Top Five Offline Canadian Casinos

Take a look at our list of the top 5 land-based casinos in Canada. While the country may not have a huge quantity of casinos, that is made up for in the quality of the establishments. Many from our list could be among the best casinos in all of North America.

Canada may not have the same long history with casino gambling as its neighbor to the south, but there are still plenty of exciting gaming opportunities available throughout the country. Casino gambling in Canada dates back to 1972, when Diamond Tooth Gertie's Gambling Casino was opened in Dawson City, Yukon in 1972. It was the first venue opened after an 1892 ban on gambling activities, but it wouldn't be the last. The first permanent Canadian casino was opened in 1989, and since then, more than 75 facilities that offer slots or full casino gambling have been opened across the nation

With so many options, it was a very difficult task to pick only the best Canada live casinos for our list. We decided to go with a mixed approach, including some of the largest casinos in the country alongside a few that showcase the kind of variety the Canadian gambling culture has to offer. This list of the best Canadian live casinos should offer something for everyone, from those who want a pure Las Vegas-style resort experience to those who are looking for a more intimate approach to gambling.

Check out our Canadian Casino Finder to see other great properties in Canada  

Casino de Montréal

Opened in 1993, the Casino de Montréal is the largest casino in all of Canada. As you'd expect from a casino of this size, you'll be able to play most of your favorite games here, including slots, blackjack, baccarat, roulette, craps and most other popular table games. Open to anyone aged 18 or older, the casino features more than 3,200 slots, well over 100 table games, and a number of other gaming choices, such as virtual horse races and keno games.

Of course, the Casino de Montréal also has plenty of amenities, including four restaurants and large facilities for hosting conventions and meetings. Alcohol is served, though it is not permitted in the gaming areas of the casino. The casino is also known for its architectural features, with the complex being made up of three connected buildings. If you're looking for the biggest and best in Canadian casinos, the Casino de Montréal simply can't be beat. Visit our guide on gambling in Montreal for further information.

Pros: The largest casino in Canada. Full selection of games, including a poker room. Beautiful design makes it a must-see even for non-gamblers.

Cons: Hard to find affordable table games, especially during peak hours, when most table games will have $25 minimums. No alcohol allowed on the casino floor.

Location: 1, avenue du Casino, Montréal, Québec Telephone: (514)392-2746 or 1-800-665-2274
Website: Casino de Montréal

Caesars Windsor

One of the few true resort casinos in the country, Caesars Windsor definitely belongs on any list of the best Canadian live casinos. It's a destination that's favored by both Canadian and American gamblers, as it resides in the same Detroit-Windsor area that hosts a total of four casinos along the border of the two nations. In fact, the presence of a casino in Windsor is what convinced Detroit to allow casinos in their city in response! The casino was first opened in a temporary location in 1994, before a more permanent building was opened in 1998 on the site of the former Windsor Market.

More recently, the casino was expanded in 2008. Since the expansion, Caesars Windsor has become a true resort, featuring a convention center, an entertainment venue that seats 5,000, and two hotel towers. The casino is also home to the first licensed sports book in Canada, which was opened in 2006 at the Legends Sports Bar. For more information please visit our guide on gambling in Ontario.

Pros: Great location that overlooks the Detroit skyline, with many hotel rooms featuring excellent views of the river.. Excellent poker room and sportsbook. Great selection of games on the casino floor. Has a true "Las Vegas" feel.

Cons: The casino floor is often crowded, meaning things can get cramped and noisy - particularly on the weekends.

Location: 377 Riverside Drive East, Windsor, Ontario Telephone: (519)258-7878 or 1-800-991-7777
Website: Caesars Windsor

River Rock Casino Resort

The largest casino in British Columbia, River Rock Casino Resort is a community venue owned by Great Canadian Gaming. Located in Richmond, BC, this casino opened in 2004. While it has a relatively small capacity for long-term guests - the facility includes just over 220 hotel rooms - it is still a popular destination thanks to its convenient location near the Vancouver International Airport.

