Nicest Casino In Southern California
The United States is home to some 1,500 casinos scattered from coast to coast, more than any other nation on the planet. USA TODAY 10Best teamed up with a panel of casino and gambling experts to find the best in the USA.
- Nicest Casino In Southern California 18 And Over
- Morongo Casino Resort&spa
- Biggest Casino In Southern California
- Nicest Casino In Southern California To Win
- Nicest Casino In Southern California Cities
- Best Casino Buffet In Southern California
Pechanga Resort & Casino
Temecula, Calif.Located in Southern California, Pechanga Resort & Casino houses a 200,000-square-foot casino floor where gamblers will find 3,400 slots, 130 table games, a 43-table poker room, 700-seat Bingo hall and dedicated areas for high limits and non-smoking gamers.
Photo courtesy of Pechanga Resort & CasinoMohegan Sun
Uncasville, Conn.One of two gambling destination resorts in Connecticut, Mohegan Sun features three casinos: Casino of the Earth, Casino of the Wind and Casino of the Sky. The three gaming floors between them boast a whopping 5,000 slot machines, 275 table games, 42 poker tables, a race book, two smoke-free areas and Sunrise Square, an area fashioned after an Asian market that offers traditional Asian table games like Sic Bo, Pai Gow Poker and Baccarat.
Photo courtesy of Mohegan SunFoxwoods Resort Casino
Mashantucket, Conn.One of two premier gaming resorts in Connecticut, Foxwoods Resort Casino offers 4,500 slot machines – ranging from penny games to $100 minimums – as well as 300 table games, high stakes Bingo at one of the world's largest Bingo halls, a race book with 50-foot digital projection screens and the largest poker room on the East Coast. Four unique hotel properties and over 30 restaurants make it easy to stay and play.
Photo courtesy of Foxwoods Resort CasinoL'Auberge Casino Resort
Lake Charles, La.L'Auberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles, Louisiana sits only two hours from the Houston metro area, making it a convenient place to enjoy 70,000-square-feet of gaming space equipped with 70 table games and some 1,600 slots. The casino's High Limits Salon offers even more tables and slots with denominations up to $100, while its 2,100-square-foot, 24/7 poker room has six tables plus one semi-private high stakes table.
Photo courtesy of Pinnacle EntertainmentHard Rock Hotel and Casino Biloxi
Biloxi, Miss.In true Hard Rock style, guests of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Biloxi get a free music download at check-in. The expansive casino boasts 1,300 slots, including 500 video slots, as well as 50 table games and four poker tables.
Photo courtesy of Hard Rock Hotel and Casino BiloxiHarrah's Resort Southern California
Valley Center, Calif.Bringing the Vegas experience to SoCal, the casino at Harrah's Resort Southern California features 60 table games and 1,700 slot machines, including a wide variety of video poker and Blazing 7s games. Non-smokers enjoy their own area outfitted with 100 popular machines, while a high-stakes slot room sees games with denominations up to $100.
Photo courtesy of Harrah's Resort Southern CaliforniaBorgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Atlantic CityThe only nominee in Atlantic City, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa at Renaissance Pointe opened its doors in 2003 as the first new hotel in over a decade. Today, the 2,000-room resort offers gamblers 3,475 slot machines, 250 table games and Atlantic City's largest poker room, all spread out over 161,000-square-feet of casino space. Restaurants by Bobby Flay and Wolfgang Puck headline the culinary lineup, while the 2,400-seat Borgata Event Center plays host to some of the world's biggest names in music.
Photo courtesy of Borgata Hotel Casino & SpaRed Rock Casino Resort & Spa
Las VegasFrequented by both locals and tourists, the Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa sits on 70 acres of land near the beautiful Red Rock Mountains in Summerlin, about 10 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip. The resort casino includes 3,000 slot and video poker machines, 60 table games, a race and sports book with a 96-foot video wall, a 20-table smoke-free poker room, 600-seat Bingo hall, a 20-seat Keno lounge and two private rooms for high-stakes gamers.
