Are you planning a gambling trip from Norfolk? Then here’s a list of some of the casinos near Norfolk that are definitely worth visiting.
The Chesapeake Inn Casino & Hotel is the closest casino to Norfolk (only about 15 minutes away). If you’re looking for more options, there are three other great casinos within an hour’s drive.
I’ll break down all the details for each below, including location, games, hotels, dining options, and more. Use these as you will but keep in mind that the best casino will depend on your personal preferences.
What You’ll Find Here
If you already know which casino you want to read about, use the above links to jump straight to it. If you aren’t sure yet, our recommendation would be to start with VLTs at Hampton Roads Convention Center or The Tidewater Casino & Resort.
On the other hand, if you’re into poker, I’d suggest bringing you to Portsmouth’s Ventnor Hall. For table games and roulette, head to The Cavalier Ocean Front’s casino.
Now that you have an idea of how this is going, it might be a good time to take a look at the top attractions in Virginia.
Chesapeake Inn Casino & Hotel
As we mentioned earlier, this is the closest casino to Norfolk, so it makes sense to start with it.
There are 200+ machines here, and you can play everything from penny slots to $25 machines. Some of the favorites include Wheel of Fortune, Wild Panda, and China Shores.
In addition to the VLTs, this casino has a full bar and grill where you can get breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Furthermore, there is live entertainment every weekend.
Chesapeake Inns’ biggest selling point is its location — right on the waterfront. It’s not often you get to enjoy the view while gambling, so make sure to check that out.
All in all, this small casino is perfect for a quick game. It’s also a great starter casino for new gamblers who are still getting their feet wet.
Chesapeake Inn Casino & Hotel Gambling Options
VLTs are the only gambling option at this casino; there are no poker rooms, sportsbooks, or table/card games available. That said, they do have quite the variety of slot-like machines.
As I mentioned, you can find classic fruit machines, Asian-inspired slots, and even games based on popular TV shows like Wheel of Fortune.
You can also change the denomination of your coins between one cent all the ways up to a quarter. This means everyone can play, regardless of their budget.
Additionally, they frequently update their library by adding and removing machines, so there’s always something new to try.
Hotel Amenities at Chesapeake Inn Casino & Hotel
This casino does have an attached hotel, which is very convenient. There are 63 rooms total, ranging from standard rooms to luxury suites.
Some rooms come with jacuzzis, fireplaces, and king-sized beds. All of them come with free WiFi and cable TV, however.
Other amenities at this casino resort include event spaces, banquet facilities, and an outdoor patio overlooking the water. Unfortunately, there isn’t much else around. It’s technically in Virginia Beach, but it’s a pretty isolated area.
Dining Options at Chesapeake Inn Casino & Hotel
Your only real option is the casino grill, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They have classics like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as daily specials.
Personal reviews of this casino are hit or miss. Some people say it’s seedy and shady, while others say it’s a blast. It seems like most of the negative feedback has since been addressed.
One thing is certain, though: this casino knows how to throw a party. They host themed events all the time, including ladies’ nights, karaoke, and costume contests.
It’s always a good idea to call ahead and ask about their current promotions and events.
Traveling to the Hampton Roads Convention Center
The Hampton Roads Convention Center is located in Hampton, VA, just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel from Norfolk.
Take I-64 W toward Richmond. Take exit 238 for Mercury Blvd. Turn left onto Mercury Blvd/VA-105. Turn right onto Union St, then turn left onto Mill Point Rd. Arrive at 1000 Virginia Coast Hwy, Hampton, VA 23661.
Alternatively, you could take US-17 N/Linden Ave and Commonwealth Ave to Mill Point Rd in Hampton. Click “Get Directions” on Google Maps for the fastest route from your current location.
About the Hampton Roads Convention Center
This convention center features two large multi-purpose rooms, 17 meeting rooms, and over 200,000 square feet of exhibit space. One of those exhibition halls is home to the largest casino in the Hampton Roads region.
This VLT parlor is owned and operated by the City of Hampton and is known as The Tidewater Casino & Resort.
With 500+ machines spread across 30,000 square feet, it’s easily the largest gambling facility around. That being said, it’s still just a Vegas-style local parlour – not a full-fledged Las Vegas style casino.
A $3 million dollar renovation was completed in 2019, giving the place a fresh new look. Whether you’re spinning the reels or just watching the sunset over the water, you’ll enjoy the views.
The casino faces the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, offering breathtaking views of the bay and the bridge-tunnels. It’s a beautiful spot, especially during sunrise and sunset.
