CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

Editorial Staff | Posted on September 19, 2026 |

Congratulations to the 2026 Players Choice Award winners

By Karrie L. Zukowski

For three decades, Casino Player magazine has invited its readers to select their favorite casinos across a variety of categories. From top Overall Gaming Resorts to various hotel and gaming distinctions, our annual Best of Gaming Awards recognize the industry’s ﬁnest. This eﬀort has been met with great enthusiasm from readers, casinos and our team alike. This year, we’ve carefully tallied the votes for each region and honored the casino with the highest number of reader votes with the Players Choice Award. The list below highlights the top destinations for gaming and accommodations, all chosen by you, our dedicated readers!

Atlantic City: Ocean Casino Resort

Caribbean: Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas

Chicagoland: Bally’s Quad Cities Casino and Hotel

Colorado: Monarch Casino Resort Spa Black Hawk

Cruises: Norwegian Cruise Line

Detroit: MGM Grand Detroit Casino

Florida: Seminole Hard Rock Tampa

Gulf Coast: Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort

Iowa: Hard Rock Hotel Casino Sioux City

Lake Tahoe: Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe

Las Vegas Downtown: Golden Nugget

Las Vegas Las Vegas Locals: South Point Hotel Casino and Spa

Las Vegas Strip: Caesars Palace

Laughlin: Aquarius Casino Resort

Louisiana: Golden Nugget Lake Charles

Maryland: Live! Casino Hotel Maryland

Missouri: Argosy Casino Hotel

Native Midwest: FireKeepers Casino Hotel

Native Northwest: Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel

Native South: Coushatta Casino Resort

Native Southwest: Talking Stick Resort

New England: Mohegan Sun

New York: Turning Stone Resort Casino

Ohio: Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati

Oklahoma: Choctaw Casino Resort Durant

Pennsylvania: Live! Casino and Hotel Philadelphia

Racinos: Miami Valley Gaming

Reno: Grand Sierra Resort & Casino

Southern Indiana: Rising Star Casino Resort

Tunica: Gold Strike Casino Resort

Vicksburg: Ameristar Casino Hotel

Virginia: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol

Native South

COUSHATTA CASINO RESORT Kinder, LA

Get ready for a getaway where Louisiana hospitality meets nonstop excitement. Coushatta Casino Resort continues to raise the stakes as the state’s largest casino resort, oﬀering an impressive mix of gaming, dining, entertainment, golf and resort-style relaxation. And with a wave of exciting additions and enhancements, Coushatta is entering a spectacular new chapter.

At the heart of the action, Coushatta’s expansive gaming ﬂoor features nearly 2,000 slot machines, more than 55 table games, live poker, a sportsbook, oﬀ-track betting and live bingo. Players looking for an elevated experience can retreat to the new High Limit Room, featuring 97 high-limit slots, exclusive table games and a full-service bar and lounge.

Bingo fans can also enjoy the all-new 312-seat Bingo Hall, bringing fresh energy to one of Coushatta’s signature gaming experiences.

Dining takes center stage, too. Last year, Big Sky Steakhouse returned following a complete transformation inspired by the Acadian character of southwest Louisiana. The elegant new space features repurposed 150-year-old doors, handcrafted local woodwork, a dramatic ﬁreplace and the striking new Mirror Bar. On the menu: premium aged steaks, fresh Gulf seafood and Louisiana-inspired favorites that showcase the region’s distinctive ﬂavors.

For a more casual night out, The Rez Sports Bar & Grill serves up big-game action on massive screens alongside gumbo, burgers, ﬂatbreads, signature cocktails and more. With an array of dining choices throughout the resort, guests can easily turn a winning night into a memorable culinary experience.

Then there’s the resort’s newest showstopper: Legacy Tower, which oﬃcially opened in May. The eight- story luxury hotel adds 204 guest rooms, including 100 suites, bringing Coushatta’s total room inventory to more than 1,000. Designed as a dramatic new front door to the resort, Legacy Tower features a striking seven-story LED display, a redesigned arrival experience and a new connecting lobby. Inside, modern luxury meets the heritage of the Coushatta Tribe, with design details inspired by traditional tribal basketry and cultural storytelling.

