Located on the bustling Boulder Highway, Boulder Station Casino is a beloved off-strip destination for locals and visitors looking for an authentic Las Vegas experience without the hectic pace of the Strip. Since opening its doors in 1994, Boulder Station has built a reputation as a hub for great gaming, affordable dining, live entertainment, and comfortable accommodations. With its spacious casino floor and extensive range of amenities, this Station Casino property has something for everyone, from avid gamblers to families on vacation. In this article, we’ll explore the many facets of Boulder Station Casino, from its exciting casino floor to the numerous entertainment and dining options that make it a must-visit.
A Glimpse Into Boulder Station’s History
Boulder Station was the first in a series of Station Casinos designed to cater to the needs of locals rather than tourists. At a time when the Strip’s mega-resorts were becoming more extravagant, Boulder Station aimed to create a more accessible and laid-back environment. Built with a nod to a classic Western train station theme, it featured brick walls, wooden accents, and stained glass windows, creating a nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere. Over the years, the property has evolved with the times, modernizing its offerings while staying true to its roots as a locals’ favorite.
Gaming at Boulder Station: A Comprehensive Guide
Boulder Station boasts one of the largest and most diverse casino floors among Las Vegas’ off-strip properties. Spanning over 75,000 square feet, the gaming area offers a wide range of options for both novice players and seasoned pros.
Slot Machines and Video Poker: Endless Variety
One of Boulder Station’s most popular features is its extensive selection of slot machines. With over 2,800 slot and video poker machines, you’ll find something for every preference, from classic three-reel slots to the latest themed video slots featuring high-tech graphics and immersive experiences.
- Popular Slots: Titles such as Buffalo Gold, Wheel of Fortune, and Dragon Link attract players with their vibrant visuals and bonus features.
- Progressive Jackpots: Boulder Station offers several progressive slot machines where the jackpot grows with every spin. These machines can offer life-changing payouts, with some jackpots reaching into the millions.
- High Limit Area: For those who enjoy playing at higher stakes, Boulder Station’s high-limit slot area offers machines with denominations ranging from $1 to $100. Here, you can enjoy a more private gaming experience with increased payouts.
Video poker enthusiasts are also well-catered for, with multiple variations such as Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and Double Double Bonus Poker. The video poker area is equipped with comfortable seating and plenty of machines to ensure players can always find a spot.
Table Games: A Variety of Classics
Boulder Station offers a wide selection of table games for those who prefer the excitement of playing them, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Blackjack: Boulder Station is known for offering favorable blackjack rules, including tables with 3:2 payouts on blackjack. You’ll find multiple tables with varying limits, making it accessible for both casual and high-stakes players.
- Craps: The lively craps tables at Boulder Station are always a draw for those who love fast-paced action. With minimum bets starting as low as $5 during off-peak hours, it’s an approachable game for newcomers.
- Roulette: Boulder Station offers both American and European roulette, with betting options for every budget. Whether you prefer betting on red or black or trying your luck with a number bet, the friendly dealers are always on hand to guide new players.
- Baccarat: Baccarat is a favorite among those who enjoy a more sophisticated gaming experience. With both mini and midi baccarat tables available, players can enjoy this classic game in an approachable setting.
Boulder Station also offers specialty games such as Three Card Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, and Pai Gow Poker, providing plenty of variety for those looking to mix things up.
The Poker Room: A Local Favorite
Boulder Station’s poker room is one of the most popular off-strip locations for poker enthusiasts, offering an intimate yet competitive atmosphere. The 24-hour poker room offers a range of games, from low-limit Texas Hold’em to higher-stakes Omaha.
- Daily Tournaments: Boulder Station hosts daily poker tournaments with buy-ins that start as low as $40, making it accessible for players of all experience levels. The tournaments attract a mix of locals and tourists, creating a welcoming yet competitive environment.
- Cash Games: For those who prefer cash games, the poker room offers No-Limit Hold’em and Omaha tables with various stakes to suit all budgets. The friendly and knowledgeable staff ensure the games run smoothly, making it an ideal location for serious and casual players alike.
Bingo: A Las Vegas Institution
Boulder Station’s bingo hall is one of the largest and most popular in Las Vegas, with seating for over 500 players. Whether you’re a seasoned bingo player or a first-timer, Boulder Station’s bingo sessions are fun, fast-paced, and offer a chance to win big.
- Eight Daily Sessions: With eight bingo sessions held daily, there’s always a game to join. Games are offered at various price points, ensuring that both casual players and serious bingo enthusiasts can find a session that suits their budget.
- Progressive Jackpots: Besides regular payouts, Boulder Station offers progressive jackpots that can reach thousands of dollars. Special themed bingo nights, such as Cosmic Bingo, add an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
Race and Sports Book: Catch All the Action
Sports enthusiasts will feel right at home at Boulder Station’s race and sports book, which offers a state-of-the-art viewing area complete with HD screens, comfortable seating, and plenty of betting options.
