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Tennessee Casinos - Best Gambling Locations in TN
Read reviews and compare the top casinos in the volunteer state.
Tennessee, while celebrated for its rich musical history and natural beauty, maintains a conservative approach toward certain gambling activities. The state gambling laws do not allow for any brick-and-mortar casinos, slot parlors, or online gambling applications . This position aligns with some of the traditional and cultural values upheld by a segment of its residents. While the Tennessee Lottery exists and offers various games to residents, traditional casino-style gaming is absent.
Most Popular Casinos in Tennessee Reviewed
Tennessee has a distinct stance on gambling, being notably absent of any traditional brick-and-mortar casinos within its territory. For enthusiasts seeking to experience Tennessee land based casinos, this may come across as restrictive. However, a journey to neighboring Mississippi or Missouri unlocks a plethora of casino entertainment. Keep in mind that in these states, the legal gambling age is 21, so make sure you’re of age before diving into the excitement.
#1 Ameristar Casino Vicksburg
Perched on the Mississippi River’s scenic banks, the Ameristar Casino in Vicksburg is a dazzling testament to the blending of modern entertainment with the rich history of the South. Established in 1994, the Ameristar Casino Vicksburg has since become a premier gaming destination for both locals and visitors.
Located in Vicksburg, Mississippi, a town brimming with Civil War history, this casino is a fusion of the past and present. It’s not just the strategic location that draws in the crowds, but also the promise of a comprehensive gaming experience. The casino boasts a sprawling gaming space, packed with a wide array of options for both casual players and hardcore enthusiasts.
Offering thousands of the latest slot machines and dozens of table games, players can immerse themselves in popular titles and classics alike. Renowned software providers like IGT, Bally, and Aristocrat ensure that gaming quality is top-notch and consistently updated with the latest industry standards.
Beyond the gaming floors, Ameristar Vicksburg extends its hospitality with its adjoining hotel. The hotel, a beacon of comfort and luxury, is equipped with over 140 rooms. Each room is designed to provide guests with a serene retreat after a pulsating day at the casino. It’s not just the number of rooms but the quality of stay and attentive service that set Ameristar’s accommodations apart.
The exact size of the casino is a sprawling 70,000 square feet, making it one of the largest in the region. This expansive space is meticulously planned to ensure players have ample room to navigate and explore their favorite games. The interior design echoes a blend of modern aesthetics with subtle nods to Mississippi’s rich heritage, creating an ambiance that’s both inviting and awe-inspiring.
#2 Golden Moon Casino
Golden Moon Casino, a radiant gem in Mississippi’s gaming landscape, is located at Pearl River Resort in Choctaw, Mississippi. Rising like a beacon, it stands adjacent to its sister casino, Silver Star, and together they offer a comprehensive gaming and entertainment experience in the region.
Inaugurated in 2002, Golden Moon was conceived as an expansion to the already popular Silver Star Casino. It’s no surprise that this establishment quickly cemented its reputation as a top-tier gaming destination. The casino is housed within a spectacular structure that, true to its name, reflects the celestial beauty of a golden moon.
Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by an expansive gaming floor that boasts over 1,150 slot machines. The variety is impressive, catering to both newcomers and seasoned gamblers. The casino floor resonates with the chimes and cheers from popular titles, thanks to partnerships with leading software providers like IGT, Aristocrat, and Bally.
For those who prefer table action, the casino doesn’t disappoint. From Blackjack to Mississippi Stud, the array of table games ensures that there’s something for everyone.
One of the standout features of Golden Moon Casino is its hotel. Towering 28 stories above the lush Mississippi landscape, it offers guests an unrivaled view and luxurious accommodations. The hotel is home to over 570 rooms and suites, each crafted to encapsulate both comfort and elegance. Whether it’s a standard room or a lavish suite, the attention to detail and guest-centric amenities are evident.
The Golden Moon Casino, in itself, spans an impressive 70,000 square feet. It’s a well-organized expanse, with each corner meticulously curated to enhance the guest’s gaming experience. From its layout to its ambiance, every aspect of the casino invites guests to immerse themselves fully into the world of gaming.
#3 Bok Homa Casino
Tucked away in the scenic heart of Sandersville, Mississippi, Bok Homa Casino stands as a testament to modern gaming experiences. This gem in the southern gaming scene has quickly become a favorite for many, from local regulars to out-of-town visitors.
Since opening its doors in 2010, Bok Homa Casino has been continuously offering a dynamic gaming experience to its guests. The casino is proudly operated by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, which adds a unique cultural touch to its modern aesthetic. The sprawling gaming space vibrates with energy, offering a diverse mix of the latest slot machines and table games.
