Why most opened in the 1990s
Until 1985, the Criminal Code didn't allow provinces to run slot machines or casino-style games in the way they do now. Once the law changed, provinces started planning permanent casinos, and the early to mid 1990s saw a wave of openings across the country. Many were built with tourism in mind, which explains why several sit next to major attractions.
Niagara Falls, Ontario
Casino Niagara opened in 1996, a short walk from the falls, and was so busy that a much larger resort followed. Fallsview Casino Resort opened in 2004 on the escarpment overlooking the Horseshoe Falls, with a hotel, a theatre and a large gaming floor. The two now operate as a pair, and together they're one of the most visited tourist destinations in the province.
Casino Rama, Ontario
Casino Rama opened in 1996 on the lands of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, near Orillia and Lake Couchiching. It was Ontario's first commercial casino on First Nations land, and it has been an important source of revenue shared among First Nations in the province. It's also known for its entertainment centre, which regularly hosts major touring acts.
Casino de Montréal, Québec
Opened in 1993 inside the former French Pavilion from Expo 67 on Île Notre-Dame, the Casino de Montréal is one of the largest casinos in Canada and probably its most recognisable building. It's operated by Loto-Québec and, like the province's other casinos, has a minimum age of 18.
Casino Regina, Saskatchewan
Casino Regina opened in 1996 in the city's former Union Station, a 1911 railway building in the heart of downtown. The conversion kept much of the old station's character, including the high-ceilinged main hall, so visitors can still get a sense of the building's railway past between the slot machines.
River Rock, British Columbia
River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond, next to Vancouver, opened in 2004 on the banks of the Fraser River. It's one of the largest casinos in Western Canada, with a hotel, a show theatre and a marina. It has also been at the centre of provincial inquiries into money laundering in British Columbia's casino sector, which led to significant changes in how the province monitors large cash transactions.
Visiting tips
- Bring government photo ID. Staff routinely check age at the door: 19 in most provinces, 18 in Québec, Alberta and Manitoba.
- Check the dress code and hours before you go; many are open 24 hours, but some areas close overnight.
- Look for loyalty cards. Provincial casinos usually offer free player cards with dining and hotel perks.
- Plan the rest of the trip. Most of these casinos are next to attractions worth seeing in their own right, from the falls to Parc Jean-Drapeau.
And the same rule applies in person as online: decide your budget before you walk in, and treat it as the cost of a night out.