When the gambling itch needs a good scratch but Sin City has lost its luster, casinos in Phoenix, Arizona provide an attractive alternative for out-of-town visitors. Many Phoenix hotel casinos offer the same perks that Las Vegas does, pampering card sharks and lounge lizards alike. So whether you choose to melt beneath the hands of an Arizona sun or rather linger with Lady Luck before a slot machine, Phoenix's casino hotels are open for business.
While Casino Arizona at Talking Stick Resort may be the new kid on the block (it opened in July 2010), this luxurious Vegas Style casino resort has hit the ground running with more than 800 slot machines, 50 plus gaming tables, and a high-stakes area and Keno lounge. Guest rooms offer contemporary styling with views of the Camelback and McDowell Mountains. Guests may choose among seven restaurants or help themselves to an all-day buffet. Other amenities include convention space, showroom with an array of headliners, 36-hole golf course, two pools, swim-up bar and spa.
Talking Stick Resort
9800 E. Indian Bend Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85256
866-877-9897
talkingstickresort.com
Situated on the tribal lands of The Gila River Indian Community, the Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino is located 11 miles from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and 15 miles from downtown Phoenix. The venue's Airia nightclub mimics Las Vegas with its scantily clad go-go dancers and 65-inch light reflecting plasma screens. The nonsmoking hotel is separated from the gaming area by a concourse. The casino houses over 1,000 slot machines, 71 game tables, five lounges, and eight dining facilities. The hotel also offers fine dining, conference facilities, pool, health club, shops, lounge and a 1,400-seat theater. The property is close to Rawhide Western Town, Whirlwind Golf Club and Firebird Raceway.
Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino
5040 W. Wild Horse Pass
Chandler, AZ 85226
800-946-4452
wingilariver.com
Draped by the Sonoran Desert offering cool views under a scorching sun, this award-winning resort offers comfort and affordability. Guests may dip into one of two heated outdoor pools, one of which has a family fun kids' area. The 36-hole We-Ko-Pa Golf club is adjacent, while the casino, live entertainment, six restaurants, spa and salon reside on-site. The resort is also located near the area attractions of Old Town Scottsdale, McDowell Mountain Regional Park and Arizona Mills Outlet shopping mall.
Fort McDowell Casino
10438 North Fort McDowell Rd.
Fort McDowell, AZ 85264
800-333-3333
fortmcdowellcasino.com
The lodge at Cliff Castle is a 75-mile drive from Phoenix. The hotel is close to the casino, and a free 24-hour shuttle service connects the two. Though it features a casino, this hotel is family friendly with kids' amenities like the Shake, Rattle and Bowl and the Alley Video Arcade. After the adults spend a day of slots, poker and blackjack, the whole family can reunite for an old-fashioned burger and malt at Johnny Rockets. Area attractions include Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well and the red rocks of Sedona.
Cliff Castle Casino Hotel
555 Middle Verde Rd.
Camp Verde, AZ 86322
800-381-7568
cliffcastlecasino.net