With more than 700 slot machines, players are truly spoilt for choice. Titles from acclaimed software providers such as IGT, Konami, and Aristocrat resonate throughout the floor. While the casino’s primary focus seems to be on slots, there is an intimate collection of table games, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From blackjack to a thrilling game of Mississippi Stud, each table promises an adrenaline-packed experience.
While Bok Homa doesn’t house its own hotel, its proximity to the nearby sister properties at Pearl River Resort, like the Golden Moon and Silver Star hotels, ensures that accommodation is never an issue for guests wanting an extended stay. These hotels offer a diverse range of rooms and luxury suites, making it convenient for casino-goers to relax and rejuvenate after a vibrant day at the casino.
Spread over 27,000 square feet, Bok Homa Casino might not be the largest in the region, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in its lively atmosphere and dedication to customer satisfaction. The layout of the casino ensures easy navigation, allowing guests to effortlessly move between their favorite games.
List of All Casinos in Tennessee
In the absence of any top Tennessee casinos, here are some options you can explore in neighboring Mississippi.
Casino Games in Tennessee
In the colorful tapestry of American gambling, Tennessee has its unique shade of gaming experience. Unlike states like Mississippi, Tennessee doesn’t offer a multitude of land-based casinos for visitors and residents to enjoy the spin of roulette or the thrill of blackjack. But the allure of gambling is undeniable, and aficionados always chart their course.
While Tennessee might not open its gates wide to flashy casino lights, a brief trip to its neighbors might satisfy your gaming appetite. For instance, Mississippi, often referred to as the ‘Magnolia State’, boasts a vibrant casino culture. Venturing here, you’ll encounter bustling poker rooms, shimmering slot machines, and the exciting clamor of craps tables, providing an exhilarating backdrop for both novices and veteran players.
Before you’re lured by the energetic ambiance of Mississippi’s casinos, arm yourself with some crucial insights. Embracing responsible gambling is paramount, ensuring both an enjoyable and secure gaming journey. In Mississippi, just as in numerous other states, you must be 21 or older to participate in real-money casino games.
Slot Machines
In the evolving landscape of American gambling, Tennessee’s stance on slot machines at land-based casinos is clear: they’re not legally permitted. Unlike some of its neighbors, Tennessee maintains strict regulations against traditional casino gambling, including the use of slot machines.
This means, if you’re in Tennessee and itching for that familiar pull of a slot lever, you’ll find yourself out of luck within state lines. However, should the state’s stance change in the future and casinos emerge, various top-notch providers would likely jump at the opportunity to offer their games, given the popularity of slots nationwide. Slot machine titles you might expect to find, were they allowed in Tennessee:
- Wheel of Fortune
- Buffalo Gold
- Dancing Drums
- Mega Moolah
In Tennessee, the spinning wheel of roulette and the anticipation of where the ball might land is a sight you won’t find in land-based casinos, primarily because such casinos and games like roulette are not legally permitted within the state. While the glamour and excitement of roulette tables are signature elements in many American casinos, Tennessee’s regulations have kept them at bay. If you’re a fan of this classic casino game, you’ll need to explore options outside the Volunteer State’s boundaries.
Variants of roulette you might expect to find, were it allowed in Tennessee:
- European Roulette
- American Roulette
- French Roulette
- Multi-Wheel Roulette
- Double Ball Roulette
In Tennessee, the thrilling challenge of beating the dealer to 21 in a game of blackjack isn’t something you’ll experience in land-based casinos, simply because the state hasn’t given the green light to such establishments. This means that iconic games like blackjack, often considered the heartbeat of many casinos, aren’t on offer within the state’s borders. For those with a keen interest in this card game, venturing beyond Tennessee might be the best bet.
Variants of blackjack you might hypothetically find, were they allowed in Tennessee:
- Classic Blackjack
- European Blackjack
- Double Exposure Blackjack
- Blackjack Switch
- Atlantic City Blackjack
In Tennessee’s tapestry of gaming, the dynamic game of craps stands conspicuously absent. Despite its widespread popularity in many American casinos, craps tables aren’t a feature in the state due to its regulations against traditional casino gambling. If you’re in Tennessee with an urge to roll the dice and shout for a seven or eleven, you’ll need to manage your expectations. For enthusiasts, this means that the raucous and exciting craps experience requires a journey beyond the state’s borders.
