Florida isn't a traditional gaming hotbed, but you can at least feed your gambling itch nowadays. Although there are no casinos in Tallahassee per se, there are plenty within easy driving distance on I-10.
Let's examine the casinos near Tallahassee and see what they have to offer.
1 – Bon Ton Casino & Resort
- Address: 1430CE Hwy 169, Choctaw, MS 39350
- Drive Time: 2 hours 48 mins (151 miles) via I-10 E & MS-169 S
Just across the Alabama border sits this quaint little casino with plenty of old school charm. You won’t find any shiny glass towers here as the Bon Ton Casino & Resort looks more like a roadside motel from the outside. But don’t judge a book by its cover, as this establishment has been providing patrons with great times since 1964.
The Choctaw Indians own Bon Ton Casino & Resort, making it legally allowed to provide classified gaming. This casino offers all of your classic table games, along with around 600 slot machines. If you work up an appetite from all that gambling, then hit up the Bon Ton Restaurant located right next door. You can also stay on the premises at the Bon Ton Motel, which offers clean rooms at cheap rates. The place is a bit rundown, but the staff is very friendly and accommodating.
Outside of the casino floor, Bon Ton Casino & Resort doesn’t offer much in terms of entertainment. They do host live acts in their lounge periodically, though. Just 15 miles west on I-10 rests the Downtown Bingo building, which offers frequent bingo sessions throughout the week.
The Choctaw Indian Reservation stretches for miles, providing endless opportunities for fun. You can go hiking or fishing in the beautiful countryside. The Mississippi River isn’t far either, offering tremendous gambling riverboat cruises.
If you truly want to experience old-time Indian casino gambling, then Bon Ton Casino & Resort is your best option among casinos near Tallahassee.
2 – Silver Creek Event Center & Casino
- Address: 27615 Five Points Rd, Atmore, AL 36510
- Drive Time: 2 hours 35 mins (146 miles) via I-10 E
Operating as a bingo hall, the Silver Creek Event Center & Casino just barely abides by Class II gaming status. Seeing as how Alabama strictly forbids any form of traditional casino gambling, this establishment does its best to adhere to the laws.
You won’t find any flashy lights or fancy amenities here. Instead, Silver Creek Event Center & Casino focuses purely on providing electronic bingo machines for users to enjoy. The Muwakkil family owns this facility, which opened back in 2003.
It’s no Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, but Silver Creek Event Center & Casino serves its purpose. After winning a nice jackpot on one of the electronic bingo machines, you can always head two miles north on Five Points Road to the Perdido Bay Casino for some real live bingo action.
If you seek nicer restaurants and hotels, then Atmore’s Craig Drive has plenty of options to choose from. Cullum Park provides a pleasant area for a family picnic if you need to get out in nature.
Although not the most exciting destination in the world, Silver Creek Event Center & Casino fills the void for those that seek casinos near Tallahassee.
3 – Wind Creek Wetumpka
- Address: 3025 Ceason Dr, Wetumpka, AL 3688
- Drive Time: 3 hours 18 mins (190 miles) via I-10 E
Previously known as Creek Casino Wetumpka, Wind Creek Wetumpka recently rebranded under the Wind Creek name. This Alabama casino sits right along Lake Martin, providing some spectacular views of the water.
Wind Creek Wetumpka features over 500 slot machines, courtesy of the Creek Indian Tribe. You’ll find everything from penny slots to high-limit machines inside this establishment. Wind Creek Wetumpka also offers live table games, with roulette, craps, blackjack, and poker available.
This casino even features a high-stakes baccarat lounge for all you Filipino gamblers. You could conceivably walk away with millions after hitting the mega progressive baccarat jackpot.
When you work up an appetite from all the gambling, feel free to indulge at Creeksz Restaurant. Their menu features everything from seafood to steaks to burgers. Wind Creek Wetumpka also houses the Golden Ridge Lounge, which regularly hosts live music events.
