New York has a little bit of everything – Broadway shows, world-class pizza, and a sports scene that’s downright legendary. But what about gambling? That’s a question I’ve always wanted to answer for myself.
Now, if you’re thinking, “Wait, isn’t gambling in New York kind of limited?” – you’re not wrong. Sure, there are casinos, but they’re scattered around the state, and traditional casinos have only been allowed for a few years. Still, I had to see what the Empire State had to offer.
So, I packed my bags and set out to explore New York’s casino scene, hitting up spots like Resorts World NYC and Turning Stone to get the real, in-person experience. But I didn’t stop there. I also tested out some of the best New York online casinos.
If you’ve ever wondered what gambling in New York is really like – both in-person and online – stick around. I’ve got the inside scoop.
New York Online Casinos
- Slots of Vegas: Top choice overall ($2,500 bonus + 50 spins)
- Super Slots: Best NY online slots
- Raging Bull Slots: Great for mobile play
- BetOnline: Outstanding live casino experience
- BetUS: Best for crypto players
What I Did in New York
I’ve heard a lot about New York’s gambling scene, and with all the discussions about legal online casinos, I couldn’t wait to see what was actually available.
I started my trip at Resorts World New York City, which kept me busy with its endless rows of slot machines. From there, I headed upstate to Turning Stone Resort Casino and Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady, both of which offer a full-on experience with live dealers.
When I wasn’t at the tables, I was testing New York online gambling sites, such as Super Slots and BetOnline. One had hundreds of slots, while the other came as close to a real casino experience as possible. But as you’ll see below, Slots of Vegas ended up being my top pick.
And let’s be honest—you can’t visit New York without taking in everything else. From the heavy foot traffic at Times Square to grabbing a late-night pizza slice in the city that never sleeps, New York’s energy is just different.
New York Online Gambling Sites I Tried
Since New York hasn’t fully legalized online casinos, I spent some time checking out the best online gambling sites that accept players from New York.
Honestly, I was impressed. These sites have hundreds, if not thousands, of online casino games, offer fast payouts, and reward New Yorkers with generous deposit bonuses.
Here’s a quick look at some of my favorite online casinos in New York.
Slots of Vegas
If Resorts World NYC was all about the slots, then Slots of Vegas felt like the perfect alternative. The only difference? You don’t have to trek to Queens or dress up to get in on the action.
The name speaks for itself. Slots. So many slots. I’m talking about hundreds of games, from nostalgic 3-reel classics to modern video slots with bonus rounds and free spins.
I started off with a few spins on Jackpot Cleopatra’s Gold, which had a flashy design and an RTP that didn’t seem half bad. After a few rounds, I checked out what else this NY online casino had to offer.
The sign-up bonus was hard to ignore—a 250% match up to $2,500 plus 50 free spins. It felt like walking into a land-based casino and having the pit boss hand you a stack of chips just for showing up. It’s not a bad way to keep the fun going longer.
On the downside? I thought live dealer games weren’t available. But once I made a deposit, I got access to the live casino section, which was a nice surprise.
Super Slots
No other New York real money online casino I’ve played at can compare to Super Slot’s sheer variety of games. If I had a dollar for every time I scrolled past a new slot title, I’d probably have enough to cover my next deposit.
I logged in early one morning, coffee in hand, telling myself I’d just play for a few minutes. Famous last words. Within seconds, I was knee-deep in slot games. I’ve counted, and there are 1,200+ online slots here—think one for every day for four years straight.
But to my surprise, Super Slots isn’t just about slots—it has hundreds of other games, including some unique online blackjack variants. I’ve tried Blackjack Perfect Pairs and 21+3, with side bets that pay out based on poker-style hands. Nothing like hitting a straight flush when you’re just expecting a regular old 21.
When you join, you get $6,000 across six deposits, which is their way of saying, “Please stay and play some more.” And honestly? It worked.
Raging Bull Slots
I’m traveling most of the time, so I need a site that works on my iPhone. Sometimes, even in my room, I don’t feel like sitting at a desk or lugging around a laptop just to play a few hands.
And Raging Bull felt like it was made for mobile play.
