This city doesn't have a reputation like Las Vegas, but if you have a passion for gambling there are lots of highly rated casinos in and near to Chicago which are worth checking out.
You won’t find any casinos in the populous downtown area of the city, but most are located just a drive away and are very easy to find via maps or taxi.
Like all casinos in the USA, you must be 21 years of age or older to enter and play. An alternative option if you can't make it to Chicago is to play on mobile.
In this guide we highlight the very best casinos to visit in Chicago and Illinois.
1. Rivers Casino
• Des Plaines, Illinois
Rivers Casino is one of the newer places on our list having been built in 2011. This casino is in a great located just moments away from O’Hare airport and as well as gambling, there is also lots of live entertainment and a steakhouse. Choose between over 1000 slot machines and lots of table games including the classics.
2. Horseshoe Casino
• Hammond, Indiana
If you are looking for a weekend break then Hammond Horseshoe Casino is recommended. This site is huge, covering an area 350,000 sq and there are lots of food options and entertainment. In Horseshoe Casino you can choose between more than 100 table games and the most slot machines in Chicago, 2000, including over 1,350 penny slots!
3. Ameristar Casino
• East Chicago, Indiana
Ameristar Casino is around 25 minute away from downtown Chicago, and is one of the most popular casinos on our list. This casino is also a luxury hotel with penny slots and table games. On Friday nights there is a highly recommended seafood buffet. This is one of our top picks of you are looking for somewhere where you can enjoy a weekend getaway.
4. Majestic Star Casino
• Gary, Indiana
The Majestic Star Casino is around a 35-45 minute drive from Chicago city centre and there is lots of entertainment of offer including over 1500 slots and video poker machines to play. For food, there is an onsite luxury steakhouse.
5. Grand Victoria Casino
• Elgin, Illinois
If you are looking for a totally unique experience, plan a trip to the Grand Victoria Casino located on a riverboat! This is one of the most popular casinos in Chicago with very positive reviews due to the outstanding customer service. Benefits of visiting include the gambling, free parking, free admission, promotions and four restaurants to choose from.
6. Hollywood Casino
• Aurora, Illinois
Naming a Casino Hollywood, you know it must be good. If you visit Hollywood Casino you have the choice of over 1000 slot machines, 27 tables and a poker salon. There is also a delicious onsite steakhouse and entertainment.
7. Isle Casino Hotel
• Bettendorf, Iowa
Isle Casino Hotel is a really luxurious hotel with over 500 rooms and a huge casino. There are more than 1000 slot machines as well as classic games like Black Jack and Roulette. Although this is one of the places furthest away from Chicago city centre, it really is an amazing place to visit for a weekend break.
Hopefully our guide to the best casinos in Chicago has given you some inspiration for where to go. If you have any experiences with any of the above places let us know in the comments section below. Or if you are planning a trip to the Windy City, view our guide to the best things to do in Chicago.