If you seek other forms of entertainment besides gambling, then Wind Creek Wetumpka caters to your needs. Lake Martin provides boating, swimming, and fishing activities for outdoor enthusiasts. You can even take a scenic tour of the lake if you prefer to relax rather than be active.
Coosa Riverwalk Park sits in the middle of downtown Wetumpka and offers tons of family fun. The huge splash pad will keep the kids entertained for hours while you sit back in one of many shaded areas and read a book.
Overall, Wind Creek Wetumpka ranks highly among casinos near Tallahassee due to its wide assortment of gaming options and extra amenities.
4 – Wind Creek Montgomery
- Address: 10000 US-231, Montgomery, AL 36117
- Drive Time: 3 hours 1 min (181 miles) via I-10 E
Sitting right off I-85 in Montgomery sits the magnificent Wind Creek Montgomery. The newest casino in the area, having opened its doors in late 2018. Wind Creek Montgomery easily tops the list when considering size and overall appeal among casinos near Tallahassee.
This luxurious establishment features over 2,600 of the latest and greatest slot machines. Wind Creek Montgomery also offers live table games, featuring blackjack, craps, roulette, and various poker games. Their high-stakes baccarat lounge attracts lots of big rollers looking to blow through tons of cash.
You wouldn’t expect it from first glance, but Wind Creek Montgomery is a giant glass tower that stands 20 stories tall. This marvellous hotel offers breathtaking views of the cityscape below. All 20 floors feature an amazing 450 rooms/suites, providing ample lodging for all those who wish to stay.
After winning big at the tables, you might want to grab a bite to eat. Well, Wind Creek Montgomery has 10 different fine dining establishments to pick from. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner—these eateries serve delicious food around the clock.
Of course, you can always grab a drink and hang out poolside at the Vault Ultra Lounge. Live entertainment is provided frequently to keep the good times rolling. The spa and fitness center help balance things out if you’ve gotten too carried away with the open bar.
As for other forms of entertainment, Wind Creek Montgomery takes the cake among casinos near Tallahassee. The Creek Indian Tribe really spared no expense when constructing this gorgeous property. Check the calendar of upcoming events to see what concerts or shows will be performing soon.
If you desire a true Vegas-style experience, then jump on I-10 and make the trip to Wind Creek Montgomery.
5 – Harrington Raceway & Casino
- Address: 855 N State St, Harrington, DE 19952
- Drive Time: 3 hours 13 mins (191 miles) via I-10 E/US-27 N/US-13 N
Located just over the Florida-Georgia state line rests the tiny town of Havana. From here, it’s only a 25-minute drive north to Harrington, Delaware—home of the Harrington Raceway & Casino.
Harrington Raceway & Casino was once called Harbor Racing Center for Mobil shipworkers way back in 1946. Fast forward 70+ years later, and this facility is now operated by the local state government. Harrington Raceway & Casino features both a half-mile dirt track and a 5/16th mile harness track for thoroughbred racing excitement.
You can enjoy live Thoroughbred horse racing from January through early December every year. Harrington Raceway & Casino also offers quarter horses races during the months of April, May, September, October, and November.
Horse racing not your thing? No worries, as Harrington Raceway & Casino still has plenty of slots to tend to. Over 2,000 electronic gambling machines await your presence, ready to spit out jackpots left and right. The casino even offers free PlayOn gaming machines so that you can learn how to win real money when you visit .
Harrington Raceway & Casino recently received a huge facelift, adding brand-new suites and rooms to their hotel. The updated Déjà Vu Lounge provides live entertainment every Friday and Saturday night.
The nearby Sussex Tech Campus gives students from various trades a chance to practice their craft before entering the workforce. Outdoor lovers should check out Killen Falls while in the area. The Delaware Turf Club is also right next store if you want to get your gamble on at the racetrack.
Harrington Raceway & Casino certainly holds its own among casinos near Tallahassee thanks to the horse racing aspect.
