Although gambling is illegal in California, certain forms authorized by the state or its Native American tribes are entirely legal.
Combine that with the beauty of the Bay Area, and you’ll understand why this region is a popular vacation destination.
If you’re looking to spend your holiday outside your state’s borders or simply wish to experience something new, we have prepared a list of the top hotels in San Francisco that feature casino floors.
Is there a better way to spend your days off?
1. Graton Casino & Resort
Location: 288 Golf Course Dr W, Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Size: 135,000 square feet
The Graton Casino & Resort is the biggest facility in the Bay Area, located only 50 miles from San Francisco. The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria stand behind the hotel and casino, while the Station Casinos operate the gaming floor.
Graton has 200 rooms on the property, one of which is a 2,600-square-foot suite. So, if you’re looking for an exclusive vacation with an in-room billiard pool, jetted tub, and much more, this is the right choice.
The casino floor has over 3,500 slot games and 100 table games where you can fish for big wins. The Live poker room offers both morning and evening tournaments, so even if you’re an early bird, you can get a piece of the action.
If you’re looking for the whole package, don’t forget to visit the Event room and experience a Latin night or enjoy a performance from one of your favorite artists or comedians.
2. Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort
Location: 12222 New York Ranch Rd, Jackson, CA 95642
Size: 258,000 square feet
The Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort is just a two-hour drive from San Francisco. The place started operating in 1991 as a bingo hall under the watchful eye of the Band of Miwuk Indians. Over the years, the place has evolved into a stunning casino and hotel, spreading over 28,000 square yards.
It is unique because it tries to please its high-end customers and adventure-seekers. The ranch offers a top-tier hotel and RV park, allowing guests to book some of the 86 available rooms or a parking spot. The RV park is just a 5-minute drive to the casino, so you won’t lose any precious gaming time.
If you’re in it only for the gaming experience, we suggest trying some of the 1,700+ slot games or finding a seat at a table of your preference. Jackson Rancheria has 32 engaging table game offerings, including the ever-popular Texas Hold’em and many other variations on poker, blackjack, baccarat, and more.
Take a break from gaming in one of the two restaurants or eat breakfast for dinner in Margaret’s Cafe and Bakery — you won’t be sorry.
3. Colusa Casino Resort
Location: 3770 CA-45, Colusa, CA 95932
Size: 50,000 square feet
If you plan to visit Sacramento on your Cali trip, we suggest going further north and staying at the Colusa Casino Resort. Around 120 miles from San Francisco and 68 miles from Sacto lies this feature-rich casino and resort. The area offers plenty of exciting activities if that’s what makes your dream vacation.
The resort is called the River Valley Lodge and is located only a few steps from the casino. A lodge may not sound appealing at first, but once you see the amenities and luxuriousness of this stay, you won’t want to miss it. A beautiful creek is only a few minutes away, and a fine dining experience awaits you on the other end.
The gaming floor features 1,200 slot titles, high-stakes bingo games, and table games. If you want to switch it up and try bingo, Colusa is the right choice, as it has awarded the highest payouts in North Cal for 30 years. If you want to get in on the real action, we suggest getting your chips ready for a game of Down Under Blackjack or 3-Card Fortune Poker.
4. Twin Pine Casino & Hotel
Location: 2223 CA-29, Middletown, CA 95461
Size: 25,000 square feet
If driving is not an issue for you, you’ll have no problem sitting behind the wheel and traveling more than two hours north of SF to get to the Twin Pine Casino & Hotel, owned by the Middletown Rancheria of Pomo Indians. Located close to Clear Lake, this casino and resort has been offering a true break from the city crowds since it opened in 1994.
The hotel has 59 rooms, including three luxury suites for anyone looking to treat themselves. Suites come with a king bed, spacious living room and dining area, and a lavish Roman tub for long, haven-like soaks.
Guests looking for gaming opportunities at the location will be happy to hear about Twin Pine’s casino floor. The space is filled with the latest slot machines that accept bets from one penny to $5. Some of the friendliest dealers will welcome you to a game of Double Deck Blackjack or Three Card Super Shot Poker — it’s up to you.
The whole getaway wouldn’t be complete without top-class entertainment at the Grapevine lounge and bar or a great dining experience at Manzanita restaurant. There’s more to experience, so book your room in advance.
5. Tachi Palace Casino & Resort
Location: 17225 Jersey Ave, Lemoore, CA 93245
Size: 140,000 square feet
Any player will tell you that driving four hours to get to a good casino is not an issue. And we hope you’re one of those people since Tachi Palace is our list’s furthest location from San Francisco. Nevertheless, this casino and resort deserves a place here since it offers a top-notch gaming experience in a resort setting.
