Colorado Casinos - Best Gambling Locations in CO

Colorado has a rich history of legalized gambling that stretches back to 1990 when the state’s voters approved limited-stakes gaming in three historic gold mining districts: Cripple Creek, Black Hawk, and Central City. Since then, brick-and-mortar casinos have become an integral part of the local economy and tourist attractions, housing a variety of games such as slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette. Colorado’s approach to legalized gambling is consistent with the broader US gambling laws by state, allowing each state to tailor regulations according to its unique socio-economic context.

State legislation has evolved to include amendments that allowed for increased betting limits and longer operating hours, reflecting a balancing act between stimulating economic growth and maintaining responsible gambling. The focus on CO land-based casinos has remained strong, with regulations strictly separating them from other forms of gambling such as online platforms or sports betting, including the best real money casino apps, ensuring that the traditional casino experience continues to thrive in the Centennial State.

Most Popular Casinos in Colorado Reviewed

Century Casino

Century Casino, located in the historic mining town of Central City, Colorado, is a prominent fixture in the state’s gaming landscape. Opened in 2006, it is part of a larger network of Century Casinos that operate internationally. This particular venue spans over 60,000 square feet and offers an extensive array of gaming options for visitors to enjoy.

Players at Century Casino in Central City can try their luck at over 500 slot machines, multiple blackjack tables, and other popular games such as roulette and craps. The casino also boasts a card room, which hosts frequent poker tournaments, adding to the allure for card enthusiasts. The popular games in this casino tend to be slots and poker, reflecting both traditional and contemporary gaming tastes.

Aside from its gaming facilities, Century Casino provides other amenities including a hotel with comfortable rooms, dining options featuring local cuisine, and live entertainment on selected nights. However, some visitors have raised minor complaints about the availability of parking during peak hours, citing it as an inconvenience. Despite this minor issue, Century Casino in Central City remains a destination for gambling enthusiasts looking to experience a taste of Colorado’s rich gaming tradition.

Double Eagle Hotel and Casino

Double Eagle Hotel and Casino is a prominent gaming destination located in Cripple Creek, Colorado. Established in 1996, this establishment occupies over 32,000 square feet of space, offering guests a well-rounded entertainment experience.

The gaming floor at Double Eagle Hotel and Casino houses more than 400 slot machines, as well as table games such as blackjack, roulette, and three-card poker. The popular games here tend to be the slot machines, with a wide variety appealing to a diverse crowd.

In addition to its gaming offerings, the Double Eagle provides accommodations through its hotel, giving guests a convenient place to stay. Dining options and casual eateries are also available on-site, offering a variety of choices to satisfy different tastes.

Despite the many positives, a complaint that is sometimes raised about the Double Eagle has been the dated appearance of some interior areas, leading to occasional remarks about the need for modernization. However, this aspect also lends the casino a nostalgic charm, resonating with players who appreciate a more classic gaming ambiance in the heart of one of Colorado’s historic mining towns.

Red Dolly Casino

Red Dolly Casino is a unique gaming destination nestled between the towns of Black Hawk and Central City, Colorado. Opened in 1992, this casino is a bit cozier than others in the area, with a gaming space that spans approximately 2,500 square feet.

Despite its smaller size, Red Dolly Casino packs a punch with over 175 slot machines and video poker, with slots being the most popular games among patrons. Though it doesn’t offer traditional table games or a card room, the casino has become known for its charming and friendly atmosphere.

One of the standout features of Red Dolly is its restaurant, which is renowned for offering delicious menu items at affordable prices. It’s a favorite spot not just for gamblers but also for locals seeking a good meal.

A soft con mentioned by some visitors is the casino’s limited gaming variety due to its focus on slots and video poker. This might be a drawback for those seeking a more diverse gaming experience. However, for many, the intimate and inviting ambiance of Red Dolly Casino, coupled with its attentive service, compensates for its smaller game selection, making it a beloved spot in the Colorado gaming scene.