- Betting Options: You can place bets on all major sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and college sports. Whether you’re looking to bet on the spread, moneyline, or over/under, Boulder Station’s sportsbook has you covered.
- Horse Racing: Boulder Station offers simulcast wagering on tracks from around the country for horse racing fans. With comfortable seating and a dedicated viewing area, it’s an ideal spot for racing enthusiasts to catch all the action.
Rewards and Promotions: The Boarding Pass Advantage
One of Boulder Station’s standout features is its Boarding Pass loyalty program. This program allows players to earn points that can be redeemed for free play, dining, and hotel stays.
- Earning Points: Players earn points simply by playing their favorite games, whether it’s slots, table games, or poker. The more you play, the more points you earn, which can be redeemed for a wide range of rewards.
- Exclusive Promotions: Boulder Station regularly offers promotions such as slot tournaments, prize giveaways, and multipoint days, where players can earn extra rewards for their play.
Dining at Boulder Station: A Culinary Journey
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a lavish meal, Boulder Station offers a variety of dining options to satisfy every craving. From casual eateries to fine dining, the casino’s restaurants serve up a wide range of cuisines.
The Feast Buffet: An All-You-Can-Eat Experience
One of Boulder Station’s most popular dining spots is the Feast Buffet, which offers an incredible selection of dishes worldwide. With multiple stations featuring different cuisines, there’s something for everyone.
- Global Flavors: The Feast Buffet features a variety of cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, Chinese, and American comfort food. The buffet offers an extensive selection of dishes from tacos and enchiladas to pasta and pizza.
- Seafood Nights: Seafood lovers will appreciate the buffet’s popular seafood nights, which feature items such as king crab legs, shrimp, and oysters. These special nights draw crowds from all over Las Vegas.
- Affordable Pricing: Despite its vast selection, the Feast Buffet remains one of the most affordable buffets in Las Vegas. Discounts are also available for Boarding Pass members.
The Broiler: Upscale Steak and Seafood
For those seeking a more refined dining experience, The Broiler offers a classic steakhouse ambiance with an impressive menu of prime steaks and fresh seafood.
- Signature Dishes: The Broiler’s menu features a variety of steak cuts, including Filet Mignon, Ribeye, and the Porterhouse, all cooked to perfection. For seafood lovers, options like lobster tail, Alaskan king crab, and jumbo shrimp are standout choices.
- Wine List: The Broiler boasts an extensive wine list, with selections from around the world to complement any meal. Whether you prefer a robust red or a crisp white, you’ll find the perfect pairing for your meal.
Guadalajara: Authentic Mexican Cuisine
Guadalajara delivers with its vibrant flavors and festive atmosphere if you’re in the mood for Mexican food. This restaurant is a local favorite known for its generous portions and authentic dishes.
- House Specials: Try the carne asada, Chicken Fajitas, or chili rellenos for a taste of traditional Mexican flavors. Pair your meal with a Margarita or Sangria for the full experience.
- Family-Friendly: Guadalajara’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a great choice for families and groups.
Other Dining Options
- Pasta Cucina: A cozy Italian restaurant offering classic dishes such as Spaghetti Bolognese, Chicken Parmigiana, and Lasagna. Perfect for a casual yet hearty meal.
- Grand Café: Open 24/7, the Grand Café is a diner-style restaurant serving hearty breakfasts, burgers, and salads.
- Food Court: For a quick and convenient bite, the food court offers popular chains like Subway, Panda Express, and Starbucks.
Nightlife and Entertainment at Boulder Station
Boulder Station is not just a gaming destination; it’s also a hub for nightlife and entertainment. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live music, grab a drink, or catch a live performance, Boulder Station has plenty to offer.
The Railhead: Live Music and More
One of Las Vegas’s best-kept secrets, The Railhead is Boulder Station’s live entertainment venue, hosting everything from rock concerts to stand-up comedy shows.
- Intimate Venue: With a capacity of just 750, The Railhead offers an intimate concert experience, allowing you to get up close to the performers.
- Diverse Lineup: The Railhead hosts a wide variety of acts, including local bands, tribute shows, and national touring artists. It’s also a hotspot for tribute acts paying homage to legends like Elvis, The Beatles, and Led Zeppelin.
Kixx Bar: Live Music and Dancing
For those who prefer a more casual night out, Kixx Bar offers live music most nights of the week, along with affordable drink specials and a laid-back vibe. Whether you’re in the mood to dance the night away or just enjoy some great local talent, Kixx Bar provides a fun and relaxed environment for everyone.
- Live Music: Enjoy performances by local bands and DJs, with genres ranging from rock and pop to country and R&B.
- Dance Floor: The spacious dance floor invites guests to let loose and enjoy the music, making Kixx Bar one of the best spots in the area for dancing.
