Florida isn’t known as a gambling mecca like Las Vegas or Atlantic City, but there are still plenty of casinos to visit in the Sunshine State.
The Seminole Tribe operates most of the casinos in Florida, and they offer exciting gaming options. There are also some South Florida casinos operated by the Miccosukee Tribe that should be on your radar.
Best NJ Online Casinos 2023 - Top NJ Online Casino ListFort Lauderdale is one of the largest cities in Florida, but you can find several great casinos within a 30-mile radius. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, make sure you take the time to visit these casinos.
Read on as I break down the top casinos within 30 miles of Fort Lauderdale!
Hard Rock Casino
- Address: 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL 33314
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 12 miles
- Gaming Options: Slots, Table Games, Poker Room, Live Dealer Cage
- Noteworthy Information: 500,00+ square foot casino, World Poker Tour Championships, Musical Instruments Museum
If you’re looking for the best casino near Fort Lauderdale, look no further than the Hard Rock Casino. This iconic casino features over 1,000 hotel rooms, dozens of great restaurants, live music venues, and much more.
Hard Rock is part of the massive Seminole Gaming empire, so you know it’s one of the best casinos in South Florida. There are over 1,000 slot machines at their casino, with many different themes and betting limits.
You can also play table games at the Hard Rock Casino, including blackjack, baccarat, Spanish 21, and more. They also spread casino poker games, such as Three Card Poker and Ultimate Texas Holdem.
Hard Rock is one of the top . You can win huge pots in their WPT events or the DeepStack Championship. If you prefer cash games or tournaments, you’ll find plenty of games with stakes to fit your budget.
Hard Rock Casino is one of the top attractions in South Florida and deserves a visit next time you’re in town. If you’ve already visited the other casinos on this list, check out the best Casinos Near Miami!
Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino
- Address: 901 West Hallandale Beach Blvd., Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 16 miles
- Gaming Options: Slots, Table Games, Poker Room, Sports Bar
- Noteworthy Information: Live Thoroughbred Racing, Gulfstream Park Millions/Racing Festival, Simulcast Racing
Gulfstream Park was once just a race track, but it has evolved into one of the top casinos in South Florida. Located in nearby Hallandale Beach, this casino features 38 table games and over 850 state-of-the-art slot machines.
Aside from traditional slot machines, you can also try out interactive Wheel of Fortune slots. If you get lucky, you could win a bonus jackpot or progressive prize.
Gulfstream Park also offers live thoroughbred racing. The meets run from December to April, peaking with the Gulfstream Park Racing Festival and the Grade 1 $4 million Pegasus World Cup.
You can watch the horses race live at the track or sit back and bet on your favorite at one of the casino’s betting stations or through your mobile device. If you prefer, you can watch and wager on races from around the country in the Derby Court.
Whether you’re a casual player or hardcore grinder, you’ll enjoy playing at Gulfstream Park. Their cage is open 24 hours, and you can withdraw money without paying any fees.
If you love watching sporting events, you should visit the Sports Tavern & Poker Bar. You can watch your favorite team on one of the 70 HDTVs while trying to hit the daily promotions.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood Poker Room
- Address: 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL 33314
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 12 miles
- Gaming Options: Texas Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Cha, Seven Card Stud, Low Limit No-Limit Games
- Noteworthy Information: South Florida’s Largest Poker Room, World Poker Tour Events, Best Reward Program
If you’re a poker player, you’ll want to visit the Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood Poker Room. It’s one of the top poker rooms in Florida, featuring 50+ tables and some of the best games in South Florida.
They spread a variety of games, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Cha, Seven Card Stud, and low-limit No-Limit games. You can sit down for a $1/$2 Hold’em game or enter a $60+$10 No-Limit Hold’em tournament.
One thing that sets the Hard Rock Hollywood Poker Room apart is their reward program. You earn ten points for every dollar spent on rake. Additionally, they offer an hourly seating fee promotion that makes it easy to earn even more Hard Rock Cafes and Casinos.
Hard Rock Hollywood plays host to several World Poker Tour events throughout the year. You can test your skills against some of the world’s top professionals in these tournaments, or you can compete in daily tourneys with smaller buy-ins.
