I. Introduction
Myrtle Beach is a popular vacation destination known for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and vibrant entertainment scene. For many travelers, however, the allure of nearby casinos adds another layer of excitement to their Myrtle Beach experience.
But how do you find the nearest casino? And what should you know before embarking on a road trip to try your luck at the tables? In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to discovering the casinos that are within driving distance of Myrtle Beach. From distance and travel time to notable features and attractions, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan a perfect gambling getaway.
II. Distance Between Myrtle Beach and Local Casinos: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to finding casinos near Myrtle Beach, there are several options within a reasonable driving distance. Here are the top picks:
- Big M Casino
- Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
- Little River Casino
- WinStar World Casino and Resort
Each of these casinos offers table games, slot machines, and other gambling activities. But the distance between them and Myrtle Beach can vary, as well as the travel time and driving directions. Let’s take a closer look at each casino:
Big M Casino
Located in Little River, SC, the Big M Casino is the closest casino to Myrtle Beach. It’s just a short, 30-minute drive up the coast from the center of Myrtle Beach. The casino features Las Vegas-style gambling, including table games, slot machines, and gambling cruises. Visitors can book tickets for a day cruise or an evening dinner cruise to test their luck at the tables in international waters.
The Big M Casino also features a full bar and grill, as well as regular live entertainment. Customers can even join a Victory Card program to earn rewards points for various perks and discounts.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Located just over the border in North Carolina, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is a popular destination for Myrtle Beach gamblers. The casino offers a variety of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms, as well as a luxury hotel and spa.
The distance between Myrtle Beach and Harrah’s Cherokee Casino is approximately 325 miles, making it about a 5-hour drive. Visitors can take I-95 North to I-20 West, then on to I-26 West and US-441 North to reach the casino.
Little River Casino
Another popular option for Myrtle Beach gamblers is the Little River Casino in Michigan. Located about 750 miles from Myrtle Beach, this casino offers slot machines, table games, and an outdoor pool and jacuzzi.
Because of the distance, a road trip to Little River Casino takes approximately 12 hours. Visitors can take I-95 North to I-20 West to I-94 East, then take US-31 North to reach the casino.
WinStar World Casino and Resort
If you’re willing to venture all the way to Oklahoma, WinStar World Casino and Resort offers a wide selection of gaming options as well as luxury accommodations and entertainment. The casino features more than 7,400 electronic games, as well as table games, bingo, and poker rooms.
The distance between Myrtle Beach and WinStar World Casino is around 1,100 miles, requiring a road trip of about 16 hours. Visitors can take I-20 West to I-35 North to reach the casino.
III. Road Trip to the Casino: How Far is the Nearest Casino from Myrtle Beach?
Embarking on a road trip to the nearest casino from Myrtle Beach can be a fun and exciting adventure. However, it’s important to prepare for the journey ahead to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. Here are some tips for planning a successful casino road trip from Myrtle Beach:
Plan Your Route
Before hitting the road, take the time to plan your route carefully. Make sure you have detailed driving directions, as well as information about rest stops, gas stations, and other important landmarks along the way. You may also want to consider using a GPS device or navigation app to help you avoid getting lost.
Stay Safe on the Road
During your road trip, be mindful of safety. Driving long distances can be tiring, so take frequent breaks to stretch your legs, rest your eyes, and hydrate. Make sure you have a fully stocked emergency kit in case of unforeseen issues like blown tires or breakdowns.
Enjoy the Scenery
One of the best parts of a casino road trip is the opportunity to see new sights and enjoy the beauty of the landscape around you. Take advantage of your journey to appreciate the scenic routes and interesting landmarks along the way.
IV. Gambling Getaway: Planning Your Myrtle Beach Vacation to Include Nearby Casinos
If you’re planning a vacation in Myrtle Beach and want to include some gambling in your itinerary, there are plenty of lodging and dining options located near the casinos listed above. Here are some recommendations for planning your perfect gambling getaway in Myrtle Beach:
Lodging
For visitors seeking luxury accommodations, both Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and WinStar World Casino and Resort offer premium hotels and suites. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at Myrtle Beach hotels located near the Big M Casino or Little River Casino.
Dining
Most of the casinos listed above offer a selection of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Visitors can also explore the local dining scene in Myrtle Beach, which features fresh seafood, southern comfort food, and a range of international cuisines.
Be sure to check if your casino of choice offers any special events or promotions during your visit to maximize your experience.
V. Myrtle Beach vs. Atlantic City: Comparing the Casino Scenes
When it comes to gambling destinations, Myrtle Beach and Atlantic City are two of the most popular options on the eastern seaboard. While Myrtle Beach offers a more laid-back atmosphere with fewer casinos, Atlantic City is known for its bustling casino scene and boardwalk attractions. Here are some key differences between the two destinations:
Casino Count
Atlantic City is home to more than a dozen casinos, while Myrtle Beach has just a handful of options nearby. This means that visitors to Atlantic City have more variety and choices when it comes to gambling activities.
Distance and Travel Time
While the distance between Myrtle Beach and nearby casinos can vary, it’s typically a shorter journey than traveling from Atlantic City to other gambling destinations like Las Vegas or Reno. Myrtle Beach visitors can expect to spend anywhere from 30 minutes to 16 hours on the road, while Atlantic City gamblers may need to fly or take a longer road trip to reach other popular casinos.
Atmosphere
Finally, the overall atmosphere of Myrtle Beach and Atlantic City can differ dramatically. While both destinations are beloved for their beaches and other attractions, Myrtle Beach offers a more laid-back and family-friendly vibe, while Atlantic City is known for its frenetic energy and flashy attractions.
VI. Exploring the South Carolina Coast: Day Trips to Nearby Casinos
If you’re short on time or prefer to take shorter trips, consider taking a day trip to one of the nearby casinos from Myrtle Beach. There are plenty of scenic and cultural attractions to explore along the way, making for a fun and educational experience. Here are some recommended day trip itineraries:
Big M Casino and Calabash, NC
Combine your visit to the Big M Casino with a trip to Calabash, NC, a charming fishing village known for its fresh seafood and unique craft shops. Visitors can also take a walk along the Sunset Beach Boardwalk or visit the Ingram Planetarium.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Great Smoky Mountains Park
If you’re visiting Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, take some time to explore the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains Park. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic drives, and beautiful overlooks throughout the park.
VII. The Ultimate Casino Road Trip from Myrtle Beach: Mapping out all the Best Gaming Destinations
For the ultimate casino road trip from Myrtle Beach, why limit yourself to just one destination? Here’s a suggested itinerary for visiting multiple casinos within driving distance of Myrtle Beach:
- Big M Casino
- Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
- Little River Casino
- WinStar World Casino and Resort
This road trip would take several days to complete, but it offers plenty of gambling excitement and opportunities to explore new sights and attractions along the way. Be sure to plan your route carefully and pack all the essentials for a comfortable and safe journey.
VIII. Conclusion
When it comes to discovering the casinos located near Myrtle Beach, there are plenty of options within driving distance. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer gambling vacation, these casinos offer plenty of excitement and luxury accommodations to make your experience memorable.
Remember to plan ahead and stay safe on the road, and don’t forget to take advantage of any special events or promotions happening at your casino of choice. With this comprehensive guide to the nearest casinos from Myrtle Beach, you’re sure to have a memorable and exciting gambling getaway.