Guests can choose from an impressive collection of accommodations, including The Grand Hotel, The Seven Clans Hotel, The Inn at Coushatta, Red Shoes RV Park and the glamorous new Legacy Tower. With the addition of the tower, Coushatta now oﬀers more than 1,000 rooms across its resort accommodations.

Golf enthusiasts have their own reason to visit.

Koasati Pines, the resort’s championship 18- hole, par-72 course, winds through scenic wetlands, towering pines and ancient oaks, culminating in the signature 19th “Gambling Hole.” It’s a memorable round in a setting as distinctive as Coushatta itself.

And when the sun goes down, the fun is far from over. Live concerts, seasonal tribal events and other entertainment keep the resort buzzing, while the pool oﬀers a chance to slow things down and soak up the Louisiana sunshine. Plan your visit and discover more at www.ccrla.com.

FIRST-PLACE WINS: Best Overall Gaming Resort, Best Hotel, Best Hotel Staﬀ, Best Rooms, Best Suites, Best Pool, Best Golf Course, Favorite Casino Resort To Vacation At, Best Casino, Best Players Club, Best Hosts, Best Promotions, Best Dealers, Best Table Games, Best High Limit Room, Best Non-Smoking Casino/Area, Casino Where You Feel Luckiest, Best Reel Slots, Best Video Slots, Best Craps, Best Video Poker, Best Bingo, Best Overall Sportsbook, Best Sportsbook Promotions, Friendliest Sportsbook.

SECOND-PLACE WINS: Best Hotel Lobby, Best VIP Lounge, Best Comps, Best Poker Room, Best Poker Tournaments, Best Carnival Games, Best Blackjack, Best Roulette, Best Betting Options, Best Prop Bets.

Native Midwest

FIREKEEPERS CASINO HOTEL, Battle Creek, MI

For the fourth time, players have chosen FireKeepers Casino Hotel as a favorite gaming destination in the Native Midwest. The Battle Creek property has been named a 2026 Players Choice winner in the Best of Gaming Awards, adding to its previous Players Choice honors in 2022, 2024 and 2025.

Four Players Choice honors in ﬁve years represent more than a collection of awards. They reﬂect sustained recognition from the people whose opinions matter most—the players who visit, stay, dine, play and return throughout the year. The 2026 results further demonstrate the breadth of the FireKeepers experience, with the property earning 32 awards, including 21 ﬁrst-place ﬁnishes, nine second-place honors and two third-place ﬁnishes.

The recognition spans nearly every aspect of the casino resort experience, highlighting a destination that gives players multiple reasons to visit and return.

Located just oﬀ I-94 in Battle Creek, MI, and owned and operated by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi, FireKeepers brings gaming, hospitality, dining, sports and entertainment together in one destination.

The casino ﬂoor features more than 2,700 slot machines, 63 table games and 21 live poker tables, giving players a wide variety of ways to enjoy their favorite games. The poker room also hosts major tournament events, including Mid-States Poker Tour competitions that attract players from throughout the country.

Accommodations oﬀer another reason to turn a gaming visit into a full getaway. FireKeepers features 446 rooms and suites across two hotel towers, including premium accommodations such as the Aqua Fire Suite and Presidential Suite. The original hotel tower has also undergone a complete renovation, bringing updated accommodations and contemporary design to the property.

Dining is another cornerstone of the FireKeepers experience. Nibi, the property’s AAA Four Diamond signature restaurant, oﬀers an elevated dining experience, while Dacey’s Sportsbook & Taphouse, Smoke ’N Fire, Café, Fortune 8 Noodle Bar, Chi Mon-Ee’s and Gapi Coﬀee & Sweets provide options ranging from casual meals and coﬀee to sports viewing and specialty dining. The variety allows guests to make dining part of a gaming trip, a night out or an extended stay.

Sports fans have another destination at Dacey’s Sportsbook & Taphouse, which provides a dedicated setting for following the action. The property’s 2,100-seat Event Center adds another dimension to the destination, hosting nationally recognized musicians, comedians and performers throughout the year.

The FireKeepers experience also extends beyond the physical property through FireKeepers Online Casino & Sportsbook. Players can access online gaming and sports betting while remaining connected to the Red Hot Rewards loyalty program. Through this integration, players can earn points online and redeem them at FireKeepers Casino Hotel for beneﬁts such as free play, dining, shopping and hotel stays, creating a seamless connection between the online and in-person experiences.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a night out or simply a favorite place to play, FireKeepers continues to give guests new reasons to return—and plenty of reasons to start planning their next visit.

