Until recently, casinos in Pennsylvania were actually illegal and, as with many states in America were often relegated to Native American reservations. In 2004, however, Pennsylvania legislature made slot machines legal, and since that time a number of Pennsylvania casinos specializing in slot machine gambling have popped up throughout the state. In addition to the Pennsylvania and gaming spots, many of the new slot machines can be found on the grounds of race tracks, combining Pennsylvania casinos with track betting. Below travelers will find information regarding some of the most popular casinos in Pennsylvania.
Presque Isle Downs
Located in Erie, Pennsylvania, this is one of the most popular Pennsylvania casinos in this small town and throughout the state. Not only does the Presque Isle Downs features slots and video poker, but also features a race track. The track and casino is open from 9am until 4pm daily and has a restaurant onsite which is also open from 9am until 4pm.
Meadows
This Pennsylvania Casino is located in Meadow Lands, Pennsylvania and features both slots and video poker. On Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings visitors can see live harness racing. At all other times, live feeds of harness and thoroughbred racing are available via satellite television. Parking at the Meadows is free to patrons, and guests will find a restaurant onsite. The Meadows is open daily.
Harrah’s Chester Casino and Racetrack
Located in the city of Chester, Pennsylvania, Harrah’s Chester Casino is open from 9am until 4pm daily and features an onsite restaurant, slots and video poker. This Pennsylvania Casino also features live harness racing during racing season, which is typically during the summer months. Harness and thoroughbred racing are also available daily via satellite television.
Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs
Mohegan Sun is another of the most popular casinos in Pennsylvania and is located somewhat close to the famous Pocono Mountains in the town of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Admission to the track is free, as is parking, and this is one of the few Pennsylvania casinos which stays open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Along with the typical Pennsylvania and gaming attractions of slots and video poker, the casino has live simulcasts of harness racing during the racing season. Live racing also takes place on Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday evenings between the months of April and October.
Penn National Race Course
Found in the city of Grantville, Pennsylvania, admission to this Pennsylvania casino is $2 per person, and parking is free. Slots and Video poker are offered at the Penn National Race course, and guests will find a restaurant on site.
Anyone planning to visit a casino should note that although you only need to be 18 to gamble, you must be 21 years old in order to enter a bar. Many of the casinos are also bars which serve alcohol throughout, and as such minors will not be allowed in. Outdoor racetracks do not have an age restriction, however, patrons under age 18 cannot place bets.
