- The Casino at Dania Beach is one of the top casinos near Orlando with over 1,000 slot machines.
- Crystal Casino and Hotel is a popular choice thanks to its great location next to the Gulf of Mexico.
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is one of the best casinos in Florida, featuring thousands of slots and games.
Florida might not be known for its casinos like Las Vegas or New Jersey, but there are still plenty of places where you can gamble your hard-earned dollars away.
If that’s something that interests you, you have come to the right place. I will go over the best casinos near me in Florida and everything you can find there.
By the end, you should have a good idea of what each casino has to offer and whether it’s worth visiting. Now, let’s get into it!
Gambling in Florida
Before we start looking at specific casinos around Orlando, Miami, and other cities, it’s important to understand how the gambling scene works in Florida overall.
While there are several tribal casinos and card rooms throughout the state, it’s far from being as gaming-friendly as many others. For example, there are no commercial casinos in Florida, and any establishment not owned by a Native American tribe is forced to operate under the “parimutuel” model.
In simpler terms, this means that if they want to offer gambling, they have to stick to slot machines and/or poker. Other classic casino games like blackjack and roulette are off the table. Instead of betting against the house, all bets are put together in a pool, and players share the winnings based on how much they bet.
Furthermore, the Seminole Tribe of Florida has exclusive rights to certain types of gambling, such as banked card games (blackjack, baccarat, three-card poker, etc.). As you can guess, all Seminole casinos in Florida have plenty of blackjack tables.
All these rules and restrictions make it challenging for new casinos to open without relying on the tribes. If you want real casino games, you need to visit a tribal casino or an established racing facility.
william hill casino bonusBest Casinos Near Me in Florida
Since Florida isn’t exactly the gambling capital of the world, most visitors are coming here from nearby states.
If you’re coming from out of state, you can use what’s below to find the best casino near me in Florida.
As you can see, FL has quite a few gambling hotspots where you can find multiple casinos within a short drive.
If your current location doesn’t match the data above, make sure to click the correct location so that the rankings update accordingly.
That said, let’s start looking at the individual casinos Florida has to offer!
Casino M8SON
- Name: Casino M8SON
- Address: 6255 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32804
- Gaming Options: Texas Hold’em No-Limit, Pot-Limit Omaha, Seven Card Stud
- Other: Food and drinks available, smoking and non-smoking areas, sports bar, ATM machine
If you’re wondering which casino is closest to Disney World, this should be your top pick.
Located less than 10 miles from the Magic Kingdom, Casino M8SON is the closest you can get to genuine Vegas-style gambling in the area. Well, as close as leased tables and dealers can get you.
This social club operates through The Venue Nightclub during weekdays, transforming into a casino every night starting at 7 PM. All you need to become a high roller is to sign up on their website for free and provide some ID when you first visit.
The best part is you can bring as many or as few friends as you want and play until dawn.
Of course, since this is more of a club than a casino, don’t expect flashy hotels, hundreds of slot machines, and gourmet restaurants. There is a small sports bar inside serving basic snacks and drinks, but you can always bring your own food, too.
Casino M8SON hosts No-Limit Hold’em and Pot-Limit Omaha games almost every night, usually starting at 9 PM for two to four hours. Sometimes, you can also find Seven-Card Stud and other games on the schedule.
While there is an entrance fee depending on the game, it’s usually very reasonable, especially if you come early.
Overall, if you’re looking for the best casino near me in Florida that offers Texas Hold’em, Casino M8SON shouldn’t be any further than less than 30 minutes from Disney World.
The Casino at Dania Beach
- Name: The Casino at Dania Beach
- Address: 301 E Dania Beach Blvd, Dania Beach, FL 33004
- Gaming Options: Slot machines, electronic games, live poker room, table games
- Other: Full bar and restaurant, hotel across the street, regular events
If you are trying to find the biggest casino in Florida, The Casino at Dania Beach might be what you’re looking for. While it’s not as big as some of the Seminole casinos, it’s the one with the most slots and games in the state.
Dania Beach has been offering gambling options since 1936 when it was known as the “Dania Jai-Alai Fronton.” Over the years, the building changed ownership and purpose numerous times before finally settling as a full-service casino in 2004.
Today, you can find more than 1,000 slot machines, 40 poker tables, and dozens of table games spread across a massive 120,000 square feet.
Casinos Where You Can Use Free BetsCompared to some of the other casinos in Florida, those numbers are pretty impressive. It’s also worth mentioning that this is one of the few places in the state with so many live table games.
You can enjoy all the classics, including blackjack, baccarat, pai gow, Spanish 21, and more.
Another reason why The Casino at Dania Beach is among the best casinos in FL is because of its location. Directly across the street is the Dania Beach Casino Hotel, which opened in late 2021.