I tested it out while waiting for my food at a diner, thinking I’d spin a few reels to pass the time. The next thing I knew, my meal was in front of me, and I was still glued to the screen. The site loaded quickly, and the games ran smoothly, even on a smaller screen.
The game library is mostly made of slots, which worked for me since I was just looking for quick, casual gameplay. Plus, the cashback deals are no joke—you can get up to 35% back on losses, which softens the blow of a losing streak.
I grabbed a 250% deposit match and 50 free spins, and I later noticed that daily free spins were also up for grabs. VIPs here enjoy extra perks, but I didn’t spend enough time here to fully test it out or climb the ranks.
BetOnline
Sometimes, you just want that real casino vibe where you can see the dealer, hear the cards shuffle, and maybe even regret that last hit on 16 in real-time. Out of all online casino NY sites, BetOnline’s live casino came the closest to capturing that feeling.
I joined the site after a losing streak at Turning Stone, hoping to recover some of my losses. I joined a live blackjack table with a $10 minimum, planning to take it easy. Then I scrolled through the lobby—70 to 80 live tables, with betting limits ranging from $0.50 to $50,000 per hand.
The site runs 24/7 live dealer games, from blackjack and roulette to baccarat and Super 6. Real dealers, real cards, and just enough small talk to make it feel like an actual casino—minus the guy next to me who smells like he’s been marinating in cigar smoke for 12 hours.
If there’s one downside, it’s the welcome package. You get $250 in free bets and 100 free spins but no deposit match. Looks like they got some complaints about it, though, because they’re making up for it with plenty of daily bonuses.
BetUS
The last of the New York online casinos I tested on my trip is one I’d recommend to anyone looking to skip banking delays and endless paperwork. From my experience, BetUS does crypto better than the rest.
I made my first deposit using BTC, and it hit my account instantly—no waiting, no “pending” nonsense. They clearly want crypto players here, offering faster withdrawals, exclusive promos, and higher deposit limits than most other sites. First-time crypto deposits get a 200% bonus, followed by 100% on the next two deposits.
Even if you’re new to crypto, this casino platform makes it super easy with step-by-step guides and video tutorials to help you figure out how to deposit, withdraw, and claim bonus offers without breaking a sweat.
The game selection at this online gambling NY site holds up well, with a good mix of slots, table games, and live dealer options. I’ve seen top providers like BGaming and BetSoft, which means quality games with great visuals and smooth gameplay.
BetUS is also one of the most transparent New York online casinos I’ve encountered. It offers detailed game information, RTP rates, and free play right at your fingertips.
Land-Based Casinos I Visited in New York
As I mentioned at the start of this article, my main goal when coming to New York was to visit some of its most popular gambling spots. This was easier said than done. There are way more casinos than I expected, and narrowing down where to go was a huge challenge.
I barely scratched the surface this time, but I’ll be back for more. For now, here’s my experience.
Resorts World New York City – A Casino in the Heart of Queens
Casinos and New York City don’t usually go hand in hand, but Resorts World seems to be the exception. It’s the only casino in the city, tucked away in Jamaica, Queens, just a 10-minute drive from JFK Airport and anywhere from 1-2 hours from Manhattan, depending on traffic.
During my trip, I heard locals call it the “Las Vegas of New York,” allowing them to scratch that gambling itch without leaving town.
First Impressions
Walking up to Resorts World NYC, I barely even noticed it—it blends into the urban area. If you didn’t know any better, you’d think it was just another building in Queens.
Inside? Bright flashing lights and thousands of casino games—this place means business. I later checked the site and saw that they have 6,500+ slots, which explained why it felt like slot machines as far as my eye could see.
The casino is clean and spacious—a little flashy but not over the top. Even with a steady crowd, there was plenty of space to move around, and I never felt crammed between machines or tables.
But here’s where it lost me—no live dealers. That’s right, everything is electronic, from blackjack to roulette, baccarat, and craps.
What I Did
I started with slots, trying my luck on a few progressives and even testing out one of the newer games that seemed to be constantly paying out (sadly, not to me).
With no live dealers in sight, I gave electronic blackjack a shot. It was smooth, fast, and I could play at my own pace, which was nice. But as I sat there playing against a machine, I couldn’t help but wonder: why would anyone come all the way to Resorts World when they could get the same experience online?
