There are no casinos in Merced, California, but there are many great ones within a two-hour drive. One trip takes you to urban casinos in the Bay Area, and another puts you at some of the Pacific Northwest’s biggest gaming resorts.
Many of these casinos offer far more than just gambling. Some have luxurious spas, first-class restaurants, stunning golf courses, live entertainment, scenic lakes, and much more.
After our discussion of the top casinos near Merced, CA, I will discuss gambling inside California, alternative gambling options within the state, and how to make your next trip to a nearby casino even better.
Top Casinos Near Merced, California
The best casinos near Merced, CA, include not one, but two Indian casinos in Washington State. Both are world-classes with everything from high-stakes table games to some of the loosest slot machines anywhere.
Here are the seven best casinos to visit around Merced, California (or beyond).
1. Tulalip Resort Casino (Tulalip, WA)
- Gambling Options: 103,000 sq. ft. of gaming space with 2,400+ slots, 50+ table games, 36 oreion poker tables, high-limit gaming, keno, and a sportsbook.
- Hotel: The AAA-4 Diamond Tulalip Lodge has 370 guest rooms and suites, while the new Silken Bear Lodge has 158 hotel rooms, 12 suites, and 2 penthouse suites.
- Dining & Bars: Woodstone Pizza Company, Oracle Steak & Seafood Bar, Ortanza Wood-Fired Pizzeria, T-Mob Lil’ Druids Food Hall featuring Seven Tribes Biscuits, Nooks & Crannies, Slice, and Drip Coffee, Koba Korean BBQ & Sushi, Eaglesview Restaurant & Lounge, The Lobby Bar, Bear Pond Tavern, Eternal Eight Wine Bar, and the new Tiger Red Malbec Argentinian Wine Bar.
- Activities: Spa Avania, 5S Rackets & Fitness, 18-hole Tulalip Golf Course, 250-seat Broadway-style Tulalip Amphitheater, and the T Mark Hall Academy of Performing Arts.
- Events: Yearly concerts by major acts like Steven Tyler, Post Malone, Kid Rock, and Crosby, Stills, and Nash.
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Pros:
- 25-minute drive from I-5 exit 209.
- 3 miles from Seattle Premium Outlets.
- Close to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).
- Cons: Expensive room rates.
- Casino Rating: 5/5.
- Overall Rating: 5/5.
“Run by the Tulalip tribe, this casino is top shelf!”
This casino is so highly regarded that it stands alone in my list of the best casinos in Washington State. It won numerous awards, including “Washington’s Best Gaming Resort” from AIBS in 2023.
It has an expansive gaming floor filled with the latest slots and electronic games. Not only that, but they also have live dealer tables for blackjack, roulette, mini-Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker, and Hyper Roulette.
There are also dozens of poker tables spread No-Limit Texas Hold’em and other varieties of poker.
In addition, the Tulalip offers many fun activities during the day and night, such as live entertainment, comedy nights, holiday celebrations, and special events.
They also have excellent dining options, including the award-winning Oracle Steak & Seafood Bar.
Of course, the best feature of any casino resort is often their lodging accommodations. The Tulalip Resort Casino has two fantastic options.
I recommend staying at the AAA-4 Diamond Tulalip Lodge, which features elegant guest rooms and suites, a full-service spa, a fitness center, a business center, a gift shop, a fire pit lounge, and an indoor swimming pool.
If you want to save money or earn points on your stay, consider booking a room at the brand-new Silken Bear Lodge.
Aside from being only a few steps from the casino action, the Bear Lodge also provides guests with access to its own fitness center, business center, and check-in lobby.
2. Northern Quest Resort & Casino (Airway Heights, WA)
- Gambling Options: 90,000 sq. ft. of gaming space with 1,000+ slots, 20 table games, 8 poker tables, a non-smoking section, a high-limit lounge, and a sportsbook.
- Hotel: The Northern Quest Hotel has 300 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites.
- Dining & Bars: Nourish Vitality Kitchen & Market, NQ Sports Bar & Grill, The Cascade Buffet, The Empress Lounge, Yogurt Beach, Starbucks, and a seasonal outdoor barbecue.
