riverboat casino near cincinnati ohio

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Cincinnati Casinos

High energy and high stakes at cincy region casinos.

Are you feeling lucky? Try your hand at the slots or poker tables at one of our area casinos. Escape with a round of golf or poolside relaxation during the day and high stakes action after the sun goes down at an Indiana casino or feel the energy in our downtown Cincinnati casino. Whether you’re in it to win it or just looking for a night out with friends, you’ll find plenty of gaming fun in Cincy.

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Belterra Casino Resort

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Rv parking and camping information.

Casino Information

• Table Games
• Coffee Shop (a basic full service restaurant)
• Steak House

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Nice casino that allows overnight RV parking.

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AFTER A WINNING DAY, IT'S TIME TO RELAX IN ONE OF OUR COMFORTABLE ROOMS!

Enjoy our indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and fitness center..

RELAX AND ENJOY ONE OF OUR WELL APPOINTED ROOMS

EARN YOUR STAY IN AN UPGRADED  ACCOMMODATION

RESERVED FOR OUR MOST LOYAL FRIENDS

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Rising Star Casino Hotel & The Lodge boast 294 well appointed and comfortable rooms. Our unique resort, nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, includes an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness center and free wireless internet.

Our guest rooms at the Rising Star Casino Hotel offer either one king bed or two queen beds with scenic views of our riverboat casino or our Links Golf Course. We welcome families, and our in-room entertainment comes with a choice of pay-per-view movies or video game rentals. Disability features are available. Please ask the Reservationist or Front Desk personnel for details.

Rates and Reservations are subject to availability.  $50.00 (refundable) credit card deposit is required with all reservations.  

$10.00 Resort Fee per room per night applied

(Elite & 5 STAR are waived). (Resort fee includes water in your room, use of the business center & use of the pool area.) 

HOTEL FRONT DESK SERVICE

DAILY: 9 AM - 1 AM

HOTEL GOLF PACKAGES AVAILABLE

GIFT SHOP HOURS

SUN & THU: 11 AM - 8 PM

MON : 11 AM - 6 PM

TUE & WED : CLOSED

FRI & SAT : 11 AM - 9 PM

BOOK NOW : 800.472.6311

​ [email protected]

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Casinos in Cincinnati: Hard Rock, Closest Ones & Map

Cincinnati is home to one of 4 state-approved casinos, the Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati.

Opened in July of 2021 (after a $30 million remodeling and rebranding of the former JACK Cincinnati Casino), the Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati is a beautiful 450,000 square foot complex that sits on 23 acres in the in the northeast part of downtown.

While this is the only real casino in this city of nearly 300,000, there are, in fact, horse betting tracks, video lottery terminals, and other casinos within a short drive of Cincinnati, (more on that below).

Hard Rock Cincinnati Casino

(Red star on map)

Opened in the spring of 2013, this is the newest of the four Ohio casinos.

Just to north and east of the heart of downtown, Hard Rock Cincinnati Casino is situated on the corner of Eggleston Avenue and the Central Parkway.

Originally called “Horseshoe Cincinnati” it was re-branded as the JACK Cincinnati Casino in June of 2016, then to the Hard Rock in 2021.

It’s real, regular traditional 24 hour-a-day casino, similar to the ones you’ll find in Las Vegas. It’s busy too. Last year, casino revenues were $228.4 million (per the Ohio Casino Control Commission ).

The casino floor space is 108,000 square feet, putting it right up there with many of the resorts on the Strip.

Hard Rock Cincinnati has 1,632 slot machines/video poker machines. The average slot payout per the Ohio Casino Control Commission is in the 91.92% range and 66% of the casino’s revenue comes from these slots.

Hard Rock Cincinnati Casino Table Games

The casino’s 102 live table games include Let It Ride, Pai Gow, mini-baccarat, traditional blackjack games, along with several blackjack variants, such as free bet blackjack, and “Zappit Blackjack.” In this game, when you are dealt two-card hands totaling 15, 16, 17, or 18 – you can choose to get two new cards.

Since I get dealt 16 nearly every hand (it seems), this game may be up my alley, although I’m unsure as to the house edge on this game.

The casino also has regular live craps games (including games with the fun Fire Bet option and crapless craps), and roulette.

The casino’s 31 table poker room spreads the usual $1/2 No-Limit and higher games, along with $3/6 Limit Hold’em, Omaha, and a host of tournaments including daily tourneys, turbos, deepstacks, etc.

There’s no sportsbook here….yet. However since legislation has passed in the Ohio statehouse making sportsbetting legal, it’s expected that the Hard Rock Cincinnati and other Ohio casinos will open sportsbook in January of 2023.

(The map below shows you the Hard Rock Cincinnati Casino (red star), Belterra Park Gaming (black), Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg (purple), Rising Star Casino (green) and Belterra Casino Resort (brown).

Other Hard Rock Cincinnati Casino Amenities

The eating options here include everything from a Starbucks to the new Council Oak Steakhouse to Brick’d Pizza. Of course, there’s also a Hard Rock Cafe.

A meeting space/concert venue, called “The Pavilion” is 33,000 square feet and seats up to 1,500 people. There isn’t a hotel here.