I also checked out the sportsbook, which was smaller than I expected but had everything you’d need. It doesn’t give off Texas sports betting vibes, but I enjoyed the big screens, self-serve betting kiosks, and seeing a handful of guys yelling at the TV like their team could hear them. I threw in a couple of bets just to join in on the fun.
Overall Impression
For a casino inside New York City, Resorts World gets the job done. It’s spacious and convenient, especially if you’re flying in or out of JFK. Slots players will love it, and if you’re cool with electronic table games, you’ll have plenty of options.
But if you’re after a real casino, this place falls short. There’s no live dealer action, and honestly? If I wanted an RNG experience, I’d just play online.
Turning Stone Casino – Resort Experience in Upstate New York
If Resorts World NYC is the quick gambling fix for New Yorkers, Turning Stone is the complete opposite—a casino resort meant for those who want to make a trip out of it.
Located 30 miles east of Syracuse, it welcomes visitors to play and stay—not just swing by after work.
First Impressions
Turning Stone is about a four-hour drive from NYC, so it’s not the place you casually drop into. But once you arrive, you get why people make the trip.
After spending days in the nonstop chaos of New York, pulling up to Turning Stone was a breath of fresh air. No skyscrapers, no honking taxis—just wide-open landscapes and a sleek resort that feels like something you’d expect in Vegas or Atlantic City.
The entire complex has a grand, upscale feel—a far cry from the flashing lights and crowded floors of city casinos. It includes multiple hotels, a spa, restaurants, and even a golf course—all packed into one.
Walking in, I was hit with classic casino energy. The sound of chips stacking, dealers calling out bets, and a lively buzz from the gaming floor. The poker room was huge, the high-limit section looked serious, and—finally—table games had live dealers.
What I Did
I made a beeline for blackjack, mostly because I was desperate for some real-dealer action. No buttons, no screens—just cards hitting the felt and that brief moment of hope (or regret) as the dealer flips over their hand.
Next, I checked out the poker room. It lived up to the hype—one of the best in the state. The vibe was serious but welcoming, with a good mix of regulars and tourists like me. I played a few hands, avoided making a fool of myself, and walked away without losing too much. So, success?
I also wandered through the high-limit area. Let’s just say I wasn’t ready to drop five figures on a hand of baccarat, but it was fun to watch how high rollers do it.
And the food options? Surprisingly good. The food court had everything from quick bites to Italian comfort food, plus a full bakery that had me seriously considering a second dessert. But the real standout was TS Steakhouse, the resort’s fine dining option, offering great steaks and even better views.
Overall Impressions
Turning Stone isn’t just a casino—it’s an entire experience. It’s got live dealers, a legit poker scene, and a full-blown resort that makes it easy to stay for more than just a few hours.
Would I come back? Absolutely—next time, I might even check out the spa.
Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady – The Sports Betting Spot
The final stop on my casino tour was Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady, which sits right along the Mohawk River in upstate New York. It’s not as flashy as Turning Stone, but it has one thing the others don’t—a sportsbook that feels like a destination.
First Impressions
Rivers Casino is not as big as Turning Stone, but it’s a step up from Resorts World NYC. The atmosphere was lively, with a steady crowd of players bouncing between table games, slots, and the sportsbook.
The casino floor is mid-sized, which felt like a nice balance—not so massive that you feel lost, but big enough to have variety. The layout is simple, with table games in the center, slot machines lining the outer areas, and the poker room tucked off to the side.
But the real star of the show? The sportsbook. Massive screens covered the walls (I heard these are the biggest ones in the area), with live odds updating in real time. Rows of comfy seating, and right in the middle of it all—a bar, making it the perfect place to grab a drink and watch the action unfold.
Locals also mentioned that on Friday and Saturday nights, there’s usually a live band playing, making for an easy night out with friends.
What I Did
Since this was my last stop, I figured I’d mix things up and start with New York sports betting. I placed a bet on an NBA game, grabbed a drink, and settled into one of the lounge seats to take it all in.
The vibe was great—die-hard fans yelling at the screens, casual bettors placing last-minute wagers, and just enough energy to make it feel exciting but not overwhelming.
