- Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT is the top casino when it comes to sheer size.
- Foxwoods Resort has over 3,500 hotel rooms and is the world’s largest hotel structure.
- Plattsburgh, NY is home to the popular Running Hill Ranch Casino & Resort.
Connecticut is one of the Small states in the Northeast corner of the US. Despite its small size, there are six casinos within a one-hour drive of the state. Three of these casinos are in Connecticut, while the other three are located within a three-hour drive.
This part of the country has a long history of gambling, from early Native American wagering to high-stakes whaling fortunes. Today, New England gamblers have access to some great casinos within easy driving distance.
Here’s a look at the five best casinos within a day’s drive of Connecticut.
1. Mohegan Sun
- Gaming Machines: 8000 +
- Hotel Rooms: Above 1200 rooms, suites, and spa accommodations
- Location: 90 Resort World Drive, Uncasville, CT 06382
- Distance from CT: 4 miles (7 minutes) via I-20 Acce. / I-395 N
- Games: Poker, Bingo, Slot machines, Keno, Table Games (Blackjack, Mini and Mega Baccarat, Caribbean Stud, Forecourt Craps, Roulette, Spanish 21), Live Poker Room
Mohegan Sun tops my list of casinos near CT. It’s one of two casinos operated by the Mohegan Tribe of Indians in Southeastern Connecticut.
Mohegan Sun covers an area of 4 square miles, making it the sixth largest city in Connecticut. While this casino is impressive, what makes it even more amazing is that it shares the city with the neighbouring Foxwoods Resort Casino.
With 100,000 m2 of gaming space, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest casinos in the United States. The giant complex offers everything gamblers could want – from the latest slot machines and classic table games to regular tournament series and professional poker room.
The Poker Atrium features 60 tables, and Mohegan Sun is the only casino in New England licensed to offer digital poker. This means you can play popular variants like Texas Hold’em or Omaha on your phone or tablet without having to leave the building.
Rivers Casino Philadelphia Cage Warriors 149 Live ResultsThey also host many tournaments and events throughout the year, including the Mohegan Sun Pocono Downs Poker Open in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
Related: : The Best CT Online Poker Sites
2. Foxwoods Resort Casino
- Gaming Machines: 4,500+
- Hotel Rooms: 1,931 rooms, suites and spa accommodations
- Location: 350 Tripod Street, Mashantucket, CT 06338
- Distance from CT: 2 miles (6 minutes) via Route 2A E / Triple Diamond Rd
- Game: Poker, Slots, Keno, Bingo, Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Mini and Mega Baccarat, Fortune Pai Gow
Directly across the street from Mohegan Sun is , another member of the Connecticut casinos. Owned and operated by the Mashantuck Pequot Tribal Nation, the resort opened in 1992.
Roulette Mistakes You're Probably Making - And How to Avoid ThemThe resort has undergone major changes in recent years as the gaming industry has evolved. They recently opened a new Esports Arena powered by Intel, which features daily and weekly leagues, lan parties, camp stations and more.
In addition to esports, the casino still features hundreds of slot machines, electronic roulette and popular table games like blackjack, mini and mega baccarat, and fortune pai gow.
With over 3,500 hotel rooms and suites, Foxwoods also claims the Guinness World Record for the “Largest Hotel Construction Project”.
While the gaming floor and amenities here are second to none Mohegan Sun, there’s no denying that Foxwoods is still a great place to gamble. Plus, it’s always fun to visit the world’s largest structure made of brick.
3. Plainridge Park Casino
- Gaming Machines: 1,600+
- Hotel: N/A
- Location: 200 Arnold St, Plainville, MA 02724
- Distance from CT: 37 miles (46 minutes) via I-84 W / MA-122 S
- Game:** Slot machines, electronic table games
If you don’t mind crossing into different states to gamble, I recommend checking out the Plainridge Park Casino, just over the Massachusetts border.
Best Casino Games Online You Can Play Right NowIt’s about a 45 minute drive from most parts of Connecticut, but well worth the trip if you’re looking for a quality Plainville casino. The casino has 160,000 square feet of gaming space and over 1,600 electronic gaming machines.
You won’t find table games or poker rooms at this casino, but the slots and electronic table games should keep most players busy. You can try your luck at progressive jackpots or play your favorite games with low limits.
