Road Warrior
North, South, East, West. All roads lead to adventure
Karrie L. Zukowski
Make the most out of what’s left of summer this year. Whether it’s a day trip or an excursion across country, there’s always something exciting happening just around the corner. Casinos across the land have something new to share and definitely know how to people please. From golf to live entertainment, to elegant dining to loose slots, it’s all out there waiting to be experienced. Here’s a look at some of the top casinos and the excitement to be had as you road warriors head out and travel the nation.
COUSHATTA CASINO RESORT Kinder, Louisiana
Louisiana’s premier casino resort features a 100,000-square-foot gaming floor, which has 2,000 slots and 65 table games, luxurious hotel rooms, a luxury RV resort, fabulous restaurants, live entertainment and more. Opened in 1995, Coushatta Casino Resort today is a magnificent complex that employs 2,600 people and remains an integral part of the area’s economy.
Throughout its history, the resort has continued to expand both in size and services, reflecting the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana’s sincere commitment to comfort and convenience for its guests. From slots to table games to championship golf, this property has something for everyone—including some of the loosest slots in the region, as certified by Strictly Slots magazine.
Whether you are looking for the hottest new slots from all the best manufacturers or traditional favorites, the selection at Coushatta Casino Resort can’t be beat. They feature thousands of reel and video slot machines including giant progressives with dream jackpots and a large selection of video poker.
If you’re looking for a little table action, Coushatta offers exciting Las Vegas–style table games including blackjack, roulette, craps, mini-baccarat, and a live 20-table poker room that offers numerous games, stakes, promotions and tournaments. Need even more? Head over to the high- stakes gaming salons, live bingo or off-track betting for big fun and a shot at big bucks.
Coushatta also offers the best in dining and lodging options. For a flavorful steak, visit the Big Sky Steakhouse, or for some great sports bar classics and Cajun favorites, like boudin balls, gator eggs, gumbo and oysters on the half shell, Gumbeaux’s fits the bill perfectly. Or visit Terrace Café at its new location between Noodles Asian Restaurant and the Advantage Center. Enjoy all your old favorites—and new favorites—like Catfish Coushatta, steamer platters, surf ’n’ turf, and indulge in their famous bread pudding or double chocolate mousse cake. Plus, breakfast is still served all day, every day! Once you are done playing games at the casino or a round of golf on the course, sit back, relax and enjoy quality food. No matter what your taste, you are bound to find something appetizing at Coushatta.
Coushatta’s flagship luxury hotel, the Grand Hotel has been completely renovated into an adult- exclusive property reserved for guests ages 21 and up, offering you a relaxing and refreshing escape. You’re also connected to the region’s largest gaming floor, so you don’t have far to go to get in on the action. Other fantastic options include the fashionable and comfortable suites at Seven Clans Hotel, or the deluxe lakefront RV and chalet resort at Red Shoes Park.
From the certified loose slot machines to the tables to the eateries, Coushatta makes for a great getaway. Load up the golf clubs or just bring some positivity to the casino floor for fun times and experience upscale Southern hospitality.
For more information, visit www.CoushattaCasinoResort.com.
Gold Strike Tunica, Mississippi
Casino players across the Mid-South have a new reason to cheer “Buffalooooo!” as Aristocrat Gaming and Gold Strike Casino Resort recently introduced the region’s first Buffalo Zone. The new 2,800-square-foot gaming space is dedicated exclusively to Aristocrat’s exciting Buffalo-themed games, some of the most popular games available today. Buffalo Zone features 68 player-favorite titles, such as Buffalo Chief, Buffalo Diamond, Buffalo Gold, Buffalo Gold Revolution, and Buffalo Grand, as well as Buffalo games on the Wonder 4 brand and RELM XL cabinet.
“Gold Strike is this region’s first casino to partner with Aristocrat Gaming to bring the Buffalo Zone to Mississippi,” said Gold Strike’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Operations Brandon Dardeau. “Buffalo games are extremely popular among our players and having the opportunity to create a special gaming section allows us to enhance our guests’ gaming experience.”
The excitement of Buffalo Zone has drawn many guests to the second level, but the entire slot floor has been electrifying with 5,476 hand-pay jackpots totaling $13,872,729 won just in the month of June.
Action in BetMGM Book Bar & Grill is also heating up with the start of football season on the horizon. Dubbed “The King of Sportsbooks,” BetMGM’s Gold Strike location is the next evolution of sports entertainment and provides a dynamic experience that brings together sports, gaming, entertainment, dining and nightlife.
