 or more from keno
   • $5,000 or more from a poker tournament
   • $600 or more from other wagering if the payout is 300 times the wager amount
2. Other Winnings: Even if a player does not receive a W-2G form, all gambling winnings must be reported as “Other Income” on Form 1040, Schedule 1.

Deducting Losses

1. Itemizing Deductions: If you itemize deductions on Schedule A of Form 1040, you can deduct gambling losses up to the amount of your winnings. You must keep accurate records, including receipts, tickets, and any other documentation to substantiate your losses.
2. Arizona Deductions: Arizona also allows you to claim gambling losses on your state return, but only up to the amount of your winnings.

Players in Arizona are responsible for reporting and paying taxes on all gambling winnings. This includes following federal guidelines and complying with the state’s specific rules. Failure to do so can lead to penalties and interest. If you’re uncertain about how to handle gambling taxes, it’s wise to consult with a tax professional or refer to the IRS and Arizona Department of Revenue guidelines for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

FAQs

In what year was casino gambling legalized in Arizona?

Arizona voters approved Proposition 202 in 2002, which allowed Native American tribes to operate Las Vegas-style casinos under gaming compacts with the state.

How many casinos currently operate in Arizona?

There are over 20 Native American casinos across Arizona, operated by 15 federally recognized tribes.

Does Arizona permit charitable gaming activities?

Yes, charitable gaming is permitted in Arizona. Qualified non-profit organizations can conduct bingo, raffles, and charity events under specific regulations and with the proper licensing.

What is the minimum legal age for gambling in Arizona casinos?

The minimum age to gamble in Arizona tribal casinos is 21 years old.

What other major gambling restrictions exist in Arizona?

Aside from tribal gaming, most other forms of gambling like commercial casinos are illegal in Arizona.

Which legal casino was the first to open in Arizona?

The Fort McDowell Casino, opened by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation in 1984, was among the first to operate in Arizona, initially offering bingo.

Roughly how much annual tax revenue comes from Arizona casinos?

Arizona casinos contribute approximately $100 million in tax revenue each year to state and local governments.