When people think of Canada as a tourist destination, they rarely think about the gambling ventures it offers. But if you’re into gambling, you’ll be surprised by the number of destinations you can choose from.
It doesn’t matter if you like playing slots, table games, betting on horses, or even seeing some greyhound races. Canada has it all.
In this article, we will cover some of the most popular and best gambling options across the casinos in Canada for tourists and explain what each one offers.
Most popular land-based casinos in Canada
The first thing you might want to look up when you’re in Canada is the land-based casinos and resorts. Of course, this depends on the location you have travelled to.
Ontario and Quebec have establishments that offer some of the best accommodations for casino lovers. If you’re ever in these regions and like to gamble, make sure to visit these two casinos.
You won’t be disappointed with the casinos in Canada.
Caesars Windsor
The Caesars Windsor casino opened its doors in 1994, right on the waterfront of the Detroit River. The casino is a joint venture of the Ontario Government to open a province-owned casino. The casino is located in Windsor in the Ontario province.
In 2008, the hotel and casino got a massive expansion. The 27 stories high Augustus tower was opened in 2008. Annually over 6 million people visit the casino, including many gamblers from the US Midwest.
The Casino Player magazine has given this resort the prestigious “Biggest Casino in Canada” award for 16 years in a row. They have a massive selection of slot machines and table games. If you’re a poker fan, you’ll be pleased to know they have 14 poker tables available in their poker room.
Caesars Windsor features the highest posted limits in the Detroit area and all of Ontario, up to $50,000 on craps and roulette, $25,000 for blackjack and $15,000 maximum bets on Pai Gow and baccarat. Whether you are a new player or a serious gambler, you will find your casino gambling table game of choice at Caesars Windsor.
The casino has everything you can ask for and is well worth visiting if you’re ever in Ontario.
For example, indulge yourself in the plush paradise of Caesars Windsor’s exclusive adults-only pool! Relax and unwind with a soothing Jacuzzi, take advantage of numerous lounge chairs on deck, or enjoy complimentary towels before slipping into one of our well-stocked change rooms.
Or are you looking for a fun night out?
The Colosseum is the perfect place to see your favorite world-class entertainers. This premier entertainment venue in Windsor offers a great selection of shows and events sure to please any taste.
Montreal Casino
The Montreal Casino opened its door on October 9th, 1993. It’s owned by the Société des casinos du Québec. So, this is also a government-owned casino, and all the profits go to the Government of Quebec.
For this casino, the manufactured island of Notre Dame was chosen as a location. It is a beautiful site with an artificial lake, a small beach, and a racing circuit nearby.
The casino has three separate buildings in total. The gaming floor of the Montreal casino spreads on over 12 acres of land. There are over 3,200 slot machines to choose from and close to 120 gaming tables.
Unlike other casinos, Montreal has massive windows and low ceilings, with an overall refreshing appearance. Visitors can also enjoy the three bars, four restaurants, and several banquet facilities for more significant celebrations.
You will have lots of fun visiting this casino, even if you’re not a vivid gambler.
For example, when it comes to fine cuisine, they have three restaurants that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Le Montreal offers a breathtaking view of downtown Montréal along with an imaginative à la carte menu. Pavillon 67 is their buffet gourmand and it’s even more varied and delicious than before! And if you’re in a hurry, stop by L’Instant for some quick and tasty eats.
See also: A Local Girl’s Guide to Partying in Montreal
Best online casinos in Canada
If you’re ever in Canada but don’t want to leave your room and go to the nearest casino, you can gamble for real money online.
That’s right, online gambling in Canada is now legal, and there are some great brands to choose from. Below are two top-ranking ones you can try from any mobile device or laptop.
Casumo Casino
Casumo is a popular brand not only in Canada but all over the world. The casino came online in 2012 and has been serving customers ever since. They are licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario in Canada but are also licensed by the UKGC and the MGA.
They have an excellent reputation all across the world and have a large number of loyal daily players. Visit the casino site and create an account to start playing.
To get started, you can claim their 100% match deposit bonus up to 100%. On top of that, you will also receive 115 free spins on the popular slot 9 Fire Masks. Casumo has a massive number of slots to choose from, as well as a plethora of live dealer games. The best part is that all withdrawals to e-wallets at Casumo are processed within a few hours.
The casino also has a great mobile platform so that you can play all the games on the go. This way, you can cash out your winnings or play at another Canadian casino.
Leo Vegas Casino
Leo Vegas voted the Online casino of the year for 2020, 2021, and 2022, so it was only natural for this brand to make a move on the Canadian market. They have over 1,800 casino games and offer an excellent mobile platform.