(Related: casinos by Louisville, Kentucky )

Hard Rock Cincinnati Casino Parking Fee

The casino has a 5 story garage with room for 2,500 cars attached to the building.

Self-parking is $10. However that fee will be waived should you play 1/2 hour on slots or table games using your Wild Card – Hard Rock’s players card.

Valet parking is still unavailable as of this update. When it was still the JACK Casino, valet parking was $15.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Play at the Hard Rock Cincinnati Casino?

You have to be 21 years or older to player at the Hard Rock Cincinnati Casino.

Hard Rock Cincinnati Address, Phone Number and Website

1000 Broadway Street Cincinnati, OH. 45202 Phone: (513) 252-0777 Website: Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati

Hotels Near the Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati

The closest hotel to the Hard Rock Cincy is the Holiday Inn & Suites Downtown Cincinnati. Located at the corner of E. 7th and Broadway, the Holiday Inn is .3 miles southwest of the casino – or just about five to seven minute walk to the Hard Rock.

Hard Rock Cincinnati’s Road to Opening

In 2009, Ohio voters passed an amendment to the state’s constitution, allowing exactly one casino in each of the state’s four largest cities. As the third most populous city in the state, Cincinnati was permitted to have a casino.

The original casino in this spot was the Horseshoe Cincinnati, which later became the JACK Casino. In April of 2019, it was announced that JACK Cincinnati was being sold to Hard Rock International, (they of the Hard Rock Cafe fame). Ohio State regulators approved the deal in August of 2019.

Cincinnati’s other Semi-Casino

Nine miles southeast of downtown is where you’ll find Belterra Park Gaming.

I call it a “semi-casino” because the 48,000 square foot Belterra Park is a “racino” – a horse racing track without table games, bingo, or slot machines.

Instead, they have 1,300 video lottery terminals, or VLTs.

(Related: Casinos in Columbus, Ohio )

While these often look like slot machines, they are more like electronic versions of scratch-off lottery tickets.

Unlike the random number generator found at traditional Las Vegas style slot machines, here you’re playing a game with a pre-determined number of winners and prizes.

Casinos Close to Cincinnati

Other than the VLTs at Belterra Park Gaming, Hard Rock Cincinnati’s only nearby competition are three riverboat casinos across the border in southeast Indiana.

The closest among these three is the Hollywood Casino & Hotel Lawrenceburg in Lawrenceburg, Indiana (purple star on map). It’s a marathon away to the west. Literally.

The Hollywood Casino Hotel Lawrenceburg is exactly a 26.5 mile drive when starting out in downtown Cincinnati (at the intersection of Walnut and E. 6th Streets).

The 26.5 miles will take you between 25 minutes to 40 minutes to drive. On Friday afternoons however, the drive can take in the 50 minute range.

Prior to the Ohio vote allowing casinos, this was the main option for Cincinnati-area gamblers.

However since the Horseshoe (now Hard Rock) Cincinnati Casino opened, gaming revenues at the Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg have dropped 60%, according to an article in the Indianapolis Star.

Hollywood Casino Hotel Lawrenceburg has the usual assortment of over 1,200 slots, 62 table games, along with a 13 table poker room. The Barstool Restaurant and sportsbook boasts 20 TVs, and 25 betting kiosks.

(Related: Cleveland Casinos )

The two others are:

Belterra Casino Resort (Brown star on map)

Not to be confused with Belterra Park Gaming, this riverboat casino is in located in Florence, Indiana, 51 miles south west of downtown Cincinnati.

It’s usually a drive of between 45 minutes to just over an hour.

Being a riverboat casino means its casino floor is just a little more than 1/3rd the size of Jack Cincinnati. However it does have 700 slot machines, the usual table games and a small poker room. There’s also the FanDuel sportsbook.

Attached to the casino (on land), is a nice 603 room hotel, restaurants, bars, a spa, showroom and golf course.

Rising Star Casino (Green Star)

The only other casino fairly close to Cincinnati is the Rising Star Casino, which is just 39 miles away, but still a 45 minute to 1 hour-plus drive, due to lack of closer bridge access.

Rising Star has about 1,000 slots and video poker machines, table games (including craps and roulette), and the modest TwinSpires sportsbook. It also boasts a 294 room hotel, four restaurants and a showroom. Both a full-service RV Park and the Links at Rising Star Golf Course are near the casino.

By Steve Beauregard. Photos courtesy of the Hard Rock’s media blog, and the Cincinnati USA Visitors & Convention Bureau. Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg photo courtesy of VisitSouthwestIndiana.com

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• US Casinos Directory
• Best Real Money Casino Apps

Lost In Cincinnati

10 Best Casinos in Cincinnati to Win Big (besides Hard Rock)

Laura Williams

Updated on: August 22, 2022

Want to see how lucky you are with Blackjack or if today is your day to get a Jackpot? Cincinnati casinos offer a variety of games and entertainment options. You can find racinos and casinos in Cincinnati that have all of your favorite games, including slots, table games, and poker. In addition to gaming, casinos in this part of Ohio also have restaurants, bars, hotels, and nightclubs. Some casinos even have spas, shops, and a real golf course .