Photo courtesy of Red Rock Casino Resort & SpaFrench Lick Resort
French Lick, Ind.Located in French Lick, Indiana, the French Lick Resort features a 51,000-square-foot Vegas-style casino with 1,000 slots, 37 table games, a high-limit area and a 9,500-square-foot non-smoking gaming room with both table games and slots. Two historic hotels with spas dating back to the 1800s facilitate relaxation.
Photo courtesy of French Lick ResortThunder Valley Casino Resort
Lincoln, Calif.The 144,500-square-foot casino at Thunder Valley Resort in Northern California has just about everything a gambler could want in a casino: table games, 2,500 slot machines, a 24-hour poker room, 500-seat smoke-free Bingo hall and high limits salons with their own dedicated dealers, private bars, flat-screen TVs and plenty of tables and slots with bets ranging from $100 to $5,000.
Photo courtesy of Thunder Valley Casino Resort
After four weeks of reader voting, the polls are closed and we have a winner!
An Exclusive Selection of Boutique Hotels and Small Luxury Hotels in California with best guest rating. Book online or on request with no fees or extra costs. This luxury casino and resort is home to Southern California's largest outdoor ice rink where skaters can glide under the stars from late October through the end of January and catch flicks like Frozen or Home Alone while on the ice. Viejas' Lobby Bar serves up craft cocktails, live music and your favorite sports on giant flatscreens, while.
It was an intense battle between the top three finishers, and Pechanga Resort & Casino pulled off a come-from-behind victory to take the top spot and the title of 'Best U.S. Casino.'
The state of Connecticut proved itself as a worthy gambling destination with the second- and third-place casinos: Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casino respectively.
Las Vegas, the city most famous for its gambling scene, only had one casino finish in the top 10.
The top 10 winners in the category 'Best U.S. Casino' are as follows:
- Pechanga Resort & Casino - Temecula, Calif.
- Mohegan Sun - Uncasville, Conn.
- Foxwoods Resort Casino - Mashantucket, Conn.
- L'Auberge Casino Resort - Lake Charles, La.
- Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Biloxi - Biloxi, Miss.
- Harrah's Resort Southern California - Valley Center, Calif.
- Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa - Atlantic City
- Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa - Las Vegas
- French Lick Resort - French Lick, Ind.
- Thunder Valley Casino Resort - Lincoln, Calif.
A panel of experts picked the initial 20 nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote. Experts Lisa Robertson-Dziedzic (Casino Player and Strictly Slots magazines) and Tony Harrell (Abundant Travel) were chosen based on their extensive knowledge of U.S. casinos.
Additional nominees for 'Best U.S. Casino' included Aria Resort & Casino, Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, Bellagio, Caesars Palace Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Mirage Hotel & Casino, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and Wynn Las Vegas.
10Best and USA TODAY extend their congratulations to all the winners. The contest was promoted on 10Best and USA TODAY.
The Experts
Lisa Robertson-Dziedzic
Lisa Robertson-Dziedzic is the Publisher of Casino... Read More
Lisa Robertson-Dziedzic is the Publisher of Casino Player magazine and Strictly Slots magazine. Now in its 32nd year, Casino Player has thrived as America’s most popular gambling magazine. Over the decades, millions of gamblers have enjoyed and benefited from Casino Player’s gaming strategies, as well as its ever-changing lifestyle stories. In 1994, Lisa launched its sister publication, Strictly Slots, the nation’s only magazine written exclusively for slots and video poker players. Lisa is an accomplished director specializing in the gaming industry and has more than 35 years of publishing experience.