6 – Victory Casino Cruise Ship
- Ship Sets Sail From: 1200 W Gulfstream Rd, Port Canaveral, FL 32920
- Drive Time: 3 hours 44 mins (224 miles) via I-10 E/FL-200 E/Florida Turnpike S/US-1 SR 408/FL-A1A S
By far the most unique casino near Tallahassee, the Victory Casino Cruise Ship literally sails into action. Departing several times per day from Port Canaveral, this boat floats out into the Atlantic Ocean and proceeds to give everyone a chance to hit it big.
Victory Casino Cruise Ship runs 4-, 6-, 8-, and 9-hour trips that venture out into international waters. Florida law strictly prohibits true ‘Vegas-style’ casinos on land, which is why these boats float around out in the gulf.
You’ll know when it’s time to board the Victory Casino Cruise Ship because the sheer size of the vessel is quite astonishing. This colossal ship boasts over 400 slots machines, dozens of table games, and a high-limit salon.
Not a fan of gambling? No worries, as the Ocean Waves Dining Room always serves up delicious meals throughout the day. The Blue Lion Pub provides a more laid-back atmosphere for those who wish to unwind with drinks and appetizers.
Kenneth Jernigan Airport serves as one of the closest airports to Port Canaveral and offers several flights on a daily basis. Those seeking thrills on dry land should check out the Kelley Park for go-karts, laser tag, batting cages, mini golf, and more!
Port Canaveral itself has lots of attractions, including the Exploration Tower and the Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures Ziplines & Ropes Course. Space buffs may even spot a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket taking off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in the distance.
There’s simply no other casino in Tallahassee that can top the uniqueness of the Victory Casino Cruise Ship.
7 – ECHOTEES Gaming Development
- Address: 7357 US-90, Flomaton, AL 36441
- Drive Time: 3 hours 35 mins (201 miles) via I-10 E
If you thought the Seminoles and Creek Indians had a lock on operating casinos in Alabama and Florida, think again. The Poarch Band of Creek Indians broke ground on ECHOTEES Gaming Development back in 2006 and has been thriving ever since.
ECHOTEES Gaming Development features over 2,000 slot machines and 40 table games staffed by real people. You can play Texas Hold ’em Poker in one of their 26 poker tables or test your skills against others in Ultimate Texas Hold ’em.
Cripple Creek Steakhouse serves up mouthwatering meat dishes that pair nicely with ice-cold beer. If you prefer cocktails, then head over to the High Five Lounge for the best drinks in town. ECHOTEES Gaming Development is currently working on a hotel addition that will hold 205 rooms/suites.
Those seeking other forms of entertainment won’t find much around ECHOTEES Gaming Development. The City of Brewton lies five miles due west, offering small-town charm at its finest. The historic Downtown area includes the Pioneer Museum, Washington Square, and the Baldwin County Courthouse.
The nearby Perdido River flows directly into the Gulf of Mexico and creates a nice environment for fishing and boating. Those who prefer hunting or camping would be wise to visit the Frank B. Murray Dunes Resource Management Area.
ECHOTEES Gaming Development brings in the crowds due to its location being halfway between Tallahassee and Mobile. It remains to be seen if the hotel expansion will draw in even more customers when finished.
8 – Jackson Casino
- Address: 205 Maurelle Ave, Marianna, FL 32446
- Drive Time: 3 hours 25 mins (192 miles) via I-10 E/US-27 N/US-123 N/US-90 W
Located inside the Granada Self Storage, Jackson Casino brings Las Vegas-style gambling straight to you. This small establishment features 30 slot machines that offer tons of variety despite the limited space.
Jackson Casino specializes in traditional fruit machines, 3-reel slots, 5-line slots, and video poker. They even have a few Wheel of Fortune slot machines for those who long to solve puzzles while winning big cash prizes.