The $7 million, non-smoking venue is a sports fan’s paradise, ideal for catching every minute of action with 60 HD flat-screens including a giant video wall, VIP lounge and 50-foot-long video poker bar. And the addition of pari-mutuel betting on horse racing to the abundance of betting options is available around-the-clock. An expansive menu offers game-day staples, Southern comfort food and a large selection of draft beer, wine and cocktails. BetMGM also offers the Mid- South’s only Topgolf Swing Suite, an immersive experience that entertains guests of all ages and skill levels with a wide variety of virtual games that people can play in groups of up to eight players.
Sports bets can be placed at the betting windows at the entrance to BetMGM or 24/7 at one of the 12 kiosks located throughout the resort. M life Rewards members earn Tier Credits for bets placed at Gold Strike.
National touring acts will again fill the Gold Strike Theatre as headline entertainment makes its long- awaited return in August. GRAMMY Award– winning rock band The Wallflowers will be the first group to take the stage in nearly 18 months, kicking off their summer tour on Friday, Aug. 20. Multiplatinum entertainer Sara Evans, one of the most-played female artists on country radio in the last two decades, will perform Sept. 3, and Mississippi native LeAnn Rimes is scheduled for Oct. 1.
Free live entertainment is offered nightly at STAGE2, Gold Strike’s video poker bar and cocktail lounge located in the center of the casino action.
Every Saturday and Sunday, live acoustic music is available during Buffet Americana’s Weekend Brunch, and the popular buffet features snow crabs Thursday–Sunday, each day it is open.
Named 2021’s “Best Place for Cocktails” by Casino Player, the recently remodeled TEN10 Wine & Whiskey Bar offers an extensive collection of small-batch whiskeys and wines by the glass 24/7.
The area’s premier fine-dining restaurant is Gold Strike’s Chicago Steakhouse. Tunica’s only Wine Spectator award winner, this year Casino Player singled out Chicago Steakhouse for its decadent desserts. The restaurant features a traditional upscale steakhouse experience complete with mahogany wood and top-notch service. The mouth-watering menu is filled with culinary staples including steaks, seafood, a variety of soups and more. From filet mignon to king crab legs and ribeye steaks, Chicago Steakhouse serves a meal that will make a lasting impression.
Visitors to the region are greeted by the sight of Gold Strike’s 32-story hotel tower with 1,133 guest rooms, including 125 suites, with stunning views overlooking the Mississippi Delta. In 2020, prior to the pandemic, Gold Strike debuted Fresh by Stay Well, a room collection that provides guests relaxation as well as an elevated level of service to create a unique guest experience while traveling. The concept infuses wellness features designed to minimize the impact of travel on the human body such as air purification, lighting, shower infuser and essential oil aromatherapy. Fresh by Stay Well rooms are available for an upgrade of $10 per night above prevailing rates. For more information, call (888) 245-7529 or visit www.goldstrike.com.
Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia, located in the City’s Stadium District, is the one-stop destination where guests can enjoy the fast-paced action of four major professional sports teams, memorable entertainment, premier dining, well-appointed hotel accommodations and world-class gaming. The facility features 208 luxury hotel rooms and suites, a FanDuel Sportsbook and Lounge, over 2,100 slots and electronic table games, and 160 live-action table games, including a dedicated 29-table poker room.
Visitors can expect exceptional dining and entertainment options including the Zagat-rated #1 steakhouse The Prime Rib; Luk Fu, serving authentic Asian cuisine; Sports & Social Philly, a one-of-a- kind sports restaurant, gaming venue and social lounge; the 10th Street Market, a unique food hall featuring Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint and Guy’s Burger Joint; Philadelphia-favorites Lorenzo and Sons Pizza, Termini Bros. Bakery and Sang Kee Noodle Bar & Kitchen; Morty’s Deli; and Luckie’s Liquor. A spirited nightlife scene at Center Bar and R Bar rounds out the Live! experience. Additionally, the Event Center at Live! Philadelphia offers groups more than 15,000 square feet of customizable event space, including a large ballroom, two breakout rooms, expansive pre-function space and three executive boardrooms.
As part of Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia’s commitment to providing a best-in-class entertainment experience, the destination regularly offers exciting promotions for Live! Rewards members. Throughout August, Live! Rewards members have the opportunity to drive away in a Tesla with drawings every Saturday at 9 p.m. Members can also win over $300,000 in prizes and can earn one entry for every 50 tier credits beginning August 1. Entries can also be earned on PlayLive! Online Casino. Drawings will take place every Saturday in August from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and entry multipliers will happen Monday through Thursday. Additionally in August, Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia will have Hump Day Happy Hour Pay Day, where visitors can win their share of $21,000 in free slot play by playing their favorite slot machine with their Live! Rewards card every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
In September, 100 Live! Rewards members will be given the chance to win big-screen TVs and will earn one entry for every 50 tier credits beginning September 1. Entries can also be earned on PlayLive! Online Casino. Those aged 55 and up can enter the 55 Slot Tournament every Tuesday in September. Every Wednesday, Live! will honor heroes by giving military, first responders, law enforcement and healthcare workers 20% off at Sports & Social Philly, as well as earn 500 tier credits and receive $15 in free slot play.
