The casino culture in Idaho offers an intriguing blend of tradition and innovation. Idaho’s biggest casinos, while fewer in number compared to other states, promise an immersive experience for those seeking thrill and entertainment. Home to a collection of unique establishments like the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort and Fort Hall Casino, these hubs of gaming delight provide a selection of gaming options, from electronic pull-tab machines to an array of video games.
Casinos in Idaho
| Casino Name | City | County | State | Address | Casino Type | Operated by | Phone Number |
| Coeur d’Alene Casino | Worley | Kootenai | Idaho | 37914 South Nukwalqw St, Worley, ID 83876 | Native American | Coeur d’Alene Tribe | (800) 523-2464 |
| Clearwater Casino | Lewiston | Nez Perce | Idaho | 17500 Nez Perce Rd, Lewiston, ID 83501 | Native American | Nez Perce Tribe | (208) 746-0723 |
| Fort Hall Casino | Fort Hall | Fort Hall | Idaho | I-15 Exit 80 Simplot Road, Fort Hall, ID 83203 | Native American | Shoshone-Bannock Tribes | (800) 497-4231 |
| It’se Ye Ye Casino | Kamiah | Lewis | Idaho | 419 Third St, Kamiah, ID 83536 | Native American | Nez Perce Tribe | (208) 935-7860 |
| Kootenai River Inn and Casino | Bonners Ferry | Boundary | Idaho | 7169 Plaza St, Bonners Ferry, ID 83805 | Native American | Kootenai Tribe of Idaho | (800) 346-5668 |
Overview of Land-Based Casinos in Idaho
Idaho’s land-based casinos are primarily situated in off-the-beaten-path locations, making them exclusive destinations for those seeking to combine leisure with their gaming pursuits. Some of the state’s largest casinos include Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort, Fort Hall Casino, and Clearwater River Casino. Each offers a distinct atmosphere, game offerings, and associated amenities designed to provide a diverse and enjoyable experience for visitors.
Idaho’s Casino Landscape
Despite the state’s size, Idaho’s casino landscape is dispersed, predominantly located in remote, picturesque regions, rather than in urban centers like Boise and Idaho Falls. This unique arrangement adds a degree of serenity to the gaming experience, offsetting the excitement typically associated with casino environments.
Coeur d’Alene Casino
Clearwater Casino
Fort Hall Casino
It’se Ye Ye Casino
Kootenai River Inn and Casino
Gaming Options at Idaho Casinos
Idaho casinos offer a variety of gaming options. From a myriad of electronic pull-tab machines to captivating video games, the state’s gaming establishments have something to suit every taste. However, a distinct characteristic of Idaho casinos is the absence of live table games.
Slot Machines and Video Games
Slot machines and video games dominate the gaming floors of Idaho casinos. Players are spoilt for choice with a plethora of themes, from classic fruit machines to sophisticated video slots, offering a diverse and thrilling gaming experience.
Absence of Live Table Games
Idaho law prohibits live table games, making it a unique casino landscape in the United States. However, innovative video versions of popular table games like blackjack and roulette, offering interactive gameplay, are available as alternatives.
Native American Casinos in Idaho
Native American casinos significantly contribute to Idaho’s casino culture, offering a distinctive gaming experience that mirrors the state’s rich indigenous history. These tribal casinos provide an array of gaming options, further enriching the state’s casino landscape.
How Native American Casinos Operate
Native American casinos in Idaho, governed by tribal-state compacts, operate with a degree of autonomy. These establishments offer cash-based winnings, with certain tax implications differing from typical state-run casinos.
Gaming Options in Native American Casinos
Despite the absence of live table games, Native American casinos in Idaho offer electronic versions of popular games. These include electronic blackjack and roulette, allowing players to enjoy a modified version of these classic games.
History of Gambling in Idaho
1890 Idaho Statehood
Idaho became a state and, like many others during this period, has a thriving gambling scene.
1949 Strict Gambling Laws Enacted
Strict laws curtailing gambling activities are passed, drastically reducing the gambling scene in Idaho.
1963 Horse Racing Betting Legalized
Pari-mutuel betting on horse races becomes legal, marking the reintroduction of certain forms of gaming.
1988 Idaho Lottery Established
Idaho authorizes the creation of a state-run lottery, expanding the scope of legal gambling activities.
1992 First Tribal Casino Opens
The Coeur d’Alene Tribe opens the first tribal casino, introducing casino gaming to the state.
2002 Electronic Gaming Devices Legalized
Idaho passes a law allowing the use of certain electronic gaming devices in casinos.
2008 Introduction of Pull-Tabs
The state legalizes electronic pull-tab machines, adding to the gaming variety in casinos.
2015 Attempt to Ban Slot-like Machines
A bill to ban “instant racing” machines — slot-like devices that allow betting on prior horse races — passes, but it is later vetoed.
2020 Sports Betting Discussions
Though not yet legal, discussions begin about the possibility of legalizing sports betting, showing the ever-evolving nature of Idaho’s gambling landscape.
Conclusion
Idaho may not be the first destination that comes to mind when one thinks of casinos, but it offers a unique and enchanting casino experience. From the serene beauty of the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort to the captivating gaming at the Fort Hall Casino, Idaho’s casinos provide visitors with an opportunity to combine their love for gambling with the tranquility of nature.
While live table games may be absent, the electronic gaming options available ensure that visitors can still indulge in their favorite casino activities. Slot machines and video games offer thrilling gameplay, while electronic versions of table games provide a taste of strategic gaming.
Sources
FAQs
Idaho casinos offer a range of electronic games, including slot machines and video renditions of popular table games like blackjack and roulette. However, live table games are prohibited by state law.
There are five major casinos in Idaho, including the Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort, Clearwater Casino, Fort Hall Casino, It'se Ye Ye Casino, and Kootenai River Inn and Casino.
No, live table games are not allowed in Idaho. However, electronic versions of these games are available in casinos.
Idaho's casinos are primarily operated by Native American tribes.
The unique aspect of Idaho's casino scene is its serene, remote locations and the strong influence of indigenous culture, as the casinos are primarily operated by Native American tribes.
The legal age to gamble in Idaho's casinos is 18 years old. However, it's always a good idea to check with individual casinos as they may have their own age policies.
