THE ULTIMATE SUMMER GETAWAY
Where Poolside Parties, Headliner Shows and Luxury Stays Come Together
By Karrie L. Zukowski
Summer travel is calling—and across the country, casinos are answering in unforgettable style. From oceanfront icons to desert escapes and lakeside retreats, today’s casino resorts have evolved far beyond the gaming floor, becoming full-scale destinations where the season comes alive. Think headline concerts under open skies, pool parties that stretch into sunset, world-class dining, luxury spas, and nonstop entertainment designed for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re chasing the rhythm of a summer residency, cooling off by the pool with a cocktail in hand, or simply looking for a getaway that blends relaxation with excitement, these casino resorts deliver it all. This is your coast-to-coast guide to the ultimate summer escapes—where every stop is a destination, and every moment feels like a headline event.
Rock the Shore
Hard Rock Atlantic City Sets the Summer Stage
Summer in Atlantic City takes on a distinct rhythm when it’s centered at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City—a beachfront destination where sun, sound, dining and gaming flow together into one seamless escape. This season, the resort fully embraces its identity as a coastal entertainment powerhouse, where mornings begin on the sand and nights end under the glow of concert lights, with everything in between designed to keep the energy moving.
Just steps from the Boardwalk, Hard Rock Beach transforms the shoreline into a full- service seaside retreat. Lounge chairs, shaded cabanas, umbrellas and attentive food and beverage service create a relaxed yet vibrant setting where guests can settle in for the day without ever losing sight of the Atlantic. Above it all, The Terrace offers a breezy second- level escape with sweeping views of the ocean and Steel Pier’s iconic Ferris wheel. Open Fridays and Saturdays, its signature “No Shower Happy Hour” (4-6 p.m.) pairs frozen cocktails, drink specials, draft deals and live music.
Inside, the excitement never slows. The casino floor spans thousands of slot machines, blending beloved classics with the newest high-tech, immersive titles and popular progressive games built for today’s players. More than 130 table games—including blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat and specialty offerings—keep the action constant, offering everything from casual play to high-limit excitement.
That same sense of variety carries through the resort’s dining scene, which has become a destination in its own right. With more than a dozen restaurants and casual outlets, Hard Rock Atlantic City delivers everything from refined fine dining to quick, craveable favorites, making it one of the most versatile culinary stops in the region.
At the top of the list is Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, the resort’s signature steakhouse and a cornerstone of the Hard Rock brand. Known for USDA Prime cuts, dry-aged steaks and elevated seafood dishes like Maryland-style crab cakes and bone-in filet mignon, it delivers a classic steakhouse experience with a polished, contemporary edge—ideal for a celebratory dinner or pre-show indulgence.
Kuro offers sleek, contemporary Japanese cuisine that has quickly become one of Atlantic City’s standout restaurants. Featuring artfully prepared sushi, sashimi, robata grill selections and A5 Japanese Wagyu, along with a cocktail program inspired by the five basic tastes, Kuro blends precision and creativity in a stylish, high-energy setting that fits naturally within the resort’s music-driven atmosphere.
On the more casual side, the Hard Rock Cafe keeps things lively with American comfort classics—burgers, ribs and familiar favorites—served alongside rock memorabilia and a live-music backdrop. It’s a relaxed, crowd-pleasing stop for families and groups looking for a fun, unfussy meal with unmistakable Hard Rock personality.
For something more refined and intimate, Il Mulino New York brings elevated Italian cuisine to the mix, featuring rich pastas, signature sauces and traditional dishes served in an old-world style.
At the center of it all is music—the defining force behind the Hard Rock experience. The summer concert season launched over Memorial Day weekend with Journey’s Final Frontier Tour, setting the tone for a packed schedule of iconic performances. In true Atlantic City fashion, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band even embraced a local tradition— reportedly ordering 42 pizzas from the legendary Tony’s Baltimore Grill, a Boardwalk staple since 1927.
From there, the momentum rolls straight into June 27 with James Taylor and His All-Star Band, setting the tone for a summer filled with legendary live music. Comedy takes the spotlight July 3 with Stavros Halkias, followed by Margaritaville presents Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band on July 10, and classic rock favorites The Guess Who on July 11.
