When you think of gambling what comes to mind? It’s usually the glitz of Las Vegas, the exoticness of Macao, or perhaps the massiveness of Atlantic City. But gambling in Ontario is where the action really is.
Read on as we introduce you to the best Ontario destinations for gambling. Learn about the biggest casinos, where to find hidden dining experiences that only locals know about, and some must-see attractions when visiting Ontario.
People from Canada and abroad enjoy gambling in Ontario for good reason. There are over 70 gambling facilities in the province, which includes 28 casinos.
Whether you stop by Toronto, you’re passing through Eastern Ontario, or enjoy the views at Niagara Falls, you’re always a short drive from a casino when visiting Ontario.
Ontario gambling laws have helped the market flourish and today, Ontario destinations are among the most popular in Canada. You’re allowed to bet on sports, play casino games, enter poker tournaments, and there is even a thriving iGaming market.
And when you’re taking a break from the tables, you can enjoy 250,000 breathtaking lakes, exciting festivals, the bustling metropolis that is Toronto and much, much more.
Why Listen to Us? Our Criteria for Recommending Destinations
There is more to gambling in Ontario than just gambling. We consider the whole entertainment experience that comes along with gambling in an amazing location.
Our experts consider the quality of the casino gaming offering and the distinct entertainment and dining options within the casino facility.
However, we’ve also made to sure to select Ontario gambling destinations that boast alternative entertainment options, exceptional sights, special dining options, and more.
Our Top 5 Ontario Gambling Destinations
The following Ontario destinations are our favourite places to gamble. But they were selected for offering more than just loads of slots and table games.
Visiting Ontario is an experience. That’s why we selected gambling destinations that simply offer more. You’ll find unique experiences, gorgeous sightseeing, hidden gems, tasty cuisines, and great casino gaming.
Destination 1: Casino Niagara, Niagara Falls
Where and what?
Niagara Falls is a must-see spot when visiting Ontario, regardless of whether you choose to gamble or not. Besides the most one of the most famous landmarks in history, you’ve also got waterparks, wildlife parks, water sports, amazing golf courses, and seriously fantastic cuisine.
We suggest enjoying the abundance of Niagara Falls-related entertainment including zipping over the falls and climbing Skylon Tower for a 360-degree view.
Niagara Falls is home to three casinos – two in Ontario and the other across the border in New York. Casino Niagara is absolutely massive and showcases all the reasons to enjoy gambling in Ontario.
You’ll be able to choose from over 1,400 slots, and 40 gaming tables, and prove your skills in a poker room. Open 24/7, you can take in all the late-night Niagara Falls experiences and still be able to play your favourite games.
Must do
See Niagara Falls – This one is a given, but no trip to Niagara Falls is complete without actually seeing the waterfall in all its glory. It is the most famous of Ontario destinations for a reason.
Join a tournament – Casino Niagara regularly hosts tournaments such as slot or poker tournaments. Check the calendar on their website to find out more details on how to participate.
Eat a sub – You 100% must try a classic sub sandwich at Cheryl’s Deli & Subs. This hidden gem is a local favourite on Victoria Ave, where you’ll find tons of other great places to eat too.
Destination 2: Caesars Windsor, Windsor
Where and what?
Windsor is located on the border of Detroit, Michigan in the United States. Casino Windsor attracts locals from both Detroit and Windsor with over 1,700 slots and 85 table games – uniquely, table gaming is available 24/7 too.
This casino seriously showcases that Las Vegas feel with its Roman statues, glamorous interior décor, and grand facility design.
Of all the Ontario destinations, this is the place to be If you’re a high roller.
The casino boasts the highest table limits of any Ontario casino. You can bet up to C$25,000 on a single hand of blackjack or C$50,000 on both roulette and craps.
With six dining options, you’ll be able to experience a range of cuisines including classic all-American dishes at Johnny Rockets.
The casino facility houses much more than a casino too. In that Vegas style, you can also enjoy luxury shopping boutiques, a grand hotel with a pool, and a late-night lounge bar offering cocktails with live music.
Caesars is the only casino in the region. You can enjoy plenty of other wonderful attractions too. Greenery and nature are abundant with numerous parks and gardens while the town offers everything the big city does.
Must do
Playtablegamesanytime – With genuine 24/7 table gaming, you can play popular games like blackjack or roulette at any time of the day
Go shopping – Explore a plethora of genuine luxury boutiques within the walls of Ceasars Windsor
Detroit skyline – Head to Cosmos at Caesars Windsor for a drink and a gorgeous view of the Detroit skyline at night
Destination 3: Casino Rama Resort, Orillia
Where and what?
Casino Rama is what Ontario gambling is all about. You have thousands of slots, dozens of table games, a high-limit room, a fully-fledged hotel & spa, and eight options for eating and drinking.