- Activities: Spa Siam, salon, and fitness center.
- Events: 2,500-capacity Convention Center, 600-person capacity ballroom, and a 250-seat theatre.
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Pros:
- Just 15 minutes north of Spokane on I-90.
- Non-stop shuttle to/from Spokane International Airport (GEG).
- Nice variety of eateries, including a buffet and a healthy-eating marketplace.
- Cons: Internet and resort fees.
- Casino Rating: 4.8/5.
- Overall Rating: 4.7/5.
“This place is awesome! I love coming here.”
Northern Quest Resort & Casino is just a stone’s throw from Spokane, making it the closest casino resort to Merced, California (if you count air miles).
Their 90,000 sq. ft. casino floor packs a ton of gaming possibilities, whether you enjoy classic slot machines, electronic roulette, craps, pai gow, blackjack, or high-stakes poker.
One unique perk of playing at Northern Quest is their Player Rewards Club tier upgrades, which give you access to exclusive VIP events, private lanes at the casino, and invitations to enjoy specialized dining experiences.
You can also take yoga classes, get pampered at the luxurious Spa Siam, work out in the fitness center, and indulge in a decadent dessert at Yogurt Beach.
The resort’s 300 guest rooms and suites provide unbelievably comfortable places to rest your head after a long night of partying or hours of driving.
If you need to host a meeting, event, wedding, banquet, or party, Northern Quest has nearly 70,000 sq. ft. of flexible event space.
3. Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort (Suquamish, WA)
- Gambling Options: 100,000 sq. ft. of gaming space with 2,500 slot machines, 70 table games, a non-smoking section, high-stakes bingo, and a sportsbook.
- Hotel: Clearwater Casino has a luxury hotel that opened in 2023 with 200 modern rooms and suites.
- Dining & Bars: Cove Restaurant, Poppie’s Cafe, Gobbler’s Buffet, Johnny’s Sports Bar & Pizza, Wildfire Steakhouse, Kalo Lani Luau, Bent Willow Pub, and Starbucks.
- Activities: Indoor wave machine, arcade, mini-golf, rock climbing wall, go-karts, zip line, batting cages, go-cart racetrack, laser tag arena, and Tiger Woods PGA Tour Golf Simulator. Plus, the resort hosts regular karaoke, bingo, and comedy shows.
- Events: 3,500 person capacity Conference Center, 1,500 seat Pavilion, and a 200-seat Theatre.
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Pros:
- Amazing waterfront location.
- Nearby RV Park.
- Outdoor adventures on Hood Canal.
- Cons: Higher room rates compared to surrounding areas.
- Casino Rating: 4.7/5.
- Overall Rating: 4.6/5.
“Excellent casino. Always clean, friendly staff, and easy to find a place to park and get around.”
Located on the beautiful Hood Canal, the Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort offers visitors more than just gaming. They have tons of fun things to do, from playing at an indoor wave machine to exploring the waters of the canal.
Kids and adults alike will enjoy the arcade, miniature golf course, go-kart track, batting cages, and more. During the summertime, you can attend the famous Kalo Lani Luau.
Of course, the main reason most people flock to this casino is to gamble. You can spin the reels of the loosest slots in Washington State or test your skills at a wide range of table games.
When you get hungry, you can choose from several outstanding restaurants serving every type of cuisine imaginable.
Incidentally, the Clearwater Hotel & Casino is under construction and will open in Spring 2024. When finished, it will feature 200 spacious hotel rooms, each with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains or Hood Canal.
4. Cache Creek Casino Resort (Brooks, CA)
- Gambling Options: 200,000 sq. ft. of gaming space with 3,000+ slots & cabinets, 100+ table games, 20 poker tables, a non-smoking area, high-stakes betting, and a sportsbook.
- Hotel: 196 luxurious rooms and suites.
- Dining & Bars: Sunset Ballroom & Buffet, Cypress Table + Bar, The Market, The Deli, and three lounges (Atrium, Creekside, and Poolside).