You’ll notice that the casino and spa resemble a big Vegas hotel in sunny central California. The luxuriousness of this oasis is all you need to relax on your holiday. All rooms and suites come with 40” TVs, WiFi, in-room dining, valet parking, and everything else to make your mind unwind.
Tachi Palace offers high gaming action with over 2,000 gaming machines with numerous denominations and themes. Make sure you book your seat at the table and try to get rich playing Spanish 21, 3-Card Poker, Baccarat, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, and more.
6. Thunder Valley Casino Resort
Location: 1200 Athens Ave, Lincoln, CA 95648
Size: 275,000-square-foot
Just a short drive from San Francisco, you’ll find a sky-high hotel with a large gaming floor of 144,500 sq ft owned and operated by the United Auburn Indian Community. Thunder Valley has plenty to offer in terms of luxury stays, gaming, and dining, but it takes it to another level with great rewards, events, and a spa experience.
All hotel rooms are equipped with the latest tech and comfy beds to make your stay much more enjoyable. You can opt to dine in your room, experience first-class meals in your bed, and then relax at the spa trying out different treatments.
The casino offers classic and new slot titles, various table games from blackjack to baccarat, and even bingo games. Thunder Valley also has a dedicated poker room with tournaments that might make you prolong your stay. Don’t forget to experience high-limit gaming at the Premier Salon if you’re into that.
The entertainment at this location is paramount — from live concerts to vivid nightlife and special events, you’ll have the time of your life.
7. Cache Creek Casino Resort
Location: 14455 CA-16, Brooks, CA 95606
Size: 74,270 square feet
The Cache Creek casino and resort is owned and operated by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, located only an hour’s ride from San Fran. The whole resort looks like a movie with its spacious hotel, pool, and spa.
The North and South Towers are home to spacious standard and deluxe rooms and junior and executive suites. All rooms are fully equipped, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. The spa and pool are available to guests wanting to unwind or prepare themselves for a heat-filled poker game.
The gaming floor offers a world-class experience with over 2,300 slots and many authentic slot machines that you can only find here. Table games are aplenty, and Cache Creek even has a High Limit Room to welcome more ambitious players. There’s even an Elevate Lounge that offers cocktails and gaming right at the bar!
Don’t forget to check the upcoming entertainment calendar and book your vacation when a famous DJ or comedian comes into town.
8. Harrah’s Resort and Casino
Location: 777 S Resort Dr, Valley Center, CA 92082
Size: 59,000 square feet
Harrah’s offers first-class gaming and lounging experience in California. The one-hour flight is worth it if you’re into the brand behind the name.
The rooms and suites at Harrah’s match world-class standards and allow you to indulge in luxuriousness and take in breathtaking views. The resort also has a pool, spa, and wellness center to keep you fresh during the day. You can also check out some organized activities if you’re into that.
Playtime is all the time — Harrah’s motto surely knows how to attract players to its gaming floor. With more than 1,500 slots and 50 table games, you will find something to keep you going. Don’t forget to check the daily promotions or join the rewards club to take full advantage of your vacation.
The Events Center is always filled with various performances, shows, activities, and more. There’s even a golf course if you want to channel your inner Tiger Woods.
9. Morongo Casino Resort & Spa
Location: 49500 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA 92230
Size: 44 acres
A one-hour flight south of San Francisco, you’ll find 44 acres owned by the Morongo Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians. This is home to one of the largest resorts in California, equipped with a top-notch casino, hotel, and spa.
The hotel has 310 rooms and suites on 27 floors, so you can only guess how amazing the views are. The palm trees around the pool give off beachy vibes, so you’ll feel like you’re on a tropical trip. You can complete your vacation with spa specials, massage treatments, radiance salon therapies, and more.
The gaming floor is 150,000 sq ft, making it one of the largest on the West Coast. Slots and table games are a staple here, with non-smoking rooms for complete indulgence. You can also try high-limit gaming at the 155-seat High Limit Slot Room. Why not treat yourself?
10. Gold Country Casino Resort
Location: 4020 Olive Hwy, Oroville, CA 95966
Size: 60,000 square feet
Lastly, the Gold Country casino resort is located around 150 miles from the City of Fog, heading northeast. The casino and resort is owned and operated by the Tyme Maidu Tribe of the Berry Creek Rancheria.
The hotel offers exclusive deals depending on your needs, meaning you can pick and choose what you want. All the rooms are modern and fully equipped, many with balconies. Gold Country also offers an RV park for people on the road, located very close to the casino and resort.
The gaming floor might not be among the biggest on this list, but it offers a decent selection of slot and table games. We suggest giving 3-Card Stud, Pai Gow, or Ultimate Texas Hold’em a go if you don’t have a favorite table game. You can expect a warm welcome and professional dealers to take you through the experience.