While the bustling city of Dallas itself doesn't offer casinos due to Texas state laws, visitors looking for some gaming excitement need not despair. Just a short drive away, across the Red River in Oklahoma, lies a world of glittering lights, ringing slot machines, and the thrilling anticipation of a big win.
Marc Meltzer, who has been writing about gambling and casinos for years at PlayUSA, told us, "The casino culture around Dallas is unique. Despite the lack of casinos in the city itself, there's a vibrant gaming scene just across the border. Texans have embraced these nearby casinos, turning what could be a limitation into an opportunity for exciting road trips and weekend getaways. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of casino gaming."
Let's explore the best casino destinations near Dallas, each offering its own unique blend of entertainment and amenities.
1. Winstar World Casino and Resort: A Gaming Metropolis
As you approach Winstar World Casino and Resort, located in Thackerville, Oklahoma, you'll be struck by its massive size and impressive architecture. At just over 80 miles from downtown Dallas, it's the closest major casino to the city, making it a popular choice for both day-trippers and weekend warriors.
Winstar isn't just big - it's the largest casino in the United States, boasting over 500,000 square feet of gaming space. As you step inside, you'll find yourself transported to a gaming metropolis, with nine globally themed plazas that evoke the essence of cities like Paris, Rome, and Beijing. Each area is a world unto itself, filled with a dizzying array of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Winstar offers VIP ultra-high stakes rooms where high rollers can play in luxurious surroundings. The casino also hosts regular bingo sessions and poker tournaments, adding to the variety of gaming options.
But Winstar is more than just a casino - it's a full-fledged resort. After a day of gaming, you can retire to one of the hotel's comfortable rooms, dine at one of the many restaurants, or catch a show at the Global Event Center, which regularly hosts big-name entertainers.
2. Choctaw Casino Resort: Luxury and Gaming in Perfect Harmony
Venture a bit further from Dallas - about 94 miles - and you'll find yourself at the Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant, Oklahoma. This AAA Four Diamond-rated resort offers a perfect blend of luxury and excitement.
As you enter the casino, you'll be greeted by the sounds of over 4,500 slot machines and the bustling energy of a 218,844 square foot gaming floor. Whether you prefer slots, table games, or poker, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained.
What sets Choctaw apart is its commitment to offering a well-rounded resort experience. After trying your luck at the tables, you can take a refreshing dip in one of the resort's pools - choose between the indoor option for year-round swimming or the outdoor pool for soaking up the Oklahoma sun. The resort also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate.
3. Border Casino: Where Texas Meets Oklahoma
Just a stone's throw from the Texas-Oklahoma border, about 90 miles from Dallas, sits the aptly named Border Casino. This establishment offers a more intimate gaming experience compared to its larger counterparts, but don't let its size fool you - with 88,000 square feet of gaming space and over 2,300 electronic games, there's plenty of action to be had.
One of the unique features of Border Casino is its daily happy hours. From Monday to Friday, 3 PM to 6 PM, you can enjoy special drink promotions, adding a festive atmosphere to your gaming experience.
The casino's location makes it a popular stop for Texans looking for a quick gaming fix without venturing too far from home. Its 24/7 operation means you can pop in for a few spins on the slots or settle in for a longer session, whatever suits your mood.
4. Riverstar Casino: A Hidden Gem on the Red River
If you're up for a slightly longer drive - about 118 miles from Dallas - Riverstar Casino offers a charming gaming experience in a picturesque setting along the Red River. This casino might be smaller than some of its counterparts, but with 37,000 square feet of gaming space, it still packs quite a punch.
Riverstar is home to 600 exciting electronic games, but what really sets it apart are its table games. Here, you can try your hand at Blackjack, 3 Card Poker, or Texas Hold'Em, adding a touch of classic casino glamour to your visit.
The casino's location near the river makes it a great option for those who want to combine their gaming trip with some outdoor activities. The surrounding area offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the Red River Valley before or after your casino visit.
5. Texoma Casino: Lakeside Gaming Fun
Last but not least on our tour is Texoma Casino, located about 103 miles from Dallas near the scenic Lake Texoma. Operated by the Chickasaw Nation, this casino offers a more laid-back gaming experience with a distinctly local flavor.
With 8,800 square feet of gaming space and over 370 electronic gaming machines, Texoma Casino is the smallest on our list, but it makes up for its size with charm and a friendly atmosphere. The casino's hours - 8 AM to 4 AM - make it a great option for early birds and night owls alike.
What makes Texoma Casino special is its proximity to Lake Texoma, one of the largest reservoirs in the United States. After trying your luck at the casino, you can enjoy boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the lake, making for a well-rounded weekend getaway.
Whether you're a serious gambler or just looking for a fun day trip from Dallas, these casinos offer a range of experiences to suit every taste. Remember to gamble responsibly, and enjoy exploring the exciting casino destinations that lie just beyond the Dallas city limits!