FIRST-PLACE WINS: Best Overall Gaming Resort, Best Hotel, Best Rooms, Best Suites, Favorite Casino Resort To Vacation At, Best Casino, Best Players Club, Best Hosts, Best Comps, Best Table Games, Best Poker Room, Best Non-Smoking Casino/Area, Best Video Slots, Best Blackjack, Best Live Poker, Best Roulette, Best Video Poker, Best Keno, Best Overall Sportsbook, Best Prop Bets, Best Sportsbook Promotions.

SECOND-PLACE WINS: Best Hotel Lobby, Best Hotel Staﬀ, Best VIP Lounge/Services, Best Craps, Best Poker Tournaments, Casino Where You Feel Luckiest, Best Reel Slots, Best Carnival Games, Friendliest Sportsbook.

THIRD-PLACE WINS: Best Promotions, Best Betting Options.

Tunica

GOLD STRIKE CASINO RESORT Tunica, MS

Gold Strike Casino & Resort has once again raised the bar in regional gaming excellence, securing an unprecedented 32 honors in the 2026 Best of Gaming Awards. The impressive sweep includes top recognition for premier gaming, hospitality, dining and entertainment, cementing Gold Strike as the 2026 Players Choice Award winner for the third straight year.

This distinguished award celebrates destinations that deliver unmatched service, unforgettable experiences and a consistent commitment to guest satisfaction. Gold Strike continues to embody these standards through its relentless focus on innovation, hospitality and creating memorable moments for every guest who walks through its doors.

“Achieving the Players Choice Award for the third year in a row is an incredible honor,” said Alfredo Jaramillo, vice president and general manager of Gold Strike Casino & Resort. “Our guests are the driving force behind everything we do, and their continued support inspires our team to elevate the Gold Strike experience year after year. This recognition reﬂects the dedication, creativity and passion our team members bring to the resort every day.”

Gold Strike’s exceptional amenities create a destination that stands unmatched in the Mid-South. The resort oﬀers a dynamic blend of culinary variety, thrilling gaming, premier entertainment and rejuvenating relaxation that delivers an experience guests can’t ﬁnd anywhere else.

Dining at Gold Strike ranges from reﬁned to fast-casual, anchored by Chicago Steakhouse, where guests enjoy world-class dining, curated wine pairings and signature desserts that showcase the artistry of the culinary team. Next door, Drafts Bar & Grill and the Gold Strike Sportsbook powered by DraftKings bring together food lovers, sports fans and social guests in one energetic space. The Sportsbook features four betting windows and 10 DraftKings kiosks oﬀering an extensive selection of professional, collegiate and specialty wagers. Gold Strike also remains the only casino in the MidSouth to oﬀer horse racing betting, with four exclusive racing kiosks available for guests.

Innovation continues with Collective Kitchens, Gold Strike’s newest fast-casual concept serving made-to-order burgers, noodles, chicken and Southern favorites crafted with quality ingredients. Rise Coﬀee & Bakery is the cornerstone of the space with fresh-baked pastries and world-famous Starbucks coﬀee service. Guests seeking variety can indulge at Buﬀet Americana, which features brick-oven pizzas, regional classics and a Mongolian Grill that elevates the traditional buﬀet experience.

Gold Strike also delivers top-tier entertainment inside Gold Strike Theatre, where award- winning performances are enhanced by premium sound and a high-energy atmosphere. For guests looking to unwind, The Spa at Gold Strike oﬀers restorative treatments designed for every need— from specialty massages for athletes, couples and expectant mothers to warm stone therapies, aromatherapy and custom exfoliation. Every service is intentionally crafted to ensure guests feel renewed and never rushed.

“Our guests deserve the very best, and that expectation guides everything we do at Gold Strike,” said Jaramillo. “From dining and gaming to entertainment and relaxation, every amenity is crafted with care and intention. This dedication is why Gold Strike continues to shine, and we’re honored to share that success with the people who make it possible.”

