HOT DESTINATIONS COOL ESCAPES
From tribal resort experiences to major city celebrations, summer travel has never looked better
Summer is the season of escape—the time when sun-soaked days and warm, electric nights invite travelers to trade routine for adventure. From the iconic beaches of Atlantic City, where the Boardwalk hums with energy and ocean breezes, to the lush landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, where scenic coastlines, evergreen forests, and vibrant cities offer a refreshing retreat, this year’s Summer Travel Guide highlights destinations that deliver unforgettable experiences at every turn. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of the casino floor, award-winning dining or lively nightlife, these hotspots promise something for every kind of traveler.
Beyond the gaming capitals, summer also opens the door to distinctive regional experiences and cultural gems. Discover the rising appeal of tribal gaming destinations across Louisiana and Oklahoma, where resort-style properties blend rich heritage with modern luxury and expansive casino action. Or head to Philadelphia, a city buzzing with anticipation as it prepares to take center stage for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in grand style. From coast to coast, each destination offers its own unique blend of excitement, relaxation and discovery—making it easier than ever to plan a summer getaway that’s as dynamic or as laid-back as you desire.
Ocean Casino Resort Atlantic City, NJ
Rising across 20 prime beachfront acres along the Atlantic City Boardwalk, Ocean Casino Resort delivers a dynamic, all-in-one escape where modern luxury meets nonstop energy. Its 1,860 rooms and suites showcase sweeping ocean views, while the expansive 135,000- square-foot casino floor offers more than 1,750 slot machines and 125 table games. Beyond the action, guests can explore a serene 40,000-square-foot spa, or take in headline entertainment at the 4,500-seat concert venue, all complemented by a vibrant mix of dining, nightlife and outdoor experiences. Highlights include the Topgolf Swing Suite, along with both retail sports betting and online gaming in New Jersey.
Ocean’s evolution continues at a rapid pace. In 2025, the resort unveiled more than $50 million in capital improvements as part of its sweeping $270 million transformation launched in 2018. Among the highlights: over 500 new Blu Rooms and Suites, a fully refreshed hotel, an expanded casino floor and five new dining concepts. The final phase of guest room renovations—valued at $25 million—introduces a breezy, beach-inspired aesthetic, complete with marble bathrooms, sleek finishes and upgraded suite amenities designed for a contemporary coastal escape.
The culinary scene has also leveled up, with new concepts from renowned restaurateur Stephen Starr joining LaScala’s Fire, High Steaks and Blend to broaden the resort’s already impressive dining portfolio. On the gaming side, an expanded 8,000-square-foot Asian Gaming area adds 32 tables, while new entertainment experiences like Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar bring a playful, tech-driven twist that seamlessly transitions into a 21+ nightlife venue after dark. Retail offerings continue to grow as well, highlighted by Sweetheart Coast at The Shops at the Row, while a recent beach replenishment project has further enhanced the resort’s private stretch of sand.
Upcoming entertainment features a dynamic lineup of comedy, live music and tribute performances throughout the spring and summer. Highlights include Tony Hinchcliffe on April 24, followed by UB40 on May 1 and Bobby Lee on May 2. Mid-May brings Lenny Kravitz on May 16 and America on May 17, with Iration closing out the month on May 30. June performances include Happy Together on June 12, Tim Dillon on June 19, Rebelution on June 20, Magical Mystery Doors on June 25, Lord Huron on June 26 and Joe Bonamassa on June 27.
The summer schedule continues with Magical Mystery Doors returning July 2 and July 16, along with Boat House Row: A Yacht Rock Experience on July 5, July 12 and July 19. Jeff Dunham also performs July 12, while Dirty Heads & 311 take the stage July 18. Additional July shows include Magical Mystery Doors on July 23 and July 30, Matt Rife on July 24 and 25, Boat House Row on July 26, and Buddy Guy 90 on July 31.
