Best Casino In Vicksburg
So you're looking for the best casino action in Vicksburg, Mississippi? You're probably trying to figure out which spot actually pays out, which one has the loosest slots, and—most importantly—which one won't serve you watered-down drinks while you're trying to double your money. Vicksburg isn't Las Vegas, but this historic river town packs a serious punch with four major casino resorts right on the Mississippi River. Having spent countless hours on these floors, I can tell you that not all Vicksburg casinos are created equal. Some are perfect for serious table game action, while others are better if you just want to zone out at the penny slots. Let's break down where you should actually be spending your time and money.
Top-Rated Vicksburg Casino Resorts Compared
Choosing where to play isn't just about who has the biggest sign. It's about the games, the atmosphere, and the overall value. There are four main players in town: Ameristar, Gold Strike, Riverwalk, and WaterView. Each has a distinct personality.
Ameristar Vicksburg is arguably the most polished of the bunch. It feels the most like a destination you'd find in a larger market. The gaming floor is spacious, the ventilation is actually decent (you won't leave smelling like an ashtray), and the hotel rooms are genuinely comfortable. If you're a table game player, this is likely your best bet—they usually have a solid spread of Blackjack, Craps, and Roulette with limits that don't require a second mortgage.
Gold Strike Casino Resort, owned by Bally's, is a close contender. It has a slightly more intimate vibe compared to Ameristar. Many locals gravitate here, which is usually a good sign. The slot selection is extensive, and the video poker machines are well-maintained. Plus, their buffet is legendary in these parts—definitely worth a pit stop even if you’re not a high roller.
Riverwalk Casino & Hotel offers a different flavor. Located inside a historical building, it has more character than your average box casino. The floor is smaller, but that can mean better service and a friendlier atmosphere. WaterView Casino & Hotel, perched on the bluff, lives up to its name with great views of the river, though the gaming floor is more modest compared to the giants down the road.
| Casino | Best For | Table Games | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ameristar Vicksburg | Table Games & Poker | Yes (Blackjack, Craps, Roulette) | Spa & Largest Hotel |
| Gold Strike (Bally's) | Slots & Dining | Yes | Famous Buffet |
| Riverwalk Casino | Historic Atmosphere | Yes | Unique Architecture |
| WaterView Casino | Relaxed Gaming | Limited | River Bluff Views |
Slot Machines and Gaming Variety
If you're chasing a jackpot, Vicksburg has you covered. All four casinos offer a mix of classic reel slots, modern video slots, and video poker. Ameristar typically leads the pack in sheer volume—they have over 1,500 machines. You'll find all the popular titles like Wheel of Fortune, Buffalo Grand, and plenty of progressive banks where the pots actually grow to life-changing sums.
One thing to watch for is the payout percentage. While Mississippi doesn't publicly post specific RTP (Return to Player) stats by casino, the general rule of thumb is that competition keeps these places honest. Gold Strike and Ameristar, fighting for the same customer base, tend to keep their slots competitive. If you prefer video poker, look for full-pay machines—usually Jacks or Better—though you might have to hunt a bit to find a machine that pays 9 credits for a Full House and 6 for a Flush.
Betting Limits and Payouts
What kind of bankroll do you need? Penny slots are everywhere, making it easy to stretch $20 into an hour of play. On the flip side, high-limit rooms at Ameristar offer $25 and $100 spins for those feeling lucky. Table game minimums generally start around $10 or $15 for Blackjack during weekdays, but can jump to $25 on Friday and Saturday nights. Craps minimums usually start at $10. If you’re a low-stakes player, try visiting during off-peak hours for better odds and more attentive dealers.
Player Rewards and Promotions
Casinos love to talk about their loyalty programs, but which ones actually give you free stuff? In Vicksburg, the rewards programs are often tied to larger national networks, which is a huge plus if you travel.