If you’re looking for the best casino to have some fun, you’re sure to find one that’s right for you on our ultimate list of 10 Best Casinos in Cincinnati. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start spinning!

Best Cincinnati Casinos Full List

• Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati – Best Cincinnati casino overall
• Newport racing & gaming – Locals’ choice for spinning 
• Belterra Park Gaming & Racing – Best in-town racing park

Casinos near Cincinnati  

• Hollywood Casino & Hotel Lawrenceburg
• Belterra Casino Resort – Best Vegas-style casino near Cincinnati
• Rising Star Casino & Resort
• Ruggles Club – Best player for pro pokers & tournaments
• Hollywood Casino Dayton
• Hollywood Casino Columbus – the largest poker room in Ohio
• Miami Valley Gaming

Closed casinos in Cincinnati 

• Horseshoe Casino (later became Jack Casino)
• Jack’s Casino Cincinnati (now Hard Rock Casino) 

Cincinnati Casinos (Inside the city)

#1 hard rock casino cincinnati.

Photo by Hard Rock Casino 

• Games: 100 table games, 1600 slot machines, bar-top video poker, and live table games in the smoking patio, electronic table games, and a poker room.
• Dining: Hard Rock Cafe, Starbucks, YOUYU restaurant, Brick’D Pizza, Noodle 8, Council Oak steaks, and seafood.
• Bar & Lounge: Hard Rock Center Bar is open till 2:30 AM to have cocktails or watch games.
• Entertainment: The Hard Rock Cincinnati Event Center for rock music concerts and large-scale events, performance at The Hard Rock Cafe every Friday and Saturday night. Shopping accessories, T-shirts, souvenirs at Rock Shop.
• Location : 1000 Broadway St
• Official website: www.hardrockcasinocincinnati.com  

Hard Rock Casino is probably the most famous and biggest casino in Cincinnati, formerly known as Jack Cincinnati Casino and Horseshoe Cincinnati Casino but today fully rebranded. 100,000 sq feet of favorite games of all gamblers, from slots to poker, are waiting for you to try your chances to win big!

Hard Rock Casino offers an exclusive loyalty program called Hard Rock Wild Card Rewards. With this card, you have access to free parking and extra perks while playing. The more you play, the more chances to win you have and the higher your membership status gets.

How much is the jackpot ? In recent months lucky players won from $5,000 to $32,000!

5 Hotels near Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati

If you’re coming for a couple of days in Cincinnati and you would like to play poker or gamble in Hard Rock Casino, you may need to find a hotel, as this casino does not have one. In fact, Hard Rock casino is next to so many attractions and sites in Cincinnati , like parks, museums, biking trails, nice bridges, that we do recommend you to extend your stay and just walk around! As Hard Rock Casino is right in the city business center, there are plenty of accommodation options nearby:

• Kids-friendly 3-star hotel Holiday Inn & Suites Cincinnati Downtown is just a 7-min walk from the casino. Rates can change, but when we checked it was from $217.55.
• Residence Inn by Marriott . This is also a 3-star hotel, 15-min walk from the casino. Rates start from $199 per night. 
• The Westin Cincinnati (by Marriott) – a 4-star hotel in the middle of the business district, 16 min walk from Hard Rock casino. Around $180-190 per night. Rates may change, please double-check.
• Hilton Cincinnati Residence Plaza is a 4-star hotel in an art deco style property, 18-min walk away from the casino. But they offer a free casino shuttle . Rates per night start from $195. 
• 21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati – a 4-star hotel and contemporary art museum in one place. One of the top hotels in the Midwest. Rates start from $249/night. 

Need more options? Check out our Ultimate Accomodation Guide for Cincinnati , we are sure you can find something for your family needs and budget among our 27 selected options. 

#2 Newport Racing & Gaming Cincinnati Casino

Photo from Newport Racing & Gaming official website

• Games : slot machines, simulcast horse racing wagering
• Dining : yes, Bar & Grill place – Smiley’s Bar & Grille
• Hotel : No, this casino is located inside the city.
• Bar & Lounge: Smiley’s Bar & Grille
• Entertainment : Free live music acts.
• Location : 1723 Monmouth St, Newport
• Official website: https://www.newportrg.com/  

Newport Casino is one of locals’ favorite gambling site that comes with some free games and promotions, nice service and friendly staff, and an excitement to win some money! Keep in mind, there is no live poker in this casino, only slots, and racing.

How much can I win? You can join the Jackpot winners gallery and grab from $2,000 to $30,000+!

#3 Belterra Park Casino (Belterra Park Gaming) & Racing

Aerial view of Belterra Park, (c) 1800topsite.com

• Games: 1,200 games
• Dining options: yes, Burger Brothers, Stadium Sports Bar & Grill, Chef’s Table at Favorites
• Bar & Lounge: exclusive VIP club Club 38, Stadium Sports Bar & Grill
• Entertainment: live racing, outdoor racing, simulcast action
• Location : 6301 Kellogg Rd
• Official website: https://www.belterrapark.com/  

Belterra Park is maybe the oldest entertainment center in Cincinnati, right on Kellogg Rd, east of Downtown Cincinnati. It all started with River Downs horse track and people watching and gambling on horse racing. Today, it is a 48 sq ft real casino combined with a race track, or racino, with your favorite slots to try your luck.

