Gambling: Our Top Casinos in Blackhawk

Gambling made some headlines this week with the Supreme Court decision to legalize sports betting and it got us thinking. What are the best casinos in Colorado? Here's our favorites...

This week’s big Supreme Court sports gambling decision got us thinking… What are the best places in Colorado to test your luck?


[easyazon_infoblock align=”right” identifier=”B002TOK366″ locale=”US” tag=”coloradoavidg-20″]While you still can’t legally wager on sports in Colorado (that is, until the state passes legislation), Blackhawk has been enticing thrill seekers up the mountain path for years. There are so many options to choose from in Blackhawk and Central City and every venue has it’s own special charm. Do you want bigger, brighter and louder? How about small and historic? Colorado has it all built-in to the side of the mountain just minutes up I-70!

So, where are our favorite places to roll the dice and enjoy a night out?

Here are our Top Casinos in Blackhawk, Colorado:

Ameristar Blackhawk

The crown-jewel of the state’s mountain-side casino destination is Ameristar. Boasting over 1,250 slot machines and 40+ table games this resort with a mountain lodge feel has the best atmosphere of any casino in Colorado. With its soaring skylight ceilings, slate floors, timber beams and massive floor-to-ceiling stone fireplaces, this two-story casino has a rustic elegance that goes nearly unmatched. Grab a bite to eat at Fireside before your night and do your best to sit down at tables inside Ameristar’s rotunda bar in the middle of the gaming floor.

Pro Tip: Become a MyChoice member and try the excellent blackened catfish at Ameristar’s Club 38, for VIP’s only.

The Lodge Casino

Located right across the street from our first venue, The Lodge is stockpiled with video slots and a handy hot-slots list to help you make the best playing choice. Even though it’s slightly limited on the table-game front this laid back vibe is a great place to start or end the evening out. Plus, for you military members and first-responders, there’s a 20% off hotel room rate and 20% off buffet meals.

Pro Tip: The Seasons Buffet is hands-down the best buffet in Blackhawk. Don’t pass it up.

Saratoga Casino

The is the place to play craps in Blackhawk. The master dealers and stickmen at Saratoga offer a lively atmosphere and some serious sharpshooter and bonus craps payouts. The best part about them though? There’s no reason to be nervous if you don’t know the rules— simply ask, listen and learn. These guys are dedicated to your enjoyment and it shows. PLUS: Saratoga offers $2 minimum on blackjack tables during the week if you’re ballin’ on a budget.

Pro Tip: UFC lives at Saratoga. $2 drink specials and $3 food specials come up ever fight night, so check the schedule.

The Isle Casino

Home to one of our favorite poker rooms up the hill, The Isle is one of the biggest casinos in Blackhawk. If you’re looking for the all-in-one destination this is it. Farradday’s is a choice award-winning restaurant and if you’re looking for healthier eats on your night out, check out Farmer’s Pick Buffet for a light and delicious meal. Back to the poker, though— the room has 10 flat screens to watch sports as you play and non-stop complimentary drink service. Want to make like Chris Moneymaker? The Isle is where it’s at.

Pro Tip: Play six hours of poker and earn a free night’s stay. The key is staying in the game, so play smart!


Colorado AvidGolfer is the state’s leading resource for golf and the lifestyle that surrounds it, publishing eight issues annually and proudly delivering daily content via coloradoavidgolfer.com.

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