- If you’re looking for a land-based casino, there are 11 within an hour of Fort Lauderdale.
- The Best Bet at Dania Beach has a race track, video machines, and poker room.
- The Casino at the Seminole Hard Rock is your go-to spot for table games and top slots.
Florida might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think about gambling meccas. Still, there are , and many are within an hour of Fort Lauderdale.
Some of them are attached to beautiful resorts, which can make for a great weekend away. You could hit the slots during the day and then see a show or catch some live comedy in the evening.
I’ll take you through all your options. By the end, you should have a good idea of where you want to roll the dice first.
Casinos Owned by the Seminole Tribe
The Seminole Tribe owns several casinos throughout Florida, with three of them within easy reach of Fort Lauderdale.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is the closest, taking only 25 minutes on the Florence Hardy Expressway (Florida’s Turnpike). It’s open 24/7 and boasts over 1,600 slot machines, 50 poker tables, and more than 90 table games.
The other three casinos have reduced opening times but still offer plenty of opportunities to gamble. They are all open from Wednesday to Sunday, closing anywhere between 6 am and 7 pm.
These casinos don’t serve alcohol, so you must bring your own. But they do sell sunflower seeds, tobacco products, and snacks. All seminolecasino.com venues host poker games and bingo events regularly.
You should create a seminolecasino.com account before visiting these casinos since it will allow you to earn points for free play and discounts. There are five tiers to the Wild Card Loyalty Program – Signature, Elite, Choice, Preferred, and Select.
You can earn points by playing slots and videos, as well as table games. The more points you get, the better the perks.
For example, those in the top tier can get a personalized express lane, access to exclusive events, and even a birthday cake!
Seminole Classic Casino – Choctawhatchee
This venue was once called the Seminole Gulf Breeze Casino. It changed its name in January 2020, after the Seminole Tribe bought the Choctawhatchee Casino.
Now, Seminole Classic Casino – Choctawhatchee has 327 gaming machines, a high-limit VIP room, and an outdoor smoking area with another 120 games. There’s also a new restaurant serving classic diner food alongside modern cuisine.
This casino is around 35 miles from Fort Lauderdale, taking just under 45 minutes on I-75. It’s open from 10 am until 6 am every day.
of Best Online Casino Promotions in Michigan for October 2023Seminole Classic Casino – Immokalee
You can drive from Fort Lauderdale to Seminole Classic Casino – Immokalee in under an hour on Alligator Alley (I-75). This casino has over 1,000 slot machines, including electronic versions of keno and ROC-Keno terminals.
It also offers poker games, bingo, and off-track betting for horse racing and greyhounds. High stakes players can head to the VIP room or try their luck at one of 20 progressive jackpots.
This venue used to be known as The Big City Casino before the Seminole Tribe purchased it in 1995. It became Seminole Imokalee Casino in 2001 and changed names again in January 2020.
A new sports bar and grill opened here in March 2021. The Center Bar was revamped a few months earlier.
The Best Bet – Dania Beach
Dania Beach’s casino has gone through several iterations over the years. It started life as Dania Jai-Alai in 1993 before becoming Dania Casino and Jai-Alai Palace in 2002. The best bet dania beach came about in 2012, and this venue is what we know it as today.
This casino is around 20 miles from Fort Lauderdale, taking less than 30 minutes to drive there. You could walk to the front door from the airport if you’re flying in low.
best louisiana online casinosBest Bet is one of the top Fort Lauderdale casinos because it has something for everyone. Here’s what you can enjoy inside:
- Racebook – Enjoy FanXTub wagering on Greyhounds at Lemons, Meadows, Palm Beach Kennel Club, and other tracks.
- Video Poker – More than 800 machines offer multi-game puzzles, high-denom games, and progressive jackpots.
- Jai-Alai – Watch experts hit a ball hard enough to keep ‘em bouncing for your entertainment.
- Poker Room – Play Texas Hold’em against others in a comfortable setting with promotions and tournaments.
The facility also houses the Diplomat Golf Club and a hotel with 26 guestrooms. Additionally, the resort next door has 316 rooms, suites, and villas.
Anyone visiting the casino can park for free, and valet parking is available for $5. Keep holding onto your ticket; you can use it to refill at select restaurants and bars for up to four hours.
Players can sign up for the Spotlight Club to earn points and receive rewards. There are six tiers, starting with Ruby and ending with Diamond.
