The Keystone State has a rich history of gambling that dates back centuries, with evidence showing that Native American tribes played games like dice and stick ball as far back as the 1700s. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that casinos in PA officially arrived on the scene.
Top Free Poker Games You Can Play Online Right NowPA casinos have a lot to offer gamblers today, from slots and table games to poker rooms and sports betting opportunities. On top of this, there are plenty of world-class hotels, entertainment options, and eateries located within their premises. If you want to find out more about casino resorts in PA, how they came about, and what they have to offer, then be sure to read on. Or skip to your favorite PA casino by using these quick links:
What’s the best time of year to visit Pennsylvania casinos? Although all four of seasons can bring good weather to this state, many gamblers agree that summer is the way to go – particularly if you like outdoor concerts and festivals. Many of the best PA casinos stage these during the warmer months, giving players even more reasons to get out and play.
However, others prefer visiting during the wintertime because of the holiday season. Not only is the scenery picturesque when there is snow on the ground, but many casinos put on special light shows and other visual displays to get people into the festive spirit. Plus, some run Xmas promotions where players can win seasonal-themed prizes.
Many gamblers who live outside of Pennsylvania wonder – how many casinos are in PA? There are now 16 land-based commercial casinos, two Category 4 casinos, five racetrack casinos, plus thousands of video gaming terminals across the state. When you add to this the fact that many of the PA casinos boast top-notch resorts, eateries, spas, nightclubs, and other amenities, it’s easy to see why so many people flock here to play.
Like many US states, PA casinos went through a lot of legal drama before they were allowed to open their doors. Below, we give a brief overview of their history and show how the industry looks today.
The following map illustrates where all the casinos in PA are based. Just click on each region in the bottom left-hand corner to enlarge it and see exactly where each one is situated.
Real Money Gambling Apps for When You're BoredPennsylvania Casino Map
Now that we know where all the land-based casinos in PA are located, let’s look at them individually, starting with #1 – Wind Creek Bethlehem. On this page, we have created individual reviews complete with ratings for each one. This will make it simple for you to decide which venue is right for you. So, whether you’re interested in playing the latest slots in Western Pennsylvania or you want to try your hand at poker in Philadelphia, this guide is designed to point you in the right direction.
The state’s casinos offer something for everyone, regardless of whether you love spinning the reels of the latest slot machines or immersing yourself in games of poker or roulette. They also provide top-notch entertainment, first-rate dining experiences, luxurious places to stay, and a wide range of events throughout the year. So, let’s delve deeper into each one to see what makes them so special.
1. Wind Creek Bethlehem
- Name: Wind Creek Bethlehem
- Location: 77 Sands Way, Bethlehem, PA 18015
- Phone: (610) 800-7777
- Operating Company: Wind Creek Hospitality
- Gaming Type: Casino with over 3,000 slot machines and electronic table games, 200+ table games, a 38-table live poker room, and daily digital poker, plus high-limit gaming
- Table Games: Blackjack, Super Fun 21, Felt Master Series Roulette, Craps, Spanish 21, Pai Gow Tiles, Ceramic Craps, Baccarat, Four Card Poker, Mini Baccarat, Pennsylvania Stud, Electronic Rapid Roulette Stations
- Slots: Reel games, video poker, andDenomination: Penny, nickel, time, $1, $2, $5, and $10. Game themes include Wizard of Oz, Wheel of Fortune, Elvis, Star Trek, Avatar, and Wonder Woman.
- Poker Room: 38 tables offering No Limit Hold’em, Pot Limit Omaha, and Seven Card Stud. There are also daily tournaments and satellite tours.
- On-Site Restaurants: Mesh, Jianying’s Noodles, The Draft House, Center Bar, 77 Sushi & Terraza, and High Line. Table reservations can be made online.
- Accommodation Options: No accommodation provided.
- Noteworthy Facts: This venue was originally called Sands Bethlehem and opened its doors in 2009. It was purchased by Wind Creek Hospitality in January 2018 and renamed in July of that year.
Why You’ll Love It – Wind Creek Bethlehem is an excellent place to enjoy classic casino games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, and poker. Thanks to its 38-table live poker room and daily digital poker offering, it attracts many experienced card players from across Pennsylvania. However, slot lovers will feel right at home here too, thanks to the more than 3,000 state-of-the-art machines on the casino floor. From penny games to ones worth $10 per spin, there’s a wide selection of titles to suit all types of budgets and playing styles.
