Discover the Best Casinos in Reno: A Complete Guide to Gaming, Dining, and Entertainment

Discover the Best Casinos in Reno: What You’ll Learn

• Top Casino Insights: Discover the six best casinos in Reno, each offering unique gaming experiences, luxurious accommodations, and diverse dining options.

• Gaming Options: Learn about the variety of gaming offerings, including slot machines, table games, and poker rooms available at each casino.

• Dining and Entertainment: Explore award-winning restaurants and entertainment venues that enhance the gaming experience in Reno’s casinos.

• Comparative Rankings: Review a comparative analysis of the featured casinos based on gaming excellence, luxury amenities, dining options, and overall value.

• Practical Visiting Tips: Gain practical advice on transportation, the best times to visit, and insights on loyalty programs to maximize your Reno gaming adventure.

The neon lights of Virginia Street flickered to life as another desert sunset painted the Sierra Nevada mountains in brilliant gold and crimson hues. From my hotel window overlooking downtown Reno, I watched streams of visitors walking between the interconnected casinos that form the heart of “The Biggest Little City in the World.”

This scene, which I’ve witnessed countless times over the past four decades, never fails to remind me why Reno remains one of America’s most underrated gaming destinations. Unlike the overwhelming scale of Las Vegas, Reno offers an intimate gaming experience where world-class amenities meet small-town accessibility.

Here, you can enjoy fine dining at a Forbes Four-Star restaurant, test your skills in a professional poker room, and still have change from a twenty-dollar bill for breakfast the next morning. It’s this unique combination of luxury and value that has kept me returning to Reno for many years.

The Evolution of Reno’s Gaming Landscape

The city’s gaming landscape has evolved dramatically since the first casino opened in 1931, growing from simple gambling halls into sophisticated resort destinations that rival anything you’ll find in Nevada’s larger cities.

Today’s Reno casinos offer everything from penny slots to high-limit table games, from celebrity chef restaurants to world-class spas, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful High Sierra.

Top 6 Casinos in Reno You Can’t Miss!

After extensive research and countless hours observing gaming operations throughout Northern Nevada, I’ve identified six casinos that represent the absolute best of what Reno has to offer.

These properties excel not just in gaming options but also in overall guest experience, amenities quality, and value proposition. Whether you’re a serious player seeking the best odds or a casual visitor looking for entertainment, these casinos deliver experiences that exceed expectations.

Image Credit: Marcus E Jones/Shutterstock

1. Grand Sierra Resort: Northern Nevada’s Gaming Flagship

Grand Sierra Resort stands as a monument to gaming excellence, recently awarded “Reno’s Best Overall Gaming Resort” and claiming the title of Northern Nevada’s largest gaming floor. Located just minutes from Reno-Tahoe International Airport, this expansive resort offers a comprehensive gaming and entertainment experience unmatched in the region.

Gaming Excellence:

• Casino Floor Size: 80,000 square feet – the largest in Reno and Northern Nevada.
• Slot Machines: 1,400 slot machines, ranging from penny denominations to high-limit progressives.
• Table Games: 47 table games, including blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat, and specialty games.
• Poker Room: 7-table dedicated poker room, offering daily tournaments and cash games.
• Sports Book: State-of-the-art Race & Sports Book with modern betting technology.
• High-Limit Gaming: Infinity High Limit Room for VIP gaming experiences.

Luxury Accommodations and Amenities:

• Total Rooms: 1,990 guest rooms and suites across 27 floors.
• Hotel Features: Spa suites and penthouse accommodations with Sierra Nevada mountain views.
• Pools: Resort-style outdoor pools with cabanas and hot tubs.

Exceptional Dining Program:

• Charlie Palmer Steakhouse: Signature restaurant featuring dry-aged prime steaks and award-winning wine selection.
• Rim Asian Bistro: Sushi, sashimi, and pan-Asian fusion cuisine.
• Grand Buffet: Reno’s largest buffet featuring seafood, prime rib, and global cuisine.

Entertainment and Nightlife:

• The Grand Theatre: Major concerts and live entertainment venue.
• LEX Nightclub: Reno’s premier nightclub featuring live DJs and bottle service.
• Fun Quest: Family entertainment center with bowling and arcade games.

Grand Sierra’s commitment to guest satisfaction is reflected in its Infinity Rewards program, allowing members to earn points and comps at both Grand Sierra Resort and SAHARA Las Vegas, extending value beyond Reno.

Image Credit: Don Mammoser/Shutterstock

2. Peppermill Resort Spa Casino: The Luxurious Standout

Peppermill Resort Spa Casino combines old-school glamour with modern sophistication, finishing a massive renovation that transformed it into an AAA Four Diamond resort. This eco-conscious property creates an atmosphere that feels both retro and contemporary.

Gaming Excellence:

• Casino Floor Size: 82,000 square feet of gaming space.
• Slot Machines: 1,700 slots and video poker machines.
• Table Games: 48 table games, including various poker options.

Unmatched Luxury Accommodations:

• Total Rooms: 1,621 luxurious guest rooms, including premium suites.
• Luxury Standards: AAA Four Diamond accommodations throughout.

World-Class Spa and Wellness:

• Spa Toscana: 33,000-square-foot, three-story spa facility, recently rated 3rd best hotel spa in the country.

Peppermill’s retro-disco aesthetic and unique atmosphere create a memorable experience that draws visitors back time and again.

