- One of the top casinos near Omaha is the Ameristar Casino Hotel in Council Bluffs, which features over 2,000 slots.
- Head to Harrah’s Council Bluffs if you are searching for a Council Bluffs casino with a hotel, as it has a four-star rating on TripAdvisor.
- The finest gambling movie set in a casino near Omaha is The Color of Money, which was partly filmed at the Claridge Casino in West Virginia.
The state of Nebraska has only three casinos, and two of them are located in the northeastern part of the state. If you are looking for more betting options, there are some great casinos within a few hours drive of Omaha.
Historical note: Council Bluffs is actually located in Iowa, just across the river from Omaha. For the rest of this blog, council Bluffs will be referred to as a city that’s close to Omaha.
Whether you prefer to play blackjack, roulette, or video poker, you’ll find plenty of table games and slot machines in these casinos.
So, what other types of gambling can you do on a road trip?
You could head to one of the .
Or, place bets on your favorite horses at thecasms in nearby states.
Let’s take a look at some gambling movies that were filmed in or around western Pennsylvania, and then dive into the best casinos near Omaha.
casino online with paypalTop Movies Filmed Near Casinos Near Omaha
Do you enjoy watching films that include gambling and casinos? So do I. It’s even better when the film was partially filmed inside a real casino.
Several good gambling movies were shot in western Pennsylvania, so it only seems right to include them on this list.
Here are three of my favorites.
The color of money (1986) — starring Paul Newman and Tom Cruise, this movie earned almost $40 million at the box office.
It tells the story of “Fast Eddie” Felson, who we first met in The Hustler. He meets an old friend and resumes his career as a hustler. They travel to different pool halls, including the Claridge Casino in West Virginia.
Eight Men Out (1983) — based on the nonfiction book by John C. Ehrlich, this movie is set in the early 1900s.
It portrays the 1919 World Series, where a group of baseball players were bribed by gangsters to throw the games.
Some scenes were filmed at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana — now known as the Horseshoe Hammond Casino.
Rain Man (1988) — this movie stars Michael Douglas and Dustin Hoffman and earned nearly $360 million worldwide.
It follows the journey of two brothers as they travel from Las Vegas to California. They engage in various casino games along the way, such as blackjack and slot machines.
Now that you know about some movies involving gambling that were filmed in casinos near Omaha, let’s check out the top Council Bluffs casino, shall we?
Best Casinos Near Omaha
If you’ve already won big at the , you might want to try your luck somewhere new.
Best New Orleans Gambling Experiences - Mardi Gras Casino Top PickHead to any of these casinos from Omaha for an exciting day or night out. There’s something for everyone, whether you prefer playing table games, slot machines, or bingo.
1. Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs
If you’re wondering, “Is there a casino in Council Bluffs,” the answer is yes—there are several. But one of the top picks is Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs.
Free No Deposit Poker Sites that Offer Real Money Prize in 2023This Council Bluffs casino is open 24/7 and spreads over 50,000 square feet. It includes more than 2,000 slot machines, 40 table games, and a high-limit room.
You’ll find all your favorite games here, including Roulette, Craps, Blackjack, Mini-Baccarat, Pai Gow, and Spanish 21. They also offer three card poker and Mississippi Stud.
But that’s not all.
You can play a range of electronic games, such as Keno, Quick Draw, and Fast Play.
If you’ve never played keno before, it’s similar to the lottery. You pick numbers on a ticket and see if you’ve guessed enough correct spots. This game can be found at most casinos throughout the United States.
One of the top attractions at this Council Bluffs resort and casino is the Center Stage Bar. This features live music every weekend and offers a wide variety of drinks.
Other amenities at Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs include:
- Lucky Strike Battle House Arena
- Level One Restaurant
- Spirits Lobby Bar
- TransWorld Tavern
- Starbucks
- Mario’s Ristorante
- 24-hour fitness center
- 24-hour business center
When you need to refuel, grab a bite at one of their seven eateries. They offer buffets, fast food, steaks, pastries, cocktails, and coffee.
Best Free Online Casino Games You Can Play at HomeIf you don’t feel like driving home, stay the night in one of their 205 hotel rooms. All accommodations include a 32-inch flat-screen TV, luxury linens, and plush pillows.
High rollers can upgrade to a VIP room, which has a whirlpool tub, fireplace, and separate parlor area.
Don’t drive to Omaha for fun if you happen to live in PA. Don’t worry; there are many in that state that you might enjoy instead!
Hours
This Council Bluffs casino is open 24/7.
Restaurants and bars have varying hours, so check the Ameristar website for details.
2. Harrah’s Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel
Are you looking for a Council Bluffs casino with a hotel? Look no further than Harrah’s Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel.
This property has 207 guest rooms, along with an RV park. All rooms come with a microwave, refrigerator, 32-inch LCD TV, and private bath. Suites and the RV park have additional features, so view the website for details.
Harrah’s Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel
Of course, the main attraction at this Council Bluffs resort and casino is the gaming floor. It covers more than 54,000 square feet and features over 1,500 slot machines and electronic games.
You’ll also find 22 table games that spread popular titles like blackjack, craps, roulette, and Spanish 21.
For something different, try the keno lounge, which has 150 tickers and a full bar.
Caesars Casino Bonus Code & Promo Code for Free + ReviewWhen you get hungry or thirsty, visit one of these six eateries and watering holes:
- Food Court
- Pineapple Eddie’s Island Grill
- BIG BAR
- Café Bluff
- Starbuck’s
- In-Room Dining
Harrah’s Council Bluffs boasts several entertainment venues, including the Creekstone Event Center and the Harrah’s Cabaret.