For more information, visit www.philadelphia.livecasinohotel.com.
Ocean Casino Resort Atlantic City, New Jersey
The Ocean Casino Resort spans 20 beachfront acres on the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. As the tallest building in Atlantic City, the tower encompasses 1,399 guest rooms and suites with unparalleled views.
Ocean’s high-energy casino features live entertainment, ocean views, nearly 2,000 of the most exciting slot machines, 125 action-packed table games and the finest sportsbook on the East Coast in partnership with William Hill.
Check out the Cove, a beautifully designed, 7,450-square-foot high-limit slot area, located adjacent to Wahlburgers. The area contains over 140 slot machines, featuring a combination of classic and new games from Aristocrat, Bally, Everi, IGT, Konami and more. The Cove offers dedicated cocktail service with an enhanced beverage selection, private restrooms, and a cage exclusively for guests playing in this section. Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind gambling environment at The Cove.
With more than 15 restaurants, Ocean Casino Resort offers world-class dining. Whether you’re in the mood for an elevated dinner experience or a quick bite, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
A fine selection of upscale restaurants makes any special occasion memorable, featuring delectable menu options from Amada, American Cut, Dolce Mare and Harper’s. If you’re searching for something easygoing, there is an assortment of fantastic restaurant selections. Enjoy a traditional dish from Café 500 or a late-night dining experience from Zhen Bang Noodle & Sushi. Looking for a coffee to kick off your morning or a craft cocktail in the evening? Stop by Cafféccino, The District or The Grind. They offer satisfying choices to appease any palate no matter the time of day.
Guests have boundless entertainment options like three pools, HQ2 Nightclub, HQ2 Beach Club, Topgolf Swing Suite, shopping and more. Ovation Hall offers events for everyone from music to comedy to sports and so much more. At press time, entertainers include Summer of Love, every Friday through August 27 and every Sunday through August 29; Jeff Dunham, Aug. 21; Melissa Etheridge, Sept. 4; Three Dog Night, Sept. 10; Alice Cooper, Sept. 17; George Thorogood, Sept. 24; The Beach Boys, Sept. 25; Kansas, Oct. 2; The Monkees, Oct. 23; Collective Soul with Better Than Ezra and Tonic, Oct. 30; Aaron Lewis, Nov. 6; Straight No Chaser, Dec. 3; Sarah Brightman, Dec. 4; and Terry Fator, Dec. 11.
Rocky Gap Casino Resort Flintstone, Maryland
Rocky Gap Casino Resort, a AAA Four Diamond Hotel nestled in the Appalachian Mountains with lakeside views, offers an award-winning golf course, luxurious amenities, a variety of restaurants for all occasions, spaciously distanced outdoor activities, and a high-energy casino experience all set to the natural beauty of Rocky Gap State Park. Located about two hours from Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Pittsburgh, Rocky Gap offers a picturesque retreat for a fun-filled getaway.
Recently named one of Golfweek’s “Best Casino Courses,” Rocky Gap Golf Course is a 7,000-yard, par-72, 18-hole course with five tee boxes at each hole to allow players to adjust according to their handicap. The only Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course in Maryland, the course also offers a 50-spot driving range, two large putting greens, two chipping areas and a practice bunker. Open daily, Rocky Gap Golf Course takes advantage of its location among the undulating hills of the ageless Appalachian Mountains and the blue waters of the adjacent lake.
2021 celebrates the 20th year of the destination golf course. Rocky Gap Golf Course offers competitive membership packages for locals and visitors alike with single and group lessons also available. 2021 golf membership packages include the Loyalty Program, which includes 18-hole course access seven days a week with only a cart fee; the Loyalty Premier Program, which includes 18-hole course access seven days a week with all cart fees included; the Family Loyalty Program, which includes 18-hole course access seven days a week for two adults and two juniors with just a cart fee; and the Out-of-Town Program, which includes 18-hole course access seven days a week with only a cart fee, plus four complimentary room nights per month, for guests who live 60 miles or farther away.