- Activities: Salon, Day Spa, Fitness Center, Outdoor Pool & Spa, Gift Shop, and Live Entertainment Venues.
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Pros:
- Winner of “Best Casino” and “Best Hotel Staff” in 2022.
- Only Yolo County casino.
- Award-winning dining establishments.
- Cons: Can get smoky near slot machines.
- Casino Rating: 4.7/5.
- Overall Rating: 4.6/5.
“Friendly staff, lots of clean machines to play, good food, and great entertainment!”
Cache Creek Casino Resort wins the prize for the closest casino to Merced, California. It is just east of town off I-5.
Inside, you’ll find more than 3,000 of the hottest slot machines and virtual games. You can try your luck at old standbys or the newest video machines. Better yet, they offer plenty of penny slots and high-limit wagers for those seeking bigger prizes.
If table games are your thing, Cache Creek should satisfy your desires. Their game selection includes Ultimate Texas Hold’em, Three Card Poker, Mini-Baccarat, Blackjack, Caribbean Stud, Four-Card Poker, Pai Gow Poker, Roulette, Craps, and more.
From time to time, they bring in live poker pros to run tournaments or cash games. You can learn a lot from them or get lucky and win a big pot.
By the way, Cache Creek has a players club that rewards you with comps, free play, discounts, birthday gifts, and other exciting benefits.
Hungry? You can enjoy everything from delicious comfort food to high-end gourmet dishes made by expert chefs. If you simply want to relax with a cocktail, there are multiple bars and lounges where you can sit back and unwind.
Another plus—the 196-room Cache Creek Hotel is incredibly nice and affordable. It is located close to the casino, restaurant, and other amenities.
new no deposit casinos 20235. Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort (Jackson, CA)
- Gambling Options: 40,000+ sq. ft. of gambling space with 2,000+ slots, progressive jackpots, video poker, 30 table games, a high-limit room, live Keno, and a sportsbook.
- Hotel: 204-room hotel with eight handicap accessible rooms and seven suites.
- Dining & Bars: The Grill, The Galley, The Deli, Wild West Burger Joint, Round-Up Bar & Lounge, and the Garden Court Buffet.
- Activities: Hair salon, spa services, gift shop, and live entertainment in the 600-seat Jackson Rancheria Theater.
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Pros:
- Great location between San Francisco and Yosemite National Park.
- Friendly staff and nice amenities.
- Wonderful restaurants and tasty snacks.
- Cons: Rooms could use updates; small gym; no pool.
- Casino Rating: 4.6/5.
- Overall Rating: 4.4/5.
“Great little casino not too far from the Bay Area.”
While not quite as convenient as Cache Creek, Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort is still less than an hour from Merced, California.
As one might expect from a smaller establishment, Jackson Rancheria focuses on providing high-quality service and games rather than trying to be all things to all people.
For example, their small but lively casino packs over 2,000 slot machines into a relatively compact area. Yet, you can still find all the hot games, must-hit-by jackpots, and loose machines right next to tight ones.
- 96 cent minimum denomenation
- Stately theme with comfortable seats
- Classic electromechanical feel
- Innovative bonus features
Whether you prefer spinning reels, pulling handles, or pushing buttons, you should find several machines worth playing at Jackson Rancheria.
If table games are your style, you will appreciate their well-run stations for blackjack, pai gow, roulette, and other popular games.
By the way, their Players Club offers five tiers of membership that grant you access to wonderful benefits, including personalized service, birthday presents, free play, and much more.
Not sure how to play a particular game? Request a complimentary lesson from a Jackson Rancheria gaming instructor.
Starving after a long day of driving and gambling? Head over to one of their outstanding eateries and stuff yourself silly. When you are ready to sleep, retire to one of their cozy guest rooms.
Finally, if you seek excitement, check their calendar for details about upcoming entertainment events.
6. Thunder Valley Casino Resort (Lincoln, CA)
- Gambling Options: 225,000 sq. ft. of gambling space with 3,100+ slots, 100+ table games, 24 poker tables, a separate High Limit room, Keno, and a sportsbook.