FIRST-PLACE WINS: Best Overall Gaming Resort, Best Hotel Lobby, Best Hotel Staﬀ, Best Rooms, Best Spa, Favorite Casino Resort To Vacation At, Best Casino, Best VIP Services/Lounge, Best Comps, Best Promotions, Best High Limit Room, Casino Where You Feel Luckiest, Best Reel Slots, Best Blackjack, Best Roulette, Best Overall Sportsbook, Best Betting Options, Friendliest Sportsbook, Best Sportsbook Promotions.

SECOND-PLACE WINS: Best Hotel, Best Suites, Best Players Club, Best Hosts, Best Dealers, Best Table Games, Best Non-Smoking Casino/Area, Best Video Slots, Best Carnival Games, Best Craps, Best Video Poker, Best Prop Bets.

THIRD-PLACE WINS: Best Pool.

Pennsylvania

LIVE! CASINO AND HOTEL PHILADELPHIA, Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia knows how to bring the energy, and nowhere is that more apparent than at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia. Set in the heart of south Philadelphia’s Stadium District, steps from the city’s biggest teams and venues, Live! Philadelphia brings gaming, dining, entertainment and hospitality together under one roof. Whether the plan is a night at the gaming tables, dinner with friends, a weekend escape or a postgame celebration, every visit oﬀers a new way to play. It’s why Casino Player readers once again crowned the property the Players’ Choice in Pennsylvania.

Live! Philadelphia keeps the gaming action fresh with nearly 2,000 slots, more than 100 live-action table games, a dedicated 32-table poker room and a high-limit room. The property invests in giving guests the best experience and variety, adding new slot games regularly alongside beloved classics. Just this month, the property launched the Spooky Link Zone, a new gaming addition with 26 slot machines where guests can play with beloved characters such as Yo Yeti, Mo Mummy and Go Ghost while chasing multipliers, jackpots and bonus spins.

The excitement extends well beyond gaming. Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia has invested in a new generation of dining experiences designed to give guests even more reasons to stay. The reimagined 10th Street Market presents the most authentic tastes of Philadelphia in one location. New for fall is Old Original Nick’s Roast Beef. The Philly institution is making its home at the market for the season as part of an ongoing pop-up series featuring local eats from around the city. Nick’s joins permanent staples at 10th Street: Lorenzo and Sons Pizza, Termini Bros. Bakery and the iconic Geno’s Steaks.

Luk Fu, the property’s Asian fusion restaurant, recently embarked on an exclusive partnership with celebrity chef and Food Network star, Jet Tila. Luk Fu by Jet Tila pairs the restaurant’s energetic atmosphere with the chef’s vibrant approach to Asian cuisine, featuring signature dishes that helped make Tila a household name, like the tempura crunch roll with yuzu miso and hamachi chili ponzu.

For guests looking for an elevated steakhouse experience, The Prime Rib is the perfect spot. The restaurant recently earned the 2026 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its outstanding wine program and was named Best Steakhouse and Best Seafood in Casino Player’s Best of Dining and Nightlife Awards.

Guests can elevate their stay at Live! Philadelphia’s 208-room luxury hotel, winner of Best Hotel in the Best of Gaming Awards. With spectacular views of the Center City skyline, expansive amenities and complimentary parking on game days, the hotel gives guests everything they need to turn a visit into a getaway.

At Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia, winning is only the beginning. Here, every game, meal, show and stay adds up to one unmistakably Philly experience.

FIRST-PLACE WINS: Best Overall Gaming Resort, Best Hotel, Best Hotel Staﬀ, Best Rooms, Best Suites, Favorite Casino Resort For A Staycation, Best Casino, Best Players Club, Best Hosts, Best Comps, Best Dealers, Best High Limit Room, Best Video Slots, Best Blackjack, Best Craps, Best Roulette, Best Keno, Best Betting Options, Best Prop Bets.

SECOND-PLACE WINS: Best Hotel Lobby, Best Promotions, Best Poker Room, Best Non-Smoking Casino/Area, Best Overall Sportsbook, Casino Where You Feel Luckiest.

THIRD-PLACE WINS: Best VIP Lounge, Best Table Games, Best Poker Tournaments, Best Reel Slots, Best Sportsbook Promotions, Friendliest Sportsbook.

