Mississippi Casinos - Best Gambling Locations in MS

When tracing the patchwork quilt of US gambling laws by state, Mississippi emerges as a beacon of Southern hospitality mixed with casino allure. The Magnolia State, known for its rich history and delta blues, has carved out a niche for itself within the American gambling landscape. Mississippi’s embrace of land-based casinos is noteworthy, having legalized them in the 1990s as waterfront gaming establishments. The rules surrounding them are specific: while many states grapple with the nuances of online platforms and sports betting, Mississippi’s love affair remains firmly with its brick-and-mortar establishments. 

Even as the gambling age by state sees variation across the country, in Mississippi, the dance with dice and cards begins at 21. As we embark on this exploration of Mississippi’s casino culture, we find a story of tradition, resilience, and the quest for entertainment in the heart of the South.

B&M Casinos in Mississippi

Gold Strike Casino

Situated in the vibrant locale of Tunica Resorts, Mississippi, the Gold Strike Casino stands as one of the South’s premier gaming destinations. Since its grand opening in 1994, the casino has established itself as a cornerstone of entertainment and luxury. With a sprawling gaming floor that stretches over 50,000 square feet, the Gold Strike offers a myriad of gaming choices that cater to both novice and seasoned gamblers.

Visitors can immerse themselves in a vast selection of slot machines and table games, with popular offerings such as blackjack, roulette, and craps. One of the standout features is the inclusion of a card room, adding to the comprehensive gaming experience. Additionally, while the casino does boast a sportsbook, it is the traditional games that often take center stage.

Beyond gaming, Gold Strike further enhances the visitor experience with its array of facilities. It boasts top-tier restaurants, plush accommodations, and live entertainment venues, making it more than just a gaming hub. However, a soft con often mentioned by visitors is the occasional wait times during peak hours, especially at popular table games. Despite this minor inconvenience, the Gold Strike Casino remains a jewel in Mississippi’s gaming crown.

Boomtown Casino Biloxi

Nestled along the picturesque Back Bay of Biloxi, Mississippi, the Boomtown Casino Biloxi has been a go-to destination for gaming enthusiasts since its doors swung open in 1992. Covering an expansive area, the casino floor measures an impressive 51,500 square feet, ensuring there’s something for every type of player.

Patrons can indulge in a broad spectrum of gaming activities. From the high-energy environment of slot machines to the strategic allure of table games like blackjack and roulette, Boomtown Casino has it all. While the establishment does feature a card room and sportsbook, it’s the classic games that often become the main attractions.

Outside of the gaming realm, the casino offers a delightful mix of amenities to its visitors. Diverse dining options, live entertainment, and special events are regularly hosted, promising a holistic entertainment experience.

However, a gentle criticism sometimes echoed by guests pertains to the indoor smoking policy. Some non-smoking patrons have expressed a desire for better ventilation or dedicated non-smoking areas. Despite this minor hiccup, Boomtown Casino Biloxi continues to shine as one of the state’s cherished gaming venues.

Palace Casino Resort

Located on the Biloxi Back Bay, Palace Casino Resort has been a beacon in Mississippi’s gaming circuit since its establishment in 1997. Spanning a vast 38,000 square-foot gaming floor, it seamlessly marries ambiance and action. For players who prefer the comfort of their homes or are on the move, the rise of the best real money casino apps offers a contemporary alternative to such traditional casino experiences, but nothing can replace the allure of the actual casino floor.

Inside its elegant walls, players can immerse themselves in a rich array of gaming selections. From the hypnotic whir of slot machines to classic table games like blackjack and baccarat, the choices are abundant. And while the resort does possess a card room and a sportsbook, it’s the timeless games that predominantly capture guests’ attention.

Beyond the gaming tables, Palace Casino Resort takes pride in its comprehensive amenities. Gourmet dining experiences, a full-service spa, and upscale accommodations make it more than just a gaming destination; it’s a retreat.

However, as with most establishments, there’s a soft critique. Some guests have remarked about the absence of a more extensive variety of dining options. While the existing restaurants are of top-notch quality, a broader selection is occasionally desired by visitors. Regardless of this minor point, the Palace Casino Resort remains an undisputed favorite, providing a blend of luxury and entertainment.

Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort

Overlooking the tranquil waters of Biloxi’s Back Bay, the Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort stands as a testament to modern luxury and gaming finesse in D’Iberville, Mississippi. Since its grand unveiling in 2015, it has rapidly ascended the ranks to become one of the Gulf Coast’s premier gaming destinations. The casino proudly spreads across 60,000 square feet of expertly designed gaming space, oozing both style and substance.

Within this expansive setting, guests encounter a broad palette of gaming options. The hypnotic allure of the slot machines complements the strategy-driven excitement of table games like blackjack, roulette, and craps. While the facility does offer a card room and sportsbook, traditional games tend to dominate the limelight.

However, the Scarlet Pearl is more than just a gaming hub. It boasts an impressive 18-hole miniature golf course, a boutique hotel, and an assortment of dining venues ranging from casual to gourmet.

A mild critique occasionally voiced by patrons is the wait time for some services during peak hours, desiring quicker responses. Yet, even with this minor con, the Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort shines brightly, offering a holistic entertainment experience on the Mississippi coast.

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino

Perched elegantly along the shores of the Gulf in Biloxi, the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino stands as one of Mississippi’s most iconic gaming and leisure destinations. Opening its opulent doors in 1999, the casino spans an impressive 85,000 square feet, making it one of the largest in the state.

The vast gaming floor teems with possibilities. Patrons can choose from a dizzying array of slot machines or engage in popular table games, with blackjack, roulette, and craps stealing the spotlight. While the resort does house a card room and sportsbook, it’s these classic games that most often pull guests into their captivating embrace.

But the Beau Rivage is not solely about gambling. Its facilities are expansive, including a world-class spa, a theater hosting top-tier entertainment, gourmet restaurants, and upscale retail shops.

Yet, even such a renowned establishment isn’t without its soft critiques. Some visitors have pointed out the high prices at certain on-site restaurants, suggesting they could offer better value. Despite this gentle critique, the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino continues to be a pinnacle of luxury and entertainment on the Gulf Coast.

All MS Land-based Casinos

The Magnolia State, renowned for its rich history and warm hospitality, is also home to a myriad of land-based casinos that provide entertainment and gaming luxury. Here’s a comprehensive list of all the Mississippi land-based casinos you can find:

Biggest Mississippi Casinos

Mississippi, one of the Southern United States’ prominent gambling hubs, boasts a remarkable array of casinos, each bringing its own unique charm to the table. Yet, when it comes to sheer size, a few establishments distinguish themselves from the rest. Their expansive gaming floors, vast arrays of entertainment options, and grandeur make them stand out in the vibrant Mississippi gambling scene.

Casino size is often a good indicator of the variety of games and entertainment amenities a facility can offer. The more expansive casinos generally accommodate a broader spectrum of slot machines, table games, and sometimes even unique gaming options. Moreover, a bigger size often translates to more dining venues, performance stages, and even convention facilities.

Here’s a list showcasing some of Mississippi’s largest casinos based on their size:

MS Casinos with the Most Games

In the ever-evolving world of casino entertainment, the number of games a casino offers can be a direct reflection of its commitment to providing diverse and expansive gaming experiences to its patrons. A higher game count not only signifies a broader range of slot machines but also indicates a varied assortment of table games, including blackjack, roulette, poker, and many other crowd favorites. 

For those seeking a more interactive and real-time experience without setting foot in a brick-and-mortar establishment, the best live dealer casinos present a fantastic alternative. These platforms combine the thrill of real casino play with the convenience of online accessibility, bridging the gap between traditional and modern gambling avenues.

Mississippi, being one of the premier gambling destinations in the U.S., houses some of the most game-rich casinos in the country. It’s no wonder that alongside its physical casinos, there’s also a growing interest in live dealer platforms among Mississippi residents.

When a casino offers a vast number of games, it caters to a larger segment of the gambling community. From seasoned players looking for high-stakes table games to casual visitors wanting to try their luck on vibrant and interactive slot machines, these casinos have something for everyone.

Let’s have a look at some of Mississippi’s casinos based on their game count:

Casinos in Mississippi with Hotels

Mississippi’s casino landscape is not just known for its vibrant gaming floors but also for its integrated resorts that couple world-class gambling experiences with luxurious accommodations. Casinos with hotels offer patrons the convenience of staying on the property, making it a seamless experience where gaming, dining, entertainment, and relaxation all merge into one. These integrated resorts often become preferred destinations for tourists, as they encapsulate the essence of what a comprehensive casino vacation should feel like.