Image Credit: Victoria Ditkovsky/Shutterstock

3. Atlantis Casino Resort Spa: The Award-Winning Excellence

Atlantis Casino Resort Spa stands as Reno’s most awarded gaming destination, holding both AAA Four Diamond resort status and Forbes Four-Star designations. Located in south Reno’s entertainment district, this luxury resort consistently delivers exceptional experiences across all amenities.

Gaming Options and Statistics:

• Casino Floor: Comprehensive gaming options with modern amenities including blackjack, craps, and poker.
• Poker Room: Non-smoking poker room with regular tournaments and exciting race & sports book facility.

Forbes Four-Star Accommodations:

• Hotel Rooms: Luxury rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Award-Winning Dining Program:

• Atlantis Steakhouse: Northern Nevada’s only Forbes Four-Star restaurant featuring prime steaks.
• Oyster & Sushi Bar: Scenic views paired with delicious offerings.

Guest reviews consistently praise Atlantis for its exceptional service and attention to detail. Make sure to try the Manhattan Deli for their renowned Matzo-Ball Soup — a true local favorite!

Image Credit: JHVEPhoto/Shutterstock

4. Silver Legacy Resort Casino: The Downtown Icon

Silver Legacy Resort Casino anchors downtown Reno as the tallest building in the city and the centerpiece of “The ROW” — a connected network of casinos that includes Eldorado and Circus Circus.

Gaming Features and Statistics:

• Casino Layout: Connected gaming floor spanning multiple properties.
• Slot Machines: 1,000 slot machines, including progressives.

Prime Downtown Location:

• Building Height: Features a distinctive silver dome and offers downtown access to the Reno Riverwalk District.

Silver Legacy’s connection to The ROW allows visitors to explore three distinct casinos without leaving the building, providing unparalleled variety in gaming options, dining, and entertainment.

Image Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani/Shutterstock

5. Eldorado Resort Casino: The Luxurious Legacy

Eldorado Resort Casino represents classic luxury and elegance in downtown Reno. Among its many features, this property boasts sophisticated gaming and dining experiences.

Gaming Heritage and Statistics:

• Gaming Space: Over 80,000 square feet of 24-hour gaming access.

Luxury Accommodations:

• Room Selection: A wide array of accommodations, from family suites to Jacuzzi options.

Dining Excellence:

• Brew Brothers: A live band venue offering a fine selection of craft beers.

Eldorado’s blend of classic elegance and modern gaming technology makes it a favorite among discerning players.

Image Credit: BestStockFoto/Shutterstock

6. Nugget Casino Resort: The Local Favorite

Nugget Casino Resort – formerly John Ascuaga’s Nugget Casino – combines classic casino atmosphere with modern amenities and exceptional value.

Gaming Options and Features:

• Gaming Floor: Comprehensive gaming options for all player levels, with reasonable minimums.

Community Connection:

• Local Support: Known for its strong ties to the Reno community.

The Nugget’s enduring reputation for genuine hospitality makes it particularly popular with locals and value-conscious visitors.

Comparative Analysis and Rankings

After a comprehensive analysis of gaming options, amenities, guest satisfaction, and overall value, here’s how these six premier Reno destinations compare across key categories:

Gaming Excellence Rankings

1. Grand Sierra Resort
2. Peppermill Resort Spa Casino
3. Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
4. Silver Legacy Resort Casino
5. Eldorado Resort Casino
6. Nugget Casino Resort

Luxury and Amenities Rankings

1. Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
2. Peppermill Resort Spa Casino
3. Grand Sierra Resort
4. Silver Legacy Resort Casino
5. Eldorado Resort Casino
6. Nugget Casino Resort

Dining Excellence Rankings

1. Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
2. Silver Legacy Resort Casino
3. Grand Sierra Resort
4. Peppermill Resort Spa Casino
5. Eldorado Resort Casino
6. Nugget Casino Resort

Practical Visiting Information

Transportation and Access:

• Airport Proximity: Grand Sierra Resort offers the closest access to Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
• Public Transportation: Regular shuttle and taxi services connect all properties.

Best Times to Visit:

• Weekdays: Lower table minimums and less crowded gaming floors.
• Shoulder Seasons: Spring and fall offer better hotel rates and comfortable weather.

Reno’s Unique Gaming Advantages

Reno’s compact geography allows visitors to experience multiple world-class properties within walking distance of each other. Unlike Las Vegas, Reno casinos maintain intimate atmospheres where staff recognition and personalized service are possible. The combination of sophisticated amenities and reasonable pricing makes Reno particularly attractive for players seeking premium experiences without the Las Vegas premium pricing.

Future Developments and Trends

Reno’s gaming industry continues to evolve with technology integration and improvements in customer experience. Recent investments in restaurant partnerships with celebrity chefs and entertainment venue modernization demonstrate an ongoing commitment to excellence.

Your Reno Gaming Adventure Awaits!

Whether you’re drawn by the largest gaming floor at Grand Sierra Resort, the luxury spa experience at Peppermill, the award-winning restaurants at Atlantis, the downtown connectivity of Silver Legacy, the classic elegance of Eldorado, or the authentic atmosphere of the Nugget, Reno offers gaming experiences that exceed expectations.

Understand each property’s strengths and match them to your preferences. Serious players might focus on Grand Sierra’s comprehensive gaming options, while luxury seekers could prefer Atlantis’s Forbes-rated amenities.

Your Reno adventure awaits in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada, where gaming tradition meets modern sophistication. What’s your story going to be? Share it with us in the comments below and become your own Gambling Legend!

And now you know!

Vegas Vic, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Title Image Credit: BestStockFoto/Shutterstock