So if you like playing casino games on the go Leo Vegas is the place to be. Their website is simple and easy to navigate, so you can easily get started even if you’re a new player. Create an account, make a deposit, choose any of the games you like, and start playing.
If you’re a new player from Canada, once you register at Leo Vegas, you can claim their 100% match deposit bonus of up to $1,000. On top of that, you will also get 200 free spins. The bonus can be used to play the many slots and table games Leo Vegas offers. All withdrawals at Leo Vegas remain pending on your account for up to 12 hours, and payouts to e-wallets are instant.
Once you start playing here, you will see why Leo Vegas is the top casino in the online gambling industry.
Racetracks across Canada
The Ontario Horse Racing Industry Association and the Alberta Quarter Horse Racing Association oversee all horse racing activities in the territory of Canada.
Horse racing in Canada has a rich history and promises all fans a great time. As a matter of fact, a horse from Canada named Northern Dancer managed to win the Queen’s Plate, Kentucky Derby, and Preakness Stakes in a single year. He made headlines worldwide and marked the start of an era for horse racing in Canada.
Below are the two most popular tracks you must visit if you’re ever in Canada.
Hastings Racecourse & Casino
If you’re ever in Vancouver, you must take a 2 minute ride from downtown to find yourself at the Hastings Racecourse & Casino. This is a local landmark, accepting visitors from back in 1889.
Today it’s a world where fluorescent-clad jockeys mount lean racing machines. Starting gates burst with a ringing clang and hoofs pound the dirt. It’s a place where strategy meets luck and icy drinks lead to sumptuous meals delivered by friendly servers.
Hastings Racecourse is a jewel of a park located just four kilometers from downtown Vancouver with a spectacular view of the North Shore mountains and Burrard Inlet. Facing this grand stage, an expansive, tiered grandstand provides multiple outdoor and indoor viewing options. Proceed through the spacious facility to find a new experience at every turn. Simulcast video monitors flicker with images from around the world.
As you can already guess from the name, this is a casino and a racetrack. So if you’re not having any luck on the slots, move on to the racetrack and bet on the horses. Maybe your luck will change, and you’ll pick the winner for the day.
But the resort has much more to offer.
Relax in a pub setting, or enjoy “first class” treatment in a box seat. Overlooking it all, a luxurious restaurant fit for the sport of Kings and Queens. Visit the Silks Buffet for some great food and great panoramic views. Then, move on to the Eclipse Lounge for a full-service bar and great music, or head on to Furlong’s Eatery for quick snacks and drinks.
Whatever you need, the Hastings Racecourse & Casino is sure to provide.
See also: Things to Do in Vancouver on a Rainy Day
Grand River Raceway
The Grand River Raceway opened its doors in 2004 and has a lot to offer to visitors.
They have a half a mile racetrack, their own Elements Casino Grand River, and a GrandWay Events Centre. So this is more of a resort spread over 53 acres.
The best part is there is no admission fee, and you also get free parking.
The resort features buffets, full-service dining, and a licensed bar. So even if you don’t have any luck on the track or at the casino, you can still have a great time at the Grand River Raceway. They are also relatively close to the US, so don’t be surprised if many punters here are from across the border.
Feel the thrill of seeing vigorous steeds competing in races each Monday, Wednesday and Friday night during summer. Enjoy non-stop action year-round by watching Simulcast racing! Everyone is cordially invited to come join them – admission is complimentary!
Greyhound Racing
Greyhound Racing is a sport that originated in the UK and then spread to many world countries.
In this sport, hounds race on an oval and coursing track. Greyhound Racing has noticed a sharp decline in recent years, primarily due to the pressure from various animal agencies. In Canada, this type of sport is simply unregulated.
You cannot place bets, but you can hold dog races. So this is why only one racetrack is left.
Thousands of greyhounds are bred every year in an attempt to create the fastest dogs possible.
However, this puts them at a disadvantage from the very beginning. Many cruel methods are used to dispose of unwanted dogs, and those who do survive in the industry often live in cramped crates or pens with little opportunity to socialize or exercise. According to state records, a racing greyhound dies every three days on average in Florida alone – largely due to injuries sustained during races.
This is a tragic fate for such social creatures who deserve far better treatment throughout their lives.
Plenty of options for gambling in Canada
As you can see from our article, Canada has much to offer tourists. Even if you’re not a gambler, the places mentioned in this article are well worth visiting.
You are guaranteed to have a great time either way. Who knows, if lady luck is on your side, you can hit the jackpot on the casino slots or pick the winning horse at the races.
If not, you can enjoy the restaurants, shows, or bars these resorts have to offer. In the end, many people go to casino resorts to enjoy the perks without even gambling on the games they offer.