Is Gambling at the Hard Rock Legal in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, and no. The Guitar Hotel looks fantastic, but it’s not yet a full casino Resorts World has bought the Hard Rock property, and it could be two years before everything is complete.
In the meantime, you can still enjoy some gambling at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in nearby Hollywood, FL. It’s only 25 minutes down the Florene Hardy Expressway (Florida’s Turnpike), and it’s one of the best casinos near Fort Lauderdale.
That Guitar Hotel looks pretty cool, though. The resort plans to keep it as part of the development, integrating it into the design. It could become home to a glass-bottomed pool or an elaborate nightclub.
Resorts World has promised a spa, plenty of shopping opportunities, and multiple dining experiences. There could be up to 14 restaurants and bars, providing everything from baked goods to Asian fusion foods.
MGM Online Casino US Sites & Apps to Try in 2023The casino resort intends to have around 3,000 guest rooms & suites, plus 1,000 Oasis Lagoon Suises wrapped around that iconic guitar. It should be interesting to see how things develop.
For now, let’s focus on the Hollywood casino. Here’s an overview of what you can find inside the Seminole Hard Rock Casino.
Casino Floor
Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, FL, is one of the largest in the region, covering 120,000 square feet. More than 2,000 of the most popular slot machines call this place home, including progressive jackpots that can rise into millions of dollars.
There are also over 50 tables offering blackjack, mini-baccarat, Casablanca Stud, Texas Hold’em Bonus, single-zero roulette, and more. High rollers can head to the VIP area for an elevated experience.
Poker players can indulge their passion on one of 50 tables, and there’s a 450-seat stadium for games like Three-Card Poker and Texas Hold’em.
biggest casino in the usIf you want to learn how to play poker, seminolehardrockhollywood.com hosts tournaments, series, and cash games suitable for everyone.
Even seasoned pros can enjoy the challenge of competing for a prize in one of the regular tournaments. Buy-ins start at $6 for weekly tournaments and range up to $370 for monthly events.
Semi-annual editions and championships cost more to enter, with prizepools exceeding $100,000 and buy-ins reaching $1,500+. The Seminole Hard Rock Poker Pro DigiDavid – Penn Newman Head of Traffic finalized in December 2022 had a $25,000 guarantee and a $500 buy-in.
In summary, this casino has plenty of ways for you to win or lose money. Remember to set yourself a budget before entering, and stick to it.
Dining Options
The Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, FL, is also one of the top places to eat in South Florida. Council Oak Steaks & Seafood serves prime steaks and fresh seafood in an upscale environment.
There are a la carte and tasting menus, as well as an extensive wine list and craft cocktails. Blue Plate offers American comfort food, such as fried chicken and mac and cheese, while Constant Gratification serves sandwiches, salads, and pizza.
Here’s a look at some of the other dining options inside this casino:
- Johnny Rockets – Enjoy burgers, fries, and shakes in this classic 1950s diner.
- The Buffet – Try a little of everything from the carving station, pasta dishes, seafood, omelets, and desserts.
- Fort Lauderdale Strike Zone – Bowling ALLEY offers bites like wings, flatbreads, and shareable platters.
- Rock Spa Grotto – Sip a frozen drink while enjoying appetizers by the spa’s heated mineral pool and rock waterfall.
- Kuro – Elegant Japanese cuisine includes sushi, sashimi, robata grill, and teppanyaki cooked right in front of you.
- Counterpoint – Grab smoothies, wraps, salads, and grilled paninis for breakfast and lunch.
- Noteworthy’s – Indulge in homemade ice cream and old-fashioned milkshakes in this retro-style parlor.
- Steak 954 – Gluten-free and vegetarian options sit alongside dry-aged beef and other meaty delights on the menu.
- Martorano’s – Philly chef Steve Martorano brings his famous Italian-American dishes to South Florida.
- DFB by Brad Kilgore – Creative twists on French classics include caviar, foie gras, and truffles.
- Council Oak Sushi – Enjoy ocean views and impeccably fresh sushi and sashimi in this sophisticated setting.
Many of these restaurants require smart attire, so check the dress code before going. Some close early or don’t open until lunchtime/dinner service begins, so keep that in mind too.
I recommend trying Steak 954. The signature prime ribeye is cooked on a 1,800-degree broiler to seal in the juices and lock in the flavor. You can pair your meal with a bottle of red wine from the Enomatic system, which pours the perfect glass every time.