The River Rock is known for its poker room, which has hosted the British Columbia Poker Championships on several occasions. The River Rock Show Theatre is also a popular attraction, and the casino is also frequently used as a backdrop for feature films and television shows that plan on featuring gambling or casinos in their production.

Pros: Highly rated hotel. Great poker room that has hosted major tournaments. Convenient location near both the airport and marina.

Cons: Relatively small gaming area and hotel. Lighter on amenities than most casinos on this list.

Location: 8811 River Road, Richmond, British Columbia Telephone: (604)247-8900 or 1-866-748-3718
Website: River Rock Casino

Casino Niagara

The Casino Niagara has one of the best locations for a casino in all of Canada. Located in Niagara Falls (on the Canadian side of the falls, of course), the entire casino is themed around the falls themselves, and is located on the former site of the Maple Leaf Village amusement park.

Operated by Ontario Lottery and Gaming, Casino Niagara is a fairly large venue with great gaming variety. There are more than 1,500 slot machines available as well as over 40 table games and a 12-table poker room to play in. A limited amount of sports wagering is also available in The Sports Section, which features dozens of HD televisions and lounge seating. A number of restaurants and bars also provide plenty to do when you’re not gambling, and additional entertainment is available thanks to the falls themselves. Visit our guide on gambling in Ontario for further information.

Pros: Great game selection, including a poker room and slots tournaments. Beautiful location provides action both in the casino and tourism options at Niagara Falls.

Cons: No hotel on site (though plenty of lodging options exist in the nearby area).

Location: 5705 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls, Ontario Telephone: (905)374-3598 or 1-888-325-5788
Website: Casino Niagara

Northlands Park

While Northlands Park is not one of the largest gaming facilities in Canada, it is likely the most popular of the Racing Entertainment Centers in Alberta, and we thought one of these unique settings should appear on our list of the top live Canadian casinos. At Northlands Park - located in Edmonton, Alberta - you can watch live horse racing during several meets throughout the year, while also playing a large number of machines in a gaming room known as The Slots at Northlands Park. However, you should know that you won't find table games here; if you're looking to play blackjack or baccarat, you'll want to pick one of the other casinos on this list.

On the other hand, Northlands Park is a perfect destination for those who want to combine their casino play with watching some of the best horse racing Canada has to offer. Each year, Northlands Park hosts the Canadian Derby, the most prestigious thoroughbred race in Canada. You can check out this race in late August to see some of the top horses in Canada compete for hundreds of thousands of dollars in prize money.

Pros: Home to some of the best horse racing in Canada. If you enjoy playing slot machines, there are plenty to choose from.

Cons: Not a traditional casino. No table games to play.

Location: 7410 Borden Park Road, Edmonton, Alberta Telephone: (780)471-7311

Niagara Fallsview Casino

Where does the wonder begin and end? Imagine being high above one of the natural wonders of the world. The rush of water and the energy of the passionate turbulence below only add to the winning excitement of over 200,000 sq. ft. of gaming action. But if gambling in style isn't the only thing, kick back and regenerate in one of 374 luxurious rooms and suites.

If that isn't enough, then treat yourself to some first class pampering at the full-service spa, enjoy a little fitness action at the pool or fitness center, head out for fine dining, and get ready for all that there is to offer at Fallsview. Don't forget about the other incredible amenities like glorious floor-to-ceiling windows exposing the natural beauty that is juxtaposed to what Mother Nature made, as well as the glamorous architecture and high quality adornments. Chandeliers illuminate your way, and frescoes of days gone by grace the walls. High quality entertainment is available with big names such as Boston, Ringo Starr, Jay Leno, Kelly Clarkson, Keith Urban, and Diana Ross.

Pros: There are numerous food options on site, so aside from some up close exploration of the Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls, there is little reason to go off this luxurious property. Fantastic nightlife in the R5 martini lounge provides for an adult way to play. If you are searching for fine dining, the 21 Club restaurant will be the place to make a reservation. But don't put off making your reservation because this "4-A" restaurant fills up fast.

