Locations of all casinos in Chicago
Let’s take a look at the locations of the nine casinos in Chicago and touch on the highlights of each.
Casinos in Chicago
As the third largest metropolitan area in the country, Chicago is home to nearly three million people and is one of the largest cities in the world. It doesn’t hurt that the area also has a rich history when it comes to gambling, as casinos in Chicago have exploded in recent years.
Are any more casinos opening in Chicago in the future?
At this time, there are no new casinos planned to open in Chicago in the near future. We will update this page if this changes.
What types of games can you play at Chicago casinos?
As we’ve covered today at length, there are many types of games you can play at Chicago casinos. Let’s dive into each category of gaming, and give you an idea of what to expect for your first visit.
History of Chicago casinos
Legal gambling in Illinois evolved in stages long before a casino opened inside Chicago city limits. The state legalized pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing in 1927, then launched the Illinois Lottery in 1974, with instant games following in 1975.
Modern casino gaming began with the Riverboat Gambling Act on February 7, 1990. The Illinois Gaming Board issued the first license to Alton, where the Alton Belle became the state’s first riverboat casino on September 10, 1991—at a time when boats were required to cruise. In 1999, lawmakers ended the cruising requirement and allowed casinos to operate while permanently docked, accelerating growth around Chicagoland, including Hollywood Casino Aurora, which opened in 1993.
A Chicago casino wasn’t authorized until the state’s 2019 gaming expansion law (Public Act 101-0031), which added six new casinos statewide—including one in the City of Chicago—and legalized sports wagering. The city selected Bally’s to develop the project, and the first official casino within Chicago opened as a temporary venue at Medinah Temple on September 9, 2023, pending completion of the permanent River West resort targeted for 2026.
FAQ
How old should I be to gamble at casinos in Chicago?
While you can visit casinos in Chicago at any age, you must be 21 years of age or older to gamble at casinos in Chicago.
Which was the first casino to open in Chicago?
The first casino to open in Chicago was the Argosy Casino Alton in 1991, which opened as a small riverboat casino.
Do I pay taxes on winnings from Chicago casinos?
Yes, the Illinois tax rate on gambling earnings is a flat 4.95% rate. You are best advised to confer with a tax professional on your specific tax situation.
Are there any casinos in downtown Chicago?
Yes, there is a Bally’s Casino Chicago located right in downtown Chicago. It is a temporary casino located at the Medinah Temple and it will remain open until 2026, when the permanent Bally’s Casino Chicago is scheduled to open.
Are there any casinos in Chicago with hotels?
Yes, there are many casinos in Chicago’s surrounding area with hotels. Refer to our full list noted above to see which casinos offer hotels.
Can I play at casinos online in Chicago?
No, you cannot play at casinos online in Chicago. Illinois online casinos are not legal, though sweepstakes and social casinos offer a legal option for real-money gaming.