Sky Ute Casino

Sky Ute Casino is located in Ignacio, Colorado, and is part of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation. Since its opening in 2008, it has become a significant attraction in the southwestern part of the state. The casino spans an impressive 45,000 square feet, offering an array of gaming options for visitors.

The gaming floor at Sky Ute Casino features over 600 slot machines, along with a variety of table games like blackjack, roulette, three-card poker, and bingo. Slots are particularly popular among guests, with a mix of classic and contemporary machines available. While the casino does not specifically highlight a card room, it does offer a wide-ranging gaming experience for all types of players.

In addition to the gaming facilities, Sky Ute Casino is complemented by a luxury hotel, multiple dining options, an events center, and even a bowling alley. This makes it more than just a casino, but a complete entertainment destination.

A complaint raised about the casino pertains to the location being somewhat remote, which might be inconvenient for some travelers. However, many visitors find that the comprehensive range of amenities and the picturesque surroundings make Sky Ute Casino well worth the journey, contributing to its growing reputation as a must-visit spot in Colorado.

Saratoga Casino

Saratoga Casino is situated in the bustling town of Black Hawk, Colorado, a hub for gaming enthusiasts. The casino, which opened its doors in 2013, occupies a space of around 53,000 square feet, making it one of the more spacious venues in the area.

The gaming options at Saratoga Casino are abundant, with over 500 slot machines, various electronic table games, and live keno. Slots are particularly popular here, attracting players with a diverse range of themes and stakes.

Besides its gaming facilities, Saratoga Casino offers additional amenities such as a well-reviewed restaurant, a couple of bars, and a gift shop. These add to the overall enjoyment and convenience for visitors.

A soft con noted by some guests centers around the absence of traditional live table games, like blackjack or poker, which might be disappointing for those looking for a more classic casino experience. However, the majority of visitors appreciate the modern touch and the attentive customer service at Saratoga Casino, acknowledging it as a significant addition to Black Hawk’s rich gaming landscape.

While the land-based casinos like Century Casino, Double Eagle Hotel and Casino, and others are prominent in Colorado’s gaming scene, the state also boasts a variety of online gaming options. Players can explore the best Colorado online casinos for virtual slots and table games, wager on their favorite sports through the best Colorado sportsbooks, and engage in virtual card games at the best Colorado poker sites. These online platforms offer additional choices for gaming enthusiasts in the Centennial State.

Colorado Land-based Casinos

Colorado’s rich mining history has led to a thriving landscape of land-based casinos, primarily situated in the historic towns of Black Hawk, Central City, and Cripple Creek, with additional offerings in other locations. Below is a table listing all the brick-and-mortar casinos in the state, providing their names, addresses, cities, and phone numbers:

Biggest CO Casinos

Colorado is home to an impressive array of casinos, with many providing extensive gaming floors and a wide variety of entertainment options. Among these, several establishments stand out for their sheer size, offering visitors a diverse and immersive gaming experience.

Ameristar Casino in Black Hawk is one of the largest casinos in Colorado, boasting a vast gaming space that provides a luxurious ambiance for gamblers. Likewise, the Isle Casino Hotel in Black Hawk has carved out a significant presence, drawing players with its sizable gaming floor filled with slots, table games, and other entertainment facilities.

Other notable large Colorado casinos include the Monarch Casino in Black Hawk and the Sky Ute Casino in Ignacio. These establishments provide visitors with an extensive array of gaming options within spacious premises, reflecting a strong commitment to delivering high-quality entertainment.

Here’s a table showcasing up to 20 of the largest casinos in Colorado by size:

CO Casinos with the Most Games

Colorado’s land-based casino scene is not just about size; it’s also about diversity and the variety of games on offer. For game enthusiasts, having a plethora of options to choose from is crucial to a satisfying gaming experience. Several Colorado casinos are leading the way in terms of game count, providing everything from traditional slots and table games to unique specialty games.

Ameristar Casino in Black Hawk, for instance, is renowned for its wide range of gaming options, with thousands of slot machines and numerous table games. Monarch Casino also stands out with an impressive array of games, ensuring that every visitor finds something that suits their taste.