Cons: The biggest complaint seems to be the Grand Buffet and the more affordable meal options. Clearly, the luxury and quality is focused on their shining stars: the hotel, casino, and 21 Club.

Location:6380 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, ON Telephone: (888) 325-5788
Website: Falls View Casino Resort

Medicine Hat Lodge Resort

Get ready to load up the family and head to the one full service hotel and casino in the region. This state of the art facility has everything you could need under one hat. Medicine Hat Lodge Resort features a giant waterpark, outstanding restaurants, and nightlife options. And when you are all done playing, settle in for some ahhh time at the spa. One of the 222 newly renovated guest rooms will provide you with comfort during your stay away from home.

All guests will receive a complimentary breakfast buffet. Located in Alberta Canada, Medicine Hat is its only 4 star resort and the most expansive entertainment complex. For health conscious individuals, when you are not sliding down one of the many water slides you could enjoy a nice aqua-workout in the lane pool. Rarely do you find a lane pool in resorts or hotels. Medicine Hat has been rated as one of Canada's top spas and resorts.

The casino hosts 27,000 square feet of gaming space, offering electronic roulette, horse racing, slots, and table games with weekly specials. All that along with nightly entertainment, offsite world class golf, and outstanding dining choices - the Medicine Hat Lodge is one of Southern Alberta's best.

Pros: The many food options on site are highly regarded as some of the best in the area. The Lodge provides top of the line amenities, and guests will find many things to do during their stay. The convention center provides high calibre event planning and delivery. The spa is world class and voted among the best throughout all of Canada.

Cons:The biggest complaint seems to be the size of the casino. With only 27,000 square feet of gaming, it isn't the biggest. There are 10 table games and numerous up-to-date slots. The staff and entertainment make up for the limited size.

Location:1051 Ross Glen Drive S.E. Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada Telephone:403-529-2222 Website: Medicine Hat Lodge Resort

Casino Nova Scotia

The Casino Nova Scotia is located on the Halifax waterfront. Designed to represent a Vegas-style casino, the breathtaking views will take all your cares away and entice your imagination with tales of seafaring strangers and ships that brought treasures to the shore. With over 650 slot machines and table games located in the 39,000 square feet of gaming space, you are sure to capture some of your own treasure at this waterfront establishment.

The casino is connected by way of a pedway to the Marriott Halifax Harbourfront. Along with a wide variety of gaming options, Casino Nova Scotia also has many places to enjoy a nice martini and some entertainment, as well as grab some decadent dishes.

If entertainment is important to you, then you are in the right place. Four different venues provide top shelf local entertainment from entertainers known the world over. Don't wait too long to purchase your tickets, though, as the tickets do sell out quickly. Check out the Schooner Room, Compass Room, The Harbourfront Lounge, and the Games Room for all of your entertainment pleasure. From Weird Al Yankovic to karaoke, when you are not winning at the casino, you can be entertained by the best.

Pros: The pedway provides for easy access to the attached hotel and other places to go on the Waterfront. The Marriott Halifax Harbourfront (formerly the Casino Nova Scotia Hotel) provides all of the amenities known to the Marriott hotel family. Also connected by way of the pedway is Purdy's Wharf, Scotia Square, and the downtown area.

Cons:During the very busiest of times, there is limited table game seating. Casino Nova Scotia is one of the most sought after places to play in Halifax and it is the place to go. So in this case, size clearly matters.

Location:1983 Upper Water Street, Halifax, NS B3J 3Y5 Telephone:(902) 425-7777
Website: Casino Nova Scotia

Casino de Mont-Tremblant

Casino de Mont-Tremblant is located in the heart of the mountains and considered to be the highlight of the locale. It's a year round playground for sports enthusiasts as well as lovers of nature. Although the Casino de Mont-Tremblant is very upscale, it captures all of the charm and quaintness of the community where it dwells. Special attention was paid to reflecting the native spirit. The use of materials and artisans that draw upon natural elements like earth, water, air, and fire are reflected in the environment.