Don’t want to sit indoors? Enjoy the view on the racing track from the outside smoking terrace with slot machines! Keep playing and relaxing.

How much can I win in Belterra Park? Recently there were more than 1,000 jackpots and the biggest was almost $3,000,000!

Casinos near Cincinnati, OHIO

#4 hollywood casino lawrenceburg & hotel.

Photo from Dearborn County Visitor Center

• Games : 1200+ slots, including ​​video slots, reel slots, and progressive slots, 62 table games, 30 electronic table games to play Craps, Roulette, Blackjack, Mini-Bacc, video poker, live poker room, bets on sport.
• Dining : four restaurants (The Eatery by Fabio Viviani, A-list restaurant Final Cut Steakhouse, Barstool Sportsbook & Restaurant, breakfast place Hollywood and Grind
• Hotel : yes, casino Hotel Lawrenceburg
• Bar & Lounge : Barstool Sportsbook & Restaurant.
• Entertainment : live events every Friday and Saturday, Night club “Boogie Nights” with the 70s and 80s dance parties, and an event center.
• How far from Cincinnati: 20 min drive
• Official website : https://www.hollywoodindiana.com/  

Hollywood Casino in Lawrenceburg is a Vegas-style casino hotel with 6 restaurants, a nightclub, and live entertainment just 20-min away from Cincinnati city center. All slot machines are new and operational, and you get access to a wide variety of games in a spacious, modern, and comfortable first-class casino. 

Hollywood Casino has a very convenient spacing: there are two levels, one for non-smoking guests and one for smokers. The interiors of the casino, even the bathrooms, are fancy and stylish, offering the real Hollywood vibe. Perfect place to have fun with friends or loved ones!

#5 Hollywood Casino Columbus – the largest poker room in Ohio

• Games: 2, 200 slots, 100 live table games, poker room
• Dining options: five restaurants, 4-star steakhouse Final Cut, Asian restaurant Zen noodle, OH sports bar
• Bar & Lounge: OH sports bar
• Entertainment: free events every weekend 
• How far from Cincinnati: 2-hour drive
• Official website: https://www.hollywoodcolumbus.com/

The Columbus branch of Hollywood casinos offers more games and gets way more visitors and players every day. 24/7 gaming slots, table games, and the biggest poker room in the state are open to the public.

The restaurants are great, especially the OH sports bar, the interiors are Vegas-style and promise a very unique gaming experience but the outside looks pretty simple. And the games are so various that you will most definitely find something for yourself. 

The casino has a separate smoking area with some games as well. But the gem of this place is the largest Ohio poker room for players of all levels.

#6 Belterra Casino Resort (Florence, Indiana)

Belterra Casino Resort photo by Leonardo

• Games: 700 games
• Dining options: fine dining at 19 Steak & Seafood , the casual menu at Stadium Sports Bar & Grill, Bel-Bistro, Out of Bounds Bar & Grill, snacks at Nosh, 
• Bar & Lounge: Lobby bar (can be closed, please double-check before visiting), Stadium Sports Bar & Grill, VIP Club 38.
• Hotel: yes, 600 luxurious rooms with a river view.
• How far from Cincinnati: 60 min drive
• Official website: https://www.belterracasino.com/  

Do not confuse Belterra Park with Belterra Casino Resort in Florence, Indiana. Both casinos are operated by the same company – Boyd Gaming, but the Belterra Casino Resort is a huge riverboat casino with its own hotel, nestled right on the Ohio River, four restaurants and bar, an indulgent spa, pools, concert hall, shopping center, and a golf course for a truly unique and luxurious experience. 

It is only a 1-hour drive from Cincinnati to a fun getaway.

#7 Rising Star Casino Resort – Rising Sun

Photo from Rising Star Casino & Resort official website

• Games: slots, including reels, video poker, and the latest video slots – all denominations and types. Table games, progressive games, and sportsbook
• Dining options: Ben’s Bistro buffet restaurant, fine-dining steakhouse Wellington’s, Jack’s deli, and a market.
• Bar & Lounge: Pub and a coffee bar.
• Hotel: 3-star riverside hotel, 294 rooms + RV park
• Entertainment: the Links golf course and live entertainment, indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and a fitness center, two separate event centers with free events. 
• How far from Cincinnati: 45 min drive, additionally they have a ferry to Rabbit Hash
• Official website: http://www.risingstarcasino.com/  

If you’re looking for a modern casino with all the latest games and progressive games, Rising Star is the place to shine. You can play video poker, spin, join table games or bet on sports. After a long tiring day, you can stay at the resort and enjoy their indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub as well as have a juicy steak for dinner or watch games in the pub!

If you’re playing some progressive games at Rising Star and you have been dealt with Ryal Flash and you’ve made a $1 progressive wager, you will win 100% of the jackpot!

If you don’t feel like gambling the next day, play golf at the true Scottish links-style Links golf course or watch movies in your room.

Friendly warning: some guests report that not all rooms are in perfect condition. Do check before you check-in. Alternatively, bring your RV and stay in Rising Star’s spacious RV park with a grill, private bathrooms, and convenience space, along with good WI-FI.