Global and genre-diverse acts continue through July, including Vishal- Sheykhar on July 18, Buju Banton & Stephen Marley on July 19, and Dick Fox’s Golden Boys starring Frankie Avalon, Fabian and special guest Tommy Cono on July 25. The Chicks bring their powerhouse harmonies to the stage July 31, with comedian Nikki Glaser keeping audiences laughing Aug. 1.
August keeps the momentum going with DJ Cassidy’s Pass The Mic Live on Aug. 7 and the Totally Tubular Festival on Aug. 8, before jam-band favorites Widespread Panic take over Aug. 14-16 for a three-night run. Country superstar Keith Urban follows with back-to-back shows Aug. 21 & 22, leading into Wu-Tang Forever on Aug. 28 and Air Supply closing out the announced slate on Aug. 29.
From beachfront lounging and ocean-view cocktails to a high-energy casino floor, standout dining, and a concert calendar filled with legends, Hard Rock Atlantic City turns summer into a continuous soundtrack— where every day flows like a festival and every night begins with a beat.
For more information, visit www.casino.hardrock.com/atlantic-city.
Nature, Nightlife & Native Culture Shine at Choctaw Landing
Nestled in the scenic mountain landscape of Hochatown, OK—one of Southeast Oklahoma’s fastest-growing getaway destinations—Choctaw Landing places guests in the heart of outdoor adventure and natural beauty. Whether the day is spent boating on Broken Bow Lake, hiking through the towering pines of Beavers Bend State Park, or embracing the area’s legendary Bigfoot lore, the resort offers the perfect retreat afterward with upscale accommodations, vibrant casino action and unforgettable dining experiences.
Opened by the Choctaw Nation in 2024, Choctaw Landing is a 100-room non-smoking casino and resort with over 550 slot machines and 12 table games.
When guests register as a new member of the Choctaw Rewards program, they will receive $10 free play, and once they earn 30 tier credits, they will receive a themed Choctaw Landing t-shirt.
This summer, you won’t want to miss our Paddle to Payout promotion every Saturday, July 11 through Sept. 26. We’ll be giving away $1,000 in free play every Saturday from 6-11 p.m., with a $5,000 grand prize cash drawing at midnight.
Also, our Lucky Room Promotions are held weekly Sunday through Thursday, and one guest room will be randomly selected to receive $200 cash and $200 free play prize on each promotional day.
The resort boasts delicious dining options starting with Tuklo Grill, which features cultural and regional dishes. For on-the-go meals, guests can enjoy Starbucks and Tuklo Deli, located in The Mercantile.
The Mercantile has more to offer than just food. It’s the go-to location for Hochatown and Choctaw gifts and merchandise to remember your trip by. It’s also full of essential items for outdoor activities and cabin stays, including plenty of games to keep the kids entertained. The Mercantile also features groceries, local wine, a beer cave and a 24- pump fuel island.
Guests can soak away their worries at Oka Sita Pool, which boasts two hot tubs, three fire pits and nine luxurious cabanas. The pool area also includes Oka Sita Bar, which serves up refreshing beverages like frozen margaritas and the signature Choctaw Crush cocktail.
Choctaw Landing is full of entertainment for everyone. At The Amphitheater on Cypress Lawn, an outdoor venue that seats 125, there will be free live entertainment every Friday and Saturday in June, as well as free family-friendly movies on the lawn every Thursday evening. Summer entertainment will also include free stickball demonstrations and a petting zoo with our furry friends from the Beavers Bend Safari Park.
On Fourth of July weekend, Choctaw Landing will have fireworks on July 3 at dusk and pool parties with DJ Derrick July 3-5. Guests can also enjoy a free concert from Lane Bricker at The Amphitheater on Cypress Lawn on July 4.
For those looking for an enriching cultural experience, they can view 40 pieces of art from over 20 Choctaw artists placed throughout the casino. The artwork in public spaces is part of more than 600 pieces in the resort, including in every guest hallway and room, showcasing the culture, art and history of the Choctaw Nation.
Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel
The Pacific Northwest Getaway That Has It All
Just 30 minutes from Seattle, Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel offers more than your typical casino trip—it’s a complete resort experience designed for relaxation, entertainment and unforgettable views. Close enough for a spontaneous escape yet far enough to feel like a true retreat, Snoqualmie has become one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier destinations for gaming, dining and luxury accommodations.