2. Live! Casino Pittsburgh
- Name: Live! Casino Pittsburgh
- Location: 700 Art Rooney Avenue, West Homestead, PA 15120
- Phone: (412) 265-7777
- Operating Company: Stadium Casino LLC (Parx Casino owner)
- Gaming Type: Casino with more than 500 slot machines, 50 table games, 30 live poker gaming positions, and more than 220 additional pixel-projected virtual poker positions
- Table Games: American Roulette, Mini Baccarat, Blackjack, Super Fun 21, Mini Texas Hold ‘Em
- Slots: Denominations start at one cent and go up to $25. Some of the popular game themes include Wheel of Fortune, Top Dollar, Blazing 777, and Beaker’s Fortune.
- Poker Room: Offers No Limit Hold’ems, Pot Limit Omaha, and Seven Card Stud. Players can earn M Life Rewards tier credits and slot points while they play.
- On-Site Restaurants: Bob Eve’s Rio Mexican Kitchen, The Marketplace, and The Tap Sports Bar. Table reservations aren’t needed unless you’re celebrating a special occasion and would like a birthday cake or similar dessert.
- Accommodation Options: There is no hotel at this site; however, there are several nearby, including Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh South/Airport, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Pittsburgh South/Airport, and Comfort Suites Pittsburgh South/Airport.
- Noteworthy Facts: This venue opened in October 2020 after costing $125 million. It is one of two casinos owned by Stadium Casino LLC and is located close to the airport.
Why You’ll Love It – If you’re looking for Pennsylvania casinos that are conveniently situated near the airport, Live! Casino Pittsburgh could be ideal. It takes less than 15 minutes to reach here from Pittsburgh International Airport and Pittsburg/Greensburg PAE. The casino is open 24/7 and offers slots, table games, poker, and much more. Whether you live nearby or plan to stop by after a flight, there’s something fun for everyone to try at this top PA casino.
bonus video poker3. The Meadows Racetrack & Casino
- Name: The Meadows Racetrack & Casino
- Location: 210 Racetrack Road, Washington, PA 15301
- Phone: (724) 228-3750
- Operating Company: Churchill Downs Incorporated
- Gaming Type: Racino with more than 1,400 slot machines, 32 table games, simulcast racing, and off-track betting
- Table Games: Mini-Baccarat, Blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, Crapless Craps, Flop Poker, FouR Card Poker, Pai Gow Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold ’em
- Slot Machines: Mechanical, electronic, and video machines offering traditional reel spinning action and progressive jackpots. Denominations start at one cent.
- On-Site Restaurants: Lawnside Hampton Inn, The Café, Connector Café, The Sports Bar, and The Buffet. Reservations are accepted for select restaurants.
- Accommodation Options: Lawnside Hampton Inn is located next door and provides 77 comfortable guestrooms.
- Noteworthy Facts: This casino first opened its doors in 1950 as a horse track and started offering Las Vegas-style slot machines and electronic table games in 2006. It was purchased by Churchill Downs Incorporated in 2018.
Why You’ll Love It – One reason to head to this Washington casino is if you adore watching Standardbred races. The Meadows Racetrack still hosts these today, just as it did when it initially launched back in 1950. Of course, there are plenty of reasons to visit this venue in 2023, not least because it has 1,400+ slot machines and 32 table games. There’s also a large sports book area and a wide range of casual and fine-dining restaurants.
Best Online Casinos in the US (2023) - Top Ranked Sites4. Presque Isle Downtown
- Name: Presque Isle Downs & Casino – Celebrate!
- Location: 777 Casino Drive, North East, PA 16429
- Phone: (814) 651-9464
- Operating Company: PDIN EH Holdings, LLC
- Gaming Type: Casino with more than 2,000 slot machines, electronic table games, and 29 table games
- Table Games: Mini-Baccarat, Blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, Crapless Craps, Flop Poker, FouR Card Poker, Pai Gow Poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold ’em
- Slot Machines: Starting denomination is one cent. Titles include favorites such as Jeopidy!, Wheel of Fortune, and Deal or No Deal. There are also progressive jackpots up for grabs.
- On-Site Restaurants: Kindred Spirits, BINGS!, The Turf Side Grill, and The Club Roundhouse. Reservations are accepted for select restaurants.
- Accommodation Options: There is no hotel at this site; however, there are numerous accommodation options within a short drive of the casino. Some of the closest include Microtel Inn & Suites Crawfordsville, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Crawfordsville, Red Roof Inn Crawfordsville, and Days Inn by Wyndham Meadville.
