Sacramento, the capital city of California, boasts a thriving casino scene with a variety of options for those looking to try their luck or simply enjoy some entertainment. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore the Sacramento-area casinos and experience the unique offerings each one has to offer.
1. Thunder Valley Casino Resort: Located in Lincoln, just outside of Sacramento, Thunder Valley is one of the largest casinos in Northern California. With over 3,000 slot machines, a poker room, and a wide range of table games, there is something for everyone here. The resort also features a luxury hotel, multiple dining options, and a spa for those seeking relaxation.
2. Cache Creek Casino Resort: Situated in Brooks, about an hour's drive from Sacramento, Cache Creek offers a Las Vegas-style gaming experience. The casino floor is filled with thousands of slot machines and numerous table games, including blackjack, roulette, and poker. The resort also features a hotel, several restaurants, and a golf course, making it a great destination for a weekend getaway.
3. Red Hawk Casino: Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills in Placerville, Red Hawk Casino offers a mix of gaming, dining, and entertainment options. The casino floor features a wide selection of slot machines and table games, including favorites like blackjack, craps, and baccarat. The property also includes several restaurants, a stage for live performances, and a hotel for those wanting to extend their stay.
4. Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort: Located in Jackson, about an hour's drive from Sacramento, this casino resort offers a range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and poker. The property also features a hotel, multiple dining venues, and a spa. I have personally enjoyed the variety of dining options at Jackson Rancheria, from casual fare to upscale dining experiences.
5. Colusa Casino Resort: Situated in Colusa, north of Sacramento, this casino offers a more intimate gaming experience. With over 1,000 slot machines and a selection of table games, visitors can enjoy a variety of gaming options. The resort also features a hotel, multiple dining options, and an outdoor amphitheater for live entertainment.
6. Feather Falls Casino: Located in Oroville, about an hour and a half drive from Sacramento, Feather Falls Casino offers a range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and poker. The casino also features a brewery, where I have had the pleasure of tasting their handcrafted beers. It's a unique experience to combine gaming with the enjoyment of locally brewed beer.
7. Rolling Hills Casino: Situated in Corning, just over an hour's drive from Sacramento, Rolling Hills Casino offers a variety of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and poker. The property also features a hotel, multiple dining options, and an 18-hole golf course. I have personally enjoyed playing a round of golf here before trying my luck at the casino.
8. Capitol Casino: As a state-licensed cardroom, Capitol Casino in Sacramento offers a different type of gaming experience. It specializes in poker games, including Texas Hold'em and Omaha, with daily tournaments and cash games available. The casino also features a restaurant and bar for players to enjoy.
9. Lotus Casino: Another state-licensed cardroom, Lotus Casino is located in Sacramento and offers poker games, including Texas Hold'em and Omaha. It provides a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere for poker enthusiasts.
10. Limelight Cardroom: Situated in Sacramento, Limelight Cardroom is another state-licensed cardroom that focuses on poker games. With daily tournaments and cash games, players can enjoy a variety of poker action.
In addition to these casinos and cardrooms, there is an eleventh casino currently in development by the Ione Band of Miwoks in Plymouth, just east of Sacramento. This upcoming casino will further expand the options available for gaming enthusiasts in the Sacramento area.
Sacramento has a vibrant casino scene with a variety of options to suit different tastes. Whether you're looking for a large resort-style experience or a more intimate cardroom, there are plenty of opportunities to try your luck or simply enjoy the entertainment and amenities offered by these casinos.