August brings Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms on Aug. 1, along with recurring performances from Boat House Row on Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, and Magical Mystery Doors on Aug. 6, 13 and 27. Other highlights include Joey Diaz on Aug. 7, Slightly Stoopid on Aug. 14, The Stray Cats on Aug. 15, and Modi Rosenfeld on Aug. 22, with Collective Soul performing Aug. 29. The lineup continues into early September with Magical Mystery Doors on Sept. 3, rounding out a robust season of entertainment.
For more information, visit www.theoceanac.com.
Live! Casino Hotel Philadelphia Philadelphia, PA
After five years of operation in South Philadelphia’s Stadium District, Live! Casino & Hotel remains a leader in the industry through continuous innovation and exceptional guest service. So, it’s no surprise that when votes are cast in Casino Player magazine’s “Best of Gaming” awards, Live! remains the top choice on the ballot for Pennsylvania.
Slots That Earn Their Reputation
With nearly 2,000 slot machines, Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia delivers a premier gaming experience defined by variety and high-stakes action. The gaming floor features a diverse range of options, from accessible penny slots to an exclusive High Limit Slots room, offering a selection that is hard to match anywhere in Pennsylvania. To ensure a consistently fresh experience, the property frequently updates its floor with the latest state-of-the-art titles and industry-leading progressives, such as Wheel of Fortune and Lightning Link. Additionally, Live! Rewards members can take advantage of recurring monthly promotions, including Super Slot Saturdays, which offer guests the opportunity to win a share of $5,000 in Free Slot Play.
Table Games That Set the Standard
Step onto the casino floor and experience the energy of 135 live-action table games operating 24/7, ranging from blackjack, baccarat and craps to roulette and a dedicated 32- table poker room.
The experience extends well beyond the felt with targeted promotions like the Lucky 8 Baccarat Drawings, where eight Live! Rewards members have the chance to win $888 every Thursday. The team is led by some of the sharpest talent in the industry, including the newly appointed Director of Table Games Jeff Favre, who brings over two decades of gaming expertise to Philadelphia to ensure a seamless, high-level guest experience.
“At the end of the day, what drives us is the guest experience,” said Favre. “We want every player who sits down at one of our tables to feel like they’re getting the best game in Pennsylvania—because they are.”
Dining That Elevates the Experience
From the gaming floor to the restaurants to the hotel, Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia hits the jackpot in every category. The property’s flagship steakhouse, The Prime Rib, continues to garner accolades from choice publications like Philadelphia magazine and USA Today’s 10Best.
To commemorate the property’s 5th anniversary, The Prime Rib’s Library Bar is undergoing a transformation, creating a central gathering space at the heart of the Live! Hotel lobby. The 10th Street Market is also leveling up, with local favorites Termini Brothers and Lorenzo and Sons Pizza both expanding their footprint and their offerings, with new menu options that give guests even more reasons to enjoy a taste of Philly.
Rewarding Customer Loyalty
The Live! Rewards program consistently ranks as one of the top casino loyalty programs in the country by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
Free to join and featuring six distinct tiers—Classic, Gold, Platinum, Black, Jade and Chairman’s Club—Live! Rewards members enjoy same-day free play, dining discounts, self-comps and exclusive event access. It’s a program built on a simple promise: when you play here, you get something real back.
Five years in, Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia isn’t just hitting its stride—it’s redefining it. After half a decade of raising the bar for gaming and hospitality, Live! is just getting started. For more information, visit www.livech.com.
Paragon Casino Resort Marksville, LA
When it comes to planning the ultimate summer getaway, travelers are looking for more than just a place to stay—they want an experience. A destination that offers excitement and relaxation in equal measure. Located in the heart of central Louisiana, Paragon Casino Resort delivers exactly that: a dynamic, all-in-one retreat where every kind of summer traveler can find their perfect escape.
The resort features more than 500 rooms and suites with modern finishes and luxury touches that offer a comfortable home base, whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay. But what truly elevates Paragon is everything that awaits beyond the room.
For those seeking a thrill, the expansive 64,000-square-foot gaming floor offers more than 900 bingo and Vegas-style (class II and III) slot machines, your favorite table games, and dealerless digital poker tables, delivering nonstop action for players of every level. From classic favorites to the latest slot themes, the floor is designed to keep the energy high, cementing the resort’s reputation as a leading destination for gaming enthusiasts across the region.
