Introduction
When it comes to gambling, many people think of Las Vegas, Atlantic City, or even Macau. But what about Houston? Are there any casinos in the city? In this article, we’ll explore Houston’s gambling scene, including its history and current legal status. We’ll also provide alternative gambling options and examine the pros and cons of legalizing casinos in the city. Finally, we’ll highlight the top casinos in and near Houston and mobile casino options for gaming on the go.
Exploring Houston’s Gambling Scene: Are Casinos a Part of It?
While Houston has a rich history of gambling, with many underground casinos operating throughout the city in the past, there are no legal casinos in Houston today. In the 1950s and early 1960s, illegal casinos were prevalent in Houston, catering to businessmen, politicians, and other affluent persons. These casinos were eventually shut down during the 1960s and 1970s through a crackdown on gambling-related crime.
Today, Texas laws regarding gambling are still strict, with the Texas Constitution prohibiting most forms of gambling. However, some forms of gambling, such as horse and dog racing, are legal, and there are several poker rooms and bingo halls operating in the city.
6 Exciting Casino Alternatives to Try in Houston
If you’re looking for some gambling action in Houston, but don’t want to visit an illegal casino, there are still some exciting alternatives to consider.
Horse Racing
If you’re into sports betting, horse racing is an option in Houston, with several tracks in the area. While you can’t place bets on individual races outside of the track, you can bet on most races through online platforms like TwinSpires.
Poker Rooms
Several poker rooms operate in Houston, offering both cash games and tournaments. You can play Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Seven Card Stud, and other popular poker variants.
Bingo Halls
If you’re looking for a more laid-back gambling experience, some bingo halls operate in Houston, offering electronic bingo games and paper cards.
Greyhound Racing
Greyhound racing is another form of legal sports betting in Houston, with several tracks in the area, including the Gulf Greyhound Park.
Riverboat Casinos Near Houston
While there are no legal casinos in Houston, several riverboat casinos operate near the city, including the Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel, the Golden Nugget Lake Charles, and the L’Auberge Casino Resort.
Casino Bus Tours
If you’re willing to travel a bit, you can also book a casino bus tour to one of the casinos operating in Louisiana or Oklahoma.
Why Houston Should Consider Legalizing Casino Gaming
While Houston currently does not have any legal casinos, there are arguments to be made for legalizing casino gaming in the city. For one, legalizing casinos could create jobs in the city, boosting the local economy. Additionally, the presence of a casino could attract tourists to the area, stimulating the hotel and hospitality industries. Finally, taxes on casino revenue could provide a significant source of additional revenue for the city.
Other cities, such as Las Vegas and Atlantic City, have benefited from legalizing casino gaming, with industry growth and job creation being just a few of the benefits. Houston could potentially experience the same positive impacts if it were to legalize casinos.
Understanding the Pros and Cons of Having Casinos in Houston
Of course, there are also arguments against legalizing casinos in Houston. Detractors argue that legalizing casinos could lead to an increase in gambling addiction, with vulnerable populations such as seniors and low-income individuals being most affected. Some also argue that the potential negative social impacts of casinos, such as crime and increased mortality rates, outweigh the potential economic benefits.
The Top 3 Casinos Near Houston Worth a Visit
If you’re looking to visit a casino near Houston, here are three top choices worth considering:
Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel
Located in Vinton, Louisiana, the Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel offers over 1,600 slot machines, 21 table games, and a poker room. The casino also features a hotel, with 200 rooms and suites available for guests.
Golden Nugget Lake Charles
The Golden Nugget Lake Charles, also located in Louisiana, features a luxurious hotel with over 1,000 guest rooms and suites. The casino offers over 1,600 slot machines, 79 table games, and a poker room, as well as a private beach and marina.
L’Auberge Casino Resort
Located in Lake Charles, Louisiana, the L’Auberge Casino Resort offers over 1,600 slot machines and 80 table games, including blackjack, craps, and roulette. The casino also features a golf course, spa, and several restaurants.
Gaming on the Go: A Guide to Mobile Casinos in Houston
If you prefer to gamble from the comfort of your own home or on the go, several mobile casino apps and sites are available to Houston residents.
Some popular options include:
- Betway
- LeoVegas
- Mansion Casino
- 888 Casino
While mobile casinos offer convenience, they may not offer the same gaming experience as a physical casino. Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that online gambling laws in Texas are also strict, so it’s always important to gamble responsibly and legally.
Conclusion
While there are no legal casinos operating in Houston, there are still plenty of gambling alternatives to consider, including horse racing, poker rooms, and bingo halls. However, the potential benefits of legalizing casinos in the city, such as job creation and increased tourism, are worth considering. When it comes to gambling, it’s important to gamble responsibly and to always follow state laws and regulations.