Similarly, Isle Casino Hotel, Century Casino, and Saratoga Casino have made names for themselves by offering a diverse range of gaming options. Their floors are filled with various games, catering to both seasoned players and newcomers alike.

The table below offers a snapshot of 20 casinos in Colorado, ranked by their game count:

Casinos in Colorado with Hotels

In Colorado’s bustling casino scene, many establishments offer more than just gaming entertainment by hosting luxurious hotels on their premises. These integrated resorts provide convenience and comfort to visitors looking to extend their stay, creating an all-encompassing experience that blends gaming, dining, and lodging.

The Ameristar Casino Resort in Black Hawk, for example, is not only one of the largest casinos in terms of gaming options but also boasts a grand hotel that complements its casino offerings. Monarch Casino Resort and the Isle Casino Hotel are also leading the pack, offering spacious accommodations within their expansive properties.

Such casino hotels are strategically designed to cater to various guests, whether they are on vacation, attending business events, or just enjoying a weekend getaway. The integration of hotels within casino properties has become a prominent feature in Colorado’s gaming landscape, reflecting a trend towards comprehensive entertainment complexes.

Here’s a table featuring up to 20 casinos in Colorado that offer hotel accommodations, listed by the number of rooms:

Casino Games in Colorado

Colorado’s casinos offer a diverse range of games to suit all preferences, whether you’re a fan of classic games like blackjack and roulette or looking for more unique and localized offerings. The state’s casinos provide a rich mix of traditional and modern games, ensuring that visitors can find something that matches their taste and experience level. Here’s a rundown of the main game categories and some examples you can find in Colorado’s casinos:

Slots

Slot machines are perhaps the most ubiquitous feature at Colorado casinos. From the vintage mechanical reels to sophisticated video slots with intricate themes and features, slots are a primary attraction for many players.

• Progressive slots
• Multi-line slots
• 3-reel slots
• Video slots

Casino Poker

Casino poker games in Colorado offer a competitive edge and strategic gameplay. These games are played against the house or other players, and they come in various forms and rulesets.

• Texas Hold’em
• Three Card Poker
• Pai Gow Poker
• Caribbean Stud Poker

Roulette

Roulette is a timeless casino classic in Colorado, providing a blend of excitement and elegance. Players can place bets on numbers, colors, or other combinations, and the thrill of the spinning wheel keeps players engaged.

• American Roulette
• European Roulette
• French Roulette

Blackjack

Blackjack is one of the most popular card games in Colorado casinos. It offers a blend of skill and chance as players aim to beat the dealer without exceeding 21.

• Classic Blackjack
• Double Exposure Blackjack
• Blackjack Switch

Dice Games

Dice games are well-represented in Colorado’s casinos, providing a unique and often communal gaming experience. These games are known for their lively atmosphere and can become the highlight of the casino floor.

• Craps
• Sic Bo

Other Games

In addition to these main categories, Colorado casinos feature a selection of other games that cater to diverse preferences and include both traditional and contemporary options.

• Baccarat
• Keno
• Video poker
• Bingo

Riverboat Casinos in Colorado

Riverboat casinos, a nostalgic throwback to a time when gamblers cruised rivers on paddlewheel steamboats, are not a feature of Colorado’s gambling landscape. The state’s laws and geographical characteristics have not lent themselves to the development of riverboat casinos. Therefore, those looking for this specific type of gambling experience in Colorado may need to explore other options.

Indian Gaming Tribes in Colorado

Indian casinos have a significant presence in Colorado, reflecting the historical and ongoing relationship between Native American tribes and the state’s authorities. Colorado’s Indian gaming scene began to take shape following the passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) in 1988, which established the framework for tribal gaming operations across the United States.

In Colorado, this led to compacts between the state and local tribes, outlining the guidelines for gaming operations on tribal lands. The tribes embraced gaming as an avenue for economic development, job creation, and funding for tribal programs and services. Over the years, Indian gaming has evolved into a substantial part of Colorado’s gaming landscape, with tribes operating successful casinos.