They run daily , happy hours, giveaways, live music, and more. Be sure to check their site for the latest promos before heading out.
Tidewater Casino & Resort Gambling Options
Gamblers visiting from Norfolk will find more than 500 of the latest VLTs at this casino. You’ll find a mix of multi-line video machines, traditional stepper reel machines, and progressive jackpots.
Denominations range from a penny up to a quarter. Games cover all sorts of themes, including wildlife, sports, Asia, and pop culture.
Note that this casino does not have a poker room or table games. It’s strictly slot machines.
Online Slots Gamblers Must Try | LIST | GamblingSites.comThat said, it’s one of the larger local casinos in the state, and definitely the biggest one near Norfolk. If you’re looking for plenty of slot options, you can’t go wrong here.
Hotel Amenities at Hampton Roads Convention Center
There is not a hotel attached to this casino, but there are several nice ones within walking distance. Hampton has plenty of chain hotels, such as Comfort Suites, Fairfield Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and more.
If you don’t mind staying a few miles away, there are a couple of nice resorts with water views: The Founders Inn and Spa and the Woodlands Hotel and Suites. Both are highly rated on TripAdvisor.
Regardless of where you stay, you’ll earn rewards points for staying that can be used at a later date.
Dining Options at the HRCC
There are plenty of restaurants nearby, but the only one actually inside the casino is the Blue Moon Bar & Grill. As you might expect, it’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Here you’ll find all your favorite American dishes, such as burgers, sandwiches, salads, and entree items like seafood and steak. They also serve breakfast all day.
The bar side of the restaurant offers a selection of cocktails, wines, and locally brewed beers on tap. Happy hour is from 4 PM to 7 PM, seven days per week.
Many guests rave about the food and service at the Blue Moon. Others say it’s decent enough but nothing to write home about. Overall, it gets pretty good reviews.
Traveling to The Cavalier Ocean Front
The Cavalier Ocean Front casino is located in Virginia Beach, about 25 miles south of Norfolk. From downtown Norfolk, take I-264 S/US-13 S/US-44 W/US-58 W toward Virginia Beach. Continue to follow US-64 W/US-44 W/US-58 W. Keep left at the fork to continue on Gen. E. Lee Blvd, follow signs for Atlantic Ave/Virginia Beach. Turn left onto Atlantic Ave/VA-264/Gen E Lee Blvd/Nimitz Xing. Turn right onto Pacific Ave. Arrive at 4200 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
Alternatively, you could take Independence Blvd and Mediterranean Ave to Pacific Ave in Virginia Beach. Click “Get Directions” on Google Maps for the fastest route from your current location.
Insider tip: Parking is free in the lot next to the casino if you get a ticket validated at the casino.
About the Cavalier Ocean Front
The Cavalier Ocean Front is a historic beach hotel that has been renovated and reopened in 2017. It features 79 guestrooms and suites, most with ocean views.
This casino is unique because it’s the only one in Virginia with table games and roulette. It has nearly 300 Vegas-style slot machines and video poker machines as well.
Best Online Casinos in Canada [Updated]The casino itself is quite small, but it’s right there in the hotel. This allows guests to gamble 24 hours a day without even leaving their rooms.
Live entertainment and nightly music round out the experience at this beachfront casino.
If you plan to visit here from Norfolk, keep in mind that you must be 21 or older to enter the casino.
Gambling Options at The Cavalier Ocean Front
Roulette is probably the biggest draw here, simply because it’s the only place in Virginia you can play it. They also have craps, blackjack, and a variety of slot machines.
There are almost 300 slot machines at this casino, including both old-school mechanical machines and modern digital versions. Denominations start at a penny and max out at quarters.
Most of the games are in nickel and quarter machines, however. Some of the player favorites include Wheel of Fortune, Elvis, and Star Trek.
Roulette is the big attraction here, with five roulette tables spread across the casino floor. Roulette is a French game meaning “little wheel.” The object is to guess where the ball will land after it has been spun around the wheel.
Bets can be placed on individual numbers or groups of numbers. Other bets are on red or black, odd or even, or high (19-36) or low (1-18).
Craps is another popular game played at this casino. There are three craps tables where players can wager against each other. Side bets are also available.
Blackjack is a card game where the goal is to beat the dealer. Both hole cards are dealt to the player at the beginning of the round, and they can then choose to stand, hit, double down, split, or surrender.