But Paragon is far more than a casino, it’s also a place to unwind. With three pools, a full-service spa and salon, a fitness center and retail shops, relaxation comes naturally. Families can take advantage of Kids Quest (supervised child care) and Cyber Quest (arcade), a three-screen movie theater, and the country’s ONLY live alligator casino habitat (next to the hotel lobby). Outdoor lovers can explore the resort’s RV park (cabins/sites), nature trail, or spend a day on the 18-hole championship golf course at Tamahka Trails.
Dining is another cornerstone of the Paragon experience. From upscale meals at Legends Steakhouse to casual favorites at Roxy’s Diner, the sports bar theme of The Draft Room, all-you-can-eat favorites at the Market Place Buffet, and the bold flavors at the area’s only Asian restaurant Lucky Wok, the resort offers something to satisfy every craving. The Draft Room also features the Topgolf Swing Suite gaming simulator bays, which add another layer of fun, letting you step into interactive games and swing sessions without ever leaving the resort.
Beyond its amenities, what truly sets Paragon apart is its commitment to hospitality and community. For more than 30 years, the resort, owned and operated by the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, has played a vital role in the region’s economic growth and cultural visibility. That dedication has not gone unnoticed. The resort has earned numerous “best of” accolades in recent years, including top honors for gaming, hospitality and customer service, proving what guests already know: Paragon delivers an exceptional experience.
This summer, the perfect getaway may be closer than you think. Whether you’re chasing excitement on the gaming floor, relaxing poolside, enjoying a round of golf or simply savoring great food and company, Paragon Casino Resort offers a seamless blend of entertainment, comfort and Southern hospitality. Call 1-800-946-1946 or visit www.ParagonCasinoResort.com for more information.
Choctaw Casino & Resort – Durant Durant, OK
Choctaw Casino & Resort – Durant is a premier entertainment destination, offering an all- in-one getaway that blends luxury accommodations, exciting gaming, family-friendly attractions, and world-class entertainment. As a AAA Four Diamond resort, with more than 1,600 guest rooms, it delivers a high level of comfort and service, making it an ideal destination for both weekend escapes and extended vacations.
The resort offers an expansive gaming floor featuring more than 7,400 slot machines and 100 table games, plus a dedicated poker room. Guests can also enjoy a large non-smoking casino area, providing a comfortable environment for those who prefer a smoke-free experience.
This summer, Choctaw is bringing back its popular “3 Months. 3 Millionaires.” Promotion, and awarding $1 million to one Choctaw Rewards Club member on June 6, July 11 and Aug. 22. Choctaw is also taking the excitement of “3 Months. 3 Millionaires.” to the winner’s hometown and will make a $10,000 donation to a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of the winners’ choosing.
The resort also features two impressive pool experiences. AQUA, the outdoor pool complex, caters to a wide range of guests with both a family-friendly section with waterslides and a splash pad, and an adult-only area. Complete with a swim-up bar, it’s the perfect place to cool off and soak up the sun. For those seeking a more vibrant, adults-only atmosphere, OASIS delivers high-energy fun in a 21+ setting, complete with private cabanas and a lively social scene.
For sports fans, The League is the ultimate place to catch the action. Featuring a massive 100-foot TV wall with 88 big-screen TVs, this venue is the perfect place to watch the big game with friends or follow multiple matchups at once.
Families will find plenty to enjoy as well. The District serves as a hub for all-ages entertainment, featuring a six-screen cinema, arcade and 20-lane bowling alley.
Dining at the resort is equally impressive, with 20 restaurants offering a wide variety of culinary experiences. Guests can choose from casual bites to refined dining, ensuring every craving is satisfied. For a truly upscale experience, 1832 Steakhouse provides an elegant setting and premium cuisine.
Those looking to relax can visit The Spa, where calming facials and massages offer a rejuvenating escape.