- Hotel: 4-diamond, AAA-rated Thunder Valleys’ 400-room hotel tower.
- Dining & Bars: Steak House, Bistro, Quick Eats, Mako Sushi, The Corral Food Court, Cavallo Nightclub, Center Bar, Jacks' Blues Bar, Sports Bar, Coffee Shop, and 24-hour self-serve Galaxy Café.
- Activities: Luxurious Tender Hoof Spa & Salon, Fitness Center, Thunder Valley Golf Course, and Live Entertainment venues.
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Pros:
- Just 20 minutes from Sacramento on Hwy 65.
- Complimentary parking and valet service.
- Free scheduled shuttle to/from Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF).
- Cons: Internet and resort fees.
- Casino Rating: 4.7/5.
- Overall Rating: 4.6/5.
“Always a fun place to visit.”
Thunder Valley Casino Resort is a bit further away from Merced, California (about an hour and 15 minutes), but it is well worth the extra drive.
First, they recently remodeled their entire casino floor and added more of the most popular slot machines. Second, they have many different types of table games, including Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em, Mini-Baccarat, and Pai Gao.
Likewise, the poker room features 24 tables spread No-Limit Texas Hold ‘em, Omaha, and Seven Card Stud in several different formats.
Thunder Valley also boasts many enjoyable dining establishments, entertainment venues, luxurious accommodations, and recreational facilities. For instance, you could eat sushi, steaks, Mexican food, pizza, hamburgers, or even vegan fare.
How would you like to tee off on a world-class golf course designed by Joe Carr and Nick Faldo? Or, would you prefer relaxing at the spa with a body treatment or fancy haircut? Youngsters will adore the kids’ club, arcade, and ice cream parlor.
All things considered, Thunder Valley is one of California’s best casinos, rivaling some of Reno and Las Vegas’ finest establishments.
7. Jamul Indian Village Casino (San Diego, CA)
- Gambling Options: 230,000 sq. ft. of gaming space with 2,000+ slot machines, 50 table games, 20 poker tables, non-smoking sections, high-limit tables, and a sportsbook.
- Hotel: 165-room boutique hotel.
- Dining & Bars: 10 dining options, including upscale and casual eateries, delis, quick bites, coffee shops, dessert bars, and lounges.
- Activities: Salon, day spa, fitness center, heated outdoor pool, and live entertainment.
- Events: 65,000 sq. ft. multi-function event center and an intimate 14,00-capacity theater.
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Pros:
- Spectacular mountaintop setting.
- Conveniently located between downtown San Diego and Mexico border.
- Affordable hotel stays.
- Cons: Steep hill to climb when leaving the casino at night.
- Casino Rating: 4.7/5.
- Overall Rating: 4.6/5.
“Beautiful mountain view and really nice new hotel rooms.”
Jamul Indian Village Casino is the farthest gaming venue from Merced, California, taking almost two hours to reach via I-5 and SR-94.
But don’t let the distance deter you because this casino is easily one of the nicest in Southern California. In fact, many locals claim it is the best .
For starters, Jamul Casino boasts an enormous gaming floor with thousands of hot slot machines, popular table games, and high stakes poker in a non-smoking environment.
If that isn’t enough, they also have a lovely 165-room hotel, dozens of delightful restaurants, a luxurious spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a massive heated pool overlooking the mountains and valley below.
The Casino Jamul has received many prestigious awards since opening, proving that it is one of the premier destinations for gambling, fine dining, entertainment, and relaxation.
No Casinos in Merced, California
Unfortunately, the city of Merced and the surrounding county have chosen not to allow brick-and-mortar casinos within their borders.
Consequently, you won’t find any local casinos offering slot machines, table games, poker, bingo, or other forms of legal gambling.
Surprisingly, Merced County voters rejected Measure C in the November 2022 election, which would have allowed the Chukchii Casino to build a full-service gambling hall. Instead, they can only operate as a bingo hall.
Maybe voters regret the decision to ban casinos back in 1996. Either way, the nearest casino from Merced is now 30 miles away instead of only ten minutes down the road.