Unfortunately, this casino does not have any poker rooms. If you’re looking for poker, your best bet is to visit one of the casinos in nearby Maryland or DC.
Hotel Amenities at The Cavalier Ocean Front
This casino has 79 rooms and suites, all of which face the boardwalk and ocean. Every room comes standard with free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, iHome stereo, mini-fridge, safe, and private bath.
Some rooms and suites have additional features like a balcony, separate living area, kitchenette, and whirlpool tub.
Other amenities offered at this casino resort include an on-site restaurant, rooftop pool and lounge, fitness center, business center, concierge services, and free parking.
The hotel itself dates back to 1927 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Virginia Landmark.
32Red Casino Review UK - Top Games and OffersWhile the hotel’s exterior remains mostly unchanged, the rooms and amenities have been completely updated and modernized.
Reviews for this historic hotel are overwhelming positive. Guests love the ocean views, stylish decor, and friendly staff. Some noted that the mattresses were a bit firm, however.
Dining Options at The Cavalier Ocean Front
The main restaurant at The Cavalier Ocean Front is called The Tavern. It serves New American fare made with locally sourced ingredients.
Enjoy a drink at the pub, dine indoors, or sit outside and watch the waves roll in. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
New Online Casinos in UK for 2023 - Best New Casino Sites ReviewedAnother dining option is the Blue Ridge Cafe, which is open for breakfast. It serves pastries, coffee, and made-to-order omelets.
For something a little stronger, grab a drink at the Top of the Cavaro Poolside Bar or the Rooftop Lounge. Both offer amazing views of the ocean and boardwalk.
All in all, The Cavalier Ocean Front is a fantastic choice for anyone visiting the area. Whether you’re looking to gamble, relax on the beach, or just enjoy fine dining, this historic hotel delivers.
Traveling to Ventnor Hall
Portsmouth’s Ventnor Hall is located in the Venture Inn, just off I-264. To reach it from Downtown Norfolk, take I-264 S toward Virginia Beach. Take exit 15B to merge onto VA-164 Spur W toward US-460 W/Chesapeake. Keep left at the fork to continue on VA-164 Spur W, follow signs for US-460 W/Chesapeake. Turn left onto Sussex Rd/US-460 W. Turn right onto Seaboard Ln. Arrive at 325 Seaboard Ln, Portsmouth, VA 23701.
Alternatively, you could take US-17 ALT N/Suffolk Ave and Seaboard Ln to reach the same destination.
Insider Tip: Parking is ample and free in the lot behind the building.
About Ventnor Hall
This historic house was built in 1834 and served many purposes over the years, including a dance hall, social club, and private residence. These days, it’s home to one of the best poker rooms in Virginia.
Ventnor Hall opened in 2018 and quickly became the premier place to play poker in Hampton Roads. The owners spent millions restoring the old mansion and updating it with modern amenities like heated floors, soundproof walls, and energy-efficient windows.
The décor features original artwork from local artists, antique furniture, and ornate chandeliers. It really feels like you’re playing poker in a friend’s luxurious home rather than a stuffy casino.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just learning the game, you’re sure to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and quality games at Ventnor Hall.
Ventnor Hall Gambling Options
Poker is the only game in town at Ventnor Hall. However, they offer a wide variety of cash games, tournaments, and special events.
Cash games run every night of the week, usually starting around 7 pm. You’ll find No-Limit Hold ‘Em and Pot-Limit Omaha at various limits and buy-ins.
Tournaments are held weekly with buy-ins ranging from $75 to $250. There are also occasional freerolls and satellites.
Special events are hosted periodically throughout the year, like the WSOP Circuit, Mid-States Poker Tour, and Heartland Poker Tour. Satellites are usually running well in advance, giving you a chance to win your seat for a fraction of the price.
New players are welcome, and complimentary lessons may even be arranged upon request. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, you’ll enjoy the comfortable chairs, good lighting, and quality poker games at Ventnor Hall.
Hotel Amenities at Ventnor Hall
There is not a hotel attached to this casino, unfortunately. However, there are many nice places to stay in the surrounding areas of Norfolk and Virginia Beach.
Local Casino Workers Share Horror Stories About Tips (AND VIDEOS)Some recommended places to stay include the Westin Virginia Beach Town Center, Hilton Norfolk The Main, Sheraton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotel, and more.
All are within a 20-minute drive of Ventnor Hall. Alternatively, there are dozens of chain hotels and motels along the main highways leading into the area.