How much can I win? Just recently weekly jackpots averaged at $268,000! 

#8 Miami Valley Gaming

Photo from official Miami Valley Gaming LinkedIn profile

• Games: 1800 slot games, harness racing track with 1,000-seats.
• Dining options: yes, Trifecta Eatery, Cin City Sea & Steak, 
• Bar & Lounge: Center bar.
• Entertainment: Center bar with live entertainment every Friday and Saturday. The bar has a dance floor too.
• How far from Cincinnati: 30-40 min drive
• Official website: https://miamivalleygaming.com/  

Miami Valley Gaming is open 24/7 for gamblers. This Casino features slot games, dining, and recreational options, along with a racing track. There is no Vegas-style poker room or table games and yet this place is normally packed!

Yet, the dining is not the greatest, people don’t really praise the restaurant at Miami Valley Casino, but they host some food events too! If you are lucky and there is no crowd, it can be fun. 

Overall it is quite ordinary slot gaming and may turn out like a disappointing trip from Cincinnati. 

#9 Ruggles Blue Poker Club 

This photo from the official Ruggles Blue webpage is so good that we couldn’t help sharing it!

• Games: a variety of Texas Holdem
• Dining options: just snacks and drinks, no restaurant or anything like that
• Bar & Lounge: No
• Entertainment: Tournaments and live games 
• How far from Cincinnati: 25 min drive, Union Centre Pavilion Drive, West Chester Township
• Official website: https://www.rugglesclub.com/blue  

Ruggles Blue is a social poker club open to the public. The membership is absolutely free and you can come and play anytime from 17:30 to 4 am with your friends or complete strangers. You only pay for as many hours as you want to spend in the club. 

It’s a very simple club, nothing fancy, just spacious enough for poker tables, and the tables and chairs themselves are super comfy for long gaming sessions. All games are rake-free.

The club also hosts tournaments and broadcasts live poker games. You can participate in a tournament yourself to try your luck 😉

It’s a perfect place for serious players and real poker fans who seek smart opponents, knowledgeable dealers, and a quiet place to master poker. 

#10 Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway

Photot from Hollywood Gaming Dayton official website

• Games: 1000 slot machines and horse racing, 53-seat simulcast theater
• Dining options: yes, indoor restaurants  
• Bar & Lounge: sports bar, exterior smoking area
• Entertainment: outdoor concerts, entertainment lounge with a stage
• How far from Cincinnati: 1-hour drive, the casino is in Dayton
• Official website: https://www.hollywooddaytonraceway.com/     

A very simple casino with only slot machines and outdoor racing and event space. You won’t find table games, blackjack, or live poker here, but still can have an hour or so of fun! 

Probably not worth driving all the way from Cincinnati only for spinning, but the visit can be combined with some other activities, like watching and betting on horse racing, and in that case will be very enjoyable, as still, Hollywood venues are usually very well equipped, have good staff and cool games. 

CLOSED Cincinnati Casinos 

Cincinnati OH once had more gaming options, but unfortunately, some of them are now permanently closed, such as:

• Horseshoe Cincinnati – opened in 2013 Horseshoe casino was among the last approved casinos in the state. In 2016, the casino was sold and rebranded under a new name – Jack Casino. 
• Jack Cincinnati Casino.

What happened to Jack’s casino in Cincinnati?

Rebranded Horseshoe casino became Jack Casino in 2016, but didn’t stay open for long, and in 2019 the property was purchased by Hard Rock. So, today’s Hard Rock Casino was formerly Jack and Horseshoe Casinos. Jack Entertainment has only Jack Casino in Cleveland now.

Cincinnati Casinos FAQ

Where are the casinos in cincinnati.

The 3 casinos in Cincinnati are located in the heart of the city. You can find Balterra in the downtown area, near the riverfront, Newport Gaming in Newport, and the Hard Rock Casino on 1000 Broadway Street. However, there are more gaming options and entertainment if you are willing to drive 20-40 min. and combine casino visits with golf or spa. In that case, check out Hollywood Casino and Belterra Casino Resort to have a true Vegas-style experience.

How many casinos Cincinnati has?

As of right now, there are ten casinos in Cincinnati and nearby areas if you’re willing to drive a little bit. However, that number is likely to change shortly, as more casinos continue to open up in the area. 

How old should I be to enter the casinos in Cincinnati?

According to the USA legislation, guests must be 21 or older to enter a casino facility and play a game. 

What if my close ones or myself have problem gambling?

To get some help please call 1-800-589-9966 or visit org.ohio.gov . It is an online platform of the Ohio for Responsible Gambling initiative and they share tips on responsible playing, useful resources, and contacts of where you can find relevant treatment. You are not alone, there are people ready to help.

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Riverboat cruises in Cincinnati are a tradition as old as the city itself. No matter how many highways and byways we build, Cincinnati will always be a river city. A riverboat cruise is a great way to celebrate the history of the city and enjoy the peaceful scenery that the Ohio River has to offer.

Sightseeing Cruises

Take a relaxing harbor cruise aboard BB Cruises for a one and a half hour journey down the Ohio River. This historical journey includes commentary from the captain as you take in the city skyline and natural beauty of Cincinnati. Cruise times are posted on the bbriverboats.com website for up-to-the-minute booking information. Snacks and a cash bar are available during the cruise. bbriverboats.com .