Lisa Robertson-Dziedzic
Lisa Robertson-Dziedzic is the Publisher of Casino Player magazine and Strictly Slots magazine. Now in its 32nd year, Casino Player has thrived as America’s most popular gambling magazine. Over the decades, millions of gamblers have enjoyed and benefited from Casino Player’s gaming strategies, as well as its ever-changing lifestyle stories. In 1994, Lisa launched its sister publication, Strictly Slots, the nation’s only magazine written exclusively for slots and video poker players. Lisa is an accomplished director specializing in the gaming industry and has more than 35 years of publishing experience.
Tony Harrell
Tony Harrell, travel consultant and owner of Read More
Tony Harrell, travel consultant and owner of Abundant Travel, plans customized vacations for plus-size clients and customers of any size. He is a certified destination expert for Las Vegas and New Orleans as well as Canada. He feels that while Las Vegas is the obvious American mecca for gambling and other entertainment, there are other destinations across the country that are worth the trip.
Tony Harrell
Tony Harrell, travel consultant and owner of Abundant Travel, plans customized vacations for plus-size clients and customers of any size. He is a certified destination expert for Las Vegas and New Orleans as well as Canada. He feels that while Las Vegas is the obvious American mecca for gambling and other entertainment, there are other destinations across the country that are worth the trip.
Spa at Solage Calistoga, Courtesy of Solage Calistoga
While California’s wine regions may be most famous for the world-class wine and beautiful scenery, when you just need a moment to chill out, there’s no better place to be than in Wine Country. From detoxifying mud treatments in Calistoga to rejuvenating facials in Santa Barbara, these 12 luxurious California Wine Country spa hotels and resorts have all you need to relax and unwind with some well-deserved pampering.
Calistoga Ranch
The Auberge Spa, Courtesy of Calistoga Ranch
Calistoga, Napa Valley
Nestled in a private canyon just outside the town of Calistoga, the 50-room Calistoga Ranch is the ultimate luxury retreat in Wine Country. Designed to fully immerse oneself in nature, the Ranch is set amongst 157 acres of pristine, natural landscapes, where private lodges showcase inviting natural décor, peaceful indoor/outdoor spaces, and outdoor showers surrounded by moss-laden trees. As if a stay here isn’t relaxing enough, The Auberge Spa offers numerous restorative treatments utilizing indigenous minerals and natural botanicals to nourish the mind, body, and soul. Soak in one of the private outdoor mineral pools, ease away any lingering tension with a signature massage, or decompress with a complimentary yoga class — whatever it is you choose to do here, Calistoga Ranch makes it easy to find a moment of zen.
580 Lommel Road, Calistoga, CA 94515, (888) 947-6442
Meadowood
The Spa at Meadowood, Courtesy of Meadowood
St. Helena, Napa Valley
Nicest Casino In Southern California 18 And Over
Luxury is the name of the game at Meadowood, the renowned Napa Valley resort that boasts five star accommodations, deluxe amenities, and destination-worthy dining. Situated on a secluded 250-acre property outside of St. Helena, this beautiful resort encourages a leisurely pace, whether making use of the in-room deep soaking tubs, playing croquet on the lawn, or sipping local libations during the daily wine reception. Dinner at the Michelin-starred The Restaurant at Meadowood shouldn’t be missed, but neither should finding the time to retreat to the resort’s elegant wellness spa, where rejuvenating treatments, relaxation gardens, and a healthy food menu are sure to leave you feeling totally blissed out.
900 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (877) 684-0724
Vintners Resort
Courtesy of Vintners Resort
Santa Rosa, Sonoma County
Situated on 92 acres of vineyards and beautiful gardens outside of Santa Rosa, the 44-room Vintners Resort is an elegant oasis designed with serenity in mind. Rooms featuring king feather beds, Jacuzzi tubs, and fireplaces add to the Inn’s luxurious ambiance, while a fitness center, Bocce ball court, and walking trails encourage leisurely exploration. Vintners Resort’s new day spa, Vi La Vita Spa, offers a variety of deluxe services and packages focused on helping you reconnect, both mentally and physically. If looking for a dose of serenity with your loved one, book a treatment for two in the couples’ spa room, which includes wine and a light bite, enjoyed from the private outdoor patio with a rain shower.