Best PayPal Casino Sites in UK - Top online PayPal Casinos 2023If you don’t feel like making the trip to Hard Rock Hollywood, there are other great in South Florida.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tequesta
- Address: 151 NW Casino Way, Tequesta, FL 33469
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 26 miles
- Gaming Options: Slots, Electronic Table Games, Bingo, High Stakes Bingo
- Noteworthy Information: Stone Crab Shooters, Sushi Bar, Exotic Cocktails, Limited Capacity
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tequesta is the smallest casino on this list, but it’s still worth the trip. You won’t find table games or a poker room here, but there’re still many reasons to visit.
More than 500 multi-denominational cranes line the ceiling, providing a unique atmosphere for gamblers. The casino also features an array of food and beverage options, including stone crab shooters and a sushi bar.
Exotic cocktails and frozen drinks help complete the experience. Keep in mind that the casino has a limited capacity, so it might be crowded when you show up. But if you time it right, you can enjoy their slots and electronic table games without any problems.
No Deposit Poker Bonuses - Play Online Poker Free Now!In addition to their regular games, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tequesta also offers high stakes and special bingo sessions. You can play for bigger priongs when your favorite numbers come up.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tequesta doesn’t have the same notoriety as Hard Rock Casino or the Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood Casino. With that said, it’s still one of the best casinos near Fort Lauderdale. You should stop by and see what all the hype is about.
Casino @ Dania Beach
- Address: 301 Silks Run, Dania Beach, FL 33004
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 13 miles
- Gaming Options: Slot Machines, Electronic Table Games, Poker Room, Simulcast Racing
- Noteworthy Information: Historic Property, Great Promotions, Fondues at The Draft House Restaurant
Casino @ Dania Beach is another historic casino in the area. It opened its doors in 1936 and has remained one of the top destinations for Floridians ever since.
how to win at slotsYou won’t find any traditional table games at Dania Beach, but they do offer electronic versions. You can play Blackjack, Texas Hold’em, Pai Gow, Craps, Roulette, and more at the casino.
There are over 850 games to choose from, ensuring you’ll find something you enjoy. If you get lucky, you could hit the progressive jackpot and walk away with a huge prize.
Dania Beach is also one of the top . There are several big tournaments throughout the year, but you can also play small stakes games whenever you want.
In addition to their casino floor, Dania Beach also offers simulcast racing from some of the nation’s top tracks. Enjoy the action on the track on one of their 30 giant flat screen TVs or BetAmerica’s wagering facilities.
The Casino @ Dania beach is also home to Fondues at The Draft House Restaurant. Enjoy delicious cheeses, enticing sauces, and tasty desserts while enjoying a great view of the racetrack.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- Address: 5223 Orient Rd, Tampa, FL 33610
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 340 miles
- Gaming Options: Slots, Table Games, Poker Room, High Limit Room
- Noteworthy Information: Starlet Rouge Dance Club, Hard Rock Merchandise, Biggest Bonus Poker in Florida
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa is the final casino on my list, but it’s definitely worth the longer drive. Hard Rock Tampa is easily accessible from Fort Lauderdale via I-75.
It takes almost six hours to drive between the two cities, but it’s worth the trip if you enjoy gambling. Hard Rock Tampa has one of the biggest casinos in Florida, offering something for everyone.
You can play over 2,100 state-of-the-art slot machines at Hard Rock Tampa. Many of these slots feature progressive jackpots, so you can win a huge prize with a little luck.
If table games are more your speed, head to the main casino floor. You’ll find Blackjack, Mini-Baccarat, Pai Gow, Three Card Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, and three Flim Flam wheels.
Hard Rock Tampa also has a high limit room with even more ways to win big. Play single zeros roulette, Paigow Poker, and craps with higher betting limits.
Hard Rock Tampa also operates a successful poker room. They host games and tournaments nearly every day, so there’s always a chance to build your bankroll.
If you prefer to play poker online, check out the .