The good news is you can always drive 60 miles north to Stockton, Sacramento, or the Bay Area to experience the thrill of legal gambling. Alternatively, head south on I-5 toward Los Angeles and San Diego.
Of course, you always have the internet option, which allows you to wager on from your computer, tablet, or smartphone. But let’s face it; online gambling just isn’t the same as walking through the doors of a bustling casino and hearing the ringing of slots and cheering of winners.
Alternative Activities to Gambling in Merced, California
Are you tired of driving long distances to scratch your gambling itch? Have you already been to all the casinos near Merced, California? If so, I suggest checking out these alternative ways to bet, wager, and win money without driving to Stockton, Fresno, or the Bay Area.
Poker Rooms
Real money poker is illegal in Merced County, California. However, you can find several in neighboring counties, including San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Santa Clara, Alameda, and Contra Costa.
Some of the closest poker rooms are at the San Joaquin Casino and the Bay 101 Casino, both of which are about 45 miles from Merced. Alternatively, there are dozens of cardrooms spread throughout the South Bay and East Bay regions.
Horse Racing Tracks
California boasts several world-renowned racetracks where you can watch expert jockeys guide magnificent thoroughbreds around oval tracks. If you want to get in on the action, place a bet on your favorite horse to win the race.
The two closest racetracks to Merced, California, are about 120 miles to the north and south, respectively. Here they are:
- Tabian Way: Located off I-5 in Pleasanton, this track hosts live racing meets in the spring and fall.
- Los Alamitos Race Course: Take I-5 or Hwy-99 to this famous racetrack in Cypress, California. It exclusively runs American Quarter Horse races year-round.
If you don’t mind driving a bit farther, you can witness some of the most exciting horse races in America at these iconic California racetracks.
- Santa Anita Park in Arcadia (off the Foothill Freeway)
- Arizona Downs in Sedona (central AZ)
- Betfair Hollywood Park in Inglewood (LA area)
- Del Mar Racetrack in Del Mar (near San Diego)
- Golden Gate Fields in San Francisco
- Harrison Farms in Guadelupe (Central Coast)
- Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Exposition Park (LA)
- Petaluma Downs in Sonoma County (North Bay)
- Bay Meadows in San Mateo (Peninsula)
- Silver Hawk Casino Resort in Pasco (Tri-Cities area)
- Strathmore Race Track in Idaho Falls, ID
- Turf Paradise in Phoenix (east side)
Most of these legendary race tracks host notable annual events, such as the Kentucky Derby Trail, Breeder’s Cup World Championships, and various Triple Crown Races. Of course, you can bet on these historic horseraces or any others from Merced at your favorite .
Dog Tracks
Greyhound racing was once immensely popular in California, but lawmakers voted to eliminate it starting on January 1, 2023. Consequently, the two dog tracks near Merced have closed.
- Plumas County Fair & Livestock in Quincy, CA (2 hr 4 min)
- Los Alamitos Race Course in Cypress, CA (1 hr 42 min)
Incidentally, the Plumas County fairgrounds plans to continue hosting events like rodeos, music festivals, swaps meets, horse shows, and other non-gambling activities. Meanwhile, Los Alamitos shifted entirely to Quarter Horse racing.
Lottery
Every Californian 18 years or older can purchase tickets for the multi-state Powerball and Mega Millions drawings. You can also play Fantasy 5, SuperLotto Plus, Daily 3/4/5, Keno, Scratchers, and other intriguing games.
Did you know California lottery jackpots rank among the nation’s highest? In fact, several residents have won hundreds of millions of dollars playing Powerball, Mega Millions, or in-state games.
You can buy tickets online using the official California Lottery website or app. Alternatively, visit a merchant that sells lotto tickets, such as grocery stores, liquor stores, gas marts, convenience stores, and newsstands.
Sports Betting
Sportsbooks were signed into law in 2019 but didn’t launch until 2022. Today, you can use licensed mobile sportsbooks to place bets on your favorite teams and athletes.