River Escape Cruises offer a variety of specialized charter cruises with the sightseer in mind. For an upbeat adventure, choose the Downtown cruise, where your party will explore the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky riverfronts. For a quieter excursion, try the Scenic Upriver cruise, and enjoy the natural beauty that the Ohio River has to offer far from the city lights. River Escape Cruises also offers Sunset and Fall Foliage cruises for those who would like to truly tailor the scenery around their cruise party. www.riverescapecruises.com .

Dinner Cruises

BB Riverboats offers a variety of themed lunch and dinner cruises that traverse the waterways of Cincinnati each weekend. Try the Dixieland Jazz Band brunch on Sundays, and enjoy the Southern sounds and a delectable spread. Saturday cruises include the Captain's Lunch and the Admiral's Dinner, two-hour cruises that feature games and entertainment along with the meals. On Fridays, sail away with Hawaiian flavors and island music during the Tropical Dinner cruise.

Need a little excitement during the week? Captain's Lunch cruises are available Tuesdays through Saturdays and Captain's Dinner sails each Tuesday through Thursday. With "Sightseeing Only" tickets, those in your party who don't wish to dine can pay a lower fare and simply enjoy the sights. bbriverboats.com .

Gambling Cruises

Just an hour outside of Cincinnati, the Belterra Casino Resort has got your lucky number. This stationary 38,000 square foot riverboat casino has nearly 40 game tables and thousands of slots to choose from against the backdrop of the beautiful Ohio River. Belterra was voted Best Poker Room and Best Restaurant by readers of Southern Gaming & Destinations Magazine. Stay where you play in one of over 600 hotel rooms, and dine in one of the six property restaurants. www.belterracasino.com .

River Escape Cruises takes you on a river ride from Cincinnati to the Belterra Casino aboard the Sea Us Escape. Arrangements for an overnight stay at Belterra are included in your cruise package. Enjoy a round trip tour of the Ohio River, slowing for photos along the way. Overnight and weekend stays are available. www.riverescapecruises.com .

Charter Cruises

For your next special event, consider chartering a boat on the waters of the Ohio River. Queen City Riverboats offers two paddle boats, the Spirit of Cincinnati and the Queen City Clipper to become your next party destination. Moonlight and special event cruises are available. A full menu and charter information is available on the website. www.queencityriverboats.com .

Celebrations Riverboats offer chartered banquet cruises for your next meeting, wedding, or party event. Choose from a three hour lunch cruise or a two hour dinner cruise with a full spread of food and enough staff to take care of your boarding party. Live entertainment can be provided; including a range of talents from DJ's to magicians and even palm readers. Free, secure private parking is available for your cruise guests. www.celebrationriverboats.com .

Destiny Yacht Charters specializes in wedding and corporate cruises aboard the Destiny. Plan your next holiday party or simply impress out-of-town guests aboard this majestic and intimate yacht. Enjoy two enclosed climate- controlled decks for year-round events. The crew of Destiny assists you in choosing from a variety of appetizer, dinner, or drink menus, and also assists in arranging entertainment for your party. www.destinyyachtcharters.com .

Holiday Cruises

Gathering your family for the traditional holiday feast can be made into a truly special event with annual holiday cruises. BB Riverboats offers Easter, Mother's Day, and even Thanksgiving feasts on the Ohio River. Each holiday has a signature menu full of festive surprises.

- Rain Blanken

Cruise Company Information

• • BB Riverboats: Riverboat Row, Newport, KY, 859-261-8500, bbriverboats.com
• • Queen City Riverboats: 100 O Fallon Ave, Bellevue, KY, 859-292-8687, www.queencityriverboats.com
• • Celebrations Riverboats: 848 Elm Street, Ludlow, KY, 877-651-6752, www.celebrationriverboats.com
• • Destiny Yacht Charters: 3653 River Road, Cincinnati, OH, 513-921-3210, www.destinyyachtcharters.com/pc.html
• • River Escape Cruises: 4601 Kellogg Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 859-801-1718, www.riverescapecruises.com

Header Photo: © Eric Kilby

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Ohio River valley Casinos near Kentucky

Riverboats is not an actual definition anymore. Most if not all of these are permanently docked or been replaced with permanent buildings. You free to come and go as you please. When they were initially built they actually cruised on the river for a couple of hours each boat load of people.

Indiana has ten riverboat casinos five of which are located on the Ohio River. The Ohio River is the border between Kentucky and Indiana. Five of these casinos are located close to Cincinnati and Louisville making them a fairly short drive for the more populated areas of Kentucky.

Illinois has ten riverboat casinos one of which located on the Ohio River. The Ohio River is also the border between Kentucky and Illinois. Harrahs Metropolis is the only casino serving the western part of the state along the Ohio River.

article updated 02-28-2020

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Casinos in Cincinnati, OH: List of Places for Gambling

Jerry’s greatest advantage is his extensive experience on the casino floor. His time as a casino manager taught him everything about what makes a player tick. Besides being a skilled poker player , he has deep knowledge of all live table games and gambling regulations in the US.

