Imagine the thrill of the roulette wheel spinning, the suspense of the next card flip, and the triumphant sound of slot machines hitting the jackpot. Welcome to the world of casinos – a dazzling universe where each moment pulses with excitement, anticipation, and high-stakes fun. For those who call Charlotte home or are just visiting, there’s no need for a Vegas vacation to get your gaming fix. This article is your ultimate guide to the most enticing gambling destinations nearby. From the grandeur of Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, nestled in the majestic Smoky Mountains, to the unique charm of Catawba Two Kings Casino, we’ve rounded up the top-tier casinos that offer not only a wide range of games but also an unforgettable experience. So, buckle up and prepare for a journey through neon-lit landscapes, where fortunes are won, stories unfold, and every play promises an adrenaline rush. Let’s roll the dice and venture into the vibrant world of casinos near Charlotte.
The Catawba Two Kings Casino
The Catawba Two Kings Casino is an exciting tribal casino located in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. This casino is owned by the Catawba Indian Nation and managed by Delaware North, providing a unique and immersive experience for visitors. The moniker “Two Kings” for the casino draws its inspiration from Chief King Hagler, a Catawba leader from the 18th century, and the city where it is located, Kings Mountain. The temporary modular “pre-launch” casino has a 30,000 sq ft gaming floor, a sportsbook, and over 1,000 slot machines. Additionally, the casino offers limited food and beverage options, including a cafe with quick eats and grab-and-go snacks. Visitors can enjoy alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages while trying their luck at the slots. In 2024, the full-scale casino is set to be completed, boasting even more exciting amenities and a wide range of delicious food options. The casino will also feature food trucks with local favorites that guests can enjoy from 10 am to 10 pm daily. With its prime location overlooking Interstate 85, the Catawba Two Kings Casino is undoubtedly worth a visit.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Nestled amidst the captivating beauty of western North Carolina’s mountains, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is a sparkling jewel in the picturesque town of Cherokee. This expansive resort boasts over 1833 lavish rooms and suites, offering guests an indulgent stay. But the allure doesn’t end there. The vast casino is a gambler’s paradise, while food enthusiasts will delight in the array of dining choices. The resort’s prime selling point, however, is the breathtaking natural scenery that engulfs it. Proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway offers guests the chance for memorable hikes, picturesque drives, and much more. Plus, its convenient location makes it easily accessible from Charlotte, NC, and Atlanta, GA. The recently refurbished rooms in the Cherokee Tower are truly awe-inspiring, equipped with all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. From roomy accommodations and large televisions to mini-fridges and well-lit bathrooms with versatile shower options, these rooms cater to every type of traveler. Complimentary room amenities such as coffee bars, toiletries, and hand sanitizers add to the charm. Guests also have access to a 24/7 gym, indoor and outdoor pools, and free valet and self-parking services. North Carolina is home to just four casinos, with Harrah’s Cherokee standing out as the top choice. Part of the Caesars Rewards program, the casino spans over 150,000 feet and offers an impressive array of gaming options. Now a non-smoking indoor facility, it enhances your gaming experience. The food and beverage scene is diverse, ranging from Italian fare at BRIO Tuscan Grille to casual Asian cuisine at the Noodle Bar, and even a Dunkin Donuts outlet in the food court. Ensure to make reservations in advance, especially over the weekend. Every restaurant on the property is worth exploring, including the southern delicacies at Guy Fieri’s Kitchen & Bar and the beer selection at Wicked Weed. Entertainment at Harrah’s Cherokee extends beyond the casino and dining. Live concerts, arcades, and bowling alleys ensure there’s something for everyone. The concert arena attracts renowned celebrities, adding a dash of high-end entertainment. Casual fun seekers can head to the arcade and bowling alley. The resort also features a diverse range of shops. The River Shops area houses five stores offering a variety of luxury goods. From women’s apparel at Studio to men’s fashion at Top Drawer, golf gear at the Sequoyah Golf Shop, holiday items at The Cherokee Christmas Shops, and Hazelwood Soaps, there’s something for everyone. Additional gift shops throughout the resort offer unique souvenirs and collectibles.
Murphy Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel
Situated amidst the picturesque surroundings of Murphy, North Carolina, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River is more than just a casino and hotel – it’s an experience. Owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) and managed by Caesars Entertainment, this luxurious entertainment hub has been welcoming guests since its grand inauguration in 2015. Designed by Cuningham Group Architecture Inc., the $110 million complex offers a vast gaming floor, comfortable accommodations, and a diverse food court, drawing tourists and gaming enthusiasts alike. In 2018, a significant $13 million expansion added a variety of entertainment options such as a bowling alley, arcade games, and a full-service restaurant. March 2021 marked another milestone with the introduction of sports betting, elevating the visitor experience even further. Nestled in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s a place where the excitement of gaming meets natural beauty. Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino and Hotel is on the brink of a substantial expansion, thanks to a recent $275 million investment approval by the EBCI. This ambitious project will introduce a seven-story hotel tower housing 300 new rooms, alongside a range of exciting new amenities. Patrons can look forward to a new restaurant, a hotel lobby café, a spa and indoor pool, and an expanded gaming area, which already boasts over a thousand video poker and gaming machines. The establishment’s full-service restaurant, The Landing Café, continues to receive high praise, as does the food court that houses popular chains like Earl of Sandwich, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and Starbucks. The construction work for this expansion will be undertaken by JCJ Architecture, promising a top-notch experience for all visitors.
The Big “M” Casino Ship I and II
South Carolina’s Big “M” Casino is a premier gambling venue for those eager to try their luck. It boasts two luxurious casino yachts that depart from Little River, near Myrtle Beach, providing an authentic Las Vegas-style gaming experience complete with blackjack, craps, and roulette. The casino boats operate throughout the year, making them an accessible day trip from Columbia or Charleston, SC, or Charlotte, NC. Visitors can indulge in thrilling table games like Let It Ride 3 Card Poker, challenging their skills against the dealer. Slot enthusiasts will find a wide variety of options, including popular games like Wheel of Fortune and Video Poker. The dining deck offers a range of tasty dishes to keep players energized for their big win. The Big “M” Casino Ship I and II host a large assortment of slot machines, with 158 on Ship I and 249 on Ship II. Games include the SC favorite Pot O’ Gold, along with crowd-pleasers like Wheel of Fortune and Video Poker. They also offer a selection of progressive jackpots. In addition to slots, the ships feature a variety of other casino games, such as Blackjack, Roulette, 3 Card Poker, and Let It Ride, all played with live dealers for added excitement.
The Greenbrier
The Greenbrier, a symbol of luxury and history, is beautifully situated in the Allegheny Mountains near White Sulphur Springs in Greenbrier County, West Virginia. This resort has been a haven for more than two centuries, drawing visitors to its serene location renowned for its healing waters. The Greenbrier now spans 11,000 acres, housing 710 guest rooms, 20 dining and lounge options, and a vast array of indoor and outdoor activities. Its rich history is evident, having hosted 28 US presidents, the most recent being Dwight D. Eisenhower. A distinguishing feature of The Greenbrier is its colossal underground bunker, built during the Cold War as an emergency shelter for the US Congress and code-named “Project Greek Island”. The Casino Club at The Greenbrier, which opened in July 2010, blends luxury with gaming in the heart of West Virginia’s rolling hills. The casino exudes elegance with its tasteful decor and refined ambiance. Owned by the Justice family, the casino is exclusive to The Greenbrier guests, maintaining a high level of exclusivity. However, people dining or touring the resort are also granted entry, sparking some debate over the definition of a “guest”. The Casino Club has expanded its offerings over the years to include simulcast horse racing and betting. Recently, The Greenbrier Casino Club was recognized as the 18th Best Casino in America according to TripAdvisor reviews. It boasts the FanDuel Sportsbook, where members and resort guests can place bets on major U.S. sports. Additionally, The Greenbrier has partnered with two big names in USA online casinos, FanDuel and BetMGM to develop mobile apps, allowing users to enjoy the thrill of The Casino Club from their devices with access to exclusive slots, table games, and progressive jackpots. Recreational activities at The Greenbrier are plentiful. The property features four distinct golf courses, each offering a unique challenge amidst breathtaking mountain views. Tennis enthusiasts can enjoy a 2,500-seat stadium, five Har-Tru outdoor courts, and five Deco-Turf indoor courts. With over 55 indoor and outdoor activities, including horseback riding and hiking, guests are sure to find entertainment to suit their interests during their stay.