After that, I hit the blackjack tables. The dealers were slightly more relaxed than at Turning Stone, making the atmosphere feel laid-back and fun. The table limits were reasonable, which was nice—most had a $10 or $15 minimum, making it approachable for casual players like me.
I also took a spin through the slot section. It wasn’t as massive as Resorts World’s slot floor, but there was still enough variety to keep things interesting—including a few tempting progressive jackpots.
Overall Impressions
If you’re into sports betting, Rivers Casino is easily the best spot in New York to do it. The sportsbook alone makes it worth the visit, but the casino is also well-run.
Would I go again? For sports betting? Absolutely. If you ask me, it’s the perfect place for casual players or a fun night out.
What I Learned from My New York Casino Trip
New York’s casino scene surprised me more than I could have ever imagined. Every new destination came with surprises—and I was often caught off guard.
So, if you’re planning on visiting NY soon, here’s what you need to know:
Upstate vs. Downstate Casinos
The biggest thing I learned? There’s a huge difference between upstate and downstate casinos in New York. After asking around, I discovered that New York State divides its casinos into two main categories—racinos and full-scale commercial casinos.
Racinos, like Resorts World NYC, are only allowed to offer video lottery terminals (VLTs), which look and feel like slot machines but are technically different. There are no live dealers, no poker rooms, just electronic table games.
Full-scale commercial casinos, like Turning Stone and Rivers Casino Schenectady, offer the full Vegas-style experience—live dealers, poker rooms, and a much wider variety of table games. But for now, they’re only located upstate.
Practice Responsible Gaming
This one seems obvious, but after spending enough time in different casinos, I saw firsthand how quickly things can go wrong when you don’t set limits. I watched players chase losses, throw money at bad bets, and look genuinely stressed at the tables.
That’s not how gambling should feel.
Here’s my advice: Set a budget before you start playing and stick to it. If you’re up, great! If you’re down, accept it and move on. The casino will still be there tomorrow.
The good news is that NY online casinos, like Florida online casinos, offer responsible gambling tools like money limits, cool-off periods, and self-exclusion options to help players stay in control.
Online Casino Games Give You More Bang for Your Buck
Before this trip, I never paid much attention to loyalty programs, but seeing regulars rack up free food, hotel stays, and cashback changed my mind. Most retail casinos offer players clubs, and some even link them to online platforms, letting you earn rewards in-person and online.
But safe online casinos take this to the next level—bigger bonuses, promo codes, and free spins. Instead of a free drink, you can get a 100% deposit bonus. Plus, there are more games, weekly tournaments, social media giveaways, and other prizes.
New York’s Casino Scene Is Worth The Trip
I have to admit, New York surprised me in more ways than one. After spending time in both upstate and downstate casinos, I can say NY offers a little something for every type of gambler—if you know where to look.
Would I do it again? 100%. Only next time, I might plan for a longer trip upstate to take full advantage of the full-scale commercial casinos. And who knows—by then, they might have finally made their way to NYC.
And if you don’t feel like making the trip? Online casino New York sites offer even more games and even better bonuses—plus the option to play from anywhere, anytime. No matter where or how you play, one thing’s certain: New York never runs out of ways to keep the action going!
New York Online Gambling – FAQs
Before I wrap things up, here are some answers to the most common questions I got after my trip.
When’s the Best Time to Visit New York and Its Casinos?
New York is a year-round destination, but if you want to experience the best of both its city and casino scene, late spring through early fall is ideal.
The weather is comfortable, and you won’t have to deal with winter travel headaches, especially if you’re heading upstate.
Can I Play for Real Money at New York Online Gambling Sites?
Yes, you can play for real money at New York online gambling sites, but you’ll need to join the ones that accept NY players. These sites offer a huge selection of games, bigger bonuses, and often faster withdrawals than retail casinos.
Are Online Casinos That Accept NY Players Safe?
Yes, they are. Much like my experience with Tennessee online casinos, all the best online casinos I’ve joined are licensed and regulated, use bank-level encryption to protect your data, and rely on RNGs to generate fair game outcomes.
Gambling is risky. 21+ only. Please call 1-800-GAMBLER or seek help at gamblersanonymous.org if you have a gambling problem.