The casino has over 500 slot machines, more than 16 table games, and high action play. With over 21,000 square feet of casino action, there are high limit rooms as well as private salons for private gaming. The Altitude Restaurant Seafood and Grill features fine dining, and there is also a separate lounge to kick back with a cocktail or two. Because Mont-Tremblant is known for its four seasons of play, there is never a shortage of things to entice you to enjoy the trembling mountain.

Pros: The location of the casino makes it one of the best casinos to visit in Quebec. The attention to detail by the design team creates an aesthetically appealing place to play. For the adult only crowd, this is the perfect place to play. No one under the age of 18 is permitted in the facility.

Cons:It is relatively limited in size, although customer service and variety makes it all the more enjoyable. There are limited restaurants and food options on the premises, as well as entertainment.

Location:300 road Pleiades, Mont-Tremblant, Quebec Canada J8E 0A7 Telephone:819-429-4150 Website: Casino de Mont-Tremblant

St. Eugene Golf Resort Casino

A player's paradise, St. Eugene Golf Resort Casino is tucked in between the Purcell and Rocky Mountains in British Columbia. The world-class golf, gaming, and food are only a part of the Four Star environment. While you aren't in the casino enjoying one of the hundred slot machines, or winning at poker or one of the many table games, you can be enjoying one of 124 well-adorned rooms that make this hotel among the best. Elegant surroundings with views of the pristine golf course only add to the breathtaking experience you will have while staying at St. Eugenes.

After a round of golf on the Par 72 championship course, you can enjoy one of the many restaurants available for your palatable pleasure. Purcell Grill provides a chef inspired cuisine overlooking the golf course. Fisher Peak Lounge provides a more casual flair, with views of Fisher Peak and the Purcell Mountains. How about a laid back meal anytime of the day at the 19th Hole Bar & Grill? Alternatively, don't wander too far from the casino action. You can grab a quick sandwich or snack at Fred's Saloon located in the "Casino of the Rockies."

Pros: The pristine location makes this pro all the way. Also, a professional golf course and additional amenities elevates this to one of the best casinos in British Columbia. It is a very affordable get-away, with top shelf customer service and attention to detail.

Cons:It's not one of the biggest casinos, and that can make it difficult to get a seat during a busier season. For the golfer who also enjoys a good game of poker, it is perfect. It isn't one of the larger hotels, so finding ample rooms might prove to be difficult during peak seasons with larger groups.

Location:7777 MISSION ROAD, CRANBROOK, BC V1C 7E5 Telephone:1.866.292.2020
Website: St. Eugene Golf Resort Casino

Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

The Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino features 111 luxurious guest rooms with three different room types of 20 high quality suites that invite you to live a little. Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, breathing in fresh mountain air, or winding down to picturesque sunsets.

It's located just minutes away from West of Calgary in Kananaskis Country. You can expect outstanding gaming action with one of 300 slots, numerous table games, tournaments, and promotions that will keep you coming back time and again. When you are done experiencing all that Stoney Nakoda has to offer, wind down with a feast fit for a king at The Ridge Buffet, or relax at the Sidelines Lounge.

The Stoney Nakoda Resort is not just for avid gamblers, but for families as well. Take time out to enjoy the indoor pool and water slide. No season is without ample activities to engage and rejuvenate the spirit. Year round adventures surround the Stoney Nakoda resort - including golf, horseback riding, skiing, and snowmobiling. When you are done with your seasonal fun, settle into your deluxe accommodations and enjoy the plush comfort at the Resort hotel.

Pros: It is a quiet get-away with loads to do around the resort. It is also a pet friendly hotel, which is a nice added perk. The rooms are very comfortable. And although they're a little higher priced, they are very luxurious.

Cons:Non-smokers beware! This smoking hotel and casino is not a good place to go if you have allergies or don't like heavy smoke. The smoke is even in the hotel rooms.

Location:888 Nakoda Way, Seebe, AB, T0L1N0, Canada Telephone:888-950-5062
Website: Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino