Casinos in St. Louis, Missouri: A Comprehensive Guide

The vibrant city of St. Louis, Missouri, is renowned for its rich history, cultural attractions, and thriving entertainment scene. Among its numerous attractions, casinos have played a significant role in shaping the city's identity and economy. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of casinos in St. Louis, exploring their history, offerings, and impact on the community.

Historical Roots

Casinos have a long-standing presence in St. Louis. The first known casino in the city was established in the 1830s. However, it was not until the 1990s that casinos gained widespread popularity in St. Louis. In 1994, the Missouri Gaming Commission was established, and several riverboat casinos were opened along the Mississippi River. These casinos operated on riverboats to circumvent state laws that prohibited gambling on land.

In 2008, Missouri voters approved a constitutional amendment allowing for the construction of land-based casinos. This led to the development of several new casino resorts in the St. Louis area, including the Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre and the Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel.

Casino Offerings

Today, St. Louis is home to a diverse range of casinos, each offering a unique blend of gaming options and entertainment experiences. Visitors can enjoy classic casino games such as slots, blackjack, roulette, and poker, as well as newer electronic games and specialty offerings.

Some of the largest and most popular casinos in St. Louis include:

• Hollywood Casino St. Louis: This sprawling gaming complex features over 2,000 slot machines, 100 table games, a poker room, and a sportsbook. It also hosts live entertainment and offers fine dining options.
• River City Casino & Hotel: Situated on the Mississippi River, River City Casino offers over 2,300 slot machines, 100 table games, and a poker room. The casino also features a hotel, restaurants, and a riverfront promenade.
• Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel: Located in downtown St. Louis, Lumiere Place offers over 1,300 slot machines, 90 table games, a poker room, and a high-limit gaming area. The casino is part of a larger entertainment complex that includes a hotel, restaurants, and a concert venue.

Economic Impact

Casinos have had a significant impact on the St. Louis economy. They have created thousands of jobs and generated millions of dollars in tax revenue. According to a 2019 study by the University of Missouri, casinos in St. Louis supported over 5,300 jobs and contributed $1.2 billion to the city's economy.

Regulatory Framework

The Missouri Gaming Commission is responsible for regulating casinos in St. Louis. The commission ensures that casinos operate fairly and responsibly. It conducts background checks on employees and enforces regulations to prevent underage gambling and other illegal activities.

Responsible Gambling

While casinos offer entertainment and potential financial rewards, it is important to remember that gambling can also be addictive. St. Louis casinos take responsible gambling seriously and offer resources to help individuals with gambling problems. The Missouri Gaming Commission provides a 24-hour helpline for those struggling with problem gambling.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1:

In 2019, a lucky player at Lumiere Place Casino won a record-breaking $10.8 million jackpot on a progressive slot machine. This win highlights the potential for life-changing wins at St. Louis casinos.

Lesson: Casinos offer the chance for big payouts, but it is important to gamble responsibly.

Story 2:

In 2016, a woman lost her entire life savings at a St. Louis casino. This story illustrates the dangers of addiction and the importance of setting limits when gambling.

Lesson: Problem gambling can have devastating consequences. It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction.

Story 3:

In 2020, a group of local residents filed a lawsuit against a St. Louis casino, alleging that the casino's advertising misled customers about the odds of winning. This case highlights the importance of transparency and honesty in casino marketing.

Lesson: Casinos should be transparent about the odds of winning and avoid misleading advertising.

Pros and Cons of Casinos in St. Louis

Pros:

• Create jobs and boost the economy
• Offer entertainment and recreational opportunities
• Generate tax revenue for the city
• Promote tourism

Cons:

• Can lead to gambling addiction
• Can increase crime rates
• Can negatively impact local businesses
• Can contribute to noise and traffic congestion

FAQs

1. What is the legal gambling age in St. Louis, Missouri?

The legal gambling age in St. Louis, Missouri, is 21.

2. What types of gambling are available at St. Louis casinos?

St. Louis casinos offer a wide range of gambling options, including slots, blackjack, roulette, poker, and electronic games.

3. Are casinos open 24 hours a day in St. Louis?

Most casinos in St. Louis are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

4. Are there any dress code requirements at St. Louis casinos?

Most St. Louis casinos have a casual dress code. However, some restaurants and special events may have a more formal dress code.

5. Can I smoke at casinos in St. Louis?

Smoking is allowed in designated areas of casinos in St. Louis.

6. Are there any free parking options at St. Louis casinos?

Most casinos in St. Louis offer free parking to their guests.

7. Are there any casinos in St. Louis that are part of a hotel complex?

Yes, several casinos in St. Louis are part of hotel complexes, including the Hollywood Casino St. Louis, the River City Casino & Hotel, and the Lumiere Place Casino & Hotel.

8. Are there any special promotions or discounts available at St. Louis casinos?

Yes, many casinos in St. Louis offer promotions and discounts to their guests, such as free play, dining credits, and hotel discounts.

Call to Action

If you are planning a visit to St. Louis, be sure to explore the city's vibrant casino scene. Whether you are a seasoned gambler or a first-time visitor, St. Louis casinos offer a wide range of entertainment and gaming options to suit every taste. Remember to gamble responsibly and enjoy the excitement and entertainment that St. Louis casinos have to offer.