They regularly host concerts, stand-up comedy shows, beauty pageants, and other events.
Check their site for a schedule of upcoming shows during your next visit.
If you plan to spend several days in the area, look into their gamers club. It offers discounted room rates, free play on slots, and invitations to special events.
This property is the largest Council Bluffs casino hotel, and it has an excellent location. It sits near the Nebraska-Iowa border, just across the river from Omaha.
10+ Best Online Poker Freerolls & Where to Find Them - PokerListingsPlus, it lies off I-29 and I-80, making it simple to access from surrounding areas.
Finding a Council Bluffs casino with a pool can be challenging, but Harrah’s has an indoor pool and hot tub for guests to use. They also have a workout facility if you want to maintain your exercise routine while traveling.
If you don’t want to drive to Council Bluffs, there are also a couple of decent casinos in Lincoln, NE you could hit up instead.
Hours
The casino is open 24/7, but the restaurants and bars have varying hours. Check the Harrah’s website for specific details.
3. Horseshoe Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel
When exploring the harbor towns near Council Bluffs, take time to visit the Horseshoe Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel.
Tropicana Casino Bonus Codes (2023) - Updated Promo CodesThis Council Bluffs resort and casino has 373 luxurious guest rooms and suites.
All lodgings include a 37-inch plasma TV, high-speed internet, plush beds, and marble bathrooms. If you want added space, consider booking a suite that features a whirlpool tub and living room.
Horseshoe Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel
Gamblers will find over 1,800 slot machines on the casino floor, along with numerous table games. Those who prefer cards will be happy to find Crazy Four Poker, Mississippi Stud, and pai gow.
You can also play roulette, craps, and blackjack until you’re ready for a break.
Need some fresh air?
Step outside to enjoy views of the Missouri River Valley.
When your tummy rumbles, visit one of these six eateries:
- Dos Locos Cantina
- Sorrisi Italian Restaurant
- The Cuppan Roast & Beverage
- Main Street Food Court
- Ben & Jerry’s
- Room Service
Looking for a Council Bluffs casino with a bowling alley?
There’s much more to the Horseshoe than gambling and dining.
This property also has a 24-lane bowling alley, an arcade, a movie theater, and a gift shop.
If you want to stay in shape while on vacation, check out the fitness center, steam rooms, and saunas.
Does the thought of massages sound better?
Spa Shoe offers a range of services, including body scrubs, wraps, facials, manicures, and pedicures.
Guests of Horseshoe Council Bluffs can also enjoy those same perks. It’s only a short walk across the skywalk from the hotel to the casino.
Rooms cost between $130 and $200 per night, depending on the season and type of lodging. View the website for current prices and to make reservations.
Don’t feel like visiting Council Bluffs? There’s a in Wisconsin Dells that might scratch that itch instead.
Hours
The casino is open 24/7, but the restaurants and shops have varying hours. Check the Horseshoe website for specific information.
4. Iron Horse Convention Center & Hotel
The last stop on our Council Bluffs casino road trip is Iron Horse Convention Center & Hotel.
Also known as El Sanado Argentino Casino & Resort, this property features a convention center, hotel, and casino. It is the biggest building in Council Bluffs, covering over 200,000 square feet.
El Sanado Argentino Casino & Resort
The casino has 2,000 slot machines, 50 table games, and a high-stakes bingo hall. That makes it the largest casino in the region, surpassing the top casinos near Omaha.
If you’ve ever wanted to play Patience Leo Poker, Olazulin, or Tuk Tuk, this is the place. They also have traditional table games such as mini and mega baccarat, roulette, craps, Spanish 21, and blackjack.
When you get hungry or thirsty, visit La Mansion Buffet, Terra Restaurant, Agua Pool Bar, and Cafetin.
La Mansion serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, while Terra opens for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. If you crave fast food, check out the deli and pizza station at the buffet.
Cool off in the Agua Pool Bar, which features an indoor/outdoor pool. It’s open during the summer months and requires guests to be 21 or older after 4:00 p.m.
This Council Bluffs casino hotel has 205 rooms, each offering cable television, pay-per-view movies, coffee makers, and private baths. Some lodgings have whirlpool tubs, wet bars, and sleeper sofas.
If you plan to visit for several days, ask about their loyalty program. Members receive points for their wagers, which can be used for meals, gifts, and hotel stays.
Iron Horse Convention Center & Hotel is located five miles west of downtown Council Bluffs. It has easy access from Interstates 29, 80, and 92.
But if you don’t feel like driving to Council Bliffs, try your luck at one of these instead. There’s also a new casino in South Dakota, and it’s not too far of a drive from Omaha.
Hours
The casino is open 24/7, but the restaurants and bars have varying hours. Check the Iron Horse website for specific details.
Best Casinos Near Omaha
The three best casinos near Omaha, Nebraska offer everything from bingo and slots to delicious restaurant fare. Whether you want to spend the night or just a few hours, any of these options are sure to please.
If you can’t make up your mind, start at Ameristar Casino Council Bluffs in the morning. Have lunch at Harrah’s Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel, then end your day at Horseshoe Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel with dinner.
Playing online casino games and looking for a guide? Read , and learn all about the best sites available.
Or, are you more of a sports fanatic? Visit the site below for legal places to bet on your favorite teams.
Footnotes:
- Council Bluffs history provided by .
Anthony is a sports writer for GamblingSites.com covering the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. He also covers other various topics such as entertainment, general sports betting tips, and more.
His favorite teams are the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and Blackhawks. He also will be a temporary fan of any team if it means winning him bets.