Video Poker
In Tennessee, if you’re on the hunt for video poker machines at land-based casinos, you’ll find yourself coming up short. The state’s regulations do not currently permit traditional casino gambling, which includes popular games like video poker. This means that the strategic blend of slots and classic poker, encapsulated in video poker, remains out of reach within Tennessee’s boundaries. However, for a reference, popular video poker games often found elsewhere include:
- Jacks or Better
- Deuces Wild
- Bonus Poker
- Double Bonus Poker
Casino Poker Games
Casino poker games, which combine the elements of traditional poker with the atmosphere of a casino setting, are not present in Tennessee’s land-based venues due to state regulations. If you’re in Tennessee with a craving for such poker variants, you won’t find them locally. Instead, enthusiasts might need to venture to neighboring states to indulge.
- Texas Hold’em
- Omaha Hi/Lo
- Seven-Card Stud
- Three Card Poker
Riverboat Casinos in Tennessee
Tennessee, with its rich tapestry of rivers and waterways, might seem an ideal place for riverboat casinos. However, in contrast to some of its neighboring states, Tennessee has not legalized riverboat gambling. Despite the potential allure of floating casinos on the Mississippi or Tennessee Rivers, the state’s legislation has kept such enterprises at bay. This means residents and visitors won’t find the quintessential riverboat casino experience, often characterized by paddlewheel-driven vessels offering a variety of games and entertainment, within Tennessee’s waters.
While riverboat gambling became popular in several states as a workaround to gambling restrictions on dry land, Tennessee has remained steadfast in its conservative stance towards casino gambling, irrespective of the venue. For those seeking the unique ambiance of riverboat casinos, they’d need to venture to states like Missouri, Illinois, or Louisiana, where such establishments have been embraced and integrated into the local gaming culture.
Online Gambling in Tennessee
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Indian Gaming Tribes in Tennessee
Indian Gaming, a significant component of the U.S. gambling landscape, is notably absent in Tennessee. This is because Tennessee, unlike several other states, doesn’t have federally recognized tribes with established gaming compacts permitting casino operations on tribal lands. The lack of such agreements means that there aren’t tribal casinos where residents or visitors can engage in various forms of gambling, a contrast to many other U.S. states where tribal gaming plays a pivotal role in the local economy and cultural preservation.
However, it’s crucial to differentiate between the absence of gaming compacts and the presence of Native American tribes. Tennessee is home to descendants of various tribes, but they currently don’t operate gaming facilities due to a combination of historical displacement and the state’s current legal framework.
Gambling Taxes in Tennessee
Navigating the gambling tax landscape in Tennessee presents a unique scenario, primarily because Tennessee does not have any land-based casinos within its borders. This means the question of how gamblers are taxed on winnings from such venues is somewhat moot in the context of the state. Tennessee’s strict gambling regulations have prevented the establishment of traditional casinos, both on land and on water, including riverboats.
However, it’s important to note that, in general, the U.S. federal government requires all gambling winnings to be reported as income, regardless of the state in which they are earned. This means that even if a Tennessee resident were to win at a casino in a neighboring state, those winnings would still be subject to federal income tax.
If TN land based casinos eventually exist, it would likely implement a system to tax gambling winnings at the state level, similar to many other states. Such a tax system would ensure the state benefits from the additional revenue, which could be used to fund various programs and services.
Tennessee Gambling FAQ
When was casino gambling legalized in tennessee.
As of the time of writing, casino gambling had not been legalized in Tennessee. Tennessee has been historically conservative when it comes to gambling, with only a state lottery, limited online sports betting, and a few other minor exceptions. There are no brick-and-mortar casinos in the state.
What is the legal gambling age for casinos in Tennessee?
Tennessee does not have brick-and-mortar casinos, and therefore, there wasn’t a specified legal gambling age for casinos in the state. However, for other forms of legal gambling like the state lottery and online sports betting, the legal age was 18. It’s worth noting that if Tennessee were to legalize casinos in the future, the legal gambling age could be set at either 18 or 21, as it varies by state in the U.S.
Is charitable gambling allowed in Tennessee?
Yes, charitable gambling is allowed in Tennessee, specifically in the form of bingo games and raffles. Organizations seeking to conduct these games must meet certain requirements and obtain the appropriate licenses from the state. The funds raised through these activities must be used for charitable purposes, and there are regulations in place to ensure the integrity of the games and the proper use of proceeds. Charitable gambling is overseen by the Tennessee Division of Charitable Solicitations and Gaming.
Is online sports betting legal in Tennessee?
Yes, online sports betting is legal in Tennessee. The state legalized online-only sports betting with the passage of the Tennessee Sports Gaming Act in 2019. Tennessee’s approach is unique because it doesn’t require operators to be tied to any physical location or casino, given that there are no brick-and-mortar casinos in the state. The online sports betting platforms began accepting wagers on November 1, 2020.
Is online live dealer poker legal in Tennessee?