The expanded hotel features more than 200 spacious guest rooms and suites, thoughtfully designed for comfort and relaxation. Guests can enjoy plush bedding, spa- style bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows and sweeping mountain and valley views. Warm Northwest-inspired décor paired with modern finishes creates a cozy yet elevated atmosphere— ideal after an evening on the casino floor or for a full weekend getaway.
At the center of the resort is the expanded casino, offering more than 2,000 slot machines, an impressive variety of table games, high-limit gaming areas and dedicated non-smoking sections. Whether guests are seasoned players or simply looking for a fun night out, the casino provides an exciting experience for every style of gambler.
For those seeking a smoke-free atmosphere, the resort’s dedicated non-smoking gaming area near the hotel lobby offers nearly 400 popular slot machines in a fresh, modern setting. Guests also benefit from a separate smoke-free valet entrance and convenient access to the enclosed non-smoking gaming area near Falls Buffet, making comfort and accessibility a priority throughout the property.
When it’s time to recharge, MoonRise Spa provides a tranquil retreat inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Guests can indulge in customized massages, collagen facials, mineral body treatments, eucalyptus saunas and a peaceful relaxation lounge overlooking the forest. The resort also features an infinity-style pool, two hot tubs, a fitness center and easy access to the scenic outdoor surroundings that make the Snoqualmie area so special.
Dining is another standout part of the experience, with options ranging from upscale evenings to quick bites between games. Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood offers premium cuts, fresh seafood and an elegant atmosphere—great for celebrations or a refined night out. Falls Buffet continues to be a guest favorite, serving an extensive selection of comfort foods and seasonal specialties.
Guests looking for bold flavors can visit 12 Moons, where Asian-inspired cuisine blends traditional dishes with modern influences in a warm and inviting setting. For a more energetic experience, Hawks Peak rooftop sports bar combines panoramic views, large- screen entertainment, handcrafted cocktails and a lively social atmosphere—perfect for game days and nights out with friends.
The resort also offers several casual dining and quick-service options for guests on the go. Open 24/7, Drip Café serves fresh coffee, snacks and light meals throughout the day and night—perfect whether guests are starting early or winding down late.
Guests can experience unforgettable entertainment at Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel. From chart-topping concerts to world-class comedy performances, the resort’s 2,000-seat venue combines state-of-the-art design with an intimate atmosphere to create an exceptional night out. With a diverse event calendar and memorable performances year-round, every event at Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel offers more than entertainment— it delivers a complete experience.
Upcoming entertainment includes Chris Tucker, June 26, HINDER and Black Stone Cherry, July 3, Mitchell Tenpenny, July 10, Jabbawockeez, July 16, POP 2000 Tour, Aug. 1 and David Spade, Aug. 15.
Whether planning a gaming-focused getaway, a relaxing spa weekend or simply a memorable Pacific Northwest escape, Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel combines exciting entertainment, luxury accommodations, exceptional dining and breathtaking scenery into one unforgettable destination.
Downstream Casino Resort
Midwest Entertainment with Modern Comfort
Downstream Casino Resort offers a lively getaway where Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri meet. Owned by the Quapaw Nation, the resort combines exciting gaming, comfortable accommodations, great dining and live entertainment in one welcoming destination.
The casino floor features more than 1,800 slot machines along with popular table games including blackjack, craps, roulette and poker. Guests can also enjoy specialty games, cashless gaming options and rewards through the Q Club program.
The resort’s 12-story hotel includes 374 modern guest rooms and suites inspired by Quapaw culture. Guests can choose between the Osotouy Tower near the casino and outdoor pool, or the Kappa Tower, which offers larger rooms and access to the indoor pool. Amenities include outdoor cabanas, hot tubs, a fitness area and a 24-hour business center.
Beyond gaming, visitors can relax at Née Spa, shop at Heckaton Gift Shop or play a round at nearby Eagle Creek Golf Club. Dining options range from upscale meals at Red Oak Steakhouse to casual favorites at Spring River Buffet, Wa-Na-Bée-Déa, Legends Sports Bar and Ma Ko Sha Coffee.
Entertainment continues throughout the property with live music, national touring acts and outdoor concerts at The Venue. Performers have included Jon Lovitz, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, Jamey Johnson and The Bacon Brothers. Don’t miss Third Eye Blind at the Outdoor venue July 11 or Dave Attell on Aug. 15 in the Pavillion.
Step Into the Story
Plaza Las Vegas Debuts the “Wiseguy Getaway”
The Plaza Hotel & Casino and The Mob Museum are inviting guests to step into one of Las Vegas’ most compelling eras with a new downtown experience that blends history, storytelling and classic Sin City intrigue. The two iconic institutions have teamed up to launch The Wiseguy Getaway, a limited-time hotel package designed to showcase the city beyond the Strip while immersing visitors in the legendary mob era that helped shape modern Las Vegas.
Rooted in shared history and unmistakable atmosphere, the collaboration feels like a natural fit. The Plaza Hotel & Casino—long recognized as a cornerstone of downtown Las Vegas—is famously featured in the mob classic Casino, and its signature glass-domed restaurant has become a cinematic landmark in its own right. Today, that space lives on as Oscar’s Steakhouse, named for reputed mob attorney and former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar B. Goodman. The restaurant’s playful menu nods to the city’s colorful past with dishes like No Nose’s Mob Meatballs, Crazy Phil’s Onion Soup, and Joey C’s Filet Mignon, paying homage to the characters and lore that continue to fascinate visitors.
That same spirit of storytelling extends across the street at The Mob Museum, formally known as the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. Founded with Goodman as a key visionary, the museum has become the definitive destination for exploring the history of organized crime and law enforcement in America. With its immersive exhibits, rare artifacts and interactive experiences, it consistently ranks among the most distinctive attractions in Las Vegas, drawing visitors eager to better understand the city’s complex past.
The Wiseguy Getaway package brings these two worlds together into a single curated experience. Guests booking the offer receive a minimum two-night stay at The Plaza Hotel & Casino, two complimentary tickets to The Mob Museum, a complimentary appetizer during happy hour at Oscar’s Steakhouse, and an exclusive autographed photo of Oscar B. Goodman himself—adding a personal touch from one of the city’s most recognizable figures.
“From being in Casino to the mobsters Oscar Goodman once represented, the Plaza is uniquely tied to this captivating element of Vegas history, so creating the Wiseguy Getaway with The Mob Museum made perfect sense,” said Jonathan Jossel, CEO of the Plaza Hotel & Casino. “The drama and intrigue of the mob era continue to fascinate our guests, so we believe this new hotel package will be very popular.”
Sycuan Summer Heats Up With Pool Parties, Cocktails and Country Concerts
El Cajon, CA’s summer scene is in full swing at Sycuan Casino Resort as the pool season at Retreat Pool & Cabanas gets underway, transforming the expansive outdoor oasis into a high-energy destination for sun-soaked days, DJ-driven weekends and live country music under the stars.
Retreat Pool & Cabanas welcomes guests back with its signature blend of relaxation and entertainment, featuring two pools, a lazy river, hot tubs and a swim-up bar that anchors the venue’s refreshed seasonal offerings. The kickoff marks the return of one of San Diego County’s most dynamic pool destinations, where resort-style lounging meets a full calendar of themed events and live programming.
Weekly favorites including Industry Mondays, Ditch Fridays and Reggae Sundays return, creating a steady rhythm of rotating experiences designed for both locals and visitors looking to unwind or turn up. Holiday weekends also shine with the return of the Red, White and Swim series, featuring themed celebrations for Fourth of July and Labor Day.
Fueling the experience is a seasonal food and cocktail program built for poolside indulgence. Guests can dive into crowd-pleasing favorites like Retreat Nachos, Fried Buttermilk Chicken Tenders and classic BBQ or Buffalo Wings, while sipping handcrafted cocktails such as the Golden Hour—a refreshing blend of Kuleana white rum, lime, strawberry, simple syrup, club soda and mint. The swim-up bar keeps the energy flowing throughout the day, serving drinks without ever leaving the water. For those looking to elevate their experience, cabanas and daybeds with dedicated service offer a more private retreat, while select days feature poolside gaming with $5 blackjack tables and slots—bringing a distinctly Sycuan twist to the traditional pool season.
As the daytime energy builds, Sycuan is also turning up the volume with the return of its signature live music series, The River at Sycuan. The monthly lineup brings top country talent to the poolside stage, including Ingrid Andress on July 23, and Mitchell Tenpenny on Aug. 12, each delivering their own signature sound under the summer sky.
Summer in the Mountains
Turning Stone Resort Casino Defines the Ultimate Upstate New York Escape
Nestled in the rolling hills of Upstate New York, Turning Stone Resort Casino continues to redefine what a summer getaway can look like. Just a short drive from major Northeast cities, the resort offers a true destination experience in Central New York’s Verona region, spanning 3,400 rolling acres between the scenic Adirondack Mountains and the Finger Lakes. The setting alone sets the tone—wide-open landscapes, fresh mountain air and a sense of escape that feels both expansive and accessible.
Within this backdrop, Turning Stone brings together luxury accommodations, championship golf, award-winning dining, world-class entertainment and one of the most dynamic casino floors in the Northeast. It is a place where every element of a traditional vacation is not only available, but elevated—often within minutes of each other.
This summer marks a particularly exciting moment in the resort’s evolution, as Turning Stone prepares to unveil its most ambitious expansion to date while continuing to elevate its guest experience across every touchpoint.
A Landmark Expansion: The Crescent and Salt Debut
On June 29, Turning Stone will officially open The Crescent, a striking new $370 million addition and the resort’s fourth hotel. Designed with modern luxury and comfort in mind, The Crescent introduces 258 upscale guest rooms, each offering sweeping views of the surrounding scenic landscape. Guests will arrive through a dedicated entrance and enjoy a streamlined check-in experience, along with seamless indoor access to the resort’s restaurants, entertainment, gaming and spa offerings.
Anchoring the new hotel is Salt, an elevated seafood restaurant that adds a fresh culinary dimension to the property’s already acclaimed dining portfolio. Featuring an expansive raw bar, panoramic views of the countryside, and two outdoor terraces designed for three-season dining, Salt blends coastal-inspired cuisine with the relaxed sophistication of the mountains. It is positioned to become one of the resort’s signature dining experiences and a centerpiece of The Crescent’s identity.
Endless Summer at Turning Stone
Summer at Turning Stone Resort Casino unfolds as a fully integrated resort experience, where gaming, relaxation and recreation flow easily from one moment to the next. At the heart of it all is the casino floor—one of the largest in the region—offering a dynamic mix of slot machines, table games, poker and high-limit play. The energy is constant but never overwhelming, with distinct areas that allow guests to dial the experience up or down depending on their mood, whether they’re chasing a jackpot, settling into a poker session, or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
What sets the resort apart is how naturally everything connects. Guests can move from the excitement of the gaming floor to award-winning dining, live entertainment, or a quiet break in luxury accommodations without ever leaving the property. The result is a seamless rhythm to the day—one that blends high-energy play with resort-style comfort and creates a sense of variety that feels like multiple vacations in one.
Golf remains one of the resort’s signature draws, anchored by three distinct championship courses that each offer a completely different playing experience. Atunyote Golf Club delivers a tour-caliber layout known for its pristine conditions and strategic challenge; while Kaluhyat Golf Club brings a more dramatic, rugged feel shaped by natural elevation changes and wooded terrain. Shenendoah Golf Club rounds out the trio with a classic, parkland-style design that emphasizes precision and shotmaking across a beautifully maintained landscape.
Adding to the resort’s entertainment lineup, the Bingo Hall brings its own distinct energy to the mix, offering a lively social setting where classic gameplay meets high-stakes excitement. A wide range of traditional and special bingo sessions keeps the action fresh throughout the week, drawing both casual players and dedicated regulars. This summer’s highlight is the $350,000 Supersized Bingo on Saturday, July 25, featuring a matinée session built around major payouts and heightened anticipation. The Level 3 Jackpot pays $100,000, regular games pay $15,000, and special games guarantee a minimum of $10,000—ensuring every round carries real potential. With dinner included with admission, the event transforms into a full-day experience that blends gaming, dining and community excitement under one roof.
From its expansive casino floor and championship golf to its entertainment programming and signature gaming events, Turning Stone continues to define itself as one of the Northeast’s most complete resort destinations.
For more information, visit www.turningstone.com.
FALL SPOTLIGHT
World Series of Poker Circuit Returns
As summer gives way to fall, the excitement continues when the World Series of Poker Circuit returns to Turning Stone from Oct. 15-26. The nearly two-week series transforms the resort into a hub of nonstop poker action, attracting players from across the country for a full slate of tournaments and deep-stack competition.
Known for its strong fields and high-energy atmosphere, the WSOP Circuit stop has become a staple on the national poker calendar and one of the most anticipated annual events at the resort.
