For over 20 years, I’ve watched Las Vegas evolve, and one of the city’s constants has been Station Casinos. This collection of neighborhood-focused casinos has catered to locals for decades, offering a more laid-back alternative to the Strip. Whether you’re looking for gaming, dining, or entertainment, Station Casinos provide an experience tailored for residents. With over 20 locations spread across the Las Vegas Valley, each property offers something unique, allowing locals to find their favorite spots. Let’s explore some of the standout locations and what makes Station Casinos a staple in the community.
What Are Station Casinos?
Station Casinos are neighborhood casino resorts designed for Las Vegas residents. Founded in 1976, the brand focuses on local gaming and entertainment, offering more affordable and convenient options than the Strip. Each casino under the Station brand is designed with locals in mind, combining world-class amenities with a community atmosphere.
- Founded: 1976 by Frank Fertitta Jr.
- Focus: Local gaming, dining, and entertainment.
- Loyalty program: Boarding Pass, an exclusive rewards program designed to benefit frequent visitors.
- Local-friendly environment: The focus on residents ensures an atmosphere without the high tourist traffic of the Strip.
- More personal service: Staff members cater specifically to repeat local customers.
The Top Station Casino Locations
Station Casinos are known for being spread across the valley, and each location has its own distinct vibe. Here are some of the most popular properties:
Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa
Red Rock is the crown jewel of Station Casinos, offering an upscale experience in the Summerlin neighborhood.
Gaming:
- More than 3,000 slot machines
- Dozens of table games, including blackjack, craps, and roulette
- High-limit lounge for serious players with private rooms and high-stakes options
- Spacious, dedicated poker room offering cash games and daily tournaments
Tip: Look out for Red Rock’s exclusive gaming promotions, which often offer special bonuses for local players.
Dining:
Red Rock’s dining options range from casual bites to fine dining experiences.
- T-Bones Chophouse: Famous for its premium steaks and extensive wine list, this is a must-visit for steak lovers.
- Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ: Offering Southern-style comfort food, this is perfect for a casual, laid-back meal.
- Hearthstone Kitchen & Cellar: Known for its weekend brunch with artisanal pizzas and farm-fresh dishes.
- Blue Ribbon Sushi: Offering some of the best sushi and Japanese dishes in the Las Vegas Valley.
Tip: Don’t miss the weekend brunch at Hearthstone Kitchen & Cellar, where locals indulge in artisanal pizzas and farm-fresh fare.
Entertainment:
- 16-screen Regal Cinemas theater with IMAX for a fully immersive movie experience
- 72-lane bowling center equipped with cosmic bowling events on weekends
- Live music performances at the Sandbar Pool during the summer months
- Exclusive pool parties featuring top DJs, with private cabanas available for rent
- Arcade games for family entertainment
Tip: Book a VIP bowling lane package for special events or family gatherings.
Spa:
- Red Rock Spa offers luxurious treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
- Private outdoor pool area designed for relaxation and exclusivity.
- Specialized spa packages tailored for relaxation or special events like weddings.
Tip: Book a couples’ spa day for a full day of pampering with access to the spa’s exclusive private pool.
Nearby Attractions
Located in Summerlin, Red Rock Casino offers easy access to outdoor activities and shopping.
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: Just a 10-minute drive away, this stunning natural area is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives.
- Downtown Summerlin: A major shopping and dining destination featuring high-end stores, local boutiques, and a variety of restaurants.
Green Valley Ranch Resort
Green Valley Ranch in Henderson offers a more serene, upscale experience, attracting locals who want to escape the hustle and bustle.
Gaming:
- Over 2,500 slot machines with varying denominations
- Table games, including poker, blackjack, and baccarat
- High-limit room offering a more private and exclusive gaming experience
- Dedicated poker room with tournaments and cash games
Tip: Green Valley Ranch offers a locals-only “Lucky Locals” promotion with better odds and gaming bonuses during the weekdays.
Dining:
Green Valley Ranch has dining options to suit every palate.
- Hank’s Fine Steaks & Martinis: An upscale steakhouse known for its top-tier cuts and classic cocktails.
- Pizza Rock: Offering award-winning pizzas in a casual setting, perfect for families and casual diners.
- Bottiglia Cucina & Enoteca: Specializing in Italian cuisine, Bottiglia offers fresh, seasonal dishes and an impressive wine selection.