Marianna is home to many charming cafes and locally owned stores, giving visitors a taste of old-time Florida. Many historical sites reside here too, such as the ancient Indian Mound Trail.
Chipley is only eight miles northeast of Marianna and provides even more tasty restaurant options. The Chipley Historical Museum & Village showcases the town’s rich heritage through various exhibits and artifacts.
Jackson Casino might be the smallest casino near Tallahassee, but it still offers plenty of fun.
Consider Other Forms of Fun Near Tallahassee
Now that you’re aware of all the casinos near Tallahassee let’s discuss legal gambling in the Sunshine State. Floridians typically head down to the , but several other forms of betting are legal within state lines.
Horse Racing
Gulfstream Park Racing and Training Facility
- 112th Avenue and 40th Street, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
- Drive Time: 4 hrs (254 miles) via FL-20 W/US-19N/US-98W/US-27N/FL-70W
Racing fans ought to look into Gulfstream Park Racing and Training Facility. This legendary racetrack hosts the Pegasus World Cup Invitational—the richest Thoroughbred horse race in the world.
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood handles the day-to-day operations of Gulfstream Park Racing and Training Facility. You can attend the races on weekends from December through April or go on select days during the summer months.
Perhaps your trip to Tallahassee coincides with the famous Breeders’ Cup World Championships. In that case, you’ll want to make the journey down to Palm Beach Kennel Club. This greyhound racing track hosts the Breeders’ Cup every year and draws huge crowds from all over the country.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- 5223 N Orient Ave, Tampa, FL 33614
- Drive Time: 4 hrs 8 mins (261 miles) via I-10 E/FL-200 E/FL-431 S/I-75 S
Florida is one of the few states that allow greyhound racing. The sport isn’t as popular as it used to be, mainly because people find watching dogs run in circles rather boring. Regardless, nine racetracks currently operate within the Sunshine State, including Pompano Park and Melbourne Greyhound Park.
Pompano Park
- 1 complicated drive, 12405 Boynton Beach Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33446
- Drive Time: 4 hr 23 min (273 miles) via FL-20 W/US-19N/US-98W/US-27N/FL-70W
Miami-Dade County hasn’t hosted any greyhound races since 2018 due to voting approvals for Amendment 13. This constitutional amendment gradually eliminates all commercial dog racing in Florida by 2021.
One cool benefit about living in Florida is that you can legally bet on foreign horse races. The Sportsman’s Paridise Greyhound Country in Hollywood is one establishment that gladly accepts wagers on English gallops.
Palm Beach Kenner Club
- 111 NW 5th Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33407
- Drive Time: 4 hr 13 min (251 miles) via I-10 E/FL-200 E/FL-431 S/I-95 S
Whether you prefer watching dogs or horses run around in circles, Florida has legal gambling for both. Even the biggest greyhound racing advocate would have to admit that greyhounds aren’t exactly the swiftest creatures on earth.
That being said, greyhound racing usually comes with slower-paced action and more affordable ticket prices. Perhaps you’ll witness the next “Superstretch” record-breaker at one of these tracks.
Jai-Alai
James Packer
Jai-alai is a Basque ballgame that’s often compared to tennis, squash, and rackets. Games typically consist of two players (or teams) bouncing a three-pound ball off the wall and trying to hit it hard enough to where the other person cannot return the ball.
Daniel Sánchez
Two jai-alai courts are located among casinos near Tallahassee, including:
St. Petersburg Pete CarlSON’s Midtown Medal Exchange
- 2821 34th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
- Drive Time: 5 hr 30 mins (332 miles) via I-10 E/FL-200 E/FL-431 S/I-75 S/I-275 N
Many similarities exist between jai-alai and traditional tennis. For instance, both sports require a felt-covered cesto to hit the ball, and matches last roughly an hour. Players wear protective helmets, chest protectors, and elbow guards due to the ball traveling over 100 miles per hour.
