Considering the presence of wagering today, it would be overwhelming to think back to a time this act was banned or not in existence. Although the act has always had a turbulent history, gamblers show great perseverance. The first record of a game of chance in Canada was when people played Slahal before the Dice game came around. This was even before the country was created.
The Canadian industry has experienced sensational growth and transformation over the years. The first horse racing event was held in 1767 in Quebec City. Although this was banned in 1892, by 1900, people had begun playing raffles and bingo for charity. Lotteries became legalized in 1969, and by 1970, each province was permitted to legalize this act.
Finally, gaming became legal in 1985, and in 1989, the first retail casino was opened. Punters could explore online casinos in 1994. Even more, Wageringadvisors.ca provides a guide for players interested in cashing out their winnings instantly.
The range of game-of-chance opportunities for punters to create revenue is impressive despite the few setbacks associated with the industry. The Provincial government has been able to create, manage, and conduct gaming in the territory, which has also increased the number of customers involved in gambling. In Canada, physical casinos are not old-fashioned. Due to several laws that put legalization in the hands of the province, most territories are not gambling-friendly. This has made the retail establishment more popular than online providers among punters.
However, there were just a few casinos where players could try their luck. In this review, we will explore the historical landmarks considering the oldest operating casinos in Canada.
Oldest Operating Casinos In Canada
The origin of tying one’s luck on games in Canada can be traced back to the 1400s. However, the first brick-and-mortar setting opened its doors in 1989. Today, these casinos are scattered across Canada. They also provide customers with various iGaming products like slot games, table games, live entertainment, etc.
Players don’t just explore these products; they also bond with one another on real-life issues. More reason why they are highly patronized by punters from everywhere. Here are the oldest casinos establishments.
Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling Hall
This famous old casino establishment started its operations in the 70s in Dawson City, Yukon. The establishment still stands today with its 1898 saloon theme. Players who understand the Klondike Gold Rush history would be familiar with this. Patrons can wager, enjoy live entertainment like the daily Vaudeville show, have drinks with friends, etc., in the same room.
The casino opened in 1971, making it the oldest casino establishment, and offers poker, roulette, and blackjack. There are 60+ slot machines present on the gaming floor. The establishment is operated by an NGO named Klondike Visitors Association and opened all week for patrons to experience a good adventure.
Casino De Charlevoix
Casino De Charlevoix is among many premier casinos in Quebec City, Canada. The establishment was built in 1994 and owned by Societe des casinos du Quebec & Fairmont. They offer a variety of games, from craps and poker to baccarat and roulette. The gaming floor has over 800 slot machines and 20 gaming tables.
The location of the casino makes it a perfect tourist destination. It stands next to the Laurentian Mountains and the Saint Lawrence River. Between 2005 and 2006, the casino generated about $47.6 million and had huge traffic of guests, reaching a million.
The casino was built as a hotel and casino in 1907. It was the first Quebec casino with a link to a hotel and can also be said to be the oldest. However, due to unavoidable circumstances, it was closed in 1972 and reopened in June 1996 after a few renovations.
Cash Casino
Opened in 1980, Cash Casino is minutes from Downtown Calgary at 4040 Blackfoot Trail SE Calgary. The establishment is open 24 house on weekends and from 9 am to 3 am on Mondays to Thursdays. This is known to be the only privately owned casino with open doors 24 hours on weekends.
Patrons experience the buffet, new baccarat tables, VIP slot room, over 600 slot machines, table games, VLTs, and good food at unbeatable prices. Live entertainment from the Blackjack beauties takes place every Friday and Saturday.
Although the establishment was only permitted to organize charitable table games with religious and agricultural agendas, it offers exciting offerings to delight your senses today. The Calgary International Airport is only 10 miles away from the establishment.
Casino Regina
Sask Gaming manages Casino Regina and is a major entertainment destination. It is located in Regina, Saskatchewan Drive, and became the province’s second casino in 1996. The building where the casino is was once a Union Station built in 1912. It was the city’s third train station. The retail casino hosts over 800 slot machines, an 8-table poker room, and 35 table games.
The casino employs over 600 people to keep its activities running and offers live entertainment at the Vegas-style show lounge. The doors are open from 9 am till 4 am Sundays through to Thursdays and round the clock on Fridays and Saturdays.
Treasure Cove Casino
This sensational building opened in 1986 and is located in the centre of Northern British Columbia. The establishment sits on a 37,000 sq. ft and has an appealing Tuscan theme. The casino boasts the largest bingo room in the province, about 700 bingo seats, 500+ slot machines, and a table pit.
Patrons can play progressive ultimate Hold ’em, Fortune Pai Gow Poker, Texas Hold ’em poker, and roulette. The establishment has a show lounge where live entertainment takes place. Patrons are also privileged to register for Encore rewards cards. They can earn points and also redeem them.
Billy Barker Casino
Initially, Billy Barker Casino was known as Royal Casino. The establishment was opened in 1987 and was a charitable casino in the province at the time of opening. However, it expanded to become a landmark of historic Quesnel. The casino is family-owned and has a luxurious paddlewheel ship exterior.
That said, the casino was remodelled from 1999 to 2014, giving it a more appealing look. The casino hosts a variety of slots, roulette tables, a cafe and lounge, and a showroom. Additionally, there is also a banquet facility that is fitting for workshops and seminars.
List of other old casino establishments in Canada
The number of old casino establishments in Canada is appealing. Here is a list of more of the oldest casino establishments:
- Cowboys Casino
- Casino Regina
- Casino de Mont-Tremblant
- Casino Niagara
- Casino Woodbine
Let’s Wrap it Up
These retail casino establishments are excellent tourist destinations. Their unique edifice draws in visitors worldwide, offering gaming options like slots, table games, etc. Also, patrons experience live entertainment while enjoying a meal or drink with their friends, or perhaps while gambling. The live entertainment from top acts makes these casino settings a nice relaxation spot. Although these are quite entertaining, gamblers are more interested in gaming online as it provides a more convenient way to gamble.