When you think of gambling hotspots, Pennsylvania might not be the first place that springs to mind. However, with a staggering 17 casinos scattered across the state, it’s becoming an increasingly appealing destination for those seeking a bit of excitement.
The journey of gambling in Pennsylvania dates back to the early 1990s when advocates began pushing for its legalization, eventually resulting in the passing of the Pennsylvania Racehorse Development and Gaming Act in 2004.
Since then, the industry has experienced a meteoric rise. Within just one year of legalization, seven casinos saw slots revenue surpassing the million-dollar mark each.
By 2009, Pennsylvania was ranked second only to Nevada in terms of slot machine revenue. Fast forward to today, and the gross gaming revenue for the state exceeds billions, providing livelihoods for nearly 65,000 individuals and significantly boosting the state’s economy.
Many of Pennsylvania’s top-tier casinos are conveniently situated in or around Philadelphia, offering visitors a tantalizing mix of luxury, entertainment, and culinary delights.
From boutique hotels boasting lavish suites to fine dining establishments serving up everything from succulent steaks to delectable Italian cuisine, these casinos are dedicated to delivering an unforgettable experience for their guests.
To determine the crème de la crème of Pennsylvania’s casino scene, our team at Casinos.com delved into TripAdvisor reviews, honing in on keywords like “luxury,” “magnificent,” “impressive,” and “indulge.” Here are the standout contenders:
1. Live! Casino Hotel Philadelphia:
Topping our list with a luxurious rating of 20.42%, Live! Casino Hotel Philadelphia has left guests spellbound with its Signature Corner Suite and overall opulent accommodations.
2. Rivers Casino Philadelphia:
While not claiming the top spot, Rivers Casino Philadelphia still garners praise, boasting a luxury rating of 7.87%. Visitors appreciate its comfortable ambiance and top-notch service.
3. Mount Airy Casino Resort Spa:
Nestled in Mount Pocono, this gem boasts a luxury rating of 6.99%. Guests rave about its diverse selection of slots, stellar staff, and cozy amenities.
While these casinos shine in the realm of luxury, there are a couple that fall short:
1. Harrah’s Philadelphia:
Bringing up the rear with a luxury rating of 2.65%, Harrah’s Philadelphia faces criticism in reviews regarding its ambiance, hinting at areas for improvement.
2. Presque Isle Downs & Casino:
With a modest luxury rating of 2.69%, this casino fails to leave a lasting impression on guests with its amenities and atmosphere.
In essence, Pennsylvania offers a gamut of casino experiences, ranging from lavish retreats to more understated establishments. Whether you’re craving opulence or simply looking to test your luck, the Keystone State has something to offer every kind of gambler.
Methodology:
Casinos.com meticulously analyzed TripAdvisor reviews, focusing on luxury-associated keywords to unearth Pennsylvania’s most sumptuous casinos. The luxury rating was computed based on the percentage of luxury-related mentions across the total number of TripAdvisor reviews.