These tribes have managed to integrate their rich cultural heritage into their gaming enterprises, creating unique destinations that stand apart from commercial casinos. Their contributions to the state’s economy and commitment to responsible gaming practices continue to be vital elements of Colorado’s broader gaming industry.

The following is a list of the gaming tribes in Colorado:

• Southern Ute Indian Tribe
• Ute Mountain Ute Tribe

Along with regulations guiding the types of gambling allowed, age restrictions play an essential role in ensuring responsible gaming practices. The gambling age by state varies across the United States, and in Colorado, individuals must be 21 years old to participate in casino gambling. This age requirement aligns with many other states and helps ensure that gaming activities are restricted to an adult audience.

Closed Colorado Casinos

• Bullwhackers Casino – Black Hawk
• Gilpin Hotel Casino – Black Hawk
• Doc Holliday Casino – Central City
• Canyon Casino – Black Hawk
• Teller House – Central City
• Dan Cooper’s Eureka! Casino – Black Hawk

Gambling Taxes in Colorado

Gambling winnings are considered taxable income in the United States, and Colorado is no exception. Players who win at a legal casino, whether it’s through slots, table games, or any other form of gambling, must report those winnings on their tax returns. Here’s how it works in detail:

Tax Rates and Reporting

1. Federal Taxes: All gambling winnings are subject to federal income tax. The rate can vary depending on your total income, ranging from 10% to 37% as of 2021. Generally, the payer (such as the casino) must issue a W-2G form if you receive:

• $1,200 or more in gambling winnings from slot machines or bingo;
• $1,500 or more in proceeds (the amount of winnings minus the amount of the wager) from keno;
• More than $5,000 in winnings (reduced by the wager or buy-in) from a poker tournament;
• $600 or more in winnings (except winnings from keno, bingo, slot machines, and poker tournaments) and the payout is at least 300 times the amount of the wager.

2. State Taxes: In addition to federal taxes, Colorado residents must also pay state income tax on their gambling winnings. The Colorado state income tax rate is a flat 4.55% as of 2021.

3. Withholding: Casinos might withhold taxes on significant winnings. Federal withholding is typically at a rate of 24%. Some additional state withholding might also apply.

How to Report Winnings

• W-2G Forms: If you receive a W-2G form from the casino, you must include the information on your tax return. Even if you do not receive a W-2G, you are still required to report all gambling winnings.
• Other Winnings: If your winnings do not meet the thresholds for a W-2G, you must still report them. You can list your winnings on IRS Form 1040 as “Other Income.”
• Losses: You may deduct your gambling losses, but only up to the extent of your winnings for that year, and you must be able to provide receipts, tickets, or other documentation. You’ll need to itemize these deductions, which is done on Schedule A of Form 1040.

FAQs

When was casino gambling legalized in Colorado?

Casino gambling was legalized in Colorado in 1990, following the passage of the Limited Gaming Act, allowing for limited-stakes gambling in specific locations.

How many casinos are there in Colorado?

There are over 30 B&M casinos in Colorado, spread across various cities and tribal lands.

Is charitable gaming offered in Colorado?

Yes, charitable gaming, including bingo and raffles, is permitted in Colorado and is regulated by the Colorado Secretary of State.

What is the legal gambling age in Colorado?

The legal gambling age for casinos in Colorado is 21. For bingo or lottery, it’s 18.

Are there other legal restrictions in Colorado?

Legal restrictions include the aforementioned age limits, specific licensing requirements for operators, and restrictions on the types and locations of games allowed.

What was the first casino to open in Colorado?

The first casinos in Colorado opened in the historic towns of Black Hawk and Central City on October 1, 1991.

How much is the annual tax revenue from casinos in Colorado?

Annual tax revenue varies. In 2022, casino gaming tax revenue was over $148 million, supporting various state initiatives and the local economy. Exact figures can be obtained from official state revenue reports.