- Noteworthy Facts: This venue first opened in 2007 and was developed by Dan ADams, Jr., at a cost of $450 million. It is now owned by PDIN EH Holdings, LLC.
Why You’ll Love It – If you’re looking forward to PA casino nights, this North East casino could be perfect for you. What sets it apart from some of the other venues in the state is its stunning design and architecture. Covering an area of almost 200,00 square feet, it features soaring ceilings, lush decor, and much more. Of course, there are plenty of good reasons to visit besides the aesthetics. The 2,000+ slot machines, 29 table games, and excellent eating establishments ensure that there’s something for every kind of casino player.
Awesome Casino Games Available as Free Mobile Apps5. Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course
- Name: Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course
- Location: 777 Hollywood Drive, Grantville, PA 17035
- Phone: (717) 469-2211
- Operating Company: Gaming and Leisure Properties / Penn National Gaming
- Gaming Type: Casino with more than 2,000 slots, 50 table games, 15 poker tables, simulcast racing, and off-track betting
- Table Games: Roulette, Craps, Mini-Baccarat, Spanish 21, Blackjack, Pai Gow Poker, Three-Card Poker, and Texas Hold ‘Em
- Slot Machines: Reel machines, video poker, and video keno. Denominations begin at one cent. Some of the most popular games include Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, and Deal or No Deal.
- Poker Room: Seats up to 30 players and offers a variety of games, including Texas Hold ’em, Omaha, and Seven Card Stud in both Limit and No Limit formats. Players earn Caesars Rewards points while they play.
- On-Site Restaurants: Log Cabin, Horseracing Museum Café, Sports Bar, and Fanatic’s Quest. Reservations are recommended for the Log Cabin.
- Accommodation Options: There is no hotel on site, but there are many local accommodations available. Check out Baymont by Wyndham Harrisburg East, Comfort Suites Harrisburg East, Super 8 by Wyndham Mechanicsburg, Hampton Inn Mechanicsburg / America’s Ground Zero, and Fairfield by Marriott Mechanicsburg.
- Noteworthy Facts: This casino was renovated and expanded in 2008 after being bought by Penn National Gaming. It costs around $71 million and covers 180,000 square feet.
Why You’LL Love It – Do you dream of winning cash prizes? If so, you may like to know that this Mechanicsburg casino is home to hundreds of . These range from big-ticket titles such as Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune to local progressives and Denver & Albuquerque. There are even mystery jackpot machines that reveal the amount of cash you could potentially win once you’ve hit the winning combination. What’s great is that you can bag anything from a few bucks to millions of dollars on these games.
6. Parx Casino
- Name: Parx Casino
- Location: 2999 Street Road, Bensalem, PA 19020
- Phone: (215) 949-2657
- Operating Company: Greenwood Racing, LLC
- Gaming Type: Casino with more than 3,000 slot machines, 130 table games, a 40-table live poker room, a separate 24-hour poker room, simulcast wagering, and video gaming terminals at off-site locations like PhillyLive!
- Table Games: Blackjack, Super Fun 21, Felt Master Series Roulette, Craps, Spanish 21, Pai Gow Tiles, Four Card Poker, Mini Baccarat, Pennsylvania Stud, Commission Free Baccarat, Commission Free Craps, Commission Free Minnesota Stud, Panelronia, and Election 21.
- Slot Machines: Star Wars, Wheel of Fortune, The Price is Right, Quick Hits, Family Guy, Michael Jackson, Willy Wonka, and more. Denominations start at one cent.
- Poker Room: Offers a range of games, including Texas Hold ’em, Omaha Hi-Lo, and Seven Card Stud in both Limit and No Limit formats. There are also daily tournaments.
- On-Site Restaurants: Butcherero, Parxgrille, Cameli’s, Jeremiah’s Irish Pub, China Bistro, Sierra Court, Brickyard American Gastro Pub, and the upscale XXL. Reservations are recommended for Butcherero and the upscale eateries.
- Accommodation Options: There is no hotel at this site; however, there are numerous local accommodations available. Check out Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square, Hyatt House Philadelphia/Norristown, Springhill Suites by Marriott King of Prussia, and Hyatt Place Philadelphia/King of Prussia.
- Noteworthy Facts: This casino first opened in 1974 as a philately museum and took on its current name in 2005 after moving to new premises. Today, it is one of the largest employers in Bucks County and is known for its cutting-edge loyalty program.