Entertainment is another highlight of the Choctaw experience. The 3,000-seat Grand Theater, an Academy of Country Music award-winning venue, regularly hosts top-tier performers. With artists like Hardy, Sting, Laine Gardner and Rascal Flatts taking the stage, guests can enjoy unforgettable live shows as part of their stay.
With its combination of luxury, entertainment and diverse amenities, Choctaw Casino & Resort – Durant offers something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for gaming, relaxation, family fun or live performances, it promises an experience that keeps guests coming back for more.
And now, guests staying at Choctaw Casino & Resort Durant, part of the Wyndham Grand Hotel Portfolio, can redeem their Wyndham Rewards points for a free night. For more information, visit www.ChoctawCasinos.com/Durant.
Seven Feathers Casino Resort Canyonville, OR
For slot enthusiasts across the Pacific Northwest, variety is not just a luxury—it can be the foundation of a great gaming experience. At Seven Feathers Casino Resort in southern Oregon, that philosophy is on full display. With a gaming floor that blends traditional favorites with modern innovations, the property has built a reputation as one of the most dynamic destinations for slot play in the region. From flexible high-limit wagering to fast- paced bonus features and strategic jackpot opportunities, Seven Feathers offers players multiple ways to engage, experiment and elevate their play.
One of the most compelling aspects of the slot floor is its approach to high-limit gaming. Traditionally, high-limit slots have been defined by higher denominations, often starting at $5 per credit and scaling upward through multiplier options such as 2x, 3x or even 5x bets. These machines remain a cornerstone for experienced players who prefer a straight-forward, high-stakes approach. The appeal is simple—bigger bets translate to bigger potential payouts, and the pace of play tends to feel more deliberate, with each spin carrying greater weight.
Seven Feathers expands the definition of high-limit play through a wide range of multi- denomination machines. These slots introduce a layer of versatility that appeals to a broader range of players. Instead of being locked into a single denomination, guests can adjust their play from penny-level bets up to 10-cent, 25-cent or even $2 denominations. When combined with multiplier options, these machines can quickly reach high-limit wagering levels while still giving players control over how aggressively they want to play.
This flexibility allows for a more personalized strategy. A player might start at a lower denomination to extend their session, then gradually increase their wager when chasing a bonus or building momentum. Others may jump directly into higher denominations for a more intense experience. The result is a slot floor that accommodates both cautious play and bold risk-taking without requiring players to move between entirely different machines.
Another feature drawing attention at Seven Feathers is the rise of what players often call “buy a bonus,” formally known as Instant Features. This relatively new style of wagering has introduced a faster, more direct route to the most exciting parts of slot gameplay. Instead of waiting for a bonus round to trigger organically, players can pay a set amount to activate it immediately.
The appeal is obvious. Bonus rounds often carry the highest payout potential in modern slots, including access to major jackpots, free spins or enhanced multipliers. At Seven Feathers, the cost to trigger these features can vary widely, ranging from around $30 to more than $200, depending on the game and denomination. While the upfront investment is significant, the potential rewards can be equally dramatic.
This approach represents a shift in slot strategy. Rather than relying solely on patience and volume of play, players can opt for a high-risk, high-reward path that delivers instant adrenaline. It is not a method for every guest, but for those seeking a more aggressive style of play, Instant Features have quickly become one of the most talked-about options on the floor.
Equally intriguing is the presence of “must-hit-by” jackpots, sometimes referred to as rapid rewards or quick hits depending on the manufacturer. These jackpots introduce a strategic element that appeals to observant players. Each machine features a progressive jackpot with a defined ceiling. The key detail is that the jackpot must pay out before it reaches that maximum value.
As the jackpot total climbs closer to its must-hit-by threshold, the probability of a payout increases. For savvy players, this creates an opportunity to identify machines that may be approaching a critical point. While outcomes are still governed by random number generators, the structure of these jackpots adds a layer of anticipation and perceived advantage that can influence where and how players choose to wager.