Colorado

MONARCH CASINO RESORT SPA Black Hawk, CO

Monarch Casino Resort Spa continues to give guests more reasons to say yes. With back- to-back Players Choice honors in 2025 and 2026, recognition as a Best Overall Casino Resort, and Spa Monarch recently named the No. 1 Hotel Spa in the nation by USA TODAY 10Best, Monarch has ﬁrmly established itself as a destination where luxury, excitement and unforgettable experiences come together.

From its expansive gaming ﬂoor and award-winning restaurants to the spectacular 23rd- ﬂoor spa and rooftop inﬁnity pool overlooking the Colorado Rockies, Monarch delivers far more than a great place to play—it’s a complete resort experience designed to indulge, entertain and inspire. Set in the historic mountain town of Black Hawk, just 45 minutes from downtown Denver, Monarch invites guests to stay, play, dine, relax, and discover just how much more a casino getaway can be.

Step out of the rigors of your everyday and fall into the ﬂow of nearly endless gaming across two levels and 60,000 square feet of casino ﬂoor. Here you’ll ﬁnd over 1,000 of your favorite slots and over 40 of your favorite table games including baccarat, Buﬀalo Black Jack, Pai Gow and so many more.

Say yes to more with Monarch Rewards, designed to elevate every visit with points that can be redeemed toward dining, hotel stays, spa experiences, free play and more. Whether you’re here for the excitement or a little well-deserved indulgence, every visit brings new ways to enjoy the Monarch experience.

Spacious guest rooms and suites oﬀer mountain-chic style, ﬂoor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views of the surrounding canyon and Rocky Mountains. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to create a relaxing, elevated retreat after a day of gaming, dining or exploring Black Hawk.

Taking relaxation to new heights, Spa Monarch was voted the No. 1 Best Hotel Spa in the Country by USA TODAY’s 10Best. Perched on the 23rd ﬂoor, Spa Monarch is a serene escape featuring signature treatments, tranquil spaces and breathtaking canyon views. It’s the perfect place to slow down, recharge and linger a little longer.

Dining at Monarch is an experience all its own, with ﬁve distinctive restaurants oﬀering an enticing mix of ﬂavors, atmospheres and culinary experiences. From an expansive buﬀet to a sophisticated steakhouse, guests can explore a tempting variety of dishes without ever leaving the resort.

The Buﬀet invites guests on a delicious journey of endless exploration, with nearly limitless choices and ﬂavors from around the world. Freshly prepared classics mingle with globally inspired specialties, creating a feast where every station oﬀers something new to discover. It’s a culinary adventure designed to satisfy every appetite.

For those looking to refuel around the clock, Twenty-Four 7, conveniently located just oﬀ the gaming ﬂoor, serves comforting favorites 24 hours a day. Guests can enjoy breakfast any time, burgers and savory bites, while neighboring Java Etc. oﬀers freshly brewed Starbucks coﬀee, pastries and grab-and-go treats for a quick pick-me-up.

At Bistro Mariposa, Wednesday Night Social Hour brings a lively, ﬂavor-ﬁlled experience to the table. Guests can savor ﬂame-kissed ﬂank steak, sweetly charred street corn fresh from the grill and refreshing margaritas with just the right kick. Half-priced appetizers and select cocktails make Social Hour an inviting way to ease into the evening.

For an elevated dining experience, Monarch Chophouse delivers the sophistication of a classic steakhouse with a modern edge. Recently named Best Steakhouse in Denver’s Westword Best of 2026 Awards and one of USA TODAY’s Top 10 Best Casino Restaurants, the Chophouse pairs expertly prepared steaks with crafted cocktails and an impressive, award-winning wine list. It’s a destination dining experience worthy of a trip all its own.

FIRST-PLACE WINS: Best Overall Gaming Resort, Best Hotel, Best Rooms, Best Pool, Best Spa, Favorite Casino Resort To Vacation At, Favorite Casino Resort For A Staycation, Best Casino, Best Players Club, Best Table Games, Best High Limit Room, Best Poker Room, Casino Where You Feel Luckiest, Best Carnival Games, Best Keno, Best Overall Sportsbook, Best Betting Options, Best Sportsbook Promotions, Friendliest Sportsbook.

SECOND-PLACE WINS: Best Hotel Lobby, Best Hotel Staﬀ, Best Suites, Best Hosts, Best VIP Lounge/Services, Best Promotions, Best Poker Tournaments, Best Non-Smoking Casino/Area, Best Video Slots, Best Blackjack, Best Craps, Best Video Poker, Best Prop Bets.