Tip: Try Bottiglia’s daily happy hour for discounted drinks and small plates, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Entertainment:
- 8-screen movie theater with reclining seats for ultimate comfort
- Live concerts and events at The Backyard, an outdoor venue with scenic views of Henderson
- Regular live music performances at Drop Bar, the casino’s sleek and stylish lounge
Tip: Green Valley Ranch’s “Movies on the Lawn” events are great for families, offering outdoor screenings under the stars.
Spa & Pool:
- Full-service spa offering a wide variety of treatments, from facials to body wraps
- Mediterranean-inspired pool area with daybeds and private cabanas
- Private VIP pool area for hotel guests looking for an elevated experience
Tip: Take advantage of their mid-week spa specials to enjoy the luxurious spa treatments at a discounted price.
Nearby Attractions
Green Valley Ranch is situated in Henderson, with close proximity to local parks and shopping.
- The District at Green Valley Ranch: An outdoor shopping and dining complex right next door featuring popular retailers and casual dining options.
- Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve: A peaceful spot for nature lovers, just a 10-minute drive away, offering walking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
Palace Station
Palace Station, one of the original Station Casinos, has been a favorite for locals for decades. Recent renovations have given this historic property a modern twist.
Gaming:
- Over 1,500 slot machines with denominations starting as low as a penny
- Table games, including blackjack, roulette, and craps, with lower table limits than most Strip casinos
- Video poker with some of the best payback rates in the city
- High-limit area with private gaming rooms for VIP players
Tip: The sportsbook at Palace Station offers some of the best betting lines in town, perfect for sports enthusiasts.
Dining:
A mix of casual and upscale options makes Palace Station a great choice for any meal.
- The Charcoal Room: An award-winning steakhouse offering a fine dining experience with premium steaks and fresh seafood.
- Boathouse Asian Eatery: A hidden gem, serving sushi and Pan-Asian dishes, including fan-favorite ramen bowls.
- Little Tony’s: Authentic Italian pizza and pasta in a cozy atmosphere, focusing on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.
Tip: Tailgate Social offers a lively sports bar atmosphere with great happy hour deals, perfect for catching the latest game.
Entertainment:
- Regal Cinemas with luxury seating, perfect for a night out
- Regular live music performances at a variety of venues within the property
- Bingo hall, which has been a local staple for years
Tip: Palace Station’s bingo promotions offer big payouts and special jackpot events, perfect for both seasoned players and newcomers.
Nearby Attractions
Located just west of the Las Vegas Strip, Palace Station is close to some of the city’s top attractions.
- The Las Vegas Strip: Only a few minutes away, offering world-class entertainment, dining, and iconic casinos.
- The Smith Center for the Performing Arts: A 10-minute drive, this is a cultural hub offering Broadway shows, concerts, and more.
Sunset Station
Located in Henderson, Sunset Station is one of the most family-friendly properties in the Station Casinos lineup.
Gaming:
- More than 2,500 slot and video poker machines with various denominations
- 20 table games, including roulette, blackjack, and poker, with affordable buy-ins
- Spacious poker room with daily tournaments and high-stakes cash games
- 300-seat bingo hall offering frequent promotions and big payouts
Tip: Check out their daily casino promotions, where locals can win free play, dining discounts, and more.
Dining:
Sunset Station offers a variety of dining options, perfect for families and casual diners.
- Hank’s Fine Steaks: Upscale steakhouse known for its premium cuts and signature martinis, perfect for special occasions.
- Feast Buffet: A well-known local favorite, offering a wide range of international dishes at an affordable price.
Tip: Sunset Station’s Gaudi Bar, inspired by the famous Spanish architect, is a beautiful spot for signature cocktails in a visually stunning setting.
Entertainment:
- IMAX-equipped Regal Cinemas offering a premier movie-going experience
- Live concerts at the outdoor Sunset Amphitheater featuring both local and national acts
- Arcade and bowling alley with party packages available for birthdays and special events
Tip: Sunset Station’s arcade offers games for all ages, making it a great place for family fun, especially on the weekends.
Nearby Attractions
Family-friendly attractions and parks surround Sunset Station in Henderson.
- Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Cactus Garden: A 10-minute drive featuring chocolate factory tours and a beautiful cactus garden to explore.
- Cowabunga Bay Water Park: Perfect for families, this water park is just 15 minutes away and offers slides and pools for all ages.
Santa Fe Station
Santa Fe Station is located in the northwest valley and is a go-to spot for families, offering affordable entertainment and a welcoming atmosphere.