Why You’ll Love It – Are you a fan of Asian-themed slots? If so, this Bensalem casino might be your idea of heaven. There are literally hundreds of Asian-themed slot machines spread across its vast gaming floor. Some of the titles you may encounter during Pennsylvania casino nights out include Panelronia, Panda Magic, Zhen Wu Yun, Emperor’s Dynasty, Cai Hong, Huang Long, Fa Fa Fa, and Ji Xing Kai Wu. Plus, there are panels of games dedicated entirely to titles from Japan, Korea, Macau, and mainland China.
7. Valley Forge Casino Resort
- Name: Valley Forge Casino Resort
- Location: 1400 Marketing Dr, King of Prussia, PA 19406
- Phone: (610) 354-8100
- Operating Company: Boyd Gaming
- Gaming Type: Casino with more than 600 slot machines, 55 table games, 24-hour poker room with 27 tables, and a High Limit Room
- Table Games: Blackjack, Super Fun 21, Mini Baccarat, Four Card Poker, Mini Texas Hold ’em and Paigs & Painters Chinese Sic Bo dice game
- Slot Machines: Starting denomination is one cent. Titles include favorites such as Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, and Deal or No Deal. There are also progressive jackpots up for grabs.
- Poker Room: Offers a variety of games, including Texas Hold ’em, Omaha, and Seven Card Stud in both Limit and No Limit formats. Players earn B Connected rewards points while they play.
- On-Site Restaurants: 810 Restaurant & Bar, Valley Forge Casino Resort Food Court, and Sports & More Bar. Reservations are accepted for 810 Restaurant & Bar.
- Accommodation Options: There is a 200-room Class AAA Four Diamond hotel on site. Alternatively, you can choose from a selection of local accommodations, including Fairfield by Marriott Baltimore White Marsh, Radisson Hotel Baltimore-Washington, Extended Stay America – Timonium – Baltimore, and Courtyard by Marriott Baltimore Timonium White Marsh.
- Noteworthy Facts: Built in 2006 and opening later that year, this was the first casino in the state. Boyd Gaming spent $24 million developing the property.
Why You’ll Love It – This King of Prussia casino could be your first port of call if you relish playing table games. Unlike many other PA casinos, this venue focuses mainly on these rather than slot machines. There are more than 600 slot titles to enjoy but a whopping 55 different . Whatever type of table game you love, there’s a strong chance you’ll find it here. These include Blackjack, Super Fun 21, Four Card Poker, Mini Texas Hold ’em, and Paigs & Painters Chinese Sic Bo dice game.
8. The Meadows Racetramp & Casino Buffalo
- Name: The Meadows Racetramp & Casino Buffalo
- Location: 275elles Corner Road, North Tonawanda, NY 14120
- Phone: (716) 692-2800
- Operating Company: Churchill Downs Incorporated
- Gaming Type: Racino with more than 650 slot machines, 22 table games, simulcast racing, and off-track betting
- Table Games: Mini-Baccarat, Blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, Crapless Craps, Flop Poker, Four Card Poker, Pai Gow Poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold ’em
- Slot Machines: Mechanical, electronic, and video machines offering traditional reel spinning action and progressive jackpots. Denominations start at one cent.
- On-Site Restaurants: Connectivity Café, The Turf Side Grill, and The Club Roundhouse. Reservations are accepted for The Club Roundhouse.
- Accommodation Options: There is no hotel at this site; however, there are numerous accommodation options within a short drive of the casino. Some of the closest include Microtel Inn & Suites Crawfordsville, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Crawfordsville, Red Roof Inn Crawfordsville, and Days Inn by Wyndham Meadville.
- Noteworthy Facts: This venue opened in 2022 and cost $212 million to develop. It is part of the , which operates several casinos in Pennsylvania and Indiana.
Why You’ll Love It – Another of the casinos in Erie PA is this North Tonawanda venue. If you live to the north of the state, this could be your closest option for everything from slots and table games to simulcast racing and off-track betting. There are more than 650 slot machines waiting for you here, along with 22 table games. From roulette and mini-baccarat to blackjack and Ultimate Texas Hold ’em, there’s lots to enjoy at this popular casino.