If you’re driving, don’t worry; self-parking is free at Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, FL. Valet parking costs $10, and you can use the same ticket at selected eateries to redeem vouchers for drinks or food.
Most Important Online Casino Software Features in 2023The Rock Spa Grotto also costs $10 unless you’re a hotel guest. However, that fee is credited to your tab if you dine at Council Oak Steaks + Seafood or Kuro. It’s also waived if you attend a spa appointment or yoga session.
The casino does not allow pets, except service animals. Smoking is permitted in designated areas outside the building.
Hotel Rooms
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel is one of the top hotels in South Florida. With 638 rock star suites, villas, and rooms, this venue rivals some of Sin City’s finest accommodations.
Rooms feature oversized ergonomic chairs, a work desk, 48-inch HD TVs, MP3 docking stations, minifridges, and luxurious bedding. Bathrooms have a glass-enclosed shower, stone floors, and a deep soaking tub with a view.
The hotel has several accessible rooms, hearing-impaired devices, TTY/TDDs, and closed caption televisions. Service animals are welcome, but pets are not permitted under any circumstances. Smoking is prohibited inside the hotel.
Book directly with the hotel website or phone number to receive a handful of perks, such as late checkout and free WiFi.
Is Gambling Legal in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
No. Fort Lauderdale does not have a casino of its own. Your gaming options are limited to slot machine parlors and Jai-Alai. That said, there are many casinos near Fort Lauderdale, so you’re never too far away from a spin of the reels or a roll of the dice.
Latin Casino Games That You Can Play Online in NJTrackside Bar & Grill is the place to go for grayhound racing. It is attached to Gulfstream Park, which recently dropped the casino element of its branding to focus on its thriving racetrack. However, the Miyamoto Group International aims to change that, purchasing the seminolehardrockgulfstreamracingandgolf.com domain name in November 2022.
The seminolehardrockgulfstreamracing.com location is open from 11 am until 3 am, giving you plenty of time to watch races and enjoy some excellent food. Here’s a look at some of the top eateries inside:
- Newbolt Fishbar – Enjoy fresh seafood, raw bar, and inventive cocktails in this chic venue.
- Burger Joint – Tuck into gourmet burgers, loaded fries, and handspun shakes made with Wagyu beef.
- TAKUMI by Akira Jonaï – Upgrade your palate with Nikkei cuisine blending Japanese techniques and Peruvian flavors.
- Bethónie Fine Chocolatier – Satisfy your sweet tooth with artisanal chocolates and pastries, some infused with champagne and caviar.
- Newport Creamery – Classic American ice cream flavors in sundaes, banana splits, hot fudge sundae, and more.
- Trackside Grill – Made-to-order burgers, salads, sandwiches, and shareable items, along with kids’ meals and brunch on weekends.
- Garden Cafe – Hot and cold dishes, pastries, fruit, salads, sandwiches, and desserts are available 24/7 in this buffet.
- Lucky Duck & Co. – Specialty cocktails, beer, wine, frozen drinks, and other refreshments.
If you fancy a flutter on the dogs, earn rewards at the trackside bar & Grill by placing self-service bets ranging from $0.01 to $99,999. You can watch the action unfold on the massive screens behind the tellers or on the many TVs inside the venue.
No Deposit Bonus Casinos in the USA (2023) - Non-Deposit BonusSmoking is permitted in designated areas outside the building. Pets are not allowed at Gulfstream Park except for service animals. Children are welcome, and there is a family restroom with a changing station.
Valet parking costs $6 for up to eight hours or $8 for AmTrak guests with validation. Self-parking is free for the first hour, $2 for one to four hours, $5 for four to eight hours, and $8 for Amtrak riders without validation.
Gulfstream Park, FL – Fort Lauderdale Racing Action
- Address: 901 West Hallandale Beach Blvd., Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
- Phone: 954-454-7000
- Open: Race Track – 11 am – 3 am; Restaurants & Bars – 11 am – 11 pm
- What’s Nearby: Las Olas Boulevard shops, Port Everglades Cruise Port, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), and Hi-Noni’s Retro Motel & Suites
Gulfstream Park is located just nine miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and two miles from the city’s port. It’s one of the top attractions in Broward County, drawing around 8 million visitors each year.
While waiting for races, guests can shop at over 50 retailers, including Kate Spade New York, Coach, Michael Kors, and Ralph Lauren. Alternatively, grab a bite at one of the internal eateries or visit Starbucks for a coffee.