Not only does it make for a perfect weekend getaway, but you can also gamble 24/7 right next to your room. What could be better?
One downside of this casino compared to some others in Florida is the lack of promotions and bonuses. You can earn points playing the games, which can later be converted into free play, but nothing like a welcome bonus or similar perks.
Regardless, that shouldn’t stop you from visiting if you’re in the area.
Big Easy Casino
- Name: Big Easy Casino
- Address: 8300 Gulf Freeway, Madeira Beach, FL 33708
- Gaming Options: More than 600 slot machines, live Keno, table games, poker room
- Other: Waterfront dining, outdoor deck, regular entertainment
Big Easy Casino might be one of the best casinos around Tampa and St. Petersburg, but it’s also worth visiting if you’re staying in Clearwater, St. Pete Beach, or any other city near the Gulf of Mexico.
What makes this casino different from many others in Florida is its location right next to the water.
You can enjoy amazing views while spinning the reels of your favorite slot machines or playing blackjack.
Speaking of slots, Big Easy Casino has more than 600 of them, all spread across a relatively small area. Since the casino is so compact, everything else is closeby as well. The restaurant and bar are separated from the gaming floor only by large glass windows, giving you great people-watching opportunities.
In addition to traditional table games like blackjack and Super Fun 21, Big Easy Casino also features Mississippi stud and Let It Ride.
These are unique games that you cannot find everywhere and require a bit more skill than pure luck. The same goes for their poker room, which often hosts deep-value cash games.
Unfortunately, the room isn’t that big, limiting the maximum number of players.
On the bright side, Florida isn’t exactly known for its tough poker laws, allowing Big Easy to host daily tournaments both live and online.
If you prefer playing from home, check out the .
Best Real Money Roulette Sites in the US 2023Casino @ The Square – Jacksonville
- Name: Casino @ The Square – Jacksonville
- Address: 10654 Crystal Pointe Drive, Suite 6, Jacksonville, FL 32256
- Gaming Options: Blackjack, Super Fun 21, electronic roulette, Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Stud Poker
- Other: Bar, snacks, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, regular jackpots and promos
Jacksonville is the largest city by area in the lower 48 states, so it should come as no surprise that there are multiple casinos worth visiting.
If you’re asking, “Are casinos legal in Jacksonville, Florida?”, the answer is yes.
There are six semblances of casinos in Jacksonville, offering anything from slot machines and poker to bingo and Jai-Alai. Today, I’ll focus on the Casino @ The Square, which is one of the newer establishments.
What sets this casino apart from many others in the area is that you don’t have to play slots.
Although there are hundreds of video machines scattered around the venue, you can also play blackjack, super fun 21, electronic roulette, and several poker variants against the dealer.
The best part is you get four hours of free play no matter what day of the week you visit. Just remember to arrive before 7 pm to take advantage of this offer.
Casino @ The Square – Jacksonville is one of the best casinos near me in Florida if you want to grind a bonus and enjoy various games.
I would definitely recommend blackjack since you can use online blackjack strategy charts, giving you an edge over the house.
Super Fun 21 is another interesting option if you seek higher risk and reward. This variant is very similar to regular blackjack but rewards you for getting stiffs, doubling down, or taking late hits in certain situations.
You can even get back more than you originally wagered if you manage to hit a 21 with a Suit ‘Em Up and a Late Double Down.
Island Casino Riverwalk Fort Myers
- Name: Island Casino Riverwalk Fort Myers
- Address: 4850 Forest Lake Dr, Cape Coral, FL 33914
- Gaming Options: More than 500 slot machines, live keno, table games (blackjack, super fun 21, pai gow)
- Other: Dock Restaurant & Bar, riverfront view, happy hour specials, regular promotions
Island Casino Riverwalk Fort Myers is yet another excellent option if you’re looking for land-based casinos near me in Florida.
hollywood casino betting appEven though the casino is located in Cape Coral, it has Fort Myers in its name, making it easy to find.
It’s also worth noting that this casino isn’t too far from the Gulf Coast, giving you the chance to combine your gambling trip with a beach vacation.
Speaking of the casino, Island Casino Riverwalk Fort Myers is one of the bigger venues in the region, featuring more than 500 slot machines.
You can choose from classic reel-spinning games and modern video slots offering tons of different features and themes.
If you get hungry or just thirsty after pulling the trigger on countless jackpot symbols, make sure to visit The Dock Restaurant & Bar.
As the name suggests, the place is right by the riverwalk, providing an amazing view, especially during sunset.
Whether you prefer seafood or burgers, there’s something for everyone on the menu. To wash it down, choose between local beers, craft cocktails, or a glass of your favorite wine.
Island Casino Riverwalk Fort Myers is easily one of the best casinos near me in Florida, especially considering its location and amenities.