Cincinnati casinos are located in the state of Ohio, where everything is legal . ... Since the people of Ohio coted in for the legality in 1999, Cincinnati gambling journey was set in motion. Now there is the emergence of the best casinos in Cincinnati. Very soon, we will be looking at the Cincinnati casinos list, so if you want to know more, read on!

• Cincinnati Casino Map
• Cincinnati Best Casinos
• Cincinnati Casino Games
• Cincinnati Hotels Near Casinos

Cincinnati Casinos Map

At this point, we believe you are boiling with excitement to start playing at the best casinos in Cincinnati already. Well, we are happy for you, but how would you get there? We thought of that, which is why we have put together the Cincinnati casinos map so you would never miss your way to enjoyment.

The Best Casinos in Cincinnati

Cincinnati gambling is best described as fun and excitement at its peak. The city houses the best casinos you could ever ask for. Hard Rock Bet Cincinnati gives you various casino games, live concerts, 19,000 sq. ft. event center, and River Room , with a stunning view from the floor-to-ceiling windows. You also have thousands of slots and table games in the best casino in Cincinnati. Below you will find some brief details. Read on and enjoy it!

• Event Center
• Live concerts
• Show entertainment

What Casino Games Can You Play in Cincinnati?

Slot games are something that you cannot just do without talking about when referring to the best casinos in Cincinnati. You have fun on large numbers, starting with slots , going through poker, and finishing at blackjack and roulette tables. At the end of the day, you won't have any idea what hit you.

• Colossal Wizards
• Spartacus Gladiator of Rome
• Forbidden Dragons
• Queen of the Wild II
• Lazer Lock Ice Sapphire
• Let it Ride
• Limit Holdem
• No Limit Holdem
• Crazy 4 Poke
• Fortune Pai Gow
• Sharp Shooter
• American Roulette
• European Roulette
• Any 2 Card Blackjack
• Hand-Held Deck
• Single Deck
• Double Deck
• Chuck-A-Luck
• 75 Ball Bingo
• 90 Ball Bingo
• Daily Lotto Draws
• Mini Lottos
• Electronic Craps
• Electronic Blackjack
• Electronic Roulette
• Electronic 3-Card Poker
• Off-track betting
• Simulcasting
• Horse racing

Hotels Near Casinos in Cincinnati

Now imagine that after a long and successful day of wagering and entertainment and profits, you need a place to crash, but you can't find any. That is the importance of this section and the value of hotels in a casino. We have outlined the closest hotels to the best casinos in Cincinnati , so you would have a place to crash.

Frequently Asked Questions

Support for gambling addiction, are there any pet-friendly casinos in cincinnati, can you smoke in cincinnati casinos, do you get free drinks in cincinnati casinos, what is the legal age to gamble in cincinnati, oh.

If you took your time to go through the detailed review, you would conclude that Cincinnati, OH, is a fun and exciting place to gamble. So far, the city has been very accommodating to gamblers with no problems. Provided that you go with our recommendations of legal casinos, all you will enjoy is unlimited fun with commercial casinos and racinos .

Disclaimer: With regard to any changes related to the information about a casino, we won't be held responsible if such differences occur. We advise our readers to double-check the official website of the casino for the most accurate information.

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Discover Ohio - Your Gateway to the Buckeye State's Wonders

Cincinnati’s Riverboat Cruises Along the Ohio River

In Cincinnati, taking a riverboat cruise on the Ohio River is a fantastic way to connect with the city’s history as an important river trading post, and to enjoy views of its beautiful skyline. You can pick from many types of cruises, like a relaxed sightseeing trip or a dinner cruise with live music. Each journey lets you take in the peaceful scenes along the Ohio River and get a feel for the lively city life it supports.

These cruises are perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or a trip back in time. They also offer special themed cruises throughout the year, giving you a unique experience of Cincinnati’s river culture.

Exploring Cincinnati’s Waterfront Heritage

Cincinnati’s connection to the river is a big part of what makes the city special. One of the best ways to see this is by taking a riverboat cruise on the Ohio River. These boats, with their large paddle wheels, remind us of the old days when this river was a busy place for buying and selling goods and for people to talk to each other. When you hear the water splash against the side of the boat, it’s like hearing the tales of the early settlers, merchants, and dreamers who came to the area looking for new opportunities.

Nowadays, going on one of these cruises lets you see Cincinnati’s old buildings and the new changes to the city from a different point of view. Being on the boat feels like stepping back in time and going on an adventure, as you learn about how the city has changed over the years. And all the while, the Ohio River flows steadily, linking the city’s history together.

If you’re visiting Cincinnati, a riverboat cruise is a must-do. Not only do you get to learn about the city’s past, but you also get to see its beauty from the water. It’s a relaxing and informative way to spend a day, and it’s something that people of all ages can enjoy.

Types of Riverboat Cruises Available

There are different types of riverboat cruises you can enjoy on the Ohio River. These cruises give you a great view of Cincinnati’s skyline and share stories about the city’s history. For example, you can take a tour on a big paddlewheeler boat. As you travel, you’ll see important historical places and listen to stories that connect the city’s past to its present.