PA Online Casinos (2023) - Tips, Top 5 & List9. Presque Isle Downs & Casino Sharon
- Name: Presque Isle Downs & Casino Sharon
- Location: 777 Casino Drive, Sharon, PA 16146
- Phone: (724) 983-5100
- Operating Company: PDIN EH Holdings, LLC
- Gaming Type: Casino with more than 500 slot machines, 24 table games, simulcast racing, and off-track betting
- Table Games: Mini-Baccarat, Blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, Crapless Craps, Flop Poker, Four Card Poker, Pai Gow Poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold ’em
- Slot Machines: Starting denomination is one cent. Titles include favorites such as Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, and Deal or No Deal. There are also progressive jackpots up for grabs.
- On-Site Restaurants: Kindred Spirits, BINGS!, The Turf Side Grill, and The Club Roundhouse. Reservations are accepted for The Club Roundhouse.
- Accommodation Options: There is no hotel at this site; however, there are numerous local accommodations available. Check out Microtel Inn & Suites Crawfordsville, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Crawfordsville, Red Roof Inn Crawfordsville, and Days Inn by Wyndham Meadville.
- Noteworthy Facts: This venue first opened in 2007 and was developed by Dan ADams, Jr., at a cost of $450 million. It is now owned by PDIN EH Holdings, LLC.
Why You’ll Visit Here – Presque Isle Downs & Casino Sharon could be your top choice if you’re looking for one of the casinos in Clearfield PA. Like its sister site in North Tonawanda, New York, this venue features more than 500 slot machines, 24 table games, and simulcast racing facilities. Some of the highlights of the game selection include mini-baccarat, blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold ’em. What’s more, you can tuck into a variety of delicious dishes at four on-site eateries, including Kindred Spirits, BINGS!, The Turf Side Grill, and The Club Roundhouse.
10. Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
- Name: Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
- Location: 750 Hollywood Drive, Charles Town, WV 25414
- Phone: (304) 725-7777
- Operating Company: Gaming and Leisure Properties / Penn National Gaming
- Gaming Type: Casino with more than 1,700 slot machines, 30 table games, a seven-table live poker room, and a ¼ mile race track
- Table Games: Roulette, Craps, Mini-Baccarat, Spanish 21, Blackjack, Pai Gow Tiles, Four Card Poker, Mini Baccarat, Pennsylvania Stud, Commission Free Baccarat, Commission Free Craps, Commission Free Minnesota Stud, Panelronia, and Election 21.
- Slot Machines: Star Wars, Wheel of Fortune, The Price is Right, Quick Hits, Family Guy, Michael Jackson, Willy Wonka, and more. Denominations start at one cent.
- Poker Room: Offers a range of games, including Texas Hold ’em, Omaha Hi-Lo, and Seven Card Stud in both Limit and No Limit formats. There are also daily tournaments.
- On-Site Restaurants: 1915 Club, Charlie’s Bond, Hops Mess Hall, and Hollywood Julep. Reservations are recommended for the 1915 Club and Hollywood Julep.
- Accommodation Options: There is no hotel at this site; however, there are numerous local accommodations available. Check out Fairfield by Marriott Martinsburg/Leitersburger, Home2 Suites by Hilton Martinsburg, Best Western Martinsburg, Days Inn by Wyndham Martinsburg East, and Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Martinsburg East.
- Noteworthy Facts: The race track originally opened in 1933, and the casino began operating in 1994. Today, it is one of the largest employers in Jefferson County, WV.
Why You’ll Enjoy It – If you have a particular soft spot for horseracing, this Charles Town casino could be your first port of call. As well as more than 1,700 slot machines and 30 table games, this establishment also boasts a ½ mile race track. This allows visitors to enjoy live horseracing when it is in season. Even better, many of the slots and tables offer race-related themes and names, making this a truly unified gaming experience. Examples include Pennsylvania Stud, Elektion 21, Panelronia, and The Hollywood Julep eatery.
Zone.com Online Casino Review - Top Games & Bonuses in CA11. Mount Airy Casino Resort
- Name: Mount Airy Casino Resort
- Location: 312 Woodland Hills Boulevard, Mount Pocono, PA 18344
- Phone: (570) 839-7000
- Operating Company: Louis DeJoy
- Gaming Type: Casino with more than 1,800 slot machines, 80 table games, 24-hour poker room with 40 tables, and high-limit gaming areas
- Table Games: Blackjack, Super Fun 21, Mini-Baccarat, Four Card Poker, Five Card Draw, Six-Up Mississippi Stud, Pai Gow Tiles, Pennsylvania Stud, Commission Free Baccarat, Commission Free Craps, and Commission Free Minnesota Stud.