4350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, (707) 575-7350
Solage Calistoga
Courtesy of Solage Calistoga
Calistoga, Napa Valley
The five-star Solage Calistoga exudes stylish sophistication throughout the property, from the inviting loft-style accommodations to the luxe amenities focused on helping you unwind in Wine Country. Designed to evoke a modern farmhouse feel, suites and studios showcase vaulted ceilings, fireplaces, and expansive patios, while some up the ante with jetted hot tubs for two. Spend your days cruising around on the complimentary bikes, eating farm-to-table fare at the acclaimed restaurant, Solbar, or basking in the sunshine beside the chic, 130-foot pool. When you’re ready to take your (non-existent) stress levels down yet another notch, head to the 20,000-square-foot Spa Solage for the ultimate day of pampering. Whether you opt for a signature treatment using mineral-enriched mud or simply soak in the geothermal mineral pools at The Bathhouse, the Spa Solage will surely melt all your worries away.
755 Silverado Trail North, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 226-0800
Vista Collina
Spa Terra, Courtesy of Vista Collina
Morongo Casino Resort&spa
Napa
As one of Napa’s newest resorts, the Tuscan-inspired Vista Collina is sure to impress every type of traveler, from wine lovers to foodies, couples to families. Each of the 145 rooms, including 39 suites with living rooms and fully-equipped kitchens, offer a quiet place to rest your head, while the long list of deluxe amenities makes it easy to fill every waking moment with something fun. Arrange for a curated picnic through the on-site Lawn Butler Service, attend a culinary class at the Food & Wine Center, or lounge poolside in one of the private cabanas. When you’re ready to slow down a bit, the tranquil Spa Terra is your place. Set inside a 22,000-square-foot estate cave, Spa Terra offers a locally-inspired menu of alluring treatments, as well as whirlpools, steam rooms, and a peaceful relaxation lounge — everything you need to feel rested and rejuvenated before doing it all again the next day.
850 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 251-3060
Ritz-Carlton Santa Barbara Bacara
Adults-only spa pool, Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Bacara
Goleta, Santa Barbara County
Located on 78 acres roughly 30 miles from Santa Barbara Wine Country, this oceanfront resort enchants with its picturesque views, pristine pools, and varied dining options. After recently undergoing several enhancements throughout, the revitalized Bacara is a worthy destination for those looking for secluded luxury. Whether you stay for a weekend or for a week, make a point to visit the expansive on-site spa for a blissful day of relaxation. Book one of the body or skin treatments and you’ll get to enjoy the spa’s plush locker room amenities, like the eucalyptus steam room and sauna, as well as access to the rooftop relaxation terrace and the peaceful adults-only spa pool.
8301 Hollister Avenue, Goleta, CA 93117, (855) 968-0100
Carneros Resort and Spa
Courtesy of Carneros Resort and Spa
Carneros, Napa Valley
Nestled on 28 acres and surrounded by vineyards is the stylish Carneros Resort and Spa. Here, private cottages blend rustic, farm-like ambiance with stylish, modern interiors to capture the allure of Wine Country, while amenities like three on-site restaurants, a high-end boutique, and two pools make it easy to settle in and never want to leave the property. The Spa at Carneros, which recently underwent a renovation, has just what you need for a day of R&R, including a redesigned menu of special treatments, a private infrared sauna, new indoor and outdoor relaxation spaces, and even indoor/outdoor showers.