Unfortunately, there are no hotels on site, but there are plenty of good places to stay nearby. If you need a break from spinning the reels, you can watch a live race from Plainridge Park Racino next door.
4. Cliffside Casino Resort
- Gaming Machines: 1,000+
- Hotel rooms: 200 rooms, suites and spa accommodations
- Location: 77 5th St, Queensbury, NY 12804
- Distance from CT: 189 miles (3 hours 16 minutes) via I-84 W / NY-208 S
- Game: Slots, Electronic Table Games, In-house sports betting lounge
If you are willing to travel a little further north, the Cliffside Casino Resort is a great choice. This large New York State casino is located in Queensbury, just south of Lake George.
There are almost 1,000 electronic gaming machines on the gaming floor, including popular slots, video poker and electronic table games. Whether you’re a high roller or a casual player, you’ll find plenty of games to suit your style and budget.
Aside from the casino, Cliffside Resort also has plenty of first-class amenities. There are several great restaurants serving everything from steak and seafood to pizza and sandwiches. Enjoy live music, comedy shows, karaoke and much more.
Ways You're Sabotaging Your Chances of Winning at the Casino (and How to Stop) - Online Gambling BlogCliffside also has an upscale day spa, indoor pool, gym and bowling alley. And when the weather warms up, you can relax on the private beach or rent a boat and explore beautiful Lake George. With so much to do, it’s no wonder Cliffside Casino Resort is one of the best casinos near Connecticut.
5. Running Hill Ranch Casino & Resort
- Gaming Machines: 650+
- Hotel rooms: 128 rooms, suites and cabins
- Location: 266 Cronin Rd, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
- Distance from CT: 223 miles (3 hours 50 minutes) via I-84 W / I-81 S / NY-28N S
- Game: Slot machines, High-density table games, Poker
Another great option for gambling outside of Connecticut is the Running Hill Ranch Casino & Resort in New York. Located on a hill overlooking Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains, the casino is less than 400 meters from the Vermont border.
Although this is a relatively small casino, it packs a punch when it comes to entertainment. There are over 650 electronic gaming machines on the floor, including slots, video poker, and keno.
best paying slots at parx casinoRunning Hills Ranch is the only casino in northern New York where you can play live poker. Their full-service poker room hosts regular tournaments and cash games.
Whether you’re playing No Limit Hold’em, Pot Limit Omaha or other variants, you’ll find a game that suits your skill level and bankroll.
In addition to non-stop gaming action, the resort also offers comfortable accommodation, dining options, and exciting activities in the surrounding area. Go hiking in the Adirondacks, skiing in the winter, or take a ferry to Vermont.
No matter how you like to spend your free time, Running Hills Ranch offers something for everyone.
quick hits slots free games6. Oxford Casino
- Gaming Machines: 800+
- Hotel rooms: N/A
- Location: 555 Liverpool Rd, Oxford, ME 04270
- Distance from CT: 335 miles (5 hours 32 minutes) via I-84 W / ME-2 W
- Game:** Slot machines, Video Poker, Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Baccarat, Poker
For Maine’s best casino action, head to Oxford Casino, about 5 hours northeast of Connecticut. Although there is no hotel on site, it is worth the trip if you love slots and traditional table games.
Oxford Casino has over 800 electronic gaming machines, including classic slots, multi-game machines, and video poker. They also offer live table games such as blackjack, craps, roulette and baccarat.
2023's Complete Guide to Online Gambling in Rhode IslandLive poker is not currently offered at the casino, but they often host tournaments for games like blackjack and Texas hold them self. If you plan to visit, check their website for the latest tournament schedule.
After a day of gaming, grab a bite to eat at one of the casino’s four eateries. Oxford features everything from fresh seafood and homemade comfort food to salads and snacks. For a drink, visit the Irish Thirst Pub for a cold beer and live music on weekends.
Maine has some of the most liberal gambling laws in the country, and Oxford Casino takes advantage of this with its high-capacity prize crane machine. Win plush toys and other prizes, or trade your points for cash and other rewards.
Connecticut Gambling Laws
Connecticut has some of the most liberal gambling laws in the United States. While commercial casinos are limited to the two Native American-owned casinos below, social gambling is legal in private residences.