- Slot Machines: Starting denomination is one cent. Titles include favorites such as Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, and Deal or No Deal. There are also progressive jackpots up for grabs.
- Poker Room: Offers a range of games, including Texas Hold ’em, Omaha, and Seven Card Stud in both Limit and No Limit formats. Players earn My Choice rewards points while they play.
- On-Site Restaurants: Osteria, Tiger Sherman’s, The Barista, Lobby Bar, Woodlands Steakhouse & Event Center, Mountain Laurel Wrestler’s Lounge, and the 24-hour Marketplace. Reservations are accepted for Woodlands Steakhouse & Event Center.
- Accommodation Options: This venue features a 160-room hotel.
- Noteworthy Facts: This casino first opened in 2007 and underwent a major expansion in 2018, costing more than $30m. It is currently operated by Louis DeJoy, who bought it from Mount Airy Casino Resort LLC in 2021.
Why You’ll Play Here – The final entry on our list of casinos in the Poconos PA is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in the region. With more than 1,800 slot machines, 80 table games, and 40 poker tables, there is lots to do at this Monroe County casino resort. Slots come in all shapes and sizes, from nickel games to high roller machines. Meanwhile, the table selection includes classics like Blackjack and Mini-Baccarat, along with novel options such as Six-Up Mississippi Stud. Once you’ve had your fill of games, you can relax in one of eight eateries or unwind in the spa.
Types of Establishments That Can Secure a Casino License in PA
If you want to open a casino in PA, there are certain eligibility criteria you need to meet. Firstly, you can apply for a license to operate either a category 1, 2, or 3 facility. Each of these has strict rules governing factors like the size of the establishment, the number of tables and slots allowed, and whether or not players can enjoy live table games.
Category 1 licenses are awarded to casinos located at existing licensed racetracks with 30,000 or more square feet of gaming space. They can offer up to 2,500 slot machines and 100 table games. Category 2 permits are granted to venues without racetracks measuring between 400,000 and 600,000 square feet. These can feature up to five table games and a maximum of 1,001 slot machines. Finally, category 3 covers small Keno operations of up to 25,000 square feet, allowing up to six kiosks and 400 terminal seats.
It’s also important to note that only certain types of organizations are eligible to receive casino licenses in Pennsylvania. According to Title 52, Section 52.201, they must be:
- An individual
- A partnership
- Limited liability company
- A corporation
- Any other entity or association
However, these entities must not:
- Be barred from doing business in the state
- Have any officers, directors, or partners who are prohibited from participating
- Have any publicly elected official involved in running the business
- Have any connection to fantasy sports contests, video gaming terminals, or the Pennsylvania Lottery.
Furthermore, successful applicants must pay an initial licensing fee of $5m-$10m, along with $125,000 annually after that.
Why Were Casinos Illegal in Pennsylvania for So Long?
Although Pennsylvania is now one of the leading destinations for land-based and internet gambling in the United States, it wasn’t always this way. In fact, it took more than a century for laws to change and allow casinos in PA.
Free Online Casino Games You Can Play Right NowSo, why were gambling halls illegal for so long? There are several key moments that helped shape the state’s stance on the pastime. We examine some of the most significant below:
1682
In 1682, William Penn wrote a document calling for the protection of Quakers. Within this, he stated that games of chance were “highly scandalous” and pledged to fine anyone found playing them up to £50.
1853
An Act to Regulate Games passed in 1853. This banned several types of games, including faro, kissingo, and roulette, unless they were held under licensed conditions.
1864
A new bill amended the 1853 law and added new details. Among other things, it stated that no person under 16 should be permitted to watch prohibited games and that no one should charge an admission fee to watch illicit activities. Anyone breaking these rules faced a penalty of up to $200.
1875
Following an investigation by the Grand Jury of Allegheny, 26 men were charged with gambling-related offenses. Among them were several prominent politicians and judges, which led to a tightening of laws. Under the terms of the new ruling, anyone caught gambling could lose half of their property valued at $500 or more. Those with property valued below $500 would be imprisoned for up to six months.
1907
As more Americans grew concerned about the impact of betting shops on society, Pennsylvania decided to strengthen its rules. Under the 1907 act, anyone caught setting up, promoting, or attending an illegal game could face a prison term ranging from six months to seven years. This rule remained in effect until 1931.
1971
After several decades of relative calm, Pennsylvania introduced a new gaming law in 1971. This