Crystal Casino and Hotel
- Name: Crystal Casino and Hotel
- Address: 23150 US Hwy 19 N, Crystal River, FL 34428
- Gaming Options: Electronic bullseye keno, slot machines, video poker, video blackjack
- Other: On-site restaurant, lounge, gift shop, hotel rooms with kitchenettes
If you’re going by the “location, location, location” mantra, Crystal Casino and Hotel is one of the best casinos in Florida.
Why? Its stunning location directly on the Gulf of Mexico!
Not only can you enjoy the sound of waves crashing onto the shore while playing your favorite games, but you also have lots of other activities in the vicinity. Swim with manatees, explore the many springs in the area, or take a sunset cruise; the choices are virtually endless.
When you’re ready to gamble, you’ll find around 300 of the latest slot machines waiting for you.
Crystal Casino and Hotel also has electronic bullseye keno with progressive jackpots that can go up to thousands of dollars. Those who prefer video blackjack or poker can choose from several different machines and denominations.
As mentioned, there are many things to do in Citrus County, FL, surrounding Crystal Casino and Hotel. But that's not the only reason you might want to bring the whole family along.
The casino has cozy hotel rooms that can accommodate up to four persons, each with a mini fridge and microwave, as well as a small kitchenette on every floor.
No Deposit Casino Bonuses 2023 - Top Free Spins & Cash Bonus OffersStart your day with breakfast at Moonstruck Café and Lounge before heading out for new adventures or hitting the tables once again.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
- Name: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
- Address: 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL 33314
- Gaming Options: More than 2,000 slot machines, 110 table games, 45 poker tables, Rock Spa® Salon™ Stone Craig Tatroossian
- Other: Many restaurants (Italian, Asian, steakhouse, deli), bars, lounges, and music venues, pool, golf course, nightclub
Out of all casinos in Broward County, FL, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is arguably the best one. Located about 25 miles north of Miami and 30 miles east of Ft. Lauderdale, this place attracts millions of visitors every year.
So, what separates it from other casinos in Florida?
Well, pretty much everything.
To start with, Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood has more than 2,000 slot machines and 110 table games, including blackjack, baccarat, Casino War, four-card poker, pai gow, and let it for meat.
US Poker Rooms We Wish Would Come Back from the Early Days of Online PokerIf that wasn’t enough, you can also find 45 poker tables in the poker room, hosting daily cash games and tournaments.
As you can tell by the names of the restaurants alone, Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood has quite the cuisine selection, ranging from fresh sushi and delicious pasta to juicy burgers and mouth-watering ribs.
There are also some healthier options available if you’re counting calories—but who is, amirite?
Hard Rock Cafe is probably the most popular eatery within the complex, but don’t sleep on Council Oak Steaks + Seafood or Kuro. The latter is an Asian-inspired restaurant with teppanyaki tables and a private room for up to 24 guests.
If you’re not hungry but thirsty, try one of the many bars and lounges. Whether you’re in the mood for handcrafted cocktails, premium cigars, or a frosty beer, there’s something for everybody.
And let’s not forget about the legendary Hard Rock memorabilia!
From Elvis to Michael Jackson, you can see thousands of items related to the greatest musicians of all time covering the walls and ceiling of the casino. It’s truly a unique experience and a feast for the eyes.
Finally, no review of Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood would be complete without mentioning the council oak chicken wings.
Not only are they insanely tasty, but they also hold the record for the world’s largest chicken wings, weighing 20.5 pounds and feeding approximately 16 people.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- Name: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- Address: 5223 Orient Rd, Tampa, FL 33610
- Gaming Options: 5,000+ slot machines, electronic tables games, 80 poker tables
- Other: Many restaurants (Italian, Asian, steakhouse, deli), bars, lounges, and music venues, pool, golf course, nightclub
Another member of the Seminole Hard Rock family is the casino in Tampa. Compared to its brother in Hollywood, this one is slightly smaller regarding both gaming options and amenities. That said, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa still holds the crown for the biggest casino in Tampa Bay.
Spread across two separate buildings are more than 5,000 slot machines and 80 poker tables.
You can enjoy all the classics, such as blackjack, pai gow, and Casino War, as well as some proprietary games like Straight Up Roulette.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa has several quality eateries that will tickle your taste buds.
If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, head to Council Oak Steaks + Seafood for some of the finest pasta dishes, steaks, and seafood in town.
Best Mobile Casinos in Australia (2023) Top Australian Mobile CasinosFor a quick bite, grab a sandwich or salad at Fresh Harvest Buffet or the Marketplace Food Court.
Hard Rock Cafe is perhaps the most recognizable brand within the casino, attracting thousands of visitors every year. As the story goes, the original Hard Rock Cafe was founded in London by Isaak Sher, Alan Komissarzen, and Peter Greenberg in 1971.