You must be 21 years of age or older and present to gamble at any Connecticut casino. Visitors from out of state may be asked to show ID.
Connecticut has one of the most generous Indian Gaming Regulatory Act compacts in the country, allowing virtually all types of gambling, including slot machines, table games, and sports betting.
Most Popular Online Casinos in Canada for 2023 [updated]Connecticut Lottery
The Connecticut State Lottery was founded in 1972 and offers a variety of draw games with jackpots ranging from $10,000 to $1 million or more. Popular draws include Mega Millions, Powerball, Lucky for Life, Cash 5, Pick 3, and Pick 4.
Instantly Played Games:
- Ultimate Football
- Holiday Millions Scratch ‘N Win
- Crossword Money Madness
Charitable Gambling in CT
Non-profit organizations such as eligible fraternal organizations, veteran organizations, and clubs attached to schools or colleges can apply for charitable gambling permits. Permitted games include bingo, bingo special games, and raffles.
CT does not allow charitable organizations to offer bank poker or other similar card games, even if the game is played for charity.
Social Gaming in CT
Private individuals can host games of chance in their homes as long as the game is not conducted for profit. This means that you cannot advertise the game in advance or charge an entrance fee. Participants cannot use house money or credit, nor can they collect a commission on losses or wins.
Connecticut law prohibits bank poker, although exact definitions of what constitutes “bank poker” can vary. However, private poker games are generally allowed if each participant buys into the game and plays against each other for real stakes. A rake is allowed, but no house commission or fees are permitted. Players must be 21 years of age or older.
- PokerListings does NOT encourage or condone any illegal behavior. This section is presented for informational purposes only.
Sports Betting in CT
On July 19, 2021, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont signed a bill authorizing retail and online sports betting at the state’s two tribal casinos – Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun.
Casinos with the Highest Payout Rates - Are They Worth It?FanDuel and DraftKings were quickly awarded mobile licenses and launched their apps in September and October 2021 respectively. Betting is also allowed on the premises of Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun.
Horse Race Betting in Connecticut
Racetracks: 0
Off-Track Betting: 6
Connecticut once had thriving racetracks, but the last race track, the Plainfield Race Track, closed in 2003. There are no longer any physical racetracks in the state, but you can still bet on horse racing at off-track betting facilities. .
OTBs can be found at the two Indian casinos, Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods. These establishments also offer historic horse racing machines that simulate the experience of watching a horse race.
Best Real Money Casino Apps Update - Top Real Win PlatformsHistorical Horseracing Machines are audiovual displays of past horse races that allow spectators to watch the race and bet on the outcome. Because Connecticut considers historical horse racing machines to be legal, there are hundreds of such machines spread across dozens of venues in the state.
Dice, Break, Poque and Other Table Games
Table games other than those offered in accredited casinos are considered illegal in the state. This means that you cannot legally play dice, backgammon, or other table games for money outside of an accredited casino unless covered by a social gambling exemption.
Is Gambling Illegal in Connecticut?
No, gambling is not entirely illegal in Connecticut. While certain forms of gambling may be restricted, the state has a thriving gambling industry with two large Indian casinos and legal sports betting.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Gamble in Connecticut?
You must be 21 years of age or older to enter a casino or participate in any form of legal gambling in Connecticut. This includes the state lottery, Indian casinos, charitable gaming, and sports betting.
Which Connecticut Casino Has the Loosest Slots?
According to multiple Slot Volatility Reports, Mohegan Sun ranks among the top 10 East Coast casinos for loose slots. On average, Mohegan Sun ranks third in the region, behind Atlantic City's Harrah's and Tropicana casinos.
Is Poker Legal in Connecticut?
Yes, both Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods operate separate poker rooms that regularly host tournaments and cash games. However, external poker pros are not allowed to collect any rake or commission from the games. This means that private poker games can be held at home as long as certain social gambling rules are followed.
Signs of a Reliable Online Casino You Can Trust in 2023Does Connecticut Have Riverboat Casinos?
No, Connecticut does not have riverboat casinos. Instead, the state is home to two large Indian casinos – Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casino. Both are land-based establishments built from scratch rather than converted riverboats.
Zac Reed contributed to the creation of this article.