Dining Options at Ventnor Hall
There are no restaurants on site at Ventnor Hall, but there are plenty of dining options within a short drive. The Tower Tavern is located inside the adjacent Holiday Inn and serves pub fare, cocktails, and craft beer.
For something fancier, check out Agatum in the Hilton Norfolk or Waterman’s Surfside Grille on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. No matter what your taste buds desire, you’ll find plenty of delicious dining options near Ventnor Hall.
Traveling to The Gold Club
Danville’s Gold Club is located roughly 150 miles west of Norfolk via I-85/I-95. While it’s definitely further from Norfolk than the other casinos on this list, it’s worth the extra drive for a few reasons.
First, this is the only casino in Virginia that offers live dealers for all table games. Second, they have one of the nicest bingo halls in the state. And third, they have some of the best payouts for video gaming machines.
Top-Rated Casino Resorts in Alabama, United StatesTo get there from downtown Norfolk, take I-264 S/US-13 S/US-44 W/US-58 W toward Danville. Follow US-58 W to Melvin St in Danville. Turn right onto Melvin St. Turn left onto Millrace Rd. The Gold Club will be on your right.
Insider Tip: Parking is free and plentiful in the lot beside the casino.
About the Gold Club
The Gold Club is a spacious casino that covers over 30,000 square feet. It features beautifully appointed gaming areas with high ceilings and tons of natural light.
In addition to the latest video machines, they also have live table games and a huge bingo hall. Everything is kept meticulously clean and well-maintained, and the staff members are incredibly friendly and helpful.
Smoking is permitted throughout the casino floor, although they do provide complimentary masks for those who prefer to wear one. Alcohol is also sold and served at the full-service bars scattered around the room.
Security is excellent too. Cameras monitor the entire building, and uniformed guards patrol the floor throughout the day and night.
Overall, this casino provides a first-class gaming experience for visitors from Norfolk and beyond.
Gambling Options at The Gold Club
The Gold Club has almost 600 Vegas-style slot machines, electronic games, and historical horse racing machines.
Denominations range from a penny up to a dollar. Game types include video poker, video keno, video blackjack, roulette, and more. You’ll find a mix of stepper reel machines and video screens.
Video poker is very popular at this casino, especially Bonus Poker and Deuces Wild. Many of the machines are linked together in bank formats, allowing multiple players to win big jackpots simultaneously.
The Gold Club is the only casino in Virginia authorized to offer live table games. There are currently eight tables set up for Blackjack, Mini-Baccarat, and American Roulette. All tips are returned to the players in the form of better odds and payouts.
Historical horse racing (HHR) is another fun way to gamble at The Gold Club. Think of it as an instant version of the derby where you can watch multiple races at once.
You’re actually betting on the results of pre-recorded historical horse races. Since the outcomes have already been determined, HHR is legal in states that don’t normally have casino gambling.
The Danville Gold Club has some of the best payouts for HHR in Virginia, regularly exceeding 85%. Compare that to the average payout for VGMUs, which is typically around 92%.
Of course, bingo is the main attraction at this casino. They have one of the largest and nicest bingo halls in Virginia, holding sessions daily with exceptional prizes.
Many people drive from Norfolk and beyond just to play bingo at The Gold Club. With progressive jackpots and special games, it’s easy to see why.
Hotel Amenities at The Gold Club
The Gold Club does not have a hotel attached to it, but there are some nice places to stay in Danville.
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Danville Riverview is a popular choice due to its riverfront location and free hot breakfast. Other options include Baymont by Wyndham Danville, Comfort Suites, Days Inn by Wyndham, Fairfield Inn & Suites, and more.
Visitors from Norfolk typically make a day trip to Danville to play at The Gold Club. However, if you want to stretch your legs and explore the city, I’m sure the locals won’t mind.
Dining Options at The Gold Club
The Gold Club does not have an on-site restaurant, but there are many dining options within walking distance. Here are a few suggestions to help you refuel during your visit:
- Mellow Mushroom – Pizza joint famous for its unique toppings like bourbon potatoes, kale, and kiwi.
- Zaxby’s – Chicken fingers, wings, salads, sandwiches, and more. Known for their saucy dipping sauces.
- Harvey’s Coffee & Sandwiches – Freshly prepared sandwiches, soups, salads, smoothies, and specialty coffees.
- Copper Bird – Upscale dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Try the pork tenderloin or prime rib.
These are just a few of the many eateries in downtown Danville. Whether you’re in the mood for fast food or fine dining, you’re sure to find something delicious in this historic district.