Rocky Gap’s exceptional dining includes the resort’s new high-end restaurant, Lakeside Grille. Overlooking the lake, Lakeside Grille specializes in steaks, chops and fish and features a curated wine list—plus, its crowdpleasing Maryland crab cakes. Other restaurants include Signatures Bar & Grill, which offers sports viewing, burgers, pizzas, beer and more in a clubhouse atmosphere; and Lobby Lounge + Café, a popular spot for pastries, coffee and sandwiches, as well as a full-service bar. On the Rocks, the resort’s biggest full-service bar, serves specialty cocktails and a wide selection of beers on tap.
There is also plenty of adventure year-round at Rocky Gap’s award-winning casino, where there are thrills to be had playing slot machines as well as at exciting table games. Rocky Gap Casino Resort features 665 slot machines, 17 table games and two casino bars. Table games include bonus craps, roulette, three card poker, Lucky Ladies blackjack, double deck pitch blackjack, Mississippi stud and ultimate Texas hold ’em. Golden Entertainment, Inc.’s innovative guest loyalty rewards program, True Rewards, is available at Rocky Gap and 140+ other locations.
Luxury rooms and suites, all of which have been recently renovated, are appointed with top-of-the-line luxury bedding and pillow-top mattresses and offer breathtaking views of the mountains and the lake. Exceptional amenities include premium cable channels on HDTVs, and refrigerators.
Rocky Gap also offers a tranquil spa, salon, fitness center and a spacious indoor swimming pool, open year-round. The Spa at Rocky Gap offers guests a variety of indulgent services, including massages, facials, salon services, manicures, pedicures and waxing services.
For more information, visit www.rockygapcasino.com.
Turning Stone Resort Casino Verona, NY
If you haven’t had the opportunity to experience the incredible Turning Stone Resort Casino in Upstate New York, this summer is the perfect time to plan your visit. The only resort in the entire Northeast to earn three Forbes Four-Star Awards and three AAA Four Diamond awards, Turning Stone has long been renowned for the diverse array of entertainment and leisure opportunities it provides.
Oneida Indian Nation’s Turning Stone Resort Casino features worldclass amenities including five hotels, two luxurious spas, five golf courses, more than 20 dining options, a 125,000-square-foot Vegas-style gaming floor, a cabaret-style showroom, a 5,000-seat event center, customizable meeting and conference spaces and four nightlife venues. There is truly something for everyone at Turning Stone.
From an all-encompassing getaway at The Lodge to an affordable night at Sandstone Hollow Inn, Turning Stone offers five accommodation options to meet every guest’s needs. Plus, make your visit more memorable with an exclusive package offer. You can rest easy knowing you’re getting the best rates.
If you are looking to be pampered, look no further than The Lodge at Turning Stone Resort Casino. The most discerning guests will adore The Lodge, an Adirondack-style all-suite hotel, which provides a tranquil setting just steps away from the resort’s excitement. Inside this luxury venue are Wildflowers, lauded among the five best restaurants in Upstate New York; and Sk :n : spa, where soothing treatments with American Indian cultural themes create the most luxuriously unique spa experience.
The Tower at Turning Stone is the tallest building between Albany and Syracuse and offers a stunning panoramic view of the countryside. The AAA Four Diamond award-winning hotel features well-appointed guest rooms, junior suites, spacious elegant suites and the exclusive TS Steakhouse on the top floor.
The Hotel at Turning Stone Resort Casino is located at the heart of the Resort with convenient access to gaming, dining, spa activities and pool. The Hotel has 268 rooms, including 28 suites. Room choices include Deluxe Suite, Deluxe Room with king bed and Deluxe Room with two double beds. All rooms in The Hotel come equipped with free Wi-Fi, in-room movies, hairdryers, coffee makers and an in-room safe.
Located on the edge of picturesque Sandstone Hollow Golf Course, this modern, affordable, smoke- free hotel is part of Turning Stone Resort Casino. It’s just a long tee shot from more great golf, outdoor adventures plus exciting casino action—and it’s dog-friendly!
A recent $20 million investment further enhanced the resort’s already exceptional guest experience. Extensive upgrades included an all-new contemporary- style gaming floor with both smoke-free and smoker-friendly facilities. Experience 2,000 slot machines, 66 Vegas-style table games, one of the top three bingo halls in the world, the largest poker room in New York State, and so much more.
There’s so much to choose from when looking to refuel. Reserve a seat at the luxurious TS Steakhouse or the intimate Wildflowers, grab local favorites at Upstate Tavern, feast at the new Sushi Sushi and savor BBQ from Tin Rooster and heavenly sweets at Opals.
With fantastic amenities like these around every corner, it’s clear to see why Turning Stone should be your visit this summer. For more information about all that Turning Stone has to offer, visit www.turningstone.com.