Interestingly, California lawmakers chose not to authorize brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. Thus, you cannot walk into a casino, racetrack, stadium, or bar and wager on football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, boxing, MMA, or other sporting events.
Instead, you must use approved , such as BetMGM, BetRiver, BetUS, Bally Bet, STN Sports, or a half-dozen other companies.
Please note that California does not authorize street vendors, bookies, fantasy sports leagues, or other non-regulated methods of sports betting. Violators are subject to heavy fines and jail time.
Bingo Halls
Merced County voters approved Proposition 13 in 1978, which prohibited large commercial casinos. Surprisingly, they made an exception for bingo games.
Perhaps that explains why there are several bingo parlors in and around Merced, California. Incidentally, most of them are owned and operated by churches, clubs, fraternal organizations, or charities.
Here is a list of the top Merced bingo halls:
- Chukchulli Casino & Hotel in Merced (3 mi.)
- Elks Lodge in Merced (3 mi.)
- Italian American Women’s Club in Merced (4 mi.)
- Merced Senior Citizen’s Center in Merced (3 mi.)
- Mooso’s Merced Family Bowl in Merced (3 mi.)
- New Life Church in Atwater (7 mi.)
- Our Divine Savior Catholic Church in Merced (3 mi.)
- Pescador Grande Mexican Food in Merced (3 mi.)
- Queen of Angels Church in Merced (4 mi.)
- St. Joseph Catholic Church in Snelling (7 mi.)
- Veterans Memorial Building in Merced (3 mi.)
- Westside Senior Citizens Center in Merced (5 mi.)
Do you want to know the best part? Online bingo is legal in California. Therefore, you can play 24/7 from home or work using your laptop, tablet, or phone.
Charitable Gambling
Believe it or not, charitable gambling is legal in California as long as the proceeds benefit a legitimate organization. Of course, bingo is the most common form of charitable betting.
Additionally, non-profit entities can obtain licenses to run low-stakes raffles, silent auctions, chance games, punchboards, and “judge tambling” sessions. Please note that all participants must be over 18 or 19, depending on the game.
Here are some of the top Merced charities that accept donations or volunteer help.
- American Cancer Society
- American Diabetes Association
- American Heart Association
- American Red Cross
- Boys & Girls Club of Merced County
- Feeding America
- Habitat for Humanity
- Make-A-Wish Foundation
- March of Dimes
- United Way
- Western Service Workers Association (WSWA)
Have you ever considered volunteering some of your time to help out at a charity function or fundraiser? It could be a fun way to meet new friends, develop new skills, and give something back to your community.
By the way, did you know you can play bingo and other games online at ?
IGETHub brings you all the excitement of bingo, slots, and other casino games from the comfort of your desktop or mobile device. Better yet, a portion of all wagers goes to worthy charities across California.
According to their website, IGETHERapy has donated over $4.7 million to date, including $143,259.66 to 46 Merced-area charities. That’s pretty impressive!
What’s the Best Casino Near Merced, California?
As mentioned earlier, the Tachi Palace Casino is the best casino near Merced, California. It offers ample parking, high-stakes gambling, fine dining, fun entertainment, and gorgeous accommodations at an affordable price.
Incidentally, Chukchuli Casino is another decent choice if you can handle the bingo-only limit placed on them by Merced County voters. Other casinos require at least a 30-60 minute drive each way.
Personally, I think the best casinos near Merced, California, are Tulalip and Tulalip II. They are both exceptional gaming venues that offer the very best slot machines in Washington State.
Orange County also boasts dozens of high-end casinos that rival anything found in Las Vegas or Reno. Best of all, none of them have Tulalip’s slot machine advantage.
Finally, consider taking a short trip to Portland, Oregon, and enjoy their phenomenal casinos and other forms of gambling.
Researching, writing, editing— – whether for gaming, travel, How-To's, or other genres, William's passion is creating content that tells a story and engaged readers.
His expertise encompasses researching and marking the latest news in the arts and sciences. In addition, he writes about insights into popular culture and getting the most enjoyable experience out of entertainment and consumer electronics.
