The first casinos in Canada were established in the 18th and 19th centuries by the British and French but they were mainly used for social and recreational purposes. It wasn’t until 1989 that the country would see its first modern casino open its doors in Winnipeg – this occurred after almost 100 years of banned gaming for profit activities since 1892.
Following Winnipeg, many more casinos opened across the country, with the majority being owned and operated by First Nations. Domestic online gaming activities would not be made legal until 2004 and it has also become increasingly popular in recent years.
However, the regulation of casinos in Canada is primarily the responsibility of the individual provinces and territories, with Ontario making the landmark decision only recently to allow third party gaming websites to set up shop within the province. Prior to this, Canadians would be forced to take their online custom to offshore operators.
We explore the best land-based casinos to visit in Canada today and what makes them so special.
Casino de Montréal
1 Avenue du Casino, Montreal, Quebec
The Casino de Montréal, located in the heart of Montreal, is the largest casino in Canada and one of the biggest in the world. Situated in the stunning Jean Drapeau Park on Notre Dame Island in the St. Lawrence River, it’s connected to the mainland by the Jacques Cartier Bridge.
With over 100 gaming tables and 3,000 slot machines, this casino offers a wide variety of games for visitors to enjoy. The casino also boasts several bars, restaurants and lounges, as well as a 1,000-seat theater that regularly hosts live performances from the likes of Tony Bennett, Elton John and Celine Dion.
Montreal is a fascinating city to experience and one of the main centers of francophone culture in North America. Conclude your trip with a visit to one of the finest casinos in the world.
Treasure Cove Casino and Bingo
2003 BC-97, Prince George, British Columbia
Visitors to Prince George, BC come for the wildlife-rich surroundings. Witness dramatic whirlpools at Fort George Canyon Provincial Park and explore rugged trails that wind through Eskers Provincial Park.
When you’ve had your fill of nature, Treasure Cove Casino and Bingo has all the comfort and luxury you’ll be craving to rest weary hikers’ limbs. Enjoy a range of wellness treatments at Nu Spa, tuck in to fine local cuisine at Crave or, if you’ve still got the energy, work up a sweat at the on-site gym.
As well as a range of table games and state of the art slots, Treasure Cove is home to an impressive bingo hall where BC residents can enjoy hours of 75-ball bingo entertainment and huge cash prizes – players can even play live from the comfort of their own home via the advanced streaming service.
If you’re not a BC resident, you can play online bingo from anywhere in the world at trusted providers like Jackpotjoy. There you’ll find a range of fun bingo variations and a library of new and exciting slots.
River Rock Casino Resort
8811 River Rd, Richmond, British Columbia
The River Rock Casino Resort, located in Richmond, British Columbia offers a wide variety of games, including baccarat, blackjack, craps, roulette and poker. The resort also features a hotel with over 400 rooms, several critically acclaimed restaurants, a spa and a fitness center.
Richmond is the Asian food capital of North America and the newly renovated Sea Harbour Seafood Restaurant at River Rock offers guests award-winning Cantonese cuisine. The casino’s enviable location on the Fraser River also makes it a popular spot for visitors looking to take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Fallsview Casino Resort
6380 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, Ontario
Another must-visit destination for casino enthusiasts, The Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls offers over 3,000 slot machines and 150 gaming tables, as well as several bars, restaurants and lounges. The resort’s location overlooking Niagara Falls makes it one of the most remarkable places in the world to enjoy your gaming sessions.
Casino Rama
5899 Rama Rd, Orillia, Ontario
Casino Rama is a large casino located on the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, offering a wide variety of games: 47 gaming tables, six poker tables and over 1800 slots and electronic table games. The all-suite, 300 room luxury hotel and spa has everything you need to make your stay an unforgettable one.
A 5,000 seat entertainment center and ten restaurants make for a unique experience each time you visit. Diana Ross, David Copperfield and Mariah Carey have all taped shows at the venue so chances are you may already have seen footage from there.
Canada is home to some of the most luxurious and exciting casinos in the world. From the glitz and glamour of the Casino de Montréal to the sophisticated elegance of the River Rock Casino Resort, there is something for everyone in Canada’s casino scene.
These casinos not only provide a great gaming experience but also offer fantastic entertainment and leisure options set in beautiful locations. So next time you’re in Canada, make sure to check out one of these casinos for an unforgettable experience.