Gaming:
- More than 2,400 slot machines with multiple denominations
- Table games, including craps, blackjack, and roulette
- Spacious bingo hall with multiple daily sessions and promotions
- Video poker machines with favorable odds and payouts for locals
Tip: The poker room at Santa Fe Station is smaller but ideal for beginners looking to learn the game without the pressure of high-stakes environments.
Dining:
Santa Fe Station has a wide range of dining options, from fine dining to quick bites.
- Charcoal Room: A high-end steakhouse offering premium cuts and fresh seafood in an intimate setting.
- Leticia’s Cocina: Serving traditional Mexican cuisine with a vibrant, festive atmosphere.
Tip: Don’t miss the Oyster Bar, where the seafood pan roast is considered one of the best dishes on the northwest side of Las Vegas.
Entertainment:
- Bowling alley with 60 lanes and cosmic bowling events on weekends
- 16-screen movie theater with the latest releases
- Live entertainment, including concerts, comedy shows, and karaoke nights
Tip: Santa Fe Station is perfect for family outings, especially with its Kids Quest play area, offering supervised fun for children.
Nearby Attractions
Santa Fe Station is located in the northwest part of the valley, close to parks and local shopping.
- Mount Charleston: Just a 40-minute drive from the casino, this mountain area is perfect for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.
- Floyd Lamb Park: A large park with picnic areas, ponds, and walking trails located just 15 minutes away.
Boulder Station
Boulder Station is a popular choice for residents on the east side of town. It offers a wide array of amenities in a laid-back setting.
Gaming:
- Over 2,500 slot machines with various denominations and gaming styles
- 30 table games, including blackjack, craps, and roulette, with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere for locals
- 300-seat bingo hall with multiple daily sessions
- Sportsbook offers a range of betting options for sports fans
Tip: Boulder Station regularly hosts slot tournaments with big cash prizes and free entry for Boarding Pass members.
Dining:
Boulder Station is home to several budget-friendly dining options.
- Guadalajara: Serving traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas, perfect for casual dining.
- Feast Buffet: Known for its extensive variety and affordable price, it offers something for everyone, from Asian to American dishes.
Tip: Visit The Broiler for an upscale experience, where their prime rib and seafood offerings make it one of the East Side’s hidden gems.
Entertainment:
- Regal Cinemas with luxury seating and an IMAX theater
- Live music performances at The Railhead, Boulder Station’s concert venue
- Kids Quest, a supervised children’s play area offering a safe and fun environment for kids
Tip: Boulder Station’s concert venue regularly hosts tribute bands, making it an affordable night out for music lovers.
Nearby Attractions
Located on the east side of town, Boulder Station is close to several off-strip attractions.
- Sam’s Town: Just down the road, offering additional dining, gaming, and entertainment options.
- Wetlands Park: A beautiful natural area about 10 minutes away, offering scenic trails and wildlife viewing for those who enjoy the outdoors.
The Boarding Pass Loyalty Program
Station Casinos’ Boarding Pass program is one of the most generous in Las Vegas. Locals love it because they can earn points across all properties and redeem them for gaming, dining, and even hotel stays.
How It Works:
- Earn points for every dollar spent on gaming, dining, or entertainment.
- Use points at any Station Casino property for free play, dining discounts, or hotel stays.
- Bonus point promotions for locals during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings.
Tip: Always swipe your Boarding Pass when dining or making purchases. You’ll earn points even if you’re not gambling.
Why Station Casinos Stand Out for Locals
What sets Station Casinos apart from other properties in Las Vegas is their focus on providing value and service to locals. With affordable dining, gaming promotions, and family-friendly amenities, they’ve built a loyal following.
Community-Focused Approach
- Local Promotions: Station Casinos regularly offers promotions, including discounts and special events, that are specifically targeted at Las Vegas residents.
- Charitable Involvement: Through various initiatives, the company supports local schools, charities, and non-profit organizations.
- Events for locals: Fireworks displays on holidays like New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July are a big hit with families.
- Tip: Check the event calendars at properties like Green Valley Ranch and Red Rock for fireworks displays, concerts, and other local-centric events.
Why You Should Visit Station Casinos
Whether you’re new to Las Vegas or have lived here for decades, Station Casinos offers a blend of gaming, dining, and entertainment tailored to locals. Unlike the tourist-heavy Strip, these properties provide a more intimate, laid-back atmosphere that allows you to relax and enjoy yourself.
From the luxurious Red Rock Resort to the family-friendly Santa Fe Station, Station Casinos has something for everyone. Take a break from the Strip and explore these hidden gems where locals go to unwind, dine, and play.