You’ll also find regular promotions which can include table jackpots, buffets, dining specials, tournaments, and free play gifts. High rollers can bet up to C$15,000 on high-limit blackjack, and even the most casual player could win a progressive jackpot.
This is the only casino in the region, but a lack of competition hasn’t affected the facility. The first of only three First Nations casinos in Ontario, the operation regularly falls into the top 5 casinos in Canada.
Open 24 hours, seven days a week, Casino Rama provides that classic, Las Vegas casino vibe you would expect from watching films and TV.
Summer is the best time to head to the “Sunshine City”. The famed waterfront boasts views, and water sports, and is home to several exciting festivals. The city has a ton of outdoor space with plenty of nature and wildlife.
Must do
Cultural experience – take a stroll through the Arts District where you’ll find galleries, fine dining, shopping, and the Orillia Museum of Art & History
Take in a show – Casino Rama hosts some serious heavy-hitter entertainers. Seriously, Seinfeld, Tom Segura, and Paul Anka have played Casino Rama.
LearnabouttheChippewas – this casino reflects its First Nations community and there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about the Chippewas of Rama First Nation at the casino.
The other Niagara Falls, Ontario gambling destination on our list, Fallsview Casino Resort is a great alternative to playing at Casino Niagara. This casino has the distinct advantage of being built on a cliff that overlooks the Horseshoe Falls.
Fallsview Casino Resort features three football fields worth of slots, table games, and entertainment. You can eat at 20 different dining options, and stay at the facilities 4-star hotel which includes a view of the falls.
Relax at the casino’s very own day spa which features organic body treatments, massages, steam rooms, and a sauna.
One of the best attractions at Fallsview Casino Resort is the Dragonfly Nightclub which has 12,000 square feet of entertainment housed behind a mammoth 14-foot iron door. The nightclub boasts a VIP lounge, a special red chamber, and world-class DJs.
Obviously, like Casino Niagara, the main thing to do in Niagara is check out the falls in any way you can. Book a guided tour, get under the mist, or even zipline over it. However, experienced travellers know that Niagara has some great wineries located around 30 minutes’ drive away from Niagara Falls.
Must do
SeeHorseshoe Falls – Walk by a window in Fallsview Casino Resort and see the famed Horseshoe Falls with casino chips in your hand.
Guidedtour – Whether it’s the Maid of the Mist or the Cave of Winds, make sure you get on a boat or a walking trail to take in the full glory of this majestic site.
Betonsports – You can bet on a wide range of sports at any of the kiosks located around the casino or at the main cage.
Destination 5: Woodbine Racetrack, Toronto
Where and what?
As the province’s capital city, Toronto is an immensely popular destination for those visiting Ontario. Toronto is a bustling city brimming with culture, nightlife, and highly Instagram-able landmarks.
Cultural experiences are bountiful with numerous international regions including Greektown, Little Italy, Chinatown, and Little Portugal.
Toronto offers several options for gambling in Ontario with eight options in the greater region.
The casino at Woodbine Racetrack has received some major upgrades since 1999 and today is known as Great Canadian Casino. It features the largest amount of gambling options in not only Ontario but all of Canada.
We’re talking over 4,500 slots and 175 gaming tables. The poker offering includes several Texas Hold’em and Omaha games with various limits and a 10% rake.
Additionally, you can eat and drink at 10 dining options including a Tim Hortons, a Noodlebox, and The Northern Lights bar. The hotel has rooms and suites with plenty of amenities.
Must do
Climb CN Tower – See the city from the 116th storey on the world’s highest hands-free circular walk
Culinaryadventure – Take a walking tour of the city’s many cultural hubs and experience numerous cuisines
Watch&beton theraces – Great Canadian Casino is housed by Woodbine Racetrack which hosts plenty of races during the Canadian thoroughbred season
Honourable Mentions: The Best of The Rest
Selecting just five Ontario gambling destinations wasn’t easy. There are so many fine gambling establishments.
For example, despite Ontario being such a large province, you can still find casinos in more rural regions such as Sudbury Downs in Chelmsford and Casino Thunder Bay in Thunder Bay.
Rideau Carleton Raceway is a great option in Ottawa, especially if you like harness racing.
Great Blue Heron Casino likely landed at six on our list. The casino is a real hidden gem with 24 gaming, 60 tables, and a picturesque setting on Scugog Island.
In Conclusion: Go Your Own Way
Visiting Ontario is one of the best ways to enjoy a seriously action-packed gambling experience.
Fine and unique cuisines, VIP treatment, gorgeous locales, famous sights, and the latest and greatest games… the reasons to enjoy gambling in Ontario are truly endless. No matter your taste in gaming, entertainment, or culture, Ontario has something for everyone.