Ameristar uses the PENN Play program. This is one of the better loyalty cards in the country because you can earn and redeem points at dozens of properties nationwide. Spend a weekend playing slots here, and you might just earn a comped night in Las Vegas or Black Hawk. New sign-ups often get a “new member bonus,” which could be free slot play or a dining credit—always ask the player's club desk what the current promo is before you swipe your card.
Gold Strike operates on the Bally’s Rewards system. It’s similar in structure—earn tier credits for play and get rewarded with free bets, hotel stays, and discounts. Riverwalk and WaterView use the Constellation card system. While their networks are smaller, the benefit is that smaller casinos often offer better tier upgrade rates, meaning you can hit “Elite” status faster than you would at a massive Strip property.
Pro tip: always check the promotions calendar before driving out. Casinos frequently run “Hot Seat” drawings, point multipliers (like 5x points on Tuesdays), or loss rebates for new members. These offers can significantly swing the math in your favor.
Dining and Entertainment Options
You can’t gamble on an empty stomach. Fortunately, Vicksburg has stepped up its culinary game. The buffet at Gold Strike is widely considered the best in town. It’s not just standard fried chicken and green beans; they often feature prime rib, crab legs, and a Southern dessert spread that is worth the price of admission alone.
Ameristar offers a bit more variety. You have the standard buffet, but also a steakhouse (Bottleneck Blues Bar) that serves surprisingly high-quality cuts and BBQ. It’s a great place to celebrate a big win, or drown your sorrows after a bad beat. Riverwalk and WaterView both have casual dining options that are perfectly serviceable—think burgers, sandwiches, and catfish—but if you want a “foodie” experience, stick to the bigger resorts.
Entertainment-wise, don’t expect Celine Dion residencies. The venues here host regional acts, cover bands, and the occasional comedy show. However, the bars inside the casinos are usually lively, especially on weekends, with live music and sports on the big screens.
Visiting Vicksburg: Location and Legal Details
For players coming from out of state, Vicksburg is conveniently located right off Interstate 20, about 45 minutes west of Jackson, Mississippi. It’s a quick detour if you’re driving between Dallas and Atlanta. The legal gambling age in Mississippi is 21 for casinos. You’ll need a valid ID to get on the floor, and security is tight—they card religiously.
Mississippi law dictates that casinos must be on water, but you won't be gambling on a boat that rocks with the waves. These are technically “dockside” casinos, meaning they are built on barges but are permanently moored, so you get the stability of a land-based building with the novelty of being on the river.
Parking is free at nearly all Vicksburg casinos, which is a nice change from the $40 valet fees you see in other markets. Valet parking is available for hotel guests and high-tier loyalty members, but self-parking lots are well-lit and close to the entrances.
FAQ
Is there a casino in Vicksburg that has poker rooms?
Live poker is currently limited in Vicksburg. Ameristar has historically offered poker, but availability can change. It is best to call ahead or check their website for the current status of the poker room before making a trip specifically for Texas Hold'em.
Which Vicksburg casino has the loosest slots?
While specific payout percentages aren't publicly reported, many players report better luck at Gold Strike and Ameristar due to the high volume of machines and competition between the two. Riverwalk is often cited by locals as having decent payouts on smaller denomination slots.
Can you smoke inside Vicksburg casinos?
Yes, smoking is generally permitted on the gaming floors in Mississippi casinos. However, most properties have designated non-smoking areas or separate rooms for players who prefer a smoke-free environment. Ameristar generally has better ventilation systems than older properties.
Are drinks free while gambling in Vicksburg?
Yes, casinos in Mississippi serve complimentary beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) to players who are actively gambling. Cocktail waitresses circulate the floor, but it is customary to tip $1-$2 per drink to ensure prompt service.
Do I need to stay at the hotel to play at the casino?
No, all casinos in Vicksburg are open to the public. You do not need to be a hotel guest to access the gaming floor, restaurants, or bars. You can simply walk in, show your ID at the door, and start playing.