Toronto, the largest city in Canada, is a hub of entertainment, food, and culture. However, for those seeking the thrill of gaming, the city and surrounding area have several world-class casinos that welcome casual and seasoned gamblers.
Of course, Toronto residents don’t always have to travel to a land-based casino to play slots and other popular table games. iGaming Ontario has agreements with several legal operators in the province, which means there are various regulated online casino options for Canadians in Toronto to choose from. Nevertheless, these state-of-the-art brick-and-mortar gambling resorts are surely must-visit destinations. Each land-based venue has unique attractions, so let’s explore them together:
Great Canadian Casino Resort
The Great Canadian Casino Resort opened its doors in 2023 and is located northwest of Toronto, making it one of the most accessible venues for locals. As part of the Woodbine Racetrack, which hosts the annual King’s Plate, the $8 billion casino and resort combines the thrill of gaming and horse race betting.
The 328,000-square-foot space features 4,800 slot machines, 145 live and electronic table games, and sports betting kiosks. High rollers also have dedicated VIP spaces featuring 200 slot machines and 25 live tables with high-stakes betting options. In addition, Casino Woodbine does not charge for admittance or parking and has many restaurants, bars, and live shows.
Great Blue Heron Casino
Great Blue Heron Casino, just a short drive outside of Toronto in Port Perry, is owned by the local company Great Canadian Entertainment. The casino has undergone various expansions in recent years, featuring a 116-room hotel with a total capacity of nearly 800 visitors. Additionally, the venue includes a 12,637 square-foot live entertainment space, ideal for hosting large-scale performances and concerts.
As for the gaming floor, visitors can enjoy over 600 slots, live and electronic table games, sports betting, and a dedicated poker room for classics like Omaha and Texas Hold’em. The latter is available in Limit and No Limit variations to accommodate casual and seasoned players alike.
It’s also worth mentioning that electronic table games and slot machines are available 24/7, while live casino tables operate from 10 am to 2 am every day, depending on demand.
Fallsview Casino Resort
While not technically in Toronto, Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls is 90 minutes outside the city but worth the trip, especially if you’re an international visitor who wants to see one of the world’s most famous attractions. The casino’s prime location offers breathtaking views of Niagara Falls, making it a bucket-list destination for tourists.
Equally impressive is the 200,000-square-foot casino floor, where visitors can try their luck on over 3,000 slot machines and 130 tables for games like blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat. Visitors should also visit the poker room, where 18 tables are available until 4 am daily, and over 20 sports betting kiosks with odds on local and international sporting events.
Furthermore, the complex has several entertainment offerings, from a 1,500-seat theatre that features Broadway-style performances and comedy shows to world-class accommodations and dining experiences.
Casino Rama Resort
Located in Orillia, about 90 minutes outside Toronto, the Casino Rama Resort is one of the largest and most luxurious casinos in Ontario. The venue is also the only First Nations commercial casino in the province. It features everything from gaming and entertainment to accommodations and various dining options, including the St. Germain’s Steakhouse with an award-winning wine list.
Casino visitors can access 1,800 slot machines and electronic and live table games, such as roulette, blackjack, poker, and baccarat, all with generous betting limits. Another attraction is the intimate poker room, which is well-equipped and features 12 tables. Moreover, Casino Rama offers a Bad Beat Jackpot on games like Limit and No Limit Texas Hold’em.
Pickering Casino Resort
Located just 30 minutes from Downtown Toronto is Pickering Casino Resort. The modern complex opened in 2021 and is the newest addition to the city's vibrant gambling scene. Interestingly, the Quality Business Awards rated Pickering Casino Resort as the #1 bed and breakfast in Pickering for 2024.
The resort has a state-of-the-art casino featuring over 2,000 slot machines, 100 tables, and a private poker room. The resort’s proximity to Toronto, an arena where visitors can catch live music, comedy, and theatrical productions, the restaurants, and free parking make the venue a popular option for local and international visitors.