At Seven Feathers, these must-hit-by jackpots are found on standalone machines rather than linked banks, encouraging players to explore the floor and seek out opportunities. For those who enjoy combining luck with observation, this style of play offers a compelling alternative to standard progressives.
What ties all of these elements together is the resort’s commitment to variety. The slot floor at Seven Feathers is not built around a single style of play. Instead, it invites experimentation. A guest can spend one session testing multi-denomination strategies, shift to high-limit reels for a more traditional experience, and then explore Instant Features or must-hit-by jackpots for something entirely different.
This range of options has helped establish Seven Feathers as a preferred destination for slot players who want more than a one-dimensional experience. It is a place where beginners can learn, experienced players can refine their approach, and high-stakes guests can find the action they seek. Seven Feathers Casino Resort continues to stand out by offering not just more machines, but more ways to play. For full details, visit www.sevenfeathers.com.
Monarch Casino Resort Spa Black Hawk, CO
High in the Rockies, where crisp mountain air meets the thrill of the casino floor, Monarch Casino Resort Spa in Black Hawk, CO, offers a summer escape that feels both elevated and effortless. Fresh off its recognition as Casino Player’s 2025 Best Overall Casino Resort and Player’s Choice in the Colorado region, this standout destination continues to redefine what a getaway can be—pairing high-energy gaming with refined relaxation, award-winning dining and sweeping alpine views. It’s the kind of place where every “yes” leads to something more memorable than the last.
Step away from the everyday and into nearly 60,000 square feet of nonstop casino action spread across two dynamic levels. With more than 1,000 slot machines and over 40 table games—from baccarat and Pai Gow to Buffalo Blackjack—the energy here is constant, yet never overwhelming. Whether you’re chasing jackpots or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the casino floor delivers a rhythm all on its own.
At the center of it all is Monarch Rewards, a program designed to turn every moment into something more. Named Best Players’ Club in the 2025 Casino Player Best of Gaming Awards, it allows guests to earn points toward everything from dining and spa indulgences to hotel stays and Free Play—ensuring that every spin, hand and visit adds up to something rewarding.
Upstairs, the pace softens. Spacious rooms and suites feature a mountain-chic aesthetic, highlighted by floor-to-ceiling windows that frame panoramic views of the surrounding canyon. It’s a setting that invites you to linger a little longer—whether you’re easing into the morning light or unwinding after a night on the floor.
Spa Monarch: A Sky-High Retreat
Perched on the 23rd floor, Spa Monarch is more than an amenity—it’s a destination in its own right. Ranked #2 Best Hotel Spa in the country by USA Today, this serene sanctuary blends signature treatments with tranquil relaxation spaces and unforgettable views. It’s the perfect counterbalance to the buzz of the casino below.
Award-Winning Dining
From indulgent buffets to elevated steakhouse fare, Monarch’s dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious—offering something craving and mood.
At The Buffet, variety takes center stage, with global flavors, freshly prepared classics and ever-changing specialties coming together to create an expansive, immersive culinary experience that invites guests to discover something new with every visit.
Just steps from the gaming floor, Twenty-Four 7 is a 24-hour hotspot that keeps the energy going. Whether it’s breakfast at midnight, burgers with friends or a late-night bite between sessions, it’s the go-to for comfort food and prime people-watching.
Experience midweek magic as Wednesday nights come alive with Social Hour at Bistro Mariposa, where flame-kissed favorites, street corn and expertly crafted margaritas set the tone. With half-priced appetizers and select cocktails, it’s the perfect excuse to linger.
Recognized as Best Steakhouse in Denver’s Westword Best of 2026 Awards, Monarch Chophouse is a cut above the rest and delivers a modern take on the classic steakhouse experience. Expect expertly prepared cuts, a standout wine list and cocktails crafted to perfection—making it a destination all on its own.
Whether you’re drawn by the gaming, the cuisine or the chance to unwind above it all, Monarch Casino Resort Spa proves that a summer getaway doesn’t have to choose between excitement and escape. Here, you’ll find both—set against a backdrop that reminds you just how rewarding it can be to simply say yes.
For more information, visit www.monarchblackhawk.com.