After becoming a global sensation and expanding to every continent except Antarctica, Hard Rock International started partnering with casinos like Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa to create a true rock star experience.
Although the casino doesn’t have a golf course like its sibling in Hollywood, you can still relax by the pool or grab a drink at the newly renovated SRPSN LVLS.
This rooftop bar and lounge boasts panoramic views of the Tampa skyline and serves a wide variety of cocktails, beers, wines, light bites, and more.
SRPSN LVLS is divided into five levels representing different aspects of a race, from the Starting Gate to the Photo Finish. Can you feel the adrenaline kicking in already?
Common Questions
Hopefully, the information above gives you a good idea of what each casino has to offer. But that’s not all. Keep reading for answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about gambling in the Sunshine State.
Are casinos legal in Florida?
Yes, casinos are legal in Florida, but the games they offer are somewhat limited compared to Nevada or other gambling havens.
Most venues in the state rely on “parimutuel” wagering, which is basically another word for betting. You can try your luck with horse racing, greyhound racing, Jai-Alai, and other similar games.
The Seminole Tribe of Florida has a slightly different agreement with the government, enabling their casinos to feature slot machines and table games like blackjack and baccarat. However, those have to be approved by the state, and the revenue is shared.
Best Online Poker Sites 2023 - Top Poker Apps & RoomsThat said, it’s safe to say that Florida is one of the best states for poker, especially live games.
Is there a casino in Disney World?
No, there is no casino in Disney World or any other theme park in the resort. However, there is a place called Casino M8SON that operates as a nightclub by day and a casino after dark.
It’s located less than 10 miles from the Magic Kingdom and offers Texas Hold’em and Omaha games several nights per week.
Does South Florida have casinos?
Yes, South Florida has some of the best casinos in the state. One of the most popular ones is Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood located about 25 miles north of Miami.
Top No Deposit Promo Codes You Can Use at Online Casinos in 2023Others include The Casino at Dania Beach, Crystal Casino and Hotel, Island Casino Riverwalk Fort Myers, and Big Easy Casino. There are also several poker rooms and card clubs spread across the region.
Where is the biggest casino in Florida?
The biggest casino in Florida by the number of slot machines is the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa with more than 5,000 games.
The Casino at Dania Beach comes in second place with more than 1,000 machines, followed by Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood, Big Easy Casino, Island Casino Riverwalk Fort Myers, Crystal Casino and Hotel, etc.
Is poker legal in Florida?
Yes, poker is legal in Florida if it’s offered by a licensed establishment. Most legally binding games in the USA fall into the “parimutuel” category, meaning that players bet money against each other rather than playing against the house.
Florida is known for its love of poker, especially live games.
Some of the best poker rooms in the state can be found in Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood and Seminole Hard Rock Tampa, with dozens of tables and numerous daily tournaments.
Is Sharp Edge in Florida?
Sharp Edge is a famous casino from the James Bond books and movies. According to the stories, 007 was a talented player who defeated Le Chiffre at a chemin de fer table in Montenegro, helping Her Majesty's Secret Service.
Unfortunately, there is no sharp edge casino in florida, but some venues have chemin de frais, which is a Banker’s Roulette variant played with three cards instead of the regular wheel and ball.
Are slot machines legal in Florida?
Yes, slot machines are legal in Florida under certain conditions.
They can only be placed in establishments with a valid license, such as racetracks, fairs, veterans’ clubs, and casinos operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
The state receives a portion of the revenue generated from these machines.
Latest Casino News in Florida
Stay up to date with the latest happenings in the gambling world using the following links. Who knows? Maybe some new legislature is passing, introducing historic racetracks florida casinos to full-fledged resorts with thousands of slot machines.
Tips for Choosing the Right Casino
When it comes down to it, the best casino in Florida for you depends on several factors. Do you want to stay close to the beach, or do you prefer to be in the middle of the action? How about food? Is there a particular cuisine that gets your taste buds dancing?
Do you plan on spending hours upon hours at the poker table, trying to …ummmm… catch a grip (sorry, had to), or do you prefer quick spins on the slots?
Whatever the case, I hope this guide helped you narrow down your search and that you have a wonderful time at the casino. Remember to gamble responsibly and, if Lady Luck decides to slap you in the face, keep your cool.
She’ll be back sooner or later.
Footnotes:
New Online Casinos for USA Players (2023) - #1 Recommendation- Information about Crystal Casino and Hotel’s accommodations is taken from the .
- Details about Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood’s chicken wings were provided by .
Anthony is a sports writer for GamblingSites.com covering the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. He also covers other various topics such as entertainment, general sports betting tips, and more.
His favorite teams are the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and Blackhawks. He also will be a temporary fan of any team if it means winning him bets.