While the state had legalized online sports betting, it had not extended that legalization to other forms of online gambling, including poker. Tennessee has traditionally had restrictive gambling laws, and there were no online casinos or online poker rooms legally operating within the state. For the most current information, it would be advisable to consult the latest Tennessee state statutes or regulatory authorities.
Are there online casinos in Tennessee?
The state had legalized online sports betting at the time of writing, but other forms of online casino gambling , including live dealer casino games , remained prohibited. Tennessee’s gambling landscape has been traditionally restrictive, with the state not having brick-and-mortar casinos either.
Are there horse racing betting facilities in Tennessee?
While horse racing itself is not illegal in the state, pari-mutuel betting on horse races is prohibited. Historically, there was a track called the “Nashville Raceway,” but it was primarily for auto racing and not horse racing. Thus, while horse racing as a sport might occur in Tennessee, legal betting facilities for horse races were not in operation at that time.
Is there dog racing and betting in Tennessee?
The state does not have any operational dog racing tracks. Historically, Tennessee has been conservative regarding gambling activities, and dog racing has not been a part of the state’s gambling landscape. It’s always a good idea to consult the latest Tennessee state statutes or regulatory authorities for the most current information on this subject.
Do Tennessee casinos have free parking?
As of the time of writing, Tennessee did not have any brick-and-mortar casinos. Therefore, the question of free parking at Tennessee casinos does not apply. Tennessee has been historically restrictive in terms of gambling, with limited exceptions like the state lottery and online sports betting.
What is the tax revenue for Tennessee casinos?
Tennessee does not currently house any brick-and-mortar casinos. Consequently, there is no tax revenue generated from casino operations in the state. Tennessee had been historically restrictive in its approach to casino gambling. Any tax revenue from gambling in Tennessee would primarily come from online sports betting and the state lottery, but not from casinos.
Are any new casinos being built in Tennessee?
As of the time of writing, there were no brick-and-mortar casinos in Tennessee and no known plans for any to be built. Tennessee’s gambling landscape has been traditionally conservative, and casino gambling had not been legalized.
Can I get help for problem gambling in Tennessee?
Yes, if you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling in Tennessee, there are resources available to help. The Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS) offers programs and resources for those facing gambling-related issues. Many national organizations, such as the National Council on Problem Gambling, also provide support, helplines, and resources for individuals facing gambling challenges.
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Riverboat casino that sank in Mississippi River resurfaces amid historic drought
The Diamond Lady, a once majestic riverboat, rests with smaller boats in mud at Riverside Park Marina in Martin Luther King Jr. Riverside Park along the Mississippi River on October 19, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Record-low water levels in the Mississippi River have unearthed a flurry of rare finds . The latest? The nation’s first riverboat casino that sunk during a storm last year.
The Diamond Lady, America’s first riverboat casino, set sail in 1991 and operated for a few years before a bigger riverboat replaced it. Wheel of Fortune’s Vanna White reportedly christened the paddlewheel boat before its maiden voyage took off from Bettendorf, Iowa 31 years ago.
It had been stored on the Mississippi River in Memphis, Tennessee , since 2008, but the Diamond Lady sank in 2021 during a winter freeze, according to WPSD. It wasn’t seen again until the Mississippi River receded to its lowest levels in 10 years.
River levels are so low, saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico is moving in, FOX Weather reports.
Drought drives Mississippi River to historic low levels, impacting agricultural exports
Drought has driven the Mississippi River to historic low levels, impacting the agricultural exports. The crisis has increased shipping prices, and that cost may fall on consumers and creating problems for barges.
According to the Lower Mississippi River Forecast Center, water levels are at or below the low-water threshold along a nearly 400-mile stretch of the river from near where the Ohio River meets the Mississippi River south to near Vicksburg, Mississippi.
Other finds from a drought-stricken Mississippi River
Rare Civil War relics found lying in rocks along Mississippi River (Photo credit: Riley Bryant)
Also in Memphis, history lover and relics collector Riley Bryant made a fascinating discovery along the banks of the drought-stricken Mississippi River.
Bryant said the artifacts — a Civil War-era Union army cartridge box plate and bullets — were just sitting there among the rocks under the I-55 bridge waiting to be picked up.
Just weeks before Bryant made his discovery, a Baton Rouge, Louisiana, resident was walking along the Mississippi River there and found a shipwreck that’s more than 100 years old, FOX Weather reports.
According to Louisiana state archeologist Chris McGimsey, it belongs to a ferryboat called the Brookhill, which started sailing in the late 1880s or early 1890s. It was originally 250 to 300 feet long.
FOX Weather contributed to this report.
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