If you’re looking for a special night out, you might enjoy a dinner cruise. You can eat a delicious meal while floating on the quiet river and listen to live music that celebrates the area’s musical heritage.

For those who want something a bit different, there are cruises designed for specific events. You can celebrate holidays, enjoy a romantic trip under the stars, or attend a fun themed party on the boat.

Every cruise is carefully planned to show off the beauty of the river and make you fall in love with Cincinnati, whether you’re just visiting or you call it home.

Planning Your Riverboat Cruise Experience

To have a great time on a riverboat cruise along the Ohio River, it’s important to plan ahead. Choose a cruise that sounds fun to you, like a history tour, a meal on the water, or a special theme cruise. It’s a good idea to buy your tickets early, especially if you’re planning to go on a busy day or for a special event, so you can be sure to get the spot you want.

Think about the time of year and what the weather might be like; wear clothes that will keep you comfortable, and bring something warmer for when it gets cooler in the evening. Try to get there a bit before your cruise starts so you have time to get on the boat without rushing and can pick a great place to enjoy the views of Cincinnati and the river.

Make sure you know what’s available on the boat, like food and bathrooms, so you can relax and enjoy your time. If you take the time to plan, your cruise on the Ohio River could be one of the best parts of your trip to Cincinnati.

Onboard Entertainment and Dining

In Cincinnati, taking a riverboat cruise is a fun way to see the Ohio River. While you enjoy the view, there’s plenty of good food and entertainment on board. You can eat as much as you want at the buffet, or pick something special from the menu. The dishes often include local flavors, giving you a taste of the area’s food traditions. To make the experience even better, live bands play music from jazz to bluegrass, showing off Cincinnati’s love for music.

But there’s more than just food and music. The cruise has special nights where they tell stories or act out bits of history, making you feel like you’re part of the river’s long story. It’s a great mix of fun things to do, good food, and learning about the place. This way, your trip is more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to really enjoy what makes the Ohio River special.

Seasonal Events and Themed Cruises

In Cincinnati, the riverboat cruises are special because they change with the seasons and offer different themes that appeal to all kinds of people, no matter the time of year. As the Ohio River changes with each season, so do the cruises. For example, in the fall, you can enjoy the beautiful red and gold leaves, in winter, you can see twinkling holiday lights, and in summer, you can watch fireworks.

They also have special trips like history tours, wine tastings, and evenings with jazz music. These cruises are more than just a trip on the river; they’re a way to really feel the local culture and have an experience you’ll always remember.

Whether you’re someone who loves history, in a romantic mood, or a family looking for fun, there’s a riverboat cruise in Cincinnati that feels like it was made just for you.

In Cincinnati, you can hop on a riverboat cruise to see the city from the Ohio River in a special way. As you float along, these cruises give you a chance to learn about the city’s history right where it happened, enjoy live entertainment, and even dine on board.

You can pick from different themed trips, which means there’s something for everyone, whether you love history, parties, or just relaxing on the water. These cruises are a big part of Cincinnati’s cultural life, bringing together locals and tourists to share the joy of discovering the river’s beauty.

They offer a fun and educational experience that changes with the seasons, so there’s always a new reason to come aboard and see the city from a fresh perspective.

Post Author: Luke Huxham

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3 of the Best Cincinnati Riverboat & Dinner Cruises

Take to the Ohio River and see Cincinnati in a different light on one of these excellent riverboat tours and dinner cruises.

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

The great city of Cincinnati sits on the north bank of the Ohio River, which splits it from the state of Kentucky. The best way to appreciate the cityscape on either side of the river is by floating along it. Taking a traditional riverboat along the Ohio, complete with a paddle wheel and open decks, is a fun and traditional way to go. Throw a dinner into the mix while watching the setting sun for an enhanced cruise experience. Here are three top options.

Cincinnati Historic Sightseeing Cruise

The Queen City, as Cincinnati is known (as well as ‘The Athens of the West’), was first settled in 1788 and the city’s skyline is best viewed from the Ohio River. On this 90-minute riverboat cruise, your captain will provide commentary about the buildings you pass and their relevance to the city’s past and present. You will also learn much about the parts of northern Kentucky visible during the trip. This tour is usually available at 3pm on Tue-Thu and Sat-Sun. From $26 per person.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Sunset Cruise on the Ohio River

The stunning River Queen is part of the BB Riverboats fleet of old-timey paddleboats. This charming white and red boat plies the Ohio River for two hours at sunset, as the lands of Kentucky and the Ohio city of Cincinnati are daubed in the warm glow of the fading light. There is also live music on board, setting a jolly tone as you explore this lovely stretch of water. There’s a cash bar on board for drinks and snacks. From $29 per person.

Cincinnati: Dinner Cruise on the Ohio River

Aboard the Belle of Cincinnati, you will find ample space on the decks and inside the cabins to sit and enjoy the river views. But the highlight of this two-hour tour is the dinner and dessert included in your cruise price. There are a number of different cruise options to choose from, including the captain’s and admiral’s dinner cruises, with the latter offering more dining options, including carved turkey, ribs and vegetarian pasta dishes. Alcoholic drinks can be purchased from the onboard bar for an additional fee. From $57 per person.

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