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Homestead
- Address: Don Shula Expwy, Florida City, FL 33034
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 38 miles
- Gaming Options: Slots, Electronic Table Games, Poker Room, Simulcast Racing
- Noteworthy Information: Close to Marlins Park and AmericanAirlines Arena, Delicious Cuisine, Fun Promotions
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Homestead is the final casino on my list. It’s located closer to downtown Miami, but it’s still close enough for a day trip from Fort Lauderdale.
Hard Rock Homestead is conveniently located near Marlins Park and the AmericanAires Arena. If you’re in town to catch a game, consider stopping by the casino before or after the event.
The casino floor features over 850 state-of-the-art slot machines. Whether you prefer classic fruit machines or modern video slots, you’ll find something you enjoy here.
If table games are your thing, you can play blackjack, Caribbean Stud, Texas Hold’em Bonus, and Pai Gao. It’s disappointing that they don’t offer craps or roulette, but the other games should keep most players happy.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Homestead also operates a poker room. Cash games run most days of the week, and daily tournaments give you a chance to show off your skills.
Whether you’re playing for pennies or dollars, you can take advantage of their rewards club to earn free play. You can enjoy delectable cuisine and exotic cocktails while having your chance to win big.
Other Casinos Near Fort Lauderdale
That concludes my list of the top casinos within 30 miles of Fort Lauderdale. While these are the best options in the immediate vicinity, there are many great casinos within driving distance.
Here are few more casinos that are worth the drive if you’re looking for more action.
Victory Casino Cruise
- Address: 1200 South Ocean Boulevard, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 223 miles
- Gaming Options: 600+ Slot Machines, Table Games, Poker Games, Live Music
- Noteworthy Information: 4 Hour Cruises into International Waters, Happy Hour Specials, Buffet and Snacks
Victory Casino Cruise is the only casino in the US that departs from the mainland and sails into international waters. All winnings are duty-free, giving you even more incentive to visit this unique casino.
The cruise ships out from Port Canaveral four times each day. It takes just under an hour to reach the port from the Orlando airport, and an additional 4 five minutes for the voyage.
Once you’re in international waters, you’ll have access to over 600 of the hottest slot machines. Whether you prefer penny machines or high roller titles, you’ll find something enjoyable.
Victory Casino Cruise also offers table games, poker, and high card games. If you get hungry or thirsty, you can visit the full service bar or enjoy the lunch or dinner buffet.
Live entertainment makes the trip even better. Visit the Neptunes Lounge to enjoy live music from some of the nation’s top artists.
Victory Casino Cruise offers happy hour specials throughout the ship, so you can enjoy discounted drinks and your chances to win. You don’t have to gamble if you don’t want to, but that’d be missing out on the highlight of the cruise.
Victory Casino Cruise has been in operation for over 20 years, so they must be doing something right. If you’re willing to make the drive to Orlando, this could be the perfect casino for you.
The Casino at Dania Beach
- Address: 301 Diplomat Parkway, Dania Beach, FL 33004
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 14 miles
- Gaming Options: Electronic Blackjack, Texas Hold’em, Pai Gao, Roulette, Craps, Video Poker
- Noteworthy Information: Full Service Bar, Retro Atmosphere, Affordable Action
The Casino at Dania Beach closed its doors in May 2020. However, the casino announced plans to reopen in early 2021. That puts it on the bubble for this list, but I decided to include it anyways.
This casino differs from others on this list because it only offers electronic games. Instead of spinning physical reels or pressing a lever, you play games on large computer screens.
I know that takes away from the authentic casino experience for some players, but there are benefits to electronic machines. For example, you can play penalty box sports betting at these kiosks.
If you’ve ever wanted to bet on the NFL, NBA, MLB, or NHL, now is your chance. Simply pick your favorite team and place your wager. It only takes a couple minutes to place your bet, so you can get back to the real games in no time.
The Casino at Dania Beach also allows you to play electronic versions of classic table games. You can play blackjack, Texas Hold’em, Pai Gao, roulette, craps, and video poker from the comfort of an ergonomic chair.
All of the games at Dania Beach are made by Konami, which is one of the top arcade game manufacturers. If you’ve played Konami games in the past, you know the quality you can expect here.