More Casinos Near Norfolk, Virginia
If you’re willing to travel a little farther, there are some world-class casinos just across the state line in Maryland and North Carolina. Here are some of the best casinos near Norfolk, VA.
Casinos in Maryland
Maryland has dozen of casinos, from Baltimore to Western MD. Here are the closest ones to Norfolk, Virginia.
Hollywood Casino Perryville
Hollywood Casino Perryville is less than 200 miles from Downtown Norfolk. It takes about 3.5 hours to drive there via I-95 N.
This casino has 1,CB50 slot machines, video poker, and video keno machines. Denominations range from a penny up to $25. Some of the top games here include Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, and Triple Play Poker.
There is no table games or live poker at this casino. If you’re looking for those games, head to one of the casinos in Baltimore or Washington, DC instead.
Hotel Option: There is not a hotel attached to this casino, but there are plenty of chain hotels along the freeway leading into and out of Perryville. Alternatively, Baltimore has hundreds of hotels to choose from.
Dining Options: The Brasserie Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It has a buffet on weekends. There is also a quick eats cafe and a full bar with draft and bottled beer, wine, cocktails, and mixed drinks.
Casino at Ocean Downs
Less than 220 miles separate Norfolk and Ocean Downs Racetrack & Casino. It’s an approximately 3.5-hour drive via I-95 N.
This casino has over 850 video slot machines with denominations from a penny up to $25. Popular game titles include Lightning Link, Dragon Link, Fire Link, and Buffalo.
They also have historical race betting, where you can wager on horses that have already run their race.
Table games and poker are not currently authorized at this casino, but that could change in the future. Stay tuned.
Hotel Option: Ocean Downs does not have a hotel, but there are several chain hotels in the town of Berlin, Maryland, about four miles away.
Dining Options: The Paddock Bar & Grill serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. They also have a deli, carry-outs, and an outdoor pavilion for live racing.
Hollywood Casino Baltimore
Hollywood Casino is situated about 225 miles north of Norfolk, a 3.5-hour drive via I-95 N.
This casino has 2,CB70 slot machines, video poker, and video keno machines. Denominations range from a penny up to $25. Some of the top games here include Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, and Triple Play Poker.
Table games include Blackjack, Mini-Baccarat, Spanish 21, and Craps. Poker is not currently offered at this time, but there is a large sportsbook.
Poker Ranks - Complete Poker Hand Rankings ChartHotel Option: There is not a hotel attached to this casino, but there are lots of chain hotels in the area, including a couple of blocks away.
Dining Options: The central eating spot at the casino is called the Food Court. It features Liya Korean Kitchen, Red Sushi & Chinese Kitchen, and Bobby's Burger Joint. The Center Stage Bar serves craft beer, cocktails, margaritas, and frozen drinks.
MGM National Harbor
Head northeast on US-13 N/US-44 W/US-58 W toward MD-168 N/Fort Hunt Rd 5.6 mi. Continue straight onto Edmunds Dr 2.3 mi. Continue straight onto Silver Hill Rd 1.1 mi. Continue straight onto Woods Rd 1.1 mi. Continue straight onto Marbury Drive. Continue straight onto Woodyard Road. Continue straight onto Livingston Road. Continue straight onto Majory Lane. Continue straight onto Manson Ashford Road 3.7 mi. Continue straight onto Palmer Road 2.7 mi. Continue straight onto Buckhall Landing Road 1.7 mi. Continue straight onto Steelbridge Road. Continue straight onto Marbury Drive 2.5 mi. Continue straight onto Woodyard Road 1.4 mi. Continue straight onto Livingston Road 1.3 mi. Continue straight onto Majory Lane 1.2 mi. Continue straight onto Manson Ashford Road 3.7 mi. Continue straight onto Palmer Road 2.7 mi. Continue straight onto Buckhall Landing Road 1.7 mi. Continue straight onto Steelbridge Road 1.1 mi. Continue straight onto Marbury Drive 2.5 mi. Continue straight onto Woodyard Road 1.4 mi. Continue straight onto Livingston Road 1.3 mi. Continue straight onto Majory Lane 1.2 mi. Continue straight onto Manson Ashford Road 3.7 mi. Continue straight onto Palmer Road 2.7 mi. Continue straight onto Buckhall Landing Road 1.7 mi. Continue straight onto Steelbridge Road 1.1 mi. Continue straight onto Marbury Drive 2.5 mi. Continue straight onto Woodyard Road 1.4 mi. Continue straight onto Livingston Road 1.3 mi. Continue straight ont