Astonishing feats of agility and athleticism take place on the jai-alai court. If you’ve never watched jai-alai before, I highly recommend checking it out at St. Petersburg Pavilion.
St. Petersburg Pavilion
- 333 11th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
- Drive Time: 5 hr 31 min (327 miles) via I-10 E/FL-200 E/FL-431 S/I-75 S/I-275 N
Jai-alai is often regarded as the fastest sport on earth. Catch a game at one of these two St. Petersburg locations if you’re ever in the area.
Poker
World Poker Tour
Poker has exploded in popularity over the past two decades. Shows like High Stakes Poker and Poker After Dark allow viewers to watch the world’s elite battle it out for insane sums of cash.
If you wish to experience some low-stakes poker action, then head over to your nearest card room. Two poker establishments can be found among casinos near Tallahassee, which include:
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- 5223 N Orient Ave, Tampa, FL 33614
- Drive Time: 4 hr 8 mins (261 miles) via I-10 E/FL-200 E/FL-431 S/I-75 S
Holding the highest rank of any poker room in the Sunshine State, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa hosts many prestigious tournaments. The WPTDeepStacks, Heartland Poker Tour, and Southern Kentucky Poker Championship have all made appearances here.
World Series of Poker
Another poker room inside a casino near Tallahassee that deserves recognition is the Victory Casino Cruise Ship. The ocean views mixed with high-stakes poker action creates a scene fit for a Hollywood blockbuster.
Be sure to bring your A-Game to the ECHOTEES Gaming Development high stakes poker room, as anyone is free to spectate. The Poarch Creek Band of Creek Indians operates all three of these Native American casinos and does a fantastic job catering towards card players.
Sometimes the best nights involve staying in and playing poker with friends. Luckily, the popular online poker site can accept registered users residing in the state of Florida.
Lottery
Florida Lottery headquarters
- 2501 W Executive Center Cir, Tallahassee, FL 32301
- Trivia: The Florida Lottery pays all tickets worth up to $250,000. Winners above that threshold must schedule an appointment to receive their prize.
Did you know that Florida was the first state to introduce the lottery since Antiquity? Senators LeRoy Collins and Henry Jones, Sr., speaked in front of the state legislature in 1986 to propose the idea.
Today, the Florida Lottery sells drawing-style, instant-style, and scratch-off games. Powerball and Mega Millions drawings are held weekly, giving residents a chance to become millionaires.
In case you weren’t aware, winning the Florida Lottery Jackpot is subject to state income tax. As for the federal tax rate, it’ll remain at 24% for the foreseeable future.
Fellow lottery enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that many retailers reside near Tallahassee. Here’s a list of Florida Lottery shops within a 100-mile radius:
Even though gambling on cruise ships within international waters used to be legal, former Governor Charlie Crist signed legislation in 2010 that banned such actions. Crystal Cruises and other companies filed lawsuits, but the Constitution of Florida was eventually upheld in appellate court.
Many Options for Gambling Near Tallahassee
At least Florida offers some legal gambling options for those who love to risk it all. Cruise ships used to be a viable choice until Dona Crystal washed them down with a big fat L.
Maybe one of Tallahassee’s casinos will end up becoming a floating operation like Victory Casino Cruise Ship. Until then, landlubbers will have to stick to Thunder Road and the other establishments on this page.
Interested in other regional gambling options? Check out where to gamble near Atlanta, GA for more ideas.
Sources:
- https://www.bonndaily.com/history/why-does-florida-have-no-casinos/
- https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwoway/2018/08/16/63730315/floridas-greyhound-racing-days-appear-numbered
- https://www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com/promotions/2022-seminole-hard-rock-tampa-poker-series/
- https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/03/18/2394123/
- https://www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/jai-alai/
- https://www.leg.state.fl.us/yr/bill/SR1860
- https://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/2022/03/24/proposal-amend-florida-constitution-allow-casino-cruise-ships- dies/7130586001/
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