This venue hosted the Breeders’ Cup World Championships in 1992, 2004, and 2022. It also stages other prestigious races, such as the Holy Bull Stakes, Donn Handicap, Fountain of Youth Stakes, Florida Derby, Pegasus World Cup Invitational, and Saucy Sally Stakes.
Gulfstream Park originally opened in 1939, moving to its current location in 1959. Ben H. Irvine designed the Tudor Revival-style building, which has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Matt Schoch purchased the site in April 2021, with the Miyamoto Group International acquiring it a few months later. Jordan Spieth’s agent, Lloyd Gary, also has a stake in the venture.
Schoch wants to transform Gulfstream Park into a hospitality destination similar to Del Mar Racetrack in California. I expect big things from this venue in the coming years.
Can I Gamble Online in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
Yes. Online gambling in Florida is not explicitly illegal, so local players can legally use the .
Offshore operators offer a wide variety of real-money games, including slots, video poker, specialty games, and table games. You can claim bonuses, compete in tournaments, and play on your desktop PC or mobile device.
However, lawmakers are working on legislation that could restrict online gambling in Florida. We may see the state introduce iGaming licenses and hefty taxes in the future, forcing locals to choose between playing offshore or breaking the law.
That could happen in 2023, so keep checking our dedicated pages for updates. In the meantime, feel free to read our in-depth reviews to find the best sites for you.
Best US Online Casinos of 2023 | Top Real Money Casino SitesI recommend signing up with a couple of casinos to compare offers and games. Just remember to create separate usernames and avoid breaking any terms and conditions.
FAQs
What Fort Lauderdale Casinos Are Open 24 Hours?
The Best Bet - Dania Beach is the only Fort Lauderdale casino open 24 hours. It has over 800 gaming machines accepting cash, tickets, and vouchers 24/7. The poker room also runs from 10 am until 4 am. All other Florida casinos close for a few hours each day.
Does Seminole Hard Rock Hotel Have a Casino?
Yes. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel in Hollywood, FL, is home to one of the best casinos near Fort Lauderdale. It covers 120,000 square feet spread across one level and features around 2,000 slot machines and over 50 table games.
Are Fort Lauderdale Casinos Open 24 Hours?
No. None of the Fort Lauderdale casinos are open 24 hours. The Best Bet - Dania Beach is the only venue with 24-hour gaming machines. Cashers close at varying times, with other Fort Lauderdale casinos shutting down between 4 am and 6 am each day.
Where Is the Hard Rock Casino in Fort Lauderdale?
The Hard Rock brand is linked to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in nearby Hollywood, FL. It is temporarily closed while Resorts World builds an identical hotel, several dining options, a golf course, spa, pools, and other amenities. The Guitar Hotel should open in 2023.
Is There a Hard Rock Casino in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
Yes. The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL, is often referred to as the Hard Rock Casino Fort Lauderdale. It's around 20 minutes south of Fort Lauderdale via FL-7 N/US-1/US-441 S. The adjacent Guitar Hotel should open in early 2023.
What Casino Is Near Fort Lauderdale Airport?
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is the nearest casino to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). It takes less than 25 minutes to drive there, making it a convenient option for people with long layovers or early flights.
Is Fort Lauderdale Getting a Hard Rock Casino?
Not exactly. The existing Seminole Hard Rock Hotel is getting a $1.5 billion sister property with a giant guitar-shaped hotel. Both venues will operate under the Hard Rock brand, giving South Florida two world-class entertainment destinations.
Why Is Fort Lauderdale Called Venice of America?
Fort Lauderdale earned the nickname “Venice of America” due to its expansive network of interconnected waterways. According to 2021 estimates, the city has 35 square miles of land and 56 square miles of water, meaning residents and tourists get around by boat.
MGM Casino Online Games NJ Players Love 2023Are Dogs Allowed in Fort Lauderdale Beaches?
Yes. Well-behaved leashed dogs are permitted on Fort Lauderdale beaches from October 31st to May 31st. They must stay on designated pet-friendly sections of the shore, and owners are expected to clean up after their pets.
Is Smoking Allowed in Fort Lauderdale Casinos?
Yes. Smoking is permitted in designated outdoor areas at Fort Lauderdale casinos. That doesn’t apply to the Hard Rock Casino Fort Lauderdale (when it opens), as it doesn’t have rooms or any other accommodation.