Biggest Casino In Southern California
4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 299-4900
Kenwood Inn & Spa
Courtesy of Kenwood Inn and Spa
Kenwood, Sonoma Valley
Located in the quaint Sonoma Valley town of Kenwood, the Mediterranean-styled Kenwood Inn & Spa makes for a tranquil escape in Wine Country. All of the inn’s 29 Italian-influenced rooms and suites offer a peaceful place to unwind, thanks to plush details like in-room fireplaces, private terraces or balconies, and luxurious feather beds, and perks like freshly baked chocolate chip cookies upon arrival and the afternoon wine and cheese hour add to the overall welcoming vibe. While the spa is currently undergoing renovations (set to reopen this summer), expect to find upgraded relaxation spaces and reimagined treatments that will no doubt enhance an already memorable stay in Wine Country.
10400 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA 95452, 707-833-1293
Belmond El Encanto
Courtesy of Belmond
Santa Barbara
With its inviting, airy interiors, timeless California glamour, and sweeping views of Santa Barbara, Belmond El Encanto has everything needed for a tranquil, five star getaway. This iconic hillside hotel, which is celebrating its 101st anniversary, may not technically be in Wine Country, but is within minutes of Santa Barbara’s numerous urban wineries. It also does a fine job of highlighting the bounty of the region, from locally-sourced culinary delights and regional wines to locally-made products available in the boutique shop. To make a stay here even more sublime, be sure to visit the spa to enjoy one of the many treatments available. Inspired by nature’s healing powers, services use fresh botanicals and tropical ingredients to revive the mind and body. Opt for a citrus, basil and mint body scrub or one of the custom facials designed by skincare guru Linda Ross, then extend your afternoon of “me time” by making use of the spa’s serenity lounge, rain showers, and garden patio.
800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, (805) 845-5800
Nicest Casino In Southern California To Win
Carmel Valley Ranch
Infinity hot tub, Courtesy of Carmel Valley Ranch
Carmel Valley
Set on 500 acres just eight miles inland from Carmel, there’s plenty of room to play and explore at Carmel Valley Ranch, where luxury seamlessly intertwines with a sense of wild rusticity. With guest rooms featuring spacious decks, fireplaces, Nespresso coffee makers, and cozy robes, it would be easy to hole up inside all day and night, but a variety of daily activities, several pools (including two saltwater pools), and scenic hiking trails will find you eager to jump out of bed each day. A stay here is rejuvenating in its own right, but when you’re ready to spoil yourself even more, head to Spa Aiyana, where customized treatments feature products and ingredients inspired by the landscape of Carmel Valley. From massage and body treatments to facial and nail services, Spa Aiyana is the place to go for an indulgent day of pampering.
One Old Ranch Road, Carmel, CA 93923, (831) 620-6427
Pechanga Resort & Casino
Spa lobby, Courtesy of Pechanga Resort & Casino
Temecula Valley
While the main draw of this Temecula Valley resort is its expansive casino, home to the largest casino floor in California, there’s no shortage of fun activities to fill your time, thanks to 13 on-site restaurants, a par-72 golf course, and several luxury shopping boutiques. But when you’re ready to step away from all the action, there’s no better place to go than to the resort’s 25,000-square-foot spa. Pre or post treatment, enjoy the spa’s steam rooms, saunas, and relaxation areas, or take one of the complimentary fitness classes offered Wednesdays through Sundays, then retreat to your well-appointed room to take advantage of 24-hour room service.
45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula, CA, 92592, (888) 732-4264
The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance
Spa garden, Courtesy of The Lodge at Sonoma
Sonoma
This recently renovated resort in Sonoma offers all the charm of Wine Country alongside modern amenities and a variety of lodging options. Spend your days noshing on Mediterranean-style fare at the on-site restaurant, sipping local libations at The Lodge’s wine bar, or taking a dip in the heated outdoor pool, but don’t skip a visit to the spa. Indulge in a beauty or wellness therapy treatment, then enjoy luxurious spa amenities like the eucalyptus steam rooms, outdoor cabanas in the private spa garden, and warm soaking pools — don’t be surprised if you find yourself visiting more than once.
Nicest Casino In Southern California Cities
1325 Broadway, Sonoma, CA 95476, (707) 935-6600