Throughout the past 30 years, the Nola casino industry has weathered fires, hurricanes, and more. In 1992, land-based casinos, as we know them today, were officially legal in the city of New Orleans. It wouldn’t be until 1990 that other avenues of gambling became legal. It even boasts of one of the oldest racetracks in America, The Fair Grounds Race Course, which opened its doors in 1872. In the 1900’s, Louisiana was a popular destination for those wanting to test their luck on the racetracks.

The casino ban made way for the formation of the city’s only official form of gambling: horse racing. Gambling was legal in the city until 1866, when the first Louisiana Lottery was introduced. Throughout the early 1800’s, casinos were a staple in the New Orleans local culture and tourism economy. New Orleans claims a long-standing history with the casino industry dating back to the late 18th century. We’ve rounded up the best casinos in New Orleans for you so that you can skip the guessing and head straight for the prize. But, with so many options, where do you invest your time and money?

With over 3,000 slot machines and 130+ table games throughout the city, the bets are high that you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. Give lady luck a run for her money before ending your night at one of the city’s best bars. You can choose between a casino hotel in the heart of the French Quarter, a tucked-away riverboat casino in Kenner, or one of the nation’s oldest racetracks in the Fairgrounds neighborhood.

Given that we have vacation rentals strewn throughout New Orleans, it’s up to you if you prefer to be strategically near or far from the casino that most entices you. After strolling through Mid City or bar-hopping down Bourbon Street, locals and tourists love to test their luck in one of the Crescent City’s 47 gambling locations.

There are no shortage of entertainment options in New Orleans and the casino scene definitely lives up to the city’s unique, extravagant reputation.

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