Whether you’re a casual player or a hardened vet, you’ll appreciate the retro atmosphere and full service bar. Stay tuned for updates on their opening date!
Best Social Casinos (2023) - Free Sweepstakes Casino SitesSeminole Casino Coconut Creek
- Address: 5550 Northwest 40 Street, Coconut Creek, FL 33073
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 18 miles
- Gaming Options: Slots, Table Games, Poker Room, High Limit Rooms
- Noteworthy Information: South Florida’s Top Poker Room, Upscale Casino, Amazing Promotions
Seminole Casino Coconut Creek is often overlooked compared to the Hard Rock and Paradise casinos. But it’s definitely one of the top casinos in South Florida.
This casino features over 2,000 of the hottest slot machines. Whether you prefer classic fruit machines or modern video slots, you’ll find a game worthy of your time.
If table games are your thing, you’ll love Seminole Casino Coconut Creek. They offer , pai gow, casino War, and more. You can also visit the high limit rooms to test your luck on higher stakes games.
The poker room at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek is one of the best in South Florida. It was voted the “Best Poker Room in South Florida” in 2020, and it regularly hosts top tournaments and cash games.
Must-Visit Casinos in Florida - Palms Casino Resort Is OneWhether you’re an amateur or professional poker player, you can play for stakes that fit in your budget.
Seminole Casino Coconut Creek was also named “South Florida’s Most Upscaling Casino” in 2020. Enjoy delicious cuisine from one of five restaurants, along with extravagant promotions and fun activities.
Visit their website to see their upcoming events and plan your next trip today!
Seminole Classic Casino
- Address: 17736 Northwest 5th Avenue, Hollywood, FL 33021
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 20 miles
- Gaming Options: Las Vegas Style Slots, Electronic Blackjack, Roulette, Texas Hold’em, Pai Gao
- Noteworthy Information: 24/7 Kitchen, Penny Slots, Affordable Fun
Seminole Classic Casino might have the longest name of any casino in South Florida. Fortunately, the name matches the description. This casino offers nonstop gaming and affordable fun, making it a must visit for anyone in the area.
The casino floor at Seminole Classic Casino features hundreds of the hottest slots. You can spin for hours on end and never play the same game twice.
Many of the slots take pennies, but you can play for higher stakes if you prefer. Winning brings its own reward with the latest and greatest in electro mechanical and video technology.
Seminole Classic Casino also has electronic versions of popular table games. Play blackjack, roulette, and pai gao without dealing with rowdy patrons or unpleasant smells.
If you prefer traditional table games, consider visiting one of the other casinos on this list.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood (Poker Only)
- Address: 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL 33314
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 12 miles
- Gaming Options: Texas Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Cha, Seven Card Stud, Low-Limit No-Limit Games
- Noteworthy Information: South Florida’s Largest Poker Room, World Pourtier Events, Best Reward Program
I already covered the Hard Rock Hollywood Casino earlier in this post. But some people only care about the poker room, so I figured I’d include it again.
Hard Rock Hollywood has the largest poker room in South Florida. Regulation changes forced them to scale back their operations, but the room is still huge by regional standards.
Most days you can find ~30 tables in the poker room, although that number increases for big tournaments. Either way, it’s easy to find a seat and start building your bankroll.
Best Casinos Near Me in Florida - iGaming NewsThe poker room at Hard Rock Hollywood features both cash games and tournaments. Most of the cash games are no limit hold em, but you can also find some seven card stud and Omaha games.
If you want to compete in a tournament, you’ve got plenty of options. Buy ins range from $200 to $10,000+, so there’s something for everyone.
Hard Rock Hollywood plays host to several World Pourtier events every year. Satellites run in the weeks leading up to the main event, so you can work your way in if you lack the necessary bankroll to pay the buy in outright.
Hard Rock Hollywood has the best poker reward program in South Florida. Earn 2X points on Mondays, 3X points on Tuesdays, and 4X points on Wednesdays. Plus, you can earn an extra point every hand when you play with a promotional card.