- Affordable Drinks: Kixx Bar is known for its reasonably priced drinks, including beer, cocktails, and specialty mixed drinks, with regular drink specials to sweeten the deal.
Bars and Lounges
Boulder Station offers several additional spots to unwind with a drink, perfect for both those looking to relax and those eager to keep the party going.
- Gaudi Bar: Centrally located on the casino floor, Gaudi Bar is Boulder Station’s main cocktail lounge, offering signature drinks and a welcoming atmosphere. With comfortable seating and an artful design, it’s a great spot for people-watching or taking a break from the gaming floor.
- Sports Bar: Positioned near the sports book, this bar is ideal for grabbing a drink while watching your favorite games on big-screen TVs. It’s a popular spot during major sporting events like NFL Sundays and March Madness.
- Bingo Bar: For bingo enthusiasts, the Bingo Bar provides a convenient spot to grab a quick drink between games. It’s a perfect place to relax and recharge right next to the bingo hall.
Family-Friendly Entertainment at Boulder Station
While Boulder Station is known for its gaming and nightlife, it also caters to families with a range of entertainment options.
Regal Boulder Station Movie Theater
The Regal Boulder Station Movie Theater offers a great way to catch the latest blockbusters in a comfortable, state-of-the-art setting. This multi-screen theater is popular among locals for its reasonable ticket prices and clean, modern facilities.
- Luxury Seating: The theater has plush, reclining seats for ultimate comfort.
- Concessions: The concession stand offers a wide variety of snacks, from traditional popcorn and candy to nachos and hot dogs.
- Discount Days: Moviegoers can take advantage of special discount days, such as $5 Tuesdays, making it an affordable entertainment option for the whole family.
Kids Quest: Safe Fun for Kids
For families visiting Boulder Station, Kids Quest is a supervised play area where children can enjoy a variety of activities while parents enjoy the casino or other adult-oriented entertainment.
- Activities for All Ages: Kids can participate in everything from arts and crafts to video games and arcade-style activities. There’s also a dedicated toddler zone for younger children.
- Safe and Secure: Kids Quest is fully supervised by trained staff, ensuring a safe and fun environment for children.
- Hourly Rates: Parents can drop their kids off for a few hours of playtime, with hourly rates based on the child’s age.
Nearby Attractions and Entertainment
Although Boulder Station offers plenty of entertainment on its own, it is conveniently located near several other attractions and entertainment options, making it a great base for exploring the Las Vegas area beyond the Strip.
Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall
Just a short drive down Boulder Highway is Sam’s Town, another favorite off-strip casino known for its unique indoor Mystic Falls Park. This park features a beautiful waterfall surrounded by live plants, with animatronic animals that come to life during regular laser light shows.
- Mystic Falls Laser Light Show: The laser light show at Mystic Falls Park is one of the highlights of Sam’s Town and is held several times a day, making it a fun, family-friendly outing.
- Bowling and Movie Theater: Sam’s Town also offers a bowling alley and a movie theater, providing even more entertainment options for Boulder Station guests.
Lake Mead and Hoover Dam
For those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Las Vegas area, Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam are just a short drive from Boulder Station.
- Boating and Water Sports: Lake Mead is a popular destination for boating, jet skiing, and fishing. There are several marinas where visitors can rent boats and equipment, making it a perfect spot for a day on the water.
- Hoover Dam Tours: The Hoover Dam is one of the most iconic landmarks in the region, and guided tours offer a fascinating look at the history and engineering behind this massive structure. Visitors can explore the dam’s interior and take in breathtaking views from the observation deck.
Las Vegas National Golf Club
For those who enjoy golfing, Las Vegas National Golf Club is located just a short distance from Boulder Station. This historic course has hosted PGA Tour events and offers a challenging yet enjoyable round for golfers of all skill levels.
- Beautiful Greens: The course is known for its lush fairways and well-maintained greens, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Pro Shop and Lessons: The club offers a pro shop where you can purchase or rent equipment and lessons from experienced golf pros.
Why Boulder Station is a Must-Visit for Off-Strip Casino Fans
Boulder Station Casino has long been a favorite among Las Vegas locals and visitors seeking an authentic gaming and entertainment experience without the high prices and crowds of the Strip. From its expansive casino floor to its diverse dining options and live entertainment, Boulder Station offers something for everyone.
- Value: With affordable hotel rates, dining, and gaming options, Boulder Station is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want to enjoy all the excitement Las Vegas has to offer.
- Local Vibe: Boulder Station’s relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere makes it a welcoming destination for those looking to escape the city’s more touristy parts.
- Convenient Location: Situated on Boulder Highway, the casino is easily accessible from downtown Las Vegas and the Strip and nearby attractions like Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam.
Whether you’re visiting for the gaming, the dining, or the entertainment, Boulder Station delivers a complete Las Vegas experience that’s well worth the visit. With its laid-back vibe, friendly staff, and excellent amenities, Boulder Station Casino continues to be a top choice for locals and tourists alike.