Moreover, the scale of hotel accommodations often reflects the casino’s dedication to catering to both local and international tourists. Larger hotel facilities often come hand in hand with more dining options, entertainment venues, spa services, and sometimes even convention facilities, painting a picture of opulence and all-rounded leisure.

Here’s a compilation of some of Mississippi’s casinos based on the number of hotel rooms they offer:

Casino Games in Mississippi

Mississippi’s vibrant casino scene is a reflection of its rich cultural tapestry. With casinos scattered along the Mississippi River and the Gulf Coast, there’s no shortage of thrilling gaming options, both in brick-and-mortar establishments and at the best real money online casinos. From classic table games to the latest in slot technology, let’s explore the games that have made Mississippi a gambler’s haven.

Slots

Slot machines form the backbone of Mississippi’s casino landscape, offering a colorful array of games for every taste.

Examples:

• Traditional three-reel slots
• Progressive jackpot slots
• Themed video slots
• Penny slots
• Multi-game slots

Casino Poker

Beyond the traditional poker rooms, Mississippi casinos offer table games where players compete against the house.

Examples:

• Three Card Poker
• Mississippi Stud
• Four Card Poker
• Let It Ride
• Pai Gow Poker

Roulette

A timeless casino classic, roulette tables in Mississippi cater to both high rollers and casual gamblers.

Examples:

• American Roulette
• European Roulette
• Multi-player electronic roulette
• High-stakes roulette tables

Blackjack

Blackjack in Mississippi remains a favorite, thanks to its blend of luck and strategy.

Examples:

• Classic 21 Blackjack
• Double Deck Blackjack
• Spanish 21
• Single Deck Blackjack
• Bonus Blackjack

Dice Games

Dice games offer dynamic action and are a mainstay in many Mississippi casinos.

Examples:

• Craps
• Sic Bo
• Shoot to Win Craps
• Grand Hazard

Other Games

Mississippi’s casinos are also home to an eclectic mix of other table games.

Examples:

• Baccarat and Mini-Baccarat
• Big Six Wheel
• Keno
• Bingo sessions
• Ultimate Texas Hold’em

Mississippi’s casinos, with their vast array of gaming choices, cater to both seasoned gamblers and newcomers. The emphasis on responsible gambling ensures that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Riverboat Casinos in Mississippi

Historically, riverboat gambling played a significant role in Mississippi’s rich gaming tradition. These floating casinos, once used as a workaround for legal constraints, are an iconic part of the state’s gambling culture. Today, while many have transitioned to stationary barges to provide a more stable and expansive gaming environment, they retain the aesthetic and charm of the riverboat era, offering both locals and tourists an authentic Southern gambling experience.

Online Gambling in Mississippi

• Mississippi gambling laws
• Best Mississippi online casinos
• Best Mississippi online sportsbooks
• Best Mississippi poker sites

Indian Gaming Tribes in Mississippi

The history of Indian gaming in Mississippi is both rich and significant, reflecting the long-standing presence and contributions of Native American tribes to the region’s cultural and economic tapestry. The push for Indian casinos began in the late 20th century, seen as a means to foster economic development and self-sufficiency for the tribes.

The federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) of 1988 was pivotal for tribes across the United States, providing a legal pathway for them to operate casinos on their lands. This legislation categorized games into three classes, each with specific regulatory requirements, and allowed for tribes to negotiate compacts with states for certain types of gaming.

In Mississippi, the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians became the primary torchbearers of tribal gaming. They saw gaming as an avenue to generate revenue, create jobs, and reinvest in their community, especially given the economic hardships they faced historically. The success of the Choctaw’s casino operations, notably the Pearl River Resort with its multiple casinos, has been monumental, not only economically but also in preserving and promoting tribal culture.