Hard Rock Hollywood isn’t the biggest poker room in America. But if you live in South Florida, it’s easily the best option in the region.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa (Poker Only)
- Address: 5223 Orient Rd, Tampa, FL 33610
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 340 miles
- Gaming Options: Texas Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Cha, Seven Card Stud, Low-Limit No-Limit Games
- Noteworthy Information: Third Largest Poker Room in Florida, Daily Cash Games, Big Tournaments
Hard Rock Tampa’s poker room closed its doors in March 2020 for a major renovation project. It reopened later that year, giving fans a new look and improved setup.
With 50+ tables, Hard Rock Tampa has the third largest poker room in Florida. It can’t match the size of the Seminole Hard Rock in Hollywood or the Seminole Hard Rock at the Virgin hotels, but it’s still big enough for cash games and tournaments.
Cash games run every day at the Hard Rock Tampa poker room. You can play no limit hold em most days, but they also spread some Omaha, Stud, and 2-7 Triple Draw.
Best Free Slot Games to Play Online in 2023Limits range from $1/$2 blinds up to $10/$20 depending on the game. Again, Stud and Draw dominate when they’re offered so $10/$20 is the max for those games.
Several televised poker shows call the Hard Rock Tampa poker room home. When there aren’t any filmings, you can compete in $100+ buy in events.
Satellites cost $100 or less, so that’s the best way to compete in a major event if you don’t have the bankroll to cover the entry fee outright.
Ismoke Casino and Hotel
- Address: 13765 W Boynton Beach Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33413
- Distance from Fort Lauderdale: 28 miles
- Gaming Options: 1,000+ Slots, Electronic Blackjack, Three Card Poker, Rapid Roulette, Off-Track Betting
- Noteworthy Information: Indoor Smoking, Pet Friendly Rooms, Free Transportation to Casino
Last but not least, we have Ismoke Casino and Hotel. This casino is unique because it allows guests to smoke tobacco products while they gamble.
Many states have passed laws prohibiting indoor smoking, so this casino caters to a specific demographic. If you can’t enjoy a good cigar or cigarette without placing a few bets, Ismoke is the perfect casino for you.
Riversweep Casinos That Offer Mobile Apps in 2023Ismoke Casino and Hotel is pet friendly, so you can bring your dog too! Not only can you gamble and smoke indoors, but your furry friend can tag along. What could be better?
Anyways, back to the gambling. Ismoke features over 1,000 slot machines and electronic games. Play penny slots or risk more to win more on higher denomination games.
If table games are your thing, try your luck on blackjack or three card poker. Rapid roulette lets you enjoy the excitement of roulette without waiting for the wheel to spin thousands of times per hour.
Place your bets and the wheel spins immediately afterwards. If you want to try something new at an old game, I highly recommend rapid roulette!
Finally, Ismoke offers off track wagering on thoroughbred and standard bred races. Enjoy delicious food and refreshing drinks as you bet on your favorite horse.
Choose the Right Casino for You
Well there you have it, the best casinos near Fort Lauderdale. If you want to gamble, there are plenty of quality options within a half hour drive.
Of course, the best casino for you will depend on your preferences. Do you prefer slot machines or traditional table games?
Must-Know Live! Casino Hotel Slots You've Never Heard OfSlots are king at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa and Ismoke Casino and Hotel. Head to that casino if the digital games are the only ones that interest you.
Hard Rock Fort Lauderdale and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood offer both slots and table games. Cages at both properties stay busy, so you can redeem your winnings anytime you’d like.
Head to Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa or Dania Beach if you enjoy poker. Both properties operate large poker rooms with daily tournaments and cash games.
If you simply miss being able to smoke cigarettes inside a casino, Ismoque Casino and Hotel is the place for you. They allow indoor smoking, so you can enjoy your preferred vices together.
Hopefully one of these casinos suits everything you’re looking for. If not, maybe one of the honorable mention casinos will appeal to your tastes.
Regardless of where you decide to gamble, remember to set a budget beforehand. Gambling can be a fun way to potentially win money, but it’s important not to get carried away. Good luck!
By Jeremy Wishney