THIRD-PLACE WINS: Best Comps, Best Dealers, Best Reel Slots, Best Roulette.

Atlantic City

OCEAN CASINO RESORT, Atlantic City, NJ

With a remarkable 23 Best of Gaming Awards to its name—the most of any casino in Atlantic City— Ocean Casino Resort has once again proven why it remains one of the city’s most talked-about destinations. But beyond the trophies and recognition, the resort continues to give players, diners, entertainment fans and beachgoers plenty of reasons to make Ocean part of their Atlantic City plans.

As summer begins to wind down, Atlantic City enters one of its most appealing seasons.

September brings thinner crowds, warm days and an ocean that is still very much calling your name. Along more than 20 beachfront acres on the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk, Ocean Casino Resort oﬀers an ideal setting for an early-fall escape, combining gaming, dining, entertainment and plenty of ways to enjoy the shore.

For players, the recognition is especially meaningful. Earning 23 Best of Gaming Awards—the highest total in Atlantic City—underscores Ocean’s broad appeal and its ability to deliver an experience that keeps guests coming back. From its expansive casino ﬂoor and high-limit gaming to sports wagering and online play, the resort continues to put the player experience at the center of its evolution.

And there is no shortage of entertainment to complement the action. Comedian Sebastian Maniscalco takes the stage Sept. 17-20 and Sept. 24-27. The calendar continues with Daughtry on Oct. 17, John Mulaney on Oct. 23, Steve Martin & Martin Short on Nov. 7 and Jo Koy on Nov.20.

Still, Ocean’s appeal extends well beyond the casino and concert stage. The resort continues to introduce new experiences, refresh familiar favorites and expand its dining options, giving visitors plenty of reasons to return as the seasons change. This fall, Zhen Bang Noodle & Sushi is adding patio-style seating, creating a more open atmosphere at one of Ocean’s popular dining destinations. It is another small but welcome evolution in a resort where the dining scene has become an attraction in its own right.

With more than 20 restaurants and bars, guests can move from casual bites to upscale dining without ever having to leave the property. Happy hours and dining specials make it easy to sample the lineup, while Ocean Steak Hour oﬀers discounted bar bites for those looking to ease into an evening with a drink and something to share.

The culinary roster features names and concepts that give Ocean serious dining credibility. Stephen Starr’s Chez Fritz brings a reﬁned approach to the table, while José Garces’ Amada showcases Spanish-inspired cuisine. At Linguini By the Sea, classic Italian favorites come with an added ingredient that is hard to beat: sweeping views of the Atlantic.

At the center of it all is Ocean’s 135,000-square-foot casino, where players will ﬁnd an extensive selection of slots, table games and an expansive Asian gaming pit. Sports fans can place land-based wagers through Fanatics Sportsbook, while New Jersey players can access online gaming through betOcean.

The resort’s gaming story is also still being written. In January 2027, The Cove is slated to expand its high-limit gaming experience, adding another layer to Ocean’s already extensive gaming lineup. More details are expected as the project moves closer to completion.

For those who want to make the most of the destination, Ocean’s 1,860 newly renovated guest rooms and suites turn a casino visit into a full Atlantic City getaway. Exhale Spa & Bathhouse oﬀers a place to unwind, while the Eclipse Indoor/Outdoor Pool delivers a year-round seaside retreat with a retractable roof and indoor-outdoor design.

There is even plenty to do when the cards and slots are oﬀ the table. Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar puts a high-tech spin on a familiar favorite with a two-story immersive course featuring holographic elements from HYPERVSN, the same technology company behind experiences at The Sphere in Las Vegas. It is part competition, part spectacle and an easy way to add something unexpected to a trip, whether you are traveling with friends, family or a group.

As the holidays approach, the resort shifts into another gear. Santa’s Hideaway Adventure takes guests on a festive journey to the North Pole, while Cirque Dreams Holidaze arrives at Ocean on Dec. 20 to add acrobatics, spectacle and holiday magic to the season.

That ability to oﬀer something for just about everyone may be the real reason Ocean continues to stand out. The 23 Best of Gaming Awards may put a spotlight on the resort’s success with players, but the larger experience tells the rest of the story.

FIRST-PLACE WINS: Best Overall Gaming Resort, Best Hotel Lobby, Best Pool, Favorite Casino Resort To Vacation At, Best Bingo, Best Overall Sportsbook.

SECOND-PLACE WINS: Best Hotel, Best Hotel Staﬀ, Best Suites, Best Rooms, Best VIP Lounge/Services, Favorite Casino Resort For A Staycation, Best Video Slots, Best Betting Options, Friendliest Sportsbook.

THIRD-PLACE WINS: Best Spa, Best Casino, Best Comps, Best High Limit Room, Best Reel Slots, Best Blackjack, Best Prop Bets, Best Sportsbook Promotions.

Native Northwest

SNOQUALMIE CASINO & HOTEL Snoqualmie, WA

Rising above the Snoqualmie Valley, where forested ridgelines and evergreen-covered foothills create a breathtaking backdrop in every season, Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel oﬀers a luxurious Paciﬁc Northwest escape just 30 minutes from Seattle. The resort recently reached a new level of distinction with its prestigious AAA Four Diamond designation, recognizing its upscale accommodations, distinctive amenities and elevated guest experience.

The honor marks an important milestone for Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel and reﬂects the experience guests discover throughout the property, where the energy of gaming meets reﬁned dining, restorative wellness, live entertainment and luxury accommodations. All of it unfolds against the spectacular natural beauty of the Cascade Mountains, creating a destination that feels refreshingly removed from the everyday while remaining conveniently close to the city.

At the heart of the resort is its 210-room hotel, where contemporary Paciﬁc Northwest design draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape and the culture of the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe. Warm woods, natural textures, curated artwork and expansive windows bring the region’s character indoors, while guest rooms and suites oﬀer sweeping views of the valley and mountains beyond. The result is a sophisticated yet inviting retreat that captures the spirit of the Northwest and gives guests a memorable place to relax, recharge and take it all in.

The Four-Diamond experience extends well beyond the guest room. At MoonRise Spa, guests can trade the energy of the casino ﬂoor for a restorative retreat featuring treatments inspired by the region and spaces designed for relaxation and renewal.

Dining oﬀers another reason to stay awhile. Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood pairs premium steaks and fresh seafood with panoramic valley views, while 12 Moons delivers contemporary Asian cuisine in an elevated setting. Falls Buﬀet oﬀers an expansive collection of favorites, and Drip keeps coﬀee and casual bites within reach around the clock.

For sports fans, Hawks Peak Sports Bar & Grill brings an entirely diﬀerent kind of energy. With over 60 big-screen TVs, elevated pub favorites and an impressive collection of sports memorabilia, the venue creates a place where every day can feel like game day.

Of course, gaming remains at the heart of the experience. Nearly 1,800 slot machines, table games, a spacious non-smoking gaming area and Seattle’s ﬁrst and closest sportsbook give guests plenty of ways to get in on the action.

Beyond the casino ﬂoor, the property’s 2,000-seat entertainment and convention center adds another dimension, welcoming live entertainment, special events, meetings and celebrations to the Snoqualmie Valley.

Together, these experiences represent the evolution of Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel from a gaming destination into a complete Paciﬁc Northwest resort experience.

For guests who have been visiting Snoqualmie for years, there is more to discover than ever. And for those experiencing the property for the ﬁrst time, the combination of gaming, dining, entertainment and Four-Diamond hospitality oﬀers a new reason to make the trip.

The view from the top has never looked better.

FIRST-PLACE WINS: Best Players Club, Best Promotions, Best Table Games, Best High Limit Room, Casino Where You Feel Luckiest, Best Reel Slots, Best Roulette, Best Betting Options, Best Sportsbook Promotions.

SECOND-PLACE WINS: Best Hotel, Best Rooms, Best Spa, Favorite Casino Resort For A Staycation, Best Casino, Best Hosts, Best Dealers, Best Non-Smoking Casino/Area, Best Carnival Games, Best Overall Sportsbook, Friendliest Sportsbook.

THIRD-PLACE WINS: Best Overall Gaming Resort, Best Hotel Staﬀ, Best Pool, Favorite Casino Resort To Vacation At, Best Comps, Best Video Slots, Best Blackjack, Best Prop Bets.