Mississippi Gaming Tribes:

• Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians

Closed Mississippi Casinos

• Bayou Caddy’s Jubilee Casino
• Casino Magic Biloxi
• Copa Casino
• Grand Station Casino
• Harrah’s Casino Tunica
• Isle of Capri Casino Hotel Natchez
• Margaritaville Casino and Restaurant
• President Casino Broadwater Resort
• Resorts Casino Tunica
• Tunica Roadhouse Casino & Hotel
• Jubilation Casino
• Splash Casino

Gambling Taxes in Mississippi

In Mississippi, as in many other states, players who secure significant winnings from gambling are subject to both federal and state income tax. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Taxable Winnings: All gambling winnings, whether they’re from casino games, lotteries, sports betting, or any other type of gambling activity, are considered taxable income in Mississippi.

2. Tax Rates:

• Federal: All gambling winnings are subject to federal income tax. The tax rate can range depending on your overall income, but for larger winnings, a flat 24% can be withheld at the source, especially for lottery or other significant prizes.
• State: In Mississippi, the tax rate for gambling winnings is 3% for state purposes.

3. Withholding: For specific larger winnings, like slot machine jackpots or lottery prizes, casinos or operators might automatically withhold state and federal taxes. However, the player is still responsible for ensuring the correct amount is paid, and they might need to pay more or get a refund when filing returns, depending on their overall tax situation.

4. Reporting Winnings:

• You’ll often receive an IRS Form W-2G if your winnings (minus the wager) are $1,200 or more from a bingo game or slot machine, $1,500 or more from keno, more than $5,000 from a poker tournament, or $600 or more from other gambling winnings if the payout is at least 300 times the amount of the wager.
• Even if you do not receive a W-2G, all gambling winnings need to be reported on your federal tax return. You should report all of your annual winnings as income and claim any allowable losses separately.
• For Mississippi’s state tax purposes, the winnings can be reported on your Mississippi tax return.

5. Deducting Losses:

• On the federal level, you can deduct your gambling losses, but only up to the amount of your winnings. This means you can’t claim a loss for more than you’ve won. These losses are itemized on Schedule A of your federal Form 1040.
• Mississippi also allows a deduction for gambling losses, but like the federal stipulation, only up to the amount of your winnings.

6. Record Keeping: It’s crucial for players to keep an accurate diary or similar record of their gambling wins and losses. This diary should include dates, locations, amounts won or lost, and the type of wager. Keeping other documentation, like betting slips, lottery tickets, or other similar receipts, can also be beneficial.

In summary, if you’re a resident or visitor in Mississippi who enjoys gambling, it’s essential to be aware of both state and federal tax implications. When in doubt, especially with significant winnings, it’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance and optimize your tax situation.

FAQs

When was casino gambling legalized in Mississippi?

Casino gambling was legalized in Mississippi in 1990 when the Mississippi Gaming Control Act was passed, allowing casinos to operate on navigable waters.

What is the legal gambling age in Mississippi?

The legal gambling age in Mississippi for casino gambling is 21 years old.

Can you smoke in Mississippi casinos?

Yes, smoking is generally allowed in Mississippi casinos, although some establishments might have designated non-smoking areas.

Are there horse racing/off-track betting locations in Mississippi?

No, Mississippi does not have any horse racing tracks or off-track betting locations.

Are there dog racing/off-track betting locations in Mississippi?

No, dog racing and off-track betting for dog races are not offered in Mississippi.

Is charitable gaming offered in Mississippi?

Yes, charitable gaming, such as bingo and raffles, is permitted in Mississippi, provided the organizations meet specific requirements and are approved by the state.

Are there other legal restrictions in Mississippi?

Mississippi has various gaming regulations, including restrictions on online gambling and sports betting (though sports betting has been legalized at some brick-and-mortar locations).

How many casinos are there in Mississippi?

There are approximately 30 casinos operating in Mississippi.

What was the first legal casino to open in Mississippi?

The first casino to open in Mississippi was the Isle of Capri in Biloxi in 1992.

Which casinos in MS offer free parking?

Most casinos in Mississippi offer free parking for their guests, though it’s always a good idea to check with individual establishments beforehand.

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

The annual tax revenue from casinos in Mississippi varies each year, but the Hospitality State got $122,565,317 in revenue generated from gaming in FY2023.

Is there a new casino opening soon in MS?

Yes, the Foxwoods Resort Casino at Biloxi Pointe is currently being developed.

Where can I get help regarding gambling addiction?

Individuals seeking help for gambling addiction in Mississippi can contact the Mississippi Council on Problem and Compulsive Gambling or seek resources from the National Council on Problem Gambling. Local helplines and therapists also offer support.