Four Architecturally Impressive US Casinos (That Aren't In Las Vegas)
When it comes to global architecture, there are plenty of casinos that can compete with some of the world's most interesting or unique buildings. But American casinos, outside of Las Vegas? Well, you might be surprised.
Author:George EvansOct 06, 20255.3K Shares71.5K Views
Although most casinos in the US are flat boxes or concrete tower hotels designed for function over beauty, there are a few operators who took some architectural risks. From a casino in a historic downtown Chicago building to a sprawling casino resort with four distinct themed casino floors, to an elegant skyscraper by the coast, these are four of the most architecturally impressive US casinos that aren't in Sin City.
Connecticut's Mohegan Sun Is A Native-American Inspired Jewel
Mohegan Sun is a huge sprawling complex of a casino resort, with a huge list of amenities and features to rival any large Las Vegas casino resort.
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No expense was spared in the architectural design of the Mohegan Sun's two main casinos, Casino of the Earth and the Casino of the Sky. Each is distinctly themed, offering unique architectural tributes to the Native American Mohegan tribe's culture.
Some of the key features that make this resort so impressive include:
- A dramatic three story indoor waterfall
- A three story tall crystal rock exhibit, with a walkway guests can walk around
- A huge River of Time mural, that snakes its way along the floor around the whole complex, telling mythological tales of Mohegan lore
- A Hall of Lost Tribes exhibit, showing artefacts of the Mohegan people going back centuries
Of course there's also a whole lot of casino gambling too. Mohegan Sun has more than 7000 slot machines, across four casino floors, as well as 370 table games and a full-service sportsbook and sports bar.
Caesars New Orleans Fuses Louisiana Charm With Faux Roman Vibes
In the global gambling game, few venues are as famous as Las Vegas' Caesars Palace. But not as many people around the world know that Caesars Entertainment runs a dozen regional US casinos too, and Caesars New Orleans is one of the best of them.
The decadent New Orleans party atmosphere of the French Quarter was bound to be a good fit for casino gambling - but for many years casinos in Louisiana were confined to boats. No longer, however.
Caesars New Orleans is a 11500 square foot casino, with faux-Greco-Roman frontage that appeals to the same indulgent sensibilities of the French architecture around it.
Inside, the casino floor has more than 2000 slot machines and a dozen table games. But one of the big draws here is the fancy restaurants and bars, including several upscale eateries that come highly rated among New Orleans visitors.
Encore Boston Harbor Is Timeless Elegance
It takes a lot for a big casino building that is the only large structure for quite a few miles around to not look incongruous. But if anyone was going to do it, it would be Wynn Resorts.
The luxury Las Vegas-based operator has a template for its casino resort designs - but it's one that works. Sleek, flowing lines, dark but reflective windows, with golden accenting towards the building's edges.
When Encore Boston Harbor catches the sun on a crisp Massachusetts morning.... as the light reflects of the elegant glowing script of the Encore logo... mwah, chef's kiss.
It is a relatively simple building, but, as with a lot of what famously particular operator Wynn Resorts does, it's done to the highest standards.
Bally's Medinah Temple Is (For Now) Chicago's Only Casino
The Medinah Temple building is a listed Chicago landmark - and it currently hosts a Bally's casino. Not many gambling companies can say they've done that.
The 1912-building was first put up in Downtown Windy City as a chapter house for The Shriners, a Masonic group based in New York. Already getting interesting here.
As well as stained glass windows on the frontage, the building also has a beautiful domed skylight above its main auditorium area (now a casino floor).
Rhode Island-based gambling operator Bally's took over the building for a temporary casino venue in 2021, while it builds the first large scale casino resort in downtown Chicago a few blocks away. That venue, much less architecturally beautiful, is set to open in 2027, so for now there is a casino in this historic spot.
Somewhat inauspiciously, a shooting occurred just opposite the downtown Chicago venue the day after it opened. The casino floor is also quite limited for space by historic building features that are protected by city regulations. So, although it looks nice, the casino hasn't been the most impressive economic performer for Bally's so far.
The operator will no doubt be hoping it's less attractive but much bigger and commercially viable full casino project will do better when it opens in a couple of years.
George Evans
Author
George Anderson, an exceptional architectural designer, envisions and brings to life structures that transcend the realm of imagination. With an unwavering passion for design and an innate eye for detail, George seamlessly blends form and function, creating immersive spaces that inspire awe.
Driven by a deep appreciation for the interplay of space, light, and materials, George's innovative approach redefines the possibilities of architectural design. His visionary compositions leave an indelible mark, evoking a sense of wonder and transforming the built environment.
George Anderson's transformative designs and unwavering dedication continue to shape the architectural landscape, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring generations to come.
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