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For residents of the Sooner State's capital seeking immediate gaming action, the Riverwind establishment in Norman presents the most direct option. Situated just 18 miles south via Interstate 35, this destination offers a sprawling 287,000 square feet of gaming space. Visitors can find over 2,800 electronic games, numerous table games including blackjack and roulette, and a dedicated poker room. The drive typically takes under 30 minutes, making it an accessible choice for a spontaneous evening out.
Alternatively, the Grand establishment Hotel & Resort, located in Shawnee, provides another strong contender approximately 35 miles to the east. This journey usually requires about 40 minutes of driving. It features a distinct entertainment experience with over 2,000 slot machines and a variety of table games. The venue also frequently hosts live music and events, offering a more resort-like atmosphere compared to other nearby gaming centers.
For those willing to travel slightly further, the Winstar World establishment in Thackerville, roughly 75 miles south near the Texas border, represents a massive entertainment complex. While the drive is longer, close to an hour and a half, the sheer scale is unmatched in the region. It boasts nine distinct gaming plazas, each themed after a world capital, thousands of electronic machines, and a large number of table games, making it a destination for a full-day or weekend excursion rather than a quick trip.
Riverwind Gaming Plaza is the nearest large-scale gaming establishment to the metropolitan center, located at 1544 State Highway 9 in Norman. The drive typically takes 25 to 35 minutes south from downtown via I-35, covering approximately 17 miles. This venue offers over 2,800 electronic games and more than 20 table games, including blackjack and Ultimate Texas Hold'em. For high-stakes players, a dedicated high-limit area provides a more exclusive experience.
Beyond the gaming floor, practical amenities include multiple dining options. The River Buffet presents a varied selection, while the Chips 'N Ales pub offers traditional English fare. For quicker meals, a food court with vendors like Burger King and Taco Bueno is available. The Showplace Theatre, a 1,500-seat venue, regularly hosts concerts and events, so check its schedule before your visit. Valet service is available at the main entrance, and ample self-parking lots surround the facility.
The establishment operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For travelers requiring lodging, the connecting Riverwind Hotel provides direct access to the gaming floor. The poker room features around 17 tables with daily tournaments and cash games. Players can join the Wild Card rewards program to accumulate points redeemable for play, food, or merchandise. These points are earned based on the amount of play on electronic machines and the duration of table game participation.
The Newcastle Gaming Center is the fastest option, reachable in approximately 25-30 minutes from the downtown area. Located directly south via I-44, this venue offers a streamlined trip for those seeking immediate electronic gaming action. It features over 3,000 electronic machines and a specific off-track betting area for horse racing enthusiasts.
Second in travel time is the Riverwind establishment in Norman, with a drive of about 30-35 minutes. https://aviator.it.com on I-35 to access this large-scale entertainment complex. Beyond its vast selection of over 2,800 electronic games, Riverwind provides table games like Blackjack and Ultimate Texas Hold'em, a dedicated poker room, and a 1,500-seat performance theater that hosts national acts.
The Grand Casino Hotel & Resort in Shawnee ranks third, requiring a 40-45 minute drive east on I-40. This destination is a full-service resort featuring a hotel, multiple dining options, and a spa. The gaming floor is extensive, with thousands of slot machines, numerous table games including Craps and Roulette, and a high-stakes area for serious players.
For a superior combination of gaming variety and upscale dining, the Riverwind Hotel & Entertainment Center stands out. It boasts over 2,800 electronic games, including a vast selection of modern video slots and classic reel machines. Table game enthusiasts will find more than 20 tables featuring Blackjack, Ultimate Texas Hold'em, and Roulette. High rollers have a dedicated high-limit area for a more exclusive experience. The establishment’s poker room frequently hosts tournaments, drawing a competitive crowd.
When it comes to dining, Riverwind's Chips 'N Ales offers authentic English pub fare, a distinct alternative to standard gaming hall food. For a more refined meal, Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill provides a full-service restaurant experience with a menu centered on American classics. The food court presents quick options like Panda Express and Burger King for those wanting a fast bite between games.
In direct comparison, the Grand Hotel & Resort focuses heavily on a resort-style atmosphere. Its gaming floor is slightly smaller, with approximately 2,000 electronic machines. The table game selection is comparable, though it places a greater emphasis on creating a relaxed, less intense gaming environment. Their main culinary draw is the Grandstand Sports Grille, perfect for watching a game with classic American food. The Flame Brazilian Steakhouse offers a premium, all-you-can-eat churrasco-style dinner, a unique offering not found at other nearby entertainment complexes.
The Remington Park Racing & Gaming facility provides a different kind of entertainment blend. It features 750 gaming machines, focusing primarily on video poker and popular slot titles. The main attraction here is the live horse racing, which creates a dynamic and energetic atmosphere you won't find elsewhere. Dining is straightforward, with options like the Clubhouse Restaurant offering trackside views, and the Homestretch Cafe for quick, casual meals. This location is ideal for patrons who value both horse racing and electronic gaming.
Reaching premier gaming destinations from the metropolitan area is straightforward. Below are detailed travel plans for the primary locations, focusing on driving routes and alternative transport.
This venue is located within the Adventure District